Entry level jobs for the Disability sector

The Head of Nursing and Quality is a senior strategic and operational leader within The Children’s Trust, responsible for delivering the highest standards of nursing, clinical care, safety, and clinical governance across the organisation. Reporting directly to the Director of Nursing and Quality, the postholder provides professional leadership for the nursing and care workforce, oversees the day to day clinical management of the organisation and deputises for the Director of Nursing and Quality / Registered Manager as required.

This role ensures compliance with all relevant regulatory frameworks, including CQC, OFSTED Care, National Minimum Standards for Children’s Homes, and national patient safety requirements, while fostering a culture of excellence, continuous learning, and improvement. The postholder will lead on the development of evidence-based practice, ensuring services are safe, equitable, responsive, and aligned with The Children’s Trust’s strategic objectives.

Interview date: Friday 2 January 2026

This role is not open for sponsorship.

Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Professional Practice

• Provide highly visible, credible leadership to nursing and care teams across the organisation.
• Act as a key delegate and deputy for the Director of Nursing and Quality / Registered Manager.
• Champion a culture that promotes safe, equitable, compassionate, and evidence-based care.
• Ensure children, young people, and families are meaningfully involved in shaping service delivery and evaluating their experience.
• Lead the development and delivery of organisational initiatives, contributing to strategic objectives, the business plan, and the organisational dashboard.
• Proactively network externally to promote the organisation’s clinical and professional profile.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance

• Ensure full compliance with CQC, OFSTED Care, National Minimum Standards for Children’s Homes, NMC standards, and other applicable legislation.
• Lead audits of CQC and Ofsted standards, identifying gaps and implementing robust action plans.
• Assist in the continued development, implementation, and maintenance of an effective organisation-wide clinical governance framework.
• Jointly coordinate the completion of the annual Quality Account.
• Lead clinical policy development, ensuring all clinical policies are evidence-based, current, and understood by staff.

 Patient Safety, Clinical Risk and Incident Management

• Lead a culture of transparency, learning, and continuous improvement within the Nursing and Care directorate.
• Implement and oversee the Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF) and annual associated plan alongside the Head of Clinical Governance.
• Ensure timely review and oversight of incident reporting, risk assessments, serious incident investigations, and associated actions.
• Promote and strengthen organisational processes for identifying, mitigating, and monitoring clinical risks.
• Communicate themes and learning from incidents across the organisation.

Workforce Leadership, Development and Management

• Provide professional leadership to nursing, care, safeguarding, respiratory, pharmacy, clinical governance and clinical education teams.
• Line manage: Business Support Manager, Senior Clinical Lead, Lead Respiratory Nurse and three house managers, and associated teams.
• Ensure robust workforce planning, including appropriate skill mix and safe staffing.
• Lead recruitment and retention strategies for nursing and care services in partnership with the People Team.
• Ensure regular, high-quality clinical supervision, appraisal, and professional development opportunities.
• Oversee NMC revalidation processes and compliance with professional standards.
• Build high-performing teams through motivation, recognition, coaching, and consistent performance management.

Nursing and Care Leadership

• Provide strategic leadership for the nursing and care education team and line manager this through the Senior Clinical Lead.
• Ensure a safe and effective education provision aligned with national standards and NMC, and other regulatory requirements.

Safeguarding

• Ensure strong collaboration with safeguarding professionals ensuring safeguarding governance, policy implementation, training compliance, and multi-agency collaboration.
• Provide senior oversight of safeguarding concerns, investigations, and learning in conjunction with the Director of Nursing and Quality, and wider safeguarding team.

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC)

• Provide leadership for infection prevention and control, ensuring compliance with national guidelines.
• Monitor infection data, oversee IPC audits, and initiate improvement strategies.
• Promote best practice in all clinical and residential settings.

Documentation, Information Management and Digital Systems

• Ensure safe, accurate and secure medical and care records, with regular audit for compliance.
• Maximise use of digital systems to support clinical decision-making, documentation, and governance.
• Ensure clear, consistent standards for record-keeping across all clinical and care areas.

Resource, Budget and Performance Management

• Hold delegated responsibility for staffing and non-staffing budgets across nursing, care, and residential services.
• Lead capital and equipment planning to ensure all clinical environments are safe and fit for purpose.
• Review and ensure effective skill mix and resource allocation.
• Set SMART objectives for direct reports and monitor performance through structured quarterly reviews.

Senior Leadership and Organisational Responsibilities

• Serve as a critical member of the Nursing and Care Senior Leadership Team.
• Participate in the senior site manager weekend rota.
• Communicate organisational messages effectively and relay staff feedback to senior leaders.
• Undertake additional duties aligned with the role’s scope and organisational requirements.
• Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety regulations and The Children's Trust policies.

 Wellbeing and Emotional Resilience

• Maintains a positive approach and outlook when dealing with change and overcoming challenges and problems.
• Recognises own limitations, develops realistic goals, and uses support network resource when or if necessary.
• Treats challenges and problems as a learning experience.
• Remains organised and focused when under pressure.
• Responds appropriately and effectively to all constructive feedback.
• Motivates self and other.

Education:

• Registered Nurse.
• Leadership / management qualification.
• Master’s degree in relevant subject. 

Experience:

• Evidence of recent management and leadership experience at equivalent to Band 8c or above, for a minimum of two years.
• Evidence of continuous professional and personal development.
• Experience of working with children and families with complex health needs.

Skills, Abilities & Knowledge:

• Dynamic, passionate, open, collaborative, and supportive leadership style.
• Able to build teams and delegate.
• Able to problem solve and make informed decisions, and take charge of events.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong influencing skills in depth knowledge of all relevant regulatory legislation, with experience of implementing and working to them.
• Demonstrable track record of achievement in quality and patient safety.
• Experience of leading a service and of transformational change.
• Experience managing projects.
• Experience of effective partnership working, with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience of managing budgets.

Personal Qualities:

• Commitment to the vision and values of The Children’s Trust.
• Flexible and ‘can do’ attitude to competing commitments in workload.
• Highly motivated and reliable.
• Ability to cope working in a demanding environment.
• Commitment to maintaining personal wellbeing and the wellbeing of colleagues. 

About Us

The Children’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity for children with acquired brain injury, providing expert rehabilitation, education, therapy, and care at our national specialist centre in Tadworth, and to children and their families across the UK, via our Brain Injury Community Service.

Boasting a beautiful 24-acre site in Surrey, we are located just outside of London, close to the M25 (accessible via Junction 8, A217 to Tadworth) and easily accessible via National Rail, by way of: Clapham Junction, Sutton, and Epsom.

Staff Benefits

The work we do is highly rewarding, and in addition to an attractive salary, we offer a valuable range of benefits on our staff flexible benefits platform, on-site nursery, free eye tests, enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay, time out days for those experiencing menopause symptoms and time off for gender reassignment.

We also offer additional annual leave days for those with long service, with entitlements ranging from 35 to 41 days (including bank holidays) depending on your length of service.

Other benefits include free on-site parking; a staff shuttle service from Epsom and Sutton train stations to Tadworth Court, subsidised cafeteria, on-site staff accommodation (subject to availability), the ability to retain your NHS pension (where applicable), Teacher’s pension (where applicable) or the opportunity to join an alternative scheme, and the opportunity to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Rehabilitation of Offenders

Many roles at The Children’s Trust are exempt from the provisions of Section 4 (2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, by virtue of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 and 2020) and as such, are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.  Successful applicants will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check, which will disclose all unspent convictions and adult cautions and any spent convictions or adult cautions that would not be protected.  The exceptions to this are our retail roles within The Children’s Trust shops, which are subject to Basic DBS checks which will disclose unspent convictions or adult cautions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

To help us achieve our ambition to give children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability the opportunity to live the best life possible, we want to accurately reflect the UK’s diverse population. We want equity, diversity, and inclusion to be at the heart of everything we do, and our people, services, and culture to reflect the diverse needs of all. Through our diversity and inclusion strategy, we have made a commitment to increase the diversity of our charity and create an inclusive culture. We have networks across the organisation working to ensure that these aims are met - including an LGBTQIA2S+ group, Ethnic Diversity Group, and Spark – our broad EDI group. Read more about our EDI work here. We welcome applications from all who share our ambition regardless of background. We will strive to ensure that any reasonable adjustments are made in respect of interview and working arrangements.

Online Searches

In accordance with statutory safeguarding and child protection guidance, online searches will be conducted for shortlisted candidates before interview. The online searches will be conducted by a person who is independent of the interview and selection process and will focus on relevant information returned via searches of the candidate’s name (and variations thereof). Social media searches will be limited to professional platforms such as LinkedIn. Any concerns relating to suitability for work with children and young people will be forwarded to the interview panel, for discussion during the interview.

Are you someone who is excited about charity retail, fashion, who can use their initiative? Do you have experience managing a retail team? Yes, then please keep reading as we may have the role for you. 

We are excited to be looking for an Assistant Shop Manager to work in our Clifton Notts (NG11) Shop for 30 hours per week.

We are looking for a passionate and motivated person to help our store reach full potential.

As an Assistant Shop Manager you will: 

• Help develop in store systems and promote donations and sales to maximise profits 
• Be representing Mencap as an efficient and charitable organisation by ensuring that your actions reinforce the Mencap aims and values 
• Strive to ensure stock is generated from the local area and donors 
• Sign up donors to the Gift Aid scheme and ensure maximum income is achieved through Gift Aid 
• Be responsible for achieving profit targets by ensuring sales are maximised and the cost are effectively managed 
• Maintain the store to a high standard of presentation throughout. 
• Build an effective volunteer team and provide training, development, work reviews and appraisals to paid staff and volunteers 
• Be responsible for all financial and cash handling and health and safety. 

To be a successful Assistant Shop Manager, you will be: 

• An experienced assistant manager or Supervisor  with the ability to maintain budgets and complete weekly income and banking sheets accurately, preferably with previous charity retail experience. 
• Have a flexible approach to working hours and days including working weekend and Bank Holidays as appropriate. 
• Willing to travel to occasional team meetings, training events and in the initial growth of the new retail train assisting with setting up other new stores. 
• Passionate about the Mencap values and will strive to ensure our Retail brand is successful.   

We are an equitable, diverse and inclusive organisation and we particularly welcome and encourage disabled applicants and those from the Black and Asian communities to apply for the role as they are under-represented within the workforce.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and welcome applicants with disabilities to apply for all roles with us. To find out more about the scheme please visit the direct gov website.  

Benefits

Here at Mencap, we offer an impressive range of benefits designed to support and reward our employees to ensure that our teams feel valued and appreciated.

Our benefits package offers 32 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata), along with a range of perks such as discounts at leading high-street retailers, access to health cash plans, interest-free loans, and many more exciting offerings.

For more details on what we have to offer, please see the attached document outlining all the fantastic benefits available to you as a member of our team!

About Mencap

Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

We're here to support people with a learning disability, their families and their carers. We fight for a kinder, fairer and more inclusive society for people with a learning disability to live in.

At Mencap, everyone works with people with a learning disability either providing support or advice, or alongside one another as colleagues.

Belonging at Mencap is for everyone, every day, everywhere.

• Everyone is expected to treat people well and make Mencap an inclusive organisation.
• Every day we grow and learn. It’s okay to make mistakes but we learn from them and make changes
• Everywhere people will feel respected, valued, and safe to be themselves.

We have Belonging network groups that meet online and are open to all colleagues. The groups include people who identify as Black and Asian, LGBTQIA+, disabled or with a long- term health condition, women, parents and carers, and their allies.

We want to encourage everyone to apply to work at Mencap and we offer a variety of different contract types and working patterns. We’re not looking for specific experience. It is your personality and values that will make you a great colleague. We will train and develop you to succeed in the role you’re applying for.

Join Shaftesbury – Where every role adds up to a life well lived

We’re looking for a Head of Individual Giving to join our dynamic Fundraising and Communications team — a passionate group of people who want to make a difference. If you’re strategic, creative and driven, this is your opportunity to play a key role in Shaftesbury’s work.

At Shaftesbury, we’re more than a disability charity — we’re a team dedicated to helping children, young people and adults live full, flourishing lives. Guided by our values of being Open, Enabling, Inclusive and Courageous, we deliver personalised care and support that changes lives every day.

Please note this role does not qualify for visa sponsorship.

TAG Youth Club, an award-winning charity and a youth club open to children, young people and young adults, whatever their disability. We work hard to accommodate anyone who wants to join and particularly those who have restricted opportunities elsewhere.  We respond to the needs of the communities we serve and cater for those between the ages of 8 – 25 years. 

TAG started almost 25 years ago, as a group of parents who got together to create an inclusive space for their disabled young people to socialise.  From those humble beginnings TAG has now grown to over 250 members and supports over 750 family members.The club now makes many activities available to young disabled people that would not ordinarily be available to them (such as climbing, skiing, archery, parkour, scootering and skateboarding). Our activities provide members with opportunities to meet new people, make friends, learn social and life skills, and to thrive and grow in confidence and independence.

This exciting new part time role has been created to support the CEO and Head of Operations, providing administrative support in a wide variety of areas including finance, fundraising, office systems and management, premises, promotion, marketing and communications. 

Financial administration includes input and reconciliation of all financial data and ensures efficient reporting, analysis and measurement of data and financial information against set timescales, targets and objectives. H/she will support annual budget preparation and will contribute to the Annual Report.

H/she will track funding opportunities, deadlines and bid submissions and will draft/edit grant applications.  They will maintain the funding database and track Award deadlines and write Award entries.

Office and systems management will include efficient record keeping and databases, maintain IT equipment and oversee insurance and service contracts.  They will also maintain TAG's website and social media platforms and support/represent TAG at external events.  They wil manage DBS documentation, insurance policies and membership subscriptions.

A detailed job description is attached to the bottom of this job advert.  The successful applicant will have experience of business management, fundraising and finance and most importantly, the enthusiasm and the ability to work flexibly with good organizational and communication skills.  Although this role is currently 20 hours/month, it is varied and has the potential to grow in terms of additional time and responsibilities

Location: Warwickshire, with regional responsibility across The Midlands and UK-wide support

Hours: 37.5 hours per week, flexible Monday to Saturday

Responsible to: Chief Executive Officer

Key Working Relationships: Chief Executive Officer, Heads of Operations, Senior Management Team, Facilitators

Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and qualified individual to join our team as a Regional Manager. This role involves overseeing day-to-day operations at the hub and in the community, coordinating activities that support disabled and disadvantaged individuals. The successful candidate will also take on regional responsibilities, contributing to the development and sustainability of the charity.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

· Coordinate all activities and operations to ensure smooth functioning in the Warwickshire area and across regional sites in The Midlands.

· Work alongside the Head of Operations and their teams, ensuring consistency and quality across services.

· Lead on regional development initiatives, identifying opportunities for growth and innovation in service delivery.

· Support the charity’s sustainability goals, including environmental, financial, and operational practices.

· Contribute to the strategic growth of the organisation, supporting new programme development, fundraising and partnership building.

· Provide direct support and guidance to individuals and their families, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment.

· Implement and manage animal-assisted learning programmes, alternative education provision (at both rural and urban settings), and direct community support services.

· Maintain compliance with safety regulations, national and organisational standards.

· Lead and manage a team, providing coaching, training, and support.

· Support HR processes regionally, including recruitment, staff wellbeing, and performance management.

· Work alongside Heads of Operations as required, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making.

· Cultivate positive relationships with stakeholders, including families, professionals, and community partners.

· Monitor and evaluate programme effectiveness, adapting delivery to meet evolving needs

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

· A recognised qualification at degree level or equivalent in one or more of the following: Teaching, Social Care, Project Management, Leadership, or a related field.

· Evidence of continued professional development relevant to the role.

· Safeguarding training (or willingness to complete upon appointment).

· Clean driving license with access to transport for regional and national travel.

· Proven experience in a management or leadership role within a relevant sector.

· Demonstrable experience of supporting disabled or disadvantaged individuals.

· Strong understanding of inclusive practice and person centred approaches.

· Experience in project management, including planning, delivery, and evaluation.

· Ability to lead and supervise teams across multiple locations.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport.

· Experience in handling HR matters such as recruitment, performance management, and staff wellbeing.

· Ability to travel across regional and national sites as required.

· Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.

· Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and other relevant software systems.

Desirable Criteria

· Experience in charity development, sustainability planning, or strategic growth.

· Familiarity with animal-assisted learning techniques and alternative education models.

· Knowledge of safeguarding practices and compliance requirements.

· Understanding of trauma-informed approaches and emotional intelligence in leadership.

· Experience in partnership development and stakeholder engagement.

Safeguarding Statement:
Circles Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and potentially vulnerable people. As part of our safer recruitment process, the successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and provide three satisfactory references prior to appointment.

RNID Near You Coordinator Leicester City
Remote working in or near Leicester City
£25,708 pa plus excellent benefits
35 hours per week
Maternity Cover - Fixed, ending 31st December 2026

As a Coordinator for our RNID Near You community service in Leicester City, you will focus and lead on developing and delivering our community service across the area through drop-ins offering:

• practical hearing aid support
• information on hearing loss and tinnitus
• hearing checks

You will be responsible for co-ordinating up to 15 drop-in sessions and be able to recruit, train and manage a team of up to 30 volunteers to deliver the service across Leicester City.  You will have responsibility for the set up and running of these sessions and have good local knowledge of the area and seek new opportunities for delivery of the RNID Near You services.

We are looking to appoint a motivated person with a keen interest in supporting people with their hearing loss. While you will be home based, there will be regular travel to all venues where we will provide drop-in sessions in community and care settings.

You want to make a difference in people’s lives and love to interact with various audiences, including volunteers, health & care professionals and people we support. You have experience managing people or volunteers and events, your own workload and are able to work evenings/ weekends if required. You are able to physically assist clients with hearing aids sensitively, giving clear guidance and taking into account individual wishes and health needs.

You are ready to work for a home-working organisation and have good IT skills, particularly with Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Excel, Word.

We are RNID: Together we’ll make life more inclusive for deaf people and those with hearing loss or tinnitus. Our charity has been through a complete transformation, while building on the best of our past. We’ve returned to our former, much-loved name, become wholly remote working, and established a new strategy, focused on reaching the 18 million people in the UK who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus. 

We are creating a radically different culture which is externally focused, curious, evidence-based, deliberate, agile, and future orientated.Our values are at the heart of what we do.

We strive to be and continue to connected to our communities, insightful and confident in what we do and who we are, curious in everything we do and passionate about our purpose. 

We champion the value of difference and equality and celebrate our diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively encourage applications from eligible candidates from BAME backgrounds or who are deaf or hard of hearing. With almost 20% of our employees having a disability we proudly hold Disability Confident Leader status and guarantee an interview for disabled applicants meeting the minimum essential criteria.

Closing date: 21 December 2025.
Interviews: w/c 5 January 2026.

Director of Technology
£78,000 - £82,000 pa plus excellent benefits
Remote working
Permanent, 35 hours per week 

Our newly created role of Director of Technology will join our Senior Leadership Team, and will be responsible for our technology strategy. This includes leading the Full Stack and IT teams to develop the technology infrastructure that supports RNID’s work, and to develop tools that directly support our communities. It’s an exciting time to be joining, as you will lead our AI programme, ensuring the charity takes full advantage of emerging opportunities to increase our efficiency and effectiveness.  

You will: 

1. Lead and develop a high performing team of technology experts, developers and IT specialists.

2. Lead the technical delivery of our digital product roadmaps (like our online hearing check).

3. Ensure our technology infrastructure is resilient, secure, and meets our needs.

4. Ensure that RNID understands the opportunities and threats posed by AI, leading our AI programme

5. Be an active member of our Senior Leadership Team supporting the overall delivery of our strategic plans and driving performance.

We are looking for someone who:

1. Has presence and credibility as a senior leader, able to inspire confidence with deep technology expertise.

2. Builds relationships internally, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of business objectives and requirements.

3. Has proven experience leading full stack development and overseeing business critical technologies, as well as experience of leveraging AI to meet business objectives.

4. Is passionate about RNID, what we do and the role of technology in creating impact for our communities. 

We are RNID: the national charity supporting the 18 million people in the UK who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus. 

Together, we will end the discrimination faced by our communities, help people hear better now and fund world-class research to restore hearing and silence tinnitus. We work with our communities and partners across industry, government, charity, education and more to change life for the better. 

RNID has a proud history and big ambitions. We’re focused on making the greatest impact possible across the whole of the UK. We champion the latest technology and the opportunities it brings. We also know the value of a friendly face in local communities to support people where they need it most.

We champion the value of difference and equality and celebrate our diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively encourage applications from eligible candidates from BAME backgrounds or who are deaf or hard of hearing. With almost 20% of our employees having a disability we proudly hold Disability Confident Leader status and guarantee an interview for disabled applicants meeting the minimum essential criteria.

Closing date: 5 January 2026
Interviews: 12 January 2026 (first round), 19 January 2026 (second round)

Are you a self-starting and strategic PR professional who has delivered ambitious media campaigns from scratch? Are you able to spot external opportunities and guide organisational narratives?

Mencap is looking for a Senior Media Manager to join our Media team on a full time (37.5 hours per week) fixed term basis (until end January 2027) 

We are challenging the way the UK understands learning disability and are paving the way for even more impactful change to the way learning disability is portrayed in the media.

Do you have the skills and experience to be a Senior Media Manager? 

*This is not an exhaustive list of the role and its requirements, please look at the full job description for further information. 

This vacancy closes on Tuesday 9th December, with interviews to be held soon after.

Here at Mencap we operate a blinded recruitment process for a lot of our roles, please ensure you apply with a full application and covering statement. 

• You will have experience of leading national media campaigns, from design to delivery, preferably to influence policy change

• You will be able to turn complex issues and information into campaign ideas, stories and media materials

• You will be an outstanding communicator    

• You will have good judgement when it comes to managing reputation and be great at spotting opportunities to enhance understanding of a brand

• You will be able to work constructively at a senior level with colleagues across the organisation, as well as external stakeholders

Benefits

Here at Mencap, we offer an impressive range of benefits designed to support and reward our employees to ensure that our teams feel valued and appreciated. Our benefits package offers 32 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata), along with a range of perks such as discounts at leading high-street retailers, access to health cash plans, interest-free loans, and many more exciting offerings. For more details on what we have to offer, please see the attached document outlining all the fantastic benefits available to you as a member of our team!

About Mencap

Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives. We're here to support people with a learning disability, their families and their carers. We fight for a kinder, fairer and more inclusive society for people with a learning disability to live in. At Mencap, everyone works with people with a learning disability either providing support or advice, or alongside one another as colleagues. Belonging at Mencap is for everyone, every day, everywhere. · Everyone is expected to treat people well and make Mencap an inclusive organisation. · Every day we grow and learn. It’s okay to make mistakes but we learn from them and make changes · Everywhere people will feel respected, valued, and safe to be themselves. We have Belonging network groups that meet online and are open to all colleagues. The groups include people who identify as Black and Asian, LGBTQIA+, disabled or with a long- term health condition, women, parents and carers, and their allies. We want to encourage everyone to apply to work at Mencap and we offer a variety of different contract types and working patterns. We’re not looking for specific experience. It is your personality and values that will make you a great colleague. We will train and develop you to succeed in the role you’re applying for.

Who are you

You are qualified chef or catering professional who is excited by the prospect of developing training, business partnerships and product development in conjunction with the staff and volunteers at our community garden, kitchen and nursery in Richmond.

About your values and strengths 

You will be someone who:

• Grasps new ideas and opportunities and runs with them
• Has the energy and skills to share their knowledge with others
• Is a powerful advocate for learning and development, particularly for people with learning disabilities
• Will be able to mobilise the skills and resources of staff, volunteers and users of the service to deliver work and the work of the kitchen and its development
• Will see the value of, and maximise the opportunities available to through the work of the community garden, its produce and the resources to be developed from it.
• Is confident in approaching other organisations and individuals to drive business and operational development

What we want you to do

Out "Kitchen at the Stud" project is a new initiative funded in partnership with the Royal Borough of Richmond. The Kitchen is a fully refurbished resource at the heart of our Horticultural Service based in grounds of Hampton Court Palace.

The Community Garden is an extensive horticultural resource and the kitchen project is an integrated part of our developing programme of learning and skills development. The Kitchen Lead will work with the garden team in building the kitchen into both a publicly accessible amenity, a training resource, seasonal cafe available on open days and for targeted group dining in addition to exploring the potential for product lines for public sale.

What you can expect from us

Balance is a specialist provider of community based support and services across SW London to people with learning disabilities and enduring mental health support needs. We are:

• A charity that works hard to put its people, those who it supports and those who provide its services at the heart of what we do.
• A charity that takes its mission and values seriously in developing its services, operational approach and commercial relationships
• An organisation supports and encourages its staff to participate as partners in our development as a business, our outcomes and the delivery of our values.

• Entrepreneurial, outward facing, collaborative and embrace the testing of new ideas and initiative.

Additional Benefits of working for us

• A commitment to training and professional development to support internal progression in and beyond the charity.
• Inclusion in and a 3% employers contribution to the charity's pension scheme.
• Generous annual leave allowance of 25 days a year plus bank holidays and an additional day off for your birthday.
• Access to a range of discount schemes including Blue Light Card
• Access to the charity's employee assistance programme.
• Access to travel card loan, and bike to work scheme.

Reports to: Head of Media and PR. 

Direct reports: PR & Media Executive.

Hours: Full time, Monday - Friday, 37.5 hours a week.

Location: Harlow Essex. We offer blended working within this role – with a minimum of two days a week in the office or at key stakeholder meetings externally required.

About the role

This is a pivotal role for an experienced Communications and PR professional to significantly enhance the visibility and understanding of the Motability Foundation's vital work. You will be instrumental in devising and leading our proactive and reactive media work, shaping our narrative, engaging key stakeholders, increasing understanding and ultimately driving greater impact for disabled people across the UK.

This a really exciting time to be joining the Foundation. With our newly launched five-year strategy, our vision is clear - we want to build transport equity for disabled people in the UK so that they can make the journeys they choose. You will manage and lead a programme of work to navigate complex policy landscapes, champion the stories of our beneficiaries, and work to demystify disability and mobility issues for a broad audience.

This role requires a strategic thinker who can not only execute but also advise senior leadership and Trustees on communication best practices and opportunities. The role holder is responsible for continuously developing and leading on all media and PR activities. With a strong news sense, you will help develop and execute forward-thinking PR plans and strategies for the organisation, manage our external profile and raise awareness of the work we do, aligned to our vision, and manage our press office, including building strong relationships with journalists.

If you are a proactive and motivated media and PR individual looking for an exciting new challenge within a friendly, flexible, and supportive team, then this could be the role for you! 

What you will be doing

• Develop and deliver integrated communications and PR strategies that elevate the Foundation's profile and impact.
• Lead proactive media relations, cultivating strong relationships with journalists across national, regional, and specialist media to secure impactful coverage.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on all communications matters, providing expert counsel and crisis communications support.
• Oversee the creation of compelling content across all channels, ensuring consistent messaging and brand voice.
• Alongside colleagues in the digital team, drive digital engagement strategies, leveraging social media and digital platforms to complement press work to reach, engage and amplify diverse audiences.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of PR and communications activities, providing insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Lead all media and press activity. You will manage the day-to-day running of the Motability Foundation press office, providing an efficient service that makes the most of reactive and proactive media opportunities and builds our reputation with the media.
• Scan effectively for breaking news stories relevant to our areas of work, as well as horizon scanning for potential areas of future coverage.
• Working with colleagues in Public Affairs, Policy, Insight and Evaluation and our Transport Solutions Team, take a lead on proactive media activity around our policy, campaigns and research activity.
• Scan for areas of reputational risk and support the Head of Media and PR with preparing for and handling reputational risk.
• Lead on crisis, media enquiries and messaging, implementing the necessary checks and actions to protect the Foundation’s reputation and brand.
• Develop and deliver a briefing and training programme for key spokespeople, developing key messaging and Q&As.
• Manage the press and PR budget.
• Manage the continuous development of our PR & Media Executive using a mixture of external, internal and on the job training.

What will make you great in this role?

You will have a strong track record of securing high profile media coverage, ideally for a national charity dealing in disability, health or social issues. You will have a great news sense and the ability to develop strong relationships with journalists to confidently identify stories and make them work for different media outlets. You will have a flair for writing engaging copy, an eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to meeting deadlines. You can work at pace where needed and identify priorities and manage multiple projects. You will be used to briefing and supporting spokespeople to do media interviews and speaking opportunities.

You will be proactive and a strong team player as this role will need to work closely with colleagues across the communications team and wider organisation. You will be able to take the lead in some areas and lend a hand in others. You will have great people skills and will be comfortable working with people from all walks of life, from your communications colleagues to our case studies to Directors and Board Members.

Your experience

• Proven track record of success in a dedicated PR role, ideally within a charity, public sector, or purpose-driven organisation.
• Demonstrable experience in developing and executing successful media relations strategies, securing high-profile coverage.
• Expertise in crisis communications and issues management, with the ability to respond effectively under pressure.
• Strong understanding of the UK media landscape and established relationships with key journalists.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
• Strong understanding in managing and optimising digital communication channels, including social media strategy and content.
• Ability to work autonomously, manage multiple projects, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working with or for disabled people's organisations or charities.
• Understanding of public affairs or policy influencing.
• Experience partnering with and managing external agencies or consultants.
• Experience of line management.

Job Summary

The Head of Operations holds responsibility for our day-to-day delivery, strategic development of our services, and operational team leadership. As our new Head of Operations you will:

• sit on the PiP Senior Management Team and lead our team of circa twenty delivery staff. 
• ensure continuous operational improvement, working with SMT to develop our service and systems, through new projects or ways of working, and champion a learner-led approach to everything we do. 
• champion PiP meeting our regulatory and reporting requirements, manage key relationships including with local authorities, and hold budget responsibility across our service.

Who We Are

PIP is a local charity that supports adults with learning disabilities or autism to achieve their potential, and to lead lives that are as independent as possible.  

Our mission is to empower adults with learning disabilities to achieve their potential. We are a growing, grassroots charity based in West London, and run a number of key services to promote independence and choice for our students.

What You’ll Need

• Significant experience of working with people with learning disabilities, or a similar vulnerable client group, including knowledge of Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults (SOVA) processes.
• Significant experience of leading and managing a staff team.
• Strong understanding of and commitment to a person-centred approach to working with people with learning disabilities, including planning, progress monitoring and review.
• Experience of liaising with a wide network of agencies and sector professionals in support of student needs.
• Knowledge of national and local legislation and policy affecting people with learning disabilities, including personal budgets. Alongside knowledge of key legislation and processes including on Health & Safety and Risk Skills and abilities 
• Able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, including the ability to maintain accurate records and produce reports for a variety of internal and external audiences.
• Able to take a lead role in the implementation of major tasks, including contributing to the delivery of key performance management targets and making organisational and systems improvements.
• Able to manage and complete projects successfully, including delegating tasks and monitoring and evaluating progress against outcomes.
• Able to establish, develop and maintain constructive and professional relationships with a wide variety of professionals and carers both internally and externally.
• Able to liaise and work closely with student families, carers and other stakeholders in planning, implementing and monitoring support.
• Able to take a flexible approach to work, including flexible and out of hours working in response to service needs and developments.
• Willing and able to participate actively in a variety of fundraising events and activities, including some evening and weekend events.

What We Offer:

• You'll get 25 days holidays + bank holidays ever year. We're closed for Christmas but the rest of the year you may take leave whenever you wish.
• An extra day of annual leave for each year you've worked with us up to another 5 (30 in total)
• We offer a travel subsidy of up to £7.50 per day to help with the commuting costs.
• We provide a 4% pension contribution
• Free Employee Assistance programme 24/7 with access to counselling
• We offer regular team meals and socials - generally during work hours and they are optional.
• We offer a cycle-to-work scheme and as we're a charity you'll get access to savings like charityworkerdiscounts

Our Mission

PiP's mission is to empower adults with learning disabilities to achieve their potential. We are a growing, grassroots charity based in West London, and run a number of key services to promote independence and choice for our service users.

Our commitments

PiP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with the Inclusive Employers Standard 2020. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly applicants who are significantly underrepresented in our sector, such as people with lived experience of disabilities and individuals from Black and Minority ethnic communities. 

PiP keeps all personal information confidential and in line with current data protection legislation and GDPR. 

Closing Date: December 5th 2025

We encourage you to apply early, as applications will be reviewed as soon as they are received, and we reserve the right to close the advert sooner subject to finding suitable candidates.  

Are you ready to lead a meaningful programme that connects people’s memories and legacies with lasting impact?

We have an exciting opportunity for a Legacy Giving Manager to shape and deliver our legacy and in-memory strategy, inspiring supporters to see how gifts in Wills and donations made in remembrance can transform lives. This is a wonderful opportunity to lead a talented team, oversee high-quality campaigns, and ensure every supporter experience reflects our values.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver the Legacy & In-Memory Giving programme, aligning it with the wider Individual Giving strategy
• Lead and motivate a dedicated team, supporting collaboration and professional growth
• Implement data-driven and audience-led legacy and in-memory marketing campaigns that grow pledger numbers and increase engagement
• Responsible for legacy case management and be the strategic lead for our legacy consultancy partner, ensuring compliance and efficiency
• Support the development and management of stewardship programmes for enquirers, pledgers and in-memory donors, providing sensitive and effective supporter care
• Embed a culture of legacy and in-memory giving increasing awareness and knowledge
• Support the delivery of events to inspire new supporters and strengthen relationships with existing ones
• Monitor performance, analyse results, and use insights to continually enhance the programme

About You:

• Experienced in developing and delivering legacy or individual giving strategies across multiple channels
• Proven experience of team leadership and line management
• Excellent communicator, able to build positive relationships with colleagues, agencies, and solicitors
• Experienced in donor stewardship, with an understanding of how to create meaningful supporter journeys
• Organised and proactive, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines with accuracy and care
• Ability to analyse data and apply insights to improve campaigns and outcomes
• Experienced in budget management, forecasting, and reporting

About Us:

Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.

What We Offer:

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave)
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Opportunities for training and personal development
• Hybrid working

The full job description and further information about working for the MND Association is available in the candidate pack.

Interviews will take place in January 2025.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

Hybrid Working and Flexibility: Expectation to attend the office 1 day per week, with flexibility to attend more when required. Monthly travel to Northampton is also expected as part of this role.

Head of Fundraising and Partnerships
Salary: £46,000 - £50,000 per annum
Location: London

Our client is on a mission to tackle the high unemployment rate among adults with learning disabilities. Through their year-long traineeship programme, they equip participants with vital skills to become skilled baristas and expert café assistants, or to develop their capabilities as office managers and assistants. They are seeking an enthusiastic and engaged individual who has the passion and experience to drive their business forward.

As their very first Head of Fundraising and Partnerships, you will spearhead their strategy to generate the income necessary for maintaining their success and expanding their reach across London. They require an accomplished fundraiser with a proven background in implementing and delivering successful fundraising strategies, securing corporate sponsorships, and managing relationships with high-net-worth individuals, grant holders, and trustees. You will be working closely alongside their CEO, who has been actively leading the fundraising efforts until now.

The ideal candidate will possess the following:

• A strategic thinker with experience in creating and delivering successful fundraising strategies
• Excellent relationship-building skills and a proven track record in securing funding from trusts and foundations
• Strong organisational and project management abilities to navigate and coordinate fundraising activities across teams
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, able to engage diverse stakeholders effectively
• A proactive, results-driven mindset capable of adapting to a fast-paced environment
• Proven experience in fundraising, partnership management, or business development
• A genuine passion for supporting individuals within the disability community

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a strategic fundraising outreach plan to build a sustainable pipeline of potential donors and partners
• Identify, cultivate, and secure significant funding from trusts, foundations, and major donors
• Design and deliver a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the organisation's programme ambitions
• Build on established relationships with HNWIs and corporate partners while expanding engagement opportunities
• Manage the marketing team to ensure successful execution of campaigns aligned with fundraising goals

Our client prides themselves on cultivating an inclusive culture where every individual feels valued and respected. They encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to help ensure that their team reflects the communities they serve.

To apply, please email your CV. Join them in making a meaningful impact in the lives of adults with learning disabilities!

Are you passionate about supporting people to expand their skills through the power of gardening? We provide horticultural training and gardening therapy to adults with learning disabilities, helping them develop employability, build confidence, and improve their social skills. 

Share is a registered charity and a centre for training and wellbeing. We provide a range of programmes helping adults with learning disabilities, autism and other support needs become more happy, healthy and independent. Our vision is a world where disabled people are fully included in society, living the life they choose, and we need talented people to help us make that happen. 

We need an experienced horticulture trainer to lead the training programme at our beautiful garden site in Tooting. We are looking for someone to lead, develop and deliver horticulture training programmes that aims to make sure our students enjoy greater independence and the chance to move closer to employment.

Main responsibilities 

• You’ll lead, develop, and deliver horticulture training to disabled adults ranging from entry level to level 2
• You’ll champion a strong work ethic in the garden, helping students achieve their qualifications and develop work-related skills, linking closely with our on-site social enterprise Share Nurseries, which grows and sells plants to the public 

• You will manage three members of the horticulture project, overseeing their projects and providing experience and supporting them 

• You’ll maintain student records, oversee the preparation of student portfolios for verification, and report on progress 

Who we’re looking for 

• You have occupational competence in Horticulture, ideally qualified to Level 3 or above 

• You have first-rate interpersonal skills, you’re able to communicate and relate to people from all backgrounds
• You’ve delivered horticulture training, and you’ve successfully organised and led a small team before
• You can enthuse and motivate people who may at times find learning challenging, with your patience, empathy, and understanding of autism and learning disabilities
• Most importantly, you’re committed to the inclusion of disabled people in all aspects of life 

A qualification in horticulture therapy would be an advantage, but a strong interest and passion for the healing power of plants is a must. 

Why work for us?  

Share is committed to empowering disabled people. You’ll make a difference every day, helping people to live as independently as possible. 

Our values drive us forward. They provide the framework for everything we do, including who we hire. We believe everyone has something to offer others, and we build on people's individual talents, interests and abilities. We think happy employees are successful employees. 

We won employer of the year at the Wandsworth Business Awards in 2019 and we hold gold Investors in People accreditation. This means we truly understand the value of people: we focus on what people can do, not what holds them back. And we have robust policies in place so that every single person working at Share takes ownership for making our programmes come to life. 

We’ve been praised for our supportive working environment where everyone has a voice and is valued. You’ll be surrounded by people who support you, challenge you, and inspire you. 

How to apply 

We actively encourage applications from people from minoritised ethnic communities and with lived experience of a learning disability and/or autism. This is because we believe our staff should reflect the diversity of our student body wherever possible in order to provide the best possible service.

Please send us your CV and a cover letter. In your letter, please tell us: 

1. What is your experience of working with SEN adults in a horticulture setting? 

2. What is your understanding of behaviour that challenges? 

3. What are your top three qualities that make you an excellent Lead Horticulture Trainer? 

If you would like to have chat about the role or visit us prior to applying, please contact a member of the HR team.

We focus on ability and believe people work best when they feel valued, safe and happy. We do all that we can to make sure that Share is friendly and welcoming to everyone. All CVs and applications are sanitised to ensure unbiased recruitment. 

This job is subject to two satisfactory references, evidence of qualifications, an enhanced DBS check and providing evidence of the right to work in the UK. If you are disabled and would like to discuss other ways of submitting your application, please contact us.

Our privacy policy for job applicants can be found on our website.

We look forward to receiving your application.