Children and young people manager jobs

Summary

The Leadership Development Team (LDT) sits within the wider Ministry Development department. The LDT provides leadership development for clergy across the arc of their ministerial life in the Church, including working closely with Dioceses to identify and support those with the potential for senior office/wider responsibility. Its co-ordinates the support to the Diocesan Bishops' Ministerial Development Review (MDR) process. It also oversees a range of Incumbents' Leadership Programmes, being developed to enable incumbents to lead their church(es) in ways that help ministry with Children, Young People and Families (CYPF) to grow.

The post-holder will take overall responsibility for these Incumbents' Leadership Programmes (ILPs) work, as well as taking on wider LDT duties as required. Effective oversight and development of these programs is essential.

The purpose of this role is to facilitate the development of Christian leaders who will be faithful to their calling, fruitful in their work and flourish as children of God as they play their part in pursuing our national vision and strategy.

The main duties and responsibilities for will include leading the ILP team by working closely with, and line managing, the Project Manager (p/t) and Program Coordinator (f/t) to develop and offer the various ILPs from start to finish of each program.

Through:

• Stakeholder relationships
• Governance
• Recruitment
• Monitoring, evaluation and reporting
• Budgeting and Finance
• External relationship management

• Ability to attend the office on average 2 days per month (Church House, Westminster, London).

• A salary of £68,999 per annum, plus age-related pension contributions between 8-15% of salary. We will also match any pension contributions you make up to an additional 3% of your salary.

• 30 days annual leave plus eight bank holidays three additional days (pro-rated if working part-time).
• We welcome all flexible working arrangement requests. This is looked at in a case-by-case scenario and if this fits within the department's needs. We try to be as flexible as we can in your work pattern to support you with other commitments, and to give a good work-life balance.
• We offer many services and initiatives under our Family Friendly Programme, some of these include enhanced Maternity Leave initiative, Adoption Leave, Paternity Leave, & Shared Parental Leave. Structured induction programme and access to a range of development opportunities including apprenticeships.
• Automatic enrolment and access to Medicash (one of the UK's leading health cash plan providers), providing you with many services including reimbursements of routine dental treatment, optical, specialist consultations, and therapy treatments. Unlimited access to virtual GP & Private prescription service and health & Stress related helplines.
• Access to Occupational Health, and an Employee Assistance Programme 
• Access to the Department of Education Restaurant and Westminster Abbey with a plus-one guest.
• Apply for eligibility for an Eyecare voucher.
• Opportunity to join the Civil Service Sports & Social Club, and get involved in a range of staff networks, groups and societies.

• Strive for Excellence
• Show Compassion
• Respect others
• Collaborate
• Act with Integrity

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to beat macular disease forever.

We’re looking for someone who can lead on community engagement across Wales – helping to grow and strengthen our local peer support services. You’ll work collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers, develop partnerships, and help us reach more people affected by macular disease. You’ll need to be organised, adaptable, and confident managing multiple projects at once. If you feel you have the attributes above, we would love to hear from you.

In return, we provide a great working culture and offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and a 6% pension contribution.

We are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.

This role is predominantly home-based; however, travel will be required across Wales and occasionally to Andover in Hampshire.

We’re looking for a new Senior Development Coach to join us for this national role, with an initial focus on the north of England, and some travel across the UK to support centres as needed.

This is an exciting opportunity to use your extensive coaching experience to invest in newer coaches and support new Spear Centres as we grow nationally, as well as work directly with 16–24-year-olds, equipping them with the confidence, mindset and skills they need to move into sustainable employment.

For more details, please see the Application pack.

Benefits: 39 days annual leave (including bank holidays), company pension

Lead. Inspire. Serve. Transform Lives.

Are you a Christian leader with a heart for young people and a passion for community transformation?

Do you believe in the God-given value and potential of every person?

Are you ready to guide one of the country’s oldest and most trusted Christian youth movements into its next chapter?

YMCA North Staffordshire is seeking an exceptional Christian Chief Executive Officer to lead our mission, embody our values, and continue shaping a movement that is transforming the lives of thousands of young people and families.

With a proud 160-year history and an award-winning campus at the heart of Stoke-on-Trent, this is a rare opportunity to lead a charity that is deeply rooted in Christian faith, committed to radical inclusion, and driven by a vision where all young people can belong, contribute and thrive.

Our Christian Vision and Values

YMCA North Staffordshire is an inclusive Christian movement.

Our mission flows directly from our faith and is grounded in four core values:

PROTECT

We provide sanctuary and safety, ensuring every young person feels seen, valued, and respected.

HOPE

We see young people not through the lens of their past, but their God-given potential.

PERSEVERE

We walk with young people through challenges, setbacks, and breakthroughs.

TRUST

We act with integrity, accountability, and belief in the dignity of every human being.

Because these values are Christian in origin and practice, and because the CEO is the guardian of our mission, this role has a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) for the postholder to be a practising Christian.

 About the Role

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the CEO will lead an organisation of 130 staff, a £5m+ budget, and a £35m estate, helping strengthen community through youth development, education, housing, healthy living, and social responsibility.

The next CEO will:

• Provide strategic leadership to deliver the 2026–2029 Business Plan
• Champion youth voice and empowerment in all areas of work
• Sustain and grow financial strength, partnerships, and social enterprise
• Uphold and deepen our Christian identity, ensuring values-led practice
• Drive innovation, digital transformation, and organisational development
• Represent YMCA NS locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally
• Be a visible advocate for young people in Stoke-on-Trent
• Strengthen our “village” culture: welcoming, relational, rooted in Ubuntu and Asset-Based Community Development principles (ABCD).

Purpose of the Role

To lead YMCA North Staffordshire in fulfilling its Christian mission, as described in the Associations charitable objectives 

We develop young people; they develop their world.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership in alignment with Board governance
• Upholding Christian ethos, values, and culture across the organisation
• Financial stewardship, compliance, and sustainability
• Community development and partnership building
• Youth advocacy and empowerment
• Oversight of housing, programmes, and impact measurement
• Staff leadership, pastoral care, and organisational culture
• External representation and communications

 Person Specification – Summary

Knowledge

• Housing, youth services, and community development
• Charity law, governance, safeguarding
• Understanding of Christian ministry, mission, and values
• Organisational development and change leadership

Experience

• Senior leadership in values-led or Christian settings
• Track record of strategic development and organisational growth
• Experience working with young people, housing, or community sectors
• Experience nurturing Christian ethos across a diverse organisation

Skills & Abilities

• Inspirational leadership and people development
• Strategic planning and delivery
• Excellent communicator and ambassador
• Partnership building and stakeholder engagement
• Ability to articulate and embody Christian faith
• Deep commitment to Christian values and the Aims & Purposes of the YMCA

 The Leader We Are Looking For

The landscape for young people is changing — and so must we.

We need a CEO who is:

• Faith-filled and prayerful
• Values-driven and courageous
• Relational, compassionate, and community-minded
• A champion of excellence, innovation, and good governance
• Grounded in Christian mission and committed to radical inclusion
• Able to inspire hope, build trust, and persevere through challenge

As George Williams, YMCA’s founder, said:

“You are not alone, and you can be more.”

Our next CEO must believe this not only for themselves — but for every young person we serve.

How to apply

An application pack can be found at the YMCA North Staffordshire website. This role is subject to enhanced DBS and reference checks.

Key Recruitment Dates

• Closing Date: 18th January 2026
• Interviews: Week commencing 9th February 2026

We are a safe recruitment Organisation and an Equal Opportunities Employer, we run the disability confident guaranteed interview scheme.

We are an organisation with Christian values, committed to Equality and Diversity in the Workplace. YMCA is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Salary: £39,000-£42,000
Contract: Permanent, Full-time (35 hours/week)
Location: Hybrid – 1 day per week in Islington
Closing date: 7^th January
Benefits: 25 days annual leave (plus public holidays), employer pension contribution, employee assistance programme, flexible working

We are delighted to be working with Tender, a charity dedicated to preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence among children and young people through the arts and creative projects.

In this pivotal role, you will lead on securing and managing income from statutory sources and trusts & foundations, ensuring Tender has the funding to achieve its ambitious five-year strategy. You’ll manage a portfolio of funders, develop high-quality proposals, and line manage a team of two to deliver exceptional results and continue the charity’s impressive income growth.

To succeed in this role, you will need:

• Proven experience generating income and meeting targets through trusts & foundations and statutory funding
• Strong ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including funders and government bodies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling proposals and reports
• Strategic thinking and the ability to manage priorities and risks effectively
• Knowledge of the violence against women and girls sector and current policy developments

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Ashby Jenkins Recruitment and ask to speak to Ashby.

Closing date:
7^th January

Ashby Jenkins Recruitment is a specialist charity recruitment agency. We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and take a relationship-led approach to recruitment in the sector. You can read more about our commitment to diversity on our website.

If enough applications are received, we reserve the right to close the application period early.

Job Reference: 2794AJ

Country Director – Scotland

We are seeking an experienced and credible senior leader to provide strategic direction and operational leadership for a national fostering charity’s work in Scotland.

Position: Country Director – Scotland
Salary: £53,836 to £59,012 per annum
Location: Glasgow, with hybrid and home based working considered
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: Sunday 25 January 2026

About the role

This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for leading and delivering the organisation’s vision, strategy and impact across Scotland. As a member of the Leadership Team, you will provide strategic oversight, manage people and budgets, and act as a key external representative with government, regulators and sector partners.

Key responsibilities include:

Providing overall leadership and management of the organisation’s work in Scotland
Developing and delivering Scotland specific strategies aligned to UK wide objectives
Leading, managing and supporting staff, volunteers and associates
Building and maintaining strong relationships with national and local government, regulators, fostering services and members
Acting as a spokesperson and senior representative in Scotland
Overseeing the design, delivery and evaluation of impactful programmes for foster carers and children
Driving robust monitoring, impact measurement and reporting
Securing funding through grants, tenders and partnerships
Holding and managing budgets in line with organisational policies
Identifying opportunities for innovation, collaboration and sector improvement
Growing individual and corporate membership across Scotland
Acting as safeguarding lead for the country and ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies

About you

You will be an experienced senior leader with strong credibility across children’s social care and fostering, comfortable operating at strategic and operational levels.

You will bring:

Senior leadership and management experience within children’s social care or a closely related field
In depth knowledge of foster care practice and policy across the UK
Experience of working with statutory local authority services and senior stakeholders
Proven ability to lead teams, manage change and deliver strategic plans
Experience of managing budgets and securing funding
Strong relationship building, influencing and communication skills
Sound safeguarding knowledge and practice
Excellent organisational and IT skills, including confidence using Microsoft Teams and Office 365
A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and to the organisation’s mission and values

Desirable experience includes a social work qualification, experience in the voluntary or independent sector, working across a national remit, or lived experience of foster care.

About the organisation

The organisation is the leading fostering charity in the UK, working to improve outcomes for children and young people through support, advocacy, programmes and membership services for foster carers and fostering services. It operates across all UK nations, working closely with governments, regulators and partners to influence policy and practice.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Director of Children’s Services, Head of Fostering, Assistant Director Social Care, Regional Director, Service Director, Programme Director, Policy Director, Operations Director, Strategic Lead Children’s Services, Senior Social Work Manager, National Manager.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

Senior Supervising Social Worker

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Salary: £37,088 per annum (increasing to £41,208 per annum after 18 months) + £750 Homeworking Allowance per annum + £1,500 OOH allowance per annum + £500 OOH referral allowance per annum & £4,184 London weighting per annum- (if eligible)

Hours: 35 Hours per week

Contract: Permanent - Full-time

Location: Home-based, with regular travel required to support children and young people in foster families in East, West , North London, Essex & Hertfordshire. Travel also requires the postholder to attend staff meetings and team away days in South and Central London

As a ‘not for profit’ organisation, TACT puts the needs of our children and carers first and look to appoint individuals who are as passionate about fostering as we are. We are a homeworking organisation, and we pride ourselves on our flexible working opportunities, available from day one, an extensive wellbeing programme and our benefits package, all curated to nurture a healthy work life balance for all our employees so they can give an excellent service to our carers and the young people and children we care for.

TACT invests all surplus income into services, staff, carers, and child development. This means that we have been able to invest unique projects like TACT Connect, our unique and ground-breaking scheme for TACT care experienced young people and adults,  as well as our expanding Education and Health services. All our activities are built on our commitment to becoming a fully trauma informed organisation, in line with our key values and ethos.

We will also invest in your learning, supporting your growth and development during your employment with TACT.  You will be encouraged to attend personal and professional development opportunities and will have access to learning and resources to empower you to advance your knowledge and skills.

In 2024 TACT became one of the top 5 charities to work for in the UK, placing 5th in the UK Best Companies Work For survey results , and a top 25 mid-sized company to work with across the whole of the UK.   97% of our people feel proud to work with TACT and think that TACT cares about their wellbeing, while 92% of our people would say they “ love working for TACT”.

As a Senior Supervising Social Worker with TACT London & South East, you will be a part of our fantastic team of professionals, working with our organisational values here at the heart of our everyday practice. 

The successful candidate will ideally be based in or around East, West, North London, Essex & Hertfordshire, as travel to these areas will be required. Alongside travel to attend staff meetings and team away days in South and Central London

The main role requirements for this role include:

• An appropriate social work qualification
• Up-to-date registration with the Social Work England
• A minimum of 2 years post-qualifying experience in fostering/family placements or other childcare settings
• Experience in supporting and supervising foster families to meet the complex needs of the looked-after young people
• A proven track record in working with and on behalf of children, respecting and maintaining their individuality and promoting their positive development.
• Experience in group work and/or delivery of training.
• Up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Fostering National Minimum Standards and Fostering regulations.
• Experience of working with/supporting looked-after children and their foster carers.
• Ability to prioritise, plan and self-organise efficiently.
• Capable of using electronic records systems and IT effectively, including participating in virtual meetings and webinars.

TACT offer an excellent employee benefits package, including:

• 31 days paid holiday plus 8 annual bank holidays.
• Progression to salary target rate upon completion of 18 months service.
• 45p per mile for business travel.
• Flexible working arrangements (including compressed hours, flexibility around core hours, volunteer days policy).
• Family-friendly policies.
• Homeworking ‘bundle’ including annual allowance, IT equipment and a loan for home office set up.
• HelpHand Employee Assistance Programme (including CBT counselling, 24/7 remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, mental health support and second opinions on serious diagnosis).
• An hour a week of live, expert-led activities through the Annual Employee Wellbeing Programme.
• Menopause Policy and free Menopause Clinician Appointments.
• Stakeholder Pension Scheme (salary sacrifice).
• Fantastic learning and development opportunities for all roles.

An Enhanced DBS clearance is required for this role and will be processed by TACT on your behalf.

Closing Date: Wednesday, 28th January 2026

Interview Date: Tuesday, 10th February 2026 (via Microsoft Teams)

Safeguarding is everyone’s business and TACT believes that only the people with the right skills and values should work in social work.  As part of TACT’s commitment to safeguarding, we properly examine the skills, experience, qualifications, and values of potential staff in relation to our work with vulnerable young children.  We use rigorous and consistent recruitment approaches to help safeguard TACT’s young people.  All our staff are expected to work in line with TACT’s safeguarding policies.

We reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than advertised if the volume of applications is excessive, you are therefore advised to apply at your earliest convenience.

TACT does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies, nor the fees associated with them.

This role will be responsible for delivering support to individuals experiencing complex ill mental health and substance misuse issues, targeting achievable outcomes that promote and deliver positive outcomes for tenants in our services.The post holder will be responsible for delivering evidence-based interventions with a holistic assessment to support personalised recovery and promotion of independent living skills. Multi-disciplinary team working will be a part of the role, utilising and offering additional support and advice from partners and wider network services.

Key Responsibilities

Support Assessment & Delivery

• Implement and deliver dual-diagnosis support through 1.1 and group sessions to tenants experiencing issues with poor mental health and substance misuse.
• Undertake joint holistic assessments and risk assessments with tenants participating in the service to determine service and support needs and identity where these can be met.
• Provide outcome-based support measured against goals, personal aspirations of the tenant, and their achievements.
• Working with tenants, encourage them to identify their own goals and work towards independence and resilience. The key aims are to reduce the need for acute clinical interventions and hospitalisations.
• Put in place with the tenant, agreed SMART targets with a range of evidence-based interventions that addresses areas of need, such as harm minimisation, prevention of relapse for those in addiction recovery, and improved self-awareness and motivation.
• Through collaborative working with other teams in the organisation, enhance the personalised and choice-led support plan of tenants to integrate with their tenancy support needs and reducing the risk of tenancy loss due to dual-diagnosis issues.
• Help reduce episodes of crisis though support initiatives such as peer-led support groups.
• Be proactive in observing and responding to changing characteristics of tenants receiving support, recognising deterioration in mental wellbeing and putting in place interventions that reduce the likelihood of more acute support needs.
• Be a point of contact for tenants who are on the verge of experiencing a crisis episode, providing appropriate support and interventions to help avoid the need to access acute services.
• Foster positive working relationships with external stakeholders, breaking down barriers and improving access to appropriate support services such as specialised mental healthcare and addiction recovery programmes.
• Develop effective community links that expands support resources that to be offered to tenants.
• Develop all support plans and coaching sessions to embrace the key elements and principles of Trauma Informed Practice and Psychologically Informed Environments.
• Keep up to date with strategies and methodologies used in the support sector to ensure dual-diagnosis support in the organisation remains at a high level for all tenants accessing it.
• Promote the achievements of tenants receiving support through KPI reporting and case studies.
• Recognise goals and aspirations achieved by individuals and using the evidence obtained, formulate and develop future support plans and strategies that enhance the service.
• Work with team leaders and managers to develop our lived experience support in a structured and safe way.
• Deliver practical harm reduction, relapse prevention, and coping strategy workshops.

Risk Management

• Ensure accurate and up to date risk assessments are undertaken, putting in place effective risk management plans to mitigate risk of harm, neglect, and any other areas of risk to the tenant, staff, and wider community.
•  Ensure all records and support plans are managed in compliance with organisational policies governing confidentiality, privacy, data sharing consent, and keeping to the requirements and principles of the UK GDPR.

General Responsibilities

• Support colleagues through the sharing of support strategies and techniques that will benefit tenants outside of dual-diagnosis sessions.
• Foster positive and effective working relationships with colleagues in the Housing and Support teams.
• Ensure adhere to Stay’s policies & procedures
• Represent the charity at relevant external meetings or forums as required.
• Always maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality, upholding the charity’s values and ethos.
• Participate in team meetings, training, supervision and appraisals as required.
• Undertake any other duties as reasonably required by the Operations & Services Manager.
• Ensure that Equality, Diversity and Inclusion is actively promoted in all areas of work.

Corporate New Business Lead

Up to £34,000 per annum + benefits (including 25 days annual leave and pension)

Leatherhead, Surrey

(Flexible working options available, part-time considered)

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is going through an exciting time where we are growing, with the aim of reaching more families in need.

About the role:

This Best Companies Top 100 mid-sized company and Top 20 charity is looking to appoint an experienced fundraiser to help build income from corporate fundraising with an emphasis on securing long term and strategic partnerships.

Reporting to the Corporate and Community Fundraising Manager, you will be responsible for proactively generating significant income from five and six figure corporate partnerships by managing the new business pipeline, identifying new opportunities, building relationships and networking with key stakeholders and producing compelling applications and creative partnership proposals.

This is an excellent opportunity to build on previous experience and develop your skills in business development. Previous experience of securing high value, strategic partnerships in the third sector would be beneficial. The team has a proven track record in winning prestigious corporate partnerships which include: Macfarlanes LLP, Invesco, Knight Frank, Deutsche Bank, Nomura and high street names such as Kurt Geiger. Responsible for a third of the charity’s income the team are driven, highly motivated & results orientated.

Location: Leatherhead, Surrey, flexible working options available and part-time will be considered for the right candidate.

What we’re looking for:

• A friendly, enthusiastic and experienced corporate fundraiser who achieves results through people – you are socially focused and resilient, enjoy networking and are able to quickly connect with others and build effective working relationships.
• A motivating, empathetic and persuasive communicator – you are an experienced bid writer and a confident public speaker with experience of presenting to panels or addressing large audiences
• Knowledge of different corporate fundraising initiatives, including charity of the year, cause related marketing and strategic partnerships – you understand the components of a mutually beneficial and multi-faceted partnership, and have proven experience of prospect management and winning new business.
• You thrive working in a busy environment on multiple priorities simultaneously – results-oriented and a fast learner, you respond quickly to pressure and a changing environment.
• Confident use of MSOffice and experience of using a database – you have strong attention to detail, won’t miss a deadline and record accurate data using CRM systems.

What we offer:

We have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, including:

• Flexible working hours to balance home and working life
• Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand
• Company car for front line care posts
• 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 years to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)
• Time off in Lieu
• Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts
• Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes
• A recommend a friend recruitment bonus scheme
• Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year
• Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%
• The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping
• Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth

About us:

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of time together, providing expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed. For families living with childhood illness, time is everything. Right now, there are too many families coping alone with no support, no time to think, no time to make memories and no time for each other. We believe that no family should go through this alone, so we are here to change that.

How to apply:

Please email your CV & covering letter to us via the link.

Please disclose on your application form if you have used AI for any part of your job application.

Interviews will take place at our Head Office in Leatherhead with the dates to be confirmed.

We will only contact those applicants who have been successful.

There will be a requirement for flexible working and a full current driver’s licence to accommodate team and family need.

An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post.

Rainbow Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds. We are a Best Companies One-Star rated organisation.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference by delivering Money Ready’s engaging financial education programmes across North West England. As a Programme Trainer, you’ll bring our sessions to life for young people, adults, and professionals, helping learners build essential money management skills that have a lasting impact.

You’ll be the face of our work on the ground, representing the high quality of our programmes in schools, community settings, and workplaces. The role involves significant travel across the North West of England, but with a particular focus on deliver in the Liverpool area to deliver face-to-face sessions to a wide range of participants, with occasional virtual delivery. All delivery-related travel is covered.

You will be joining an excellent team in the North, with ample opportunity for you to learn and to provide feedback on where our programmes might improve. You do not need to be an existing expert on financial education; we will train you on everything you need to know. What matters most is your ability to engage, inspire, and facilitate excellent learning experiences.

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to beat macular disease forever.

We’re looking for an experienced and strategic individual to lead our community engagement work in Northern Ireland and manage our UK-wide team of Community Engagement Managers. You’ll oversee peer support development, build strong partnerships, and ensure consistent delivery across regions. This role requires excellent leadership skills, the ability to manage complex relationships, and a strong understanding of how to engage and empower communities. If you feel you have the attributes above, we would love to hear from you.

In return, we provide a great working culture and offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and a 6% pension contribution.

We are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.

This role is predominantly home-based; however, travel will be required across NI and occasionally to Andover in Hampshire.

The SMCA, a small charity, runs a successful  community Hub.  We have a small staff team who deliver a range of exciting activities, events and projects.  We work hard to ensure that there is something on offer for everyone in the community and are constantly developing new and exciting programmes.

We are looking for an exceptional individual to join us.  Experience in community development, working with children and young people or seniors is welcomed, but most importantly is willingness to get involved, confidence to lead on some activities and projects, flexibility - our days are often full of unforseen tasks/actions that need to be carried out.

You need to be a great communicator and really enjoy working with people.

If this post interests you then please get in touch.

About Adolescent Health Study

The Adolescent Health Study (AHS) (Registered Charity Number 1213337) is an ambitious new UKRI-funded initiative to establish a prospective, longitudinal population study that will generate a globally leading open science data platform and research resource. AHS aims to recruit at least 100,000 young people from across the UK and to follow their mental and physical health and wellbeing over at least 10 years. It plans to collect data through questions and measures; to obtain bio-samples for a wide range of genomic and other high-throughput assays; and to capture linked data relevant to health and wellbeing from participants’ health, education and other administrative records. There will be a strong emphasis on engaging with and involving young people, schools, parents and other relevant stakeholders in the design and delivery of the study, as well as on including young people that represent as wide as possible a range of backgrounds, experiences and characteristics. AHS will focus on enabling a wide range of research, including studies of the critical biological and social developments that occur during the transition from childhood to adulthood and the determinants of both mental and physical health and wellbeing in adolescents and young adults.

Location: Remote working. Must be willing and able to travel to London, Edinburgh and elsewhere across the UK to support business need

Reporting to: AHS Chief Information and Technology Officer (to be appointed Spring 2026)

Hours of Work: FTE 37.5 hours per week

Purpose of the post

The Strategic Data Lead will play a critical role in managing the study’s data pipeline, devising and implementing strategies for the collection, management, storage, documentation and curation of complex participant data, and sharing data with research users. In particular, there will be a need for innovative, remote data collection methods that are acceptable to children and young people taking part in the study. The role holder will provide specialist advice, direction and input to the wider scientific team to maximise the potential of the study data and future proof the resource. They will drive forward innovative solutions which enable the long-term strategic vision for data management in the study.

Main responsibilities

Strategy

• Provide expert input into the design and delivery of the study before data collection begins, maximising data quality and efficient management from the start.
• Devise and implement a data management strategy, including appropriate data architecture, meta-data and data pipeline(s), to support the study’s aims and meet the needs of the research community.
• Consider the long-term strategy for data preservation and discoverability, to futureproof the resource and ensure maximal use.

Technology and innovation

• Identify and oversee the delivery of novel solutions for collection and management of complex health data, including transfer of data from specialist equipment and mobile technology, such as wearables or app-based data.
• Lead procurement activities, where required, to support the data management strategy, translating the needs of users into appropriate specifications and working with third parties to oversee delivery of solutions.

Risk management and compliance

• Oversee the development, management and continual improvement of all procedures used to process, manage and store data, ensuring that they are kept up to date and comply with relevant legislation and local guidelines.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

• Build relationships with other longitudinal population studies (LPS) in order to seek advice where appropriate and ensure sharing of best practise within the LPS community.
• Work closely with researchers, data scientists and national bodies, such as Population Research UK and the UK Longitudinal Linkage Collaboration, to support study objectives.
• Consult and co-operate with colleagues and stakeholders, including children and young people, to support the use of the study’s data for collaborative research purposes, identifying opportunities to maximise the potential of the data.
• ​Offer creative solutions to issues that arise, consulting with and influencing stakeholders with differing expectations, ensuring the impact of any change is communicated and understood by those involved.

Essential criteria:

• Proven track record of managing large and complex data sets within an academic, research or similar environment, including different types of data from multiple sources, including those with complex ethical and governance requirements.
• Thorough understanding of legislation regarding data management, confidentiality and security.
• Understanding of research governance.
• Demonstrable experience in developing and implementing a data management strategy.
• Experience of implementing current and developing technologies used for collecting, storing and accessing research data.
• Excellent organisational skills with the proven ability to manage multiple competing projects simultaneously to achieve deadlines.
• Educated to degree level in Computer Science or related discipline or equivalent experience.
• Proven innovation and pro-active problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to influence and negotiate with different levels of staff and external contacts.
• Excellent communication with both internal and external stakeholders including the ability to communicate technically complex ideas at an appropriate level.

Desirable criteria:

• Proven skills in programming using various languages and technologies including understanding of data manipulation and statistical packages used to manage, manipulate and analyse data e.g. SQL, Python, R.
• Proven ability to effectively lead, direct and manage a team of technical staff.
• Experience of working with a longitudinal research study, or equivalent, at a senior level.
• Excellent presentation skills, with experience of presenting to diverse audiences.

Working Environment

• Full time role with flexible working arrangements.
• AHS is a national organisation, and our activities take place across the UK.
• Flexible working will be required across several geographical locations in the UK.  Travel may be required to AHS locations, fieldwork sites and partner organisations.
• As a small charity, we offer a range of benefits, including enhanced sickness and family-friendly pay, additional annual leave, the opportunity to purchase up to five extra days’ holiday each leave year, a 10% employer pension contribution, and one paid volunteering day per year.

Application Process

This post is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and the post holder having the right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available). Please apply online with a CV and a covering letter (of no more than two pages) explaining what you can bring to this role, and including your current salary.

The closing date for this position is EoD Sunday 25 January 2026.

Interviews are currently expected to be held during the week commencing 23 February or 02 March 2026.

Equal Opportunities Policy Statement

AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. It is our policy to provide employment equality to all, irrespective of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Beyond these protected characteristics, we acknowledge the importance of socio-economic background, childcare and caring responsibilities, educational background, neurodiversity, and any other factors that shape an individual’s identity and opportunities. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel valued, supported, and able to contribute fully.

Values

It is an exciting time for the Adolescent Health Study (AHS) as we establish our senior leadership and delivery teams. As the senior executive team evolves, the AHS values will be grounded in inclusivity, integrity, accountability, and collaboration.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Data Protection Manager to play a pivotal role in our Data and Insights team in London.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

As our Data Protection Manager, you'll lead the organisation's commitment to safeguarding information and upholding the highest standards of compliance. You'll shape and maintain robust data protection policies, oversee data retention practices, and ensure our operations align with current legislation and best practice. Acting as the organisation's go‑to expert, you'll manage subject access requests, guide colleagues on data protection matters, and play a key role in reviewing contracts to ensure appropriate safeguards are in place. With responsibility for monitoring compliance, conducting audits, and managing data breach investigations, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while driving a culture of accountability, security, and continuous improvement.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

We're looking for a confident and knowledgeable professional with a strong foundation in data protection, ideally supported by a degree in Law, Information Governance, Business Administration, or equivalent experience. You'll bring proven expertise in data protection or compliance roles, along with a solid grasp of UK and EU legislation, including the Data Protection Act and GDPR. Meticulous attention to detail, sharp analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex issues with clarity are essential, as is the capacity to work independently and juggle multiple priorities with sound judgement and discretion. Proficiency with relevant IT systems and data management tools is key. Experience within health or social care or a recognised data protection certification would be a welcome advantage.

When will I be working?

You will be working Monday to friday between the hours of 9am and 5.18pm

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.