Disability jobs

As the Head of Philanthropy, Asia, you will play a key role in growing Birmingham’s philanthropic programme in the Asia-Pacific region. The focus will be on increasing six-figure+ giving through the University of Birmingham Hong Kong Foundation and from the wider region. Most of their warm donors are based in Malaysia and Hong Kong, but there is an active community of alumni in Singapore and scoping to be done across Asia to drive the next phase of their strategy forward beyond alumni donors, and to build on a recent seven-figure donation as a catalyst for further giving.

The University established their Hong Kong Foundation in 2019 and giving is off to a strong start. Continuing on this trajectory you will work to make it financially sustainable, aiming to have multi-year commitments lined up. You will steer and develop the Foundation’s volunteer Board of Directors, increasing giving from their networks, and working with them to distribute funds to programmes at the University that will also benefit Hong Kong.

As a senior fundraiser in the Development & Alumni Relations Office (DARO), you will be expected to be innovative, self-motivated and to take ownership of fundraising in this region. As part of a dynamic team and led by some of the most respected names in higher education fundraising, you will work across the University to generate gifts to key philanthropic projects and encourage new donors to make significant gifts. You will also have the opportunity to work with the senior leadership across the University to travel, drive income and develop innovative funding proposals for the region.

The University believes there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. They are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. They have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. They are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of their strategy.

Situated within beautiful gardens and grounds, the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability (RHN) is a leading national centre of excellence and one of the longest-running charities and independent hospitals in the UK.

Set in a stunning Grade II listed Victorian building, the RHN provides adult person-centred services across the entire care pathway—from post-acute rehabilitation to end-of-life care—for people with complex neuro-disabilities and their families. Underpinned by a strong research and education framework, the RHN is more than a hospital; it is a vibrant community where residents engage in music, art, and holistic support to achieve the best possible quality of life. 

Department: Fundraising
Salary range: £32,500 per annum (£13,000 pro rata)
Hours of work: 14.4 hours per week (2 days)
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: Putney, Southwest London

Summary of Position

We are looking for an enthusiastic fundraiser to join our small, friendly team in a part-time role.

This is a blended role covering both community and corporate fundraising, supporting events, building relationships, and helping to grow income and awareness for the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability. You will work closely with the Community Fundraising Manager and Officer to deliver a varied programme of fundraising activities.

This role is ideal for someone with fundraising experience looking for a flexible, part-time opportunity.

Main Objectives of the Role

• Support the delivery of community and corporate fundraising activities
• Build and maintain relationships with supporters and partners
• Provide excellent supporter care and maximise fundraising income
• Contribute to the growth and development of fundraising opportunities

Key Responsibilities

• Support delivery of fundraising events including community, corporate, and challenge events
• Recruit and steward participants for fundraising activities
• Act as first point of contact for supporters, delivering high-quality engagement
• Build relationships with new community groups and corporate partners
• Support volunteers and third-party fundraising events
• Work with Communications to promote fundraising activities
• Create content for marketing and publicity materials

Experience

Essential

• Minimum 2 years’ fundraising experience
• Strong communication, networking, and relationship-building skills
• Good organisational and time management skills
• Confident writing promotional and marketing content
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Confident speaking to groups and representing the organisation
• Comfortable working in a healthcare environment

Desirable

• Experience in both community and corporate fundraising
• Full UK driving licence and access to a car

Why the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability is a great place to work:

• Generous Annual Leave entitlement

• Free counselling and therapy sessions and other mental wellbeing support through our partner CIC Wellbeing 

• Get involved in our free on-site wellbeing programs, including weekly yoga, and monthly pottery club (we are the UK’s only hospital with its own kiln)!

• Draw down a percentage of your monthly wages a few weeks early to help with unexpected costs.

• Financial support services such as low-interest loans and help with savings accounts through our partnership with London Capital Credit Union.

• Join our wellbeing networks to connect with people in our hospital; we have a Pride network, Women’s network, and our Race Equality network. We also have heritage events to celebrate the diversity of our workforce – most recently we had a South East Asian celebration.

• Free on-site parking (rare in London!)

• More benefits: Cycle2Work scheme, tech purchase support scheme, Blue Light Card discounts, and more.

Please note, to be eligible to apply for this role, you must have the Right to Work in the UK. We are unable to offer sponsorship to applicants currently.

RHN is a care provider for vulnerable patients at extreme risk. In consequence, safeguarding patients will always be our highest priority.

RHN is proud to be a diverse and inclusive employer that respects and values the differences of our people to achieve their full potential. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to contact our Resourcing Team

The RHN recognise the importance in addressing environmental sustainability and we strive to contribute to reducing our carbon footprint.

We are proud to be Disability Confident Employer and we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from disabled people and will make reasonable adjustments to support you through the recruitment process and in the workplace.

We reserve the right to close this advert earlier than the advertised closing date if a sufficient response is received.

Do you want to make a positive difference to the lives of others? 

Barnet Mencap has been helping people with learning disabilities and/or autistic adults in the London Borough of Barnet for over 50 years. We provide supported accommodation, leisure and learning activities, information, advice, and guidance, and so much more. All while being committed to equal opportunities and the safeguarding of children and adults.

We know job satisfaction, flexibility, work/life balance, and a great team are incredibly important.

So, at Barnet Mencap, in addition to offering 30 days of annual leave per year (including Bank Holidays), we have a TOIL system to allow flexible working. There will need to be face-to-face work as part of the job, but there will also be opportunities to work from home and/or have different working patterns as agreed by your manager. Any travel expenses can be claimed, at the agreed rate, for journeys that are necessary in the course of your work; and claims for additional expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our expenses policy. We also have auto-enrolment into a pension scheme with employer contributions in place, and all staff qualify for schemes like the Blue Light Card. 

We are looking for a focused individual to join our caring, passionate, and diverse team as an Autism Advisor, as part of our well-established and successful Autism Service. 

Our Autism Advisors offer a waiting well service, working to ensure that our Hub members are offered information, advice and guidance and other appropriate support as early as possible via our workshops and groups. 

This role gives challenge and satisfaction and will suit someone that has: 

• Knowledge and awareness of issues relating to autism 

• Awareness and understanding of mental health issues 

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills 

• Ability to work as part of a team 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion 

Please see the Job Description and Person Specification below for more information about the role. 

Applicants will need to deliver a 5-minute presentation on autism awareness specifically relating to Autistic people without a Learning Disability. 

To apply for this position, please send your CV and a supporting letter.

Closing Date:    Wednesday 13th of May 

Interviews:        Monday 18th and/or Tuesday 19th May

Barnet Mencap is committed to equal opportunities and the safeguarding of children and adults at risk.The successful candidate will be required to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service form in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997. 

Job Description

 Job Title:

Parent Adviser – By Your Side Project, North East

 Responsible To:

Senior Parent Adviser/ London Family Support Projects Manager

Department and Location:

Family Support 

Salary Scale:

 Scale point 26  FTE £32,168  Actual salary £14,104.43 (Inclusive of annual leave)

Hours of Work

17.5 hours per week. Term time only.

Hybrid working - one day a week in hospital and home based.

Annual leave entitlement:

5 weeks a year plus one day for each additional year served up to a maximum of 6 weeks (pro rata for part-time employees) As this is a term time contract, annual leave is taken outside of term time. The annual leave entitlement pay is included in your salary and paid over 12 months.

 Main Duties

1. To work with families with disabled children using Great Northern Children’s Hospital, providing in-person information, advice and support around issues faced by families with children with disabilities.

2. To support parents to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make decisions which are right for their families.

3. To build strong relationships with hospital partners, funders, Contact volunteers and voluntary sector partners.

4. Focus on developing and enhancing our work with hospitals, aiming to reach more families early in their journey with their child’s disability.

Cross functional duties:

1. Work in partnership with health, local government, and voluntary agencies to ensure those families’ social, emotional, and practical needs are recognised and responded to wherever possible.

2. Work with the By Your Side team to seek ways to improve partnership working with other agencies and hospitals to provide a seamless and co-ordinated service to children and families.

1. Contribute to representing Contact’s work in the hospitals at a strategic level, where appropriate.
2. To work with colleagues to produce appropriate information and publicity materials for families and professionals.
3.  Participate in forums and meetings that operate within Contact, and Children’s Hospital’s to utilise resources available across the organisation as appropriate.
4. Keep up to date with relevant new developments, policies, and guidance.
5. To support and participate in events and activities as appropriate.

General duties

1. To work with parents of disabled children using Great Northern Children’s Hospital, to provide information advice and support to meet their need.
2. Provide in-person drop-in information services for parents of disabled children who attend Great Northern Children’s Hospital. nb the specific hospitals/locations may change as the project develops).
3. The service is in-person, with additional online support.
4. Ensure the provision of good quality information and support to parents and professionals working with families.
5. Respond to enquiries via phone, social media, email and through the drop-in service for information and advice from parents, signposting on to other organisations where appropriate.
6. Work in collaboration with hospital and hospices staff, and colleagues in other By Your Side services (e.g., Midlands, London and Scotland) to continuously promote and improve the By Your Side service for families, developing and growing a network of partners
7. Actively gather information on local services and explore the most effect ways to disseminate this across the designated location(s).
8. Deliver and contribute to the design of information workshops (delivered face to face or virtually) to parents and professionals.
9. Maintain accurate up to date records of work.
10. Participate in external family and information events to promote the work of Contact. 
11. Monitor and evaluate the impact of the service using the common outcomes framework and use this information to inform the development of the work.

Job Details

As a support worker you enable people with learning disabilities to live safe, fulfilling, and dignified lives in supported accommodation or their own home.  We have positions available across a variety of services in Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Camden, Islington, Southwark and Hammersmith & Fulham.

In each of our services we support approximately 5-10 people. We support people with a range of support needs from low to high; with old age/ dementia, profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), autism/mental health.  We also operate outreach services for people who live more independently. We work on a rota which includes working some weekends, early and late shifts. If you prefer to work nights, we also have some services with waking night shifts.

We currently only have vacancies in services where manual handling is an intrinsic and regular part of the job.

Download our job details which gives further information about the job, the benefits of working for LDN London, our locations, and the skills and knowledge we look for in a support worker.

Sessional work

If you don’t want to commit to a contract with you can opt for sessional work where you can decide when and where you work, you will also have the option of accepting or declining any work offered by LDN London.

How to apply

Please take the time to read the job details before applying.

To apply please submit your up to date CV to the address provided on our website.  please use the link provided below.

To be successful in this process you must uphold the values and standards we expect in the workplace, including being open and honest throughout and treating the people we support and our staff with dignity and respect. Any failure may lead to the withdrawal of any offer of employment or work.

Closing date: 4:30pm on Monday 4th May 2026 

Note: all successful applicants will be DBS checked and must be able to provide employment or professional references covering the last three years.

LDN London is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all groups.

New Forest Disability Information Service provides a range of information, advice and practical support services to people affected by disability across the New Forest and surrounding areas.

Our team currently comprises: CEO, Operations Manager, 6 Welfare Advisors, Administrator and circa 20 Volunteers who staff our shop and provide first line information and support. All paid staff are part time.

In looking to a more secure and sustainable future, these roles are now being complemented by a marketing manager and this fundraising post.

With the exception of proceeds from our shop, our work is entirely supported by grants and service contracts.

Current significant grant funders are:

· National Lottery Community Fund

· Access to Justice Foundation

· Lloyds Foundation

We also have a rolling annual service level agreement with New Forest District Council for the provision of specific services.

Despite not having a dedicated fundraising function, we have a positive track record of securing such funding and have strong foundations on which to build.

In order to sustain and develop our service offer, we now need to adopt a focused approach to fundraising to both maintain effective relationships with existing funders and to diversify our income streams.

With the support of Lloyds Foundation we have recently benefitted from the contribution of a fundraising consultant. This has included an analysis of our position/needs and the production of a fundraising strategy. It has also included the provision of various tools and templates including an Excel-based CRM should this be required.

With room for some amendment from the successful candidate, this strategy needs to be converted into a SMART work plan and be implemented.

Priority tasks for the first six months would include:

· Engaging with our consultant to finalise the strategy

· Producing a work plan

· Create and secure agreement re our ‘case for support’

· Identify prospect Trusts and Foundations

· Write and submit a volume of applications to be agreed with the CEO

Our broad performance expectations are to secure a 2:1 return on investment in year one rising to a minimum 4:1 return by end of year three.

We anticipate this being a two or three day/week role and are open to discussion as to this being a freelance or employed position.

Support engaging weekend sessions that help children and young people with learning disabilities learn, grow and thrive.

Kids Can Achieve (KCA), part of LDN London, is expanding its SEND provision with a new Weekend Club in Ealing. We are looking for enthusiastic, caring and reliable Sessional Play Workers to support weekend sessions for children and young people aged 5–17 with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs.

This is a rewarding and hands-on role where you will directly support children and young people to enjoy activities, build confidence, develop independence and have fun in a safe and inclusive environment.

 Hours

• Flexible sessional role (weekends only)
• Saturday & Sunday sessions (typically between 9:30am – 3:30pm)
• Work can be offered based on your availability
• Opportunity to work additional sessions during school holidays

 Ideal for School Staff

This role is particularly suited to:

· School staff

Looking to:

• Work in a creative, activity-based environment
• Take on flexible weekend work alongside your current role

This opportunity is open to staff currently working within St Ann’s School or local schools.

About the Role

As a Sessional Play Worker, you will:

• Support children and young people in fun, engaging and inclusive activities
• Deliver activities such as sensory play, arts, sports, cooking, games and community outings
• Work on a 1:1 or group basis depending on needs
• Support communication, independence and social development
• Implement support plans and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) strategies
• Complete observations and daily records using digital systems
• Follow risk assessments and ensure a safe environment

You will embody our core values of Kindness, Choice and Ambition in everything you do.

�� About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience working with children or young people (SEND experience desirable)
• Is positive, patient and enjoys working in a hands-on environment
• Understands or is willing to learn about autism, learning disabilities and complex needs
• Can support children who may display distressed behaviours
• Communicates well
• Is reliable, flexible and able to work as part of a team
• Is committed safe practice

 Why Join KCA?

✔ Be part of a new and exciting Short Breaks provision in Ealing
✔ Make a meaningful difference to children and young people
✔ Work in a supportive and values-driven team
✔ Flexible working to fit around your current role
✔ Opportunities for additional hours and progression

�� Apply Now

If you are passionate about supporting children and young people with learning disabilities and want to be part of a positive and inclusive team, we would love to hear from you.

How to Apply:
Please send your CV to the address provided on our website. (Follow the attached link below).

If shortlisted, you will be required to complete a full online application form.

Closing Date: 5:00pm on Wednesday 29 April 2026 – Ref 831

LDN London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Background checks and an enhanced DBS will be required. You must be 18 or over to apply.

Job Description

Job Title: Parent Adviser – SEND

Responsible To: Senior Parent Adviser - SEND

Team Membership: Helpline/IAS- (Information, Advice and Family Support Directorate)

Hours: 28 hours a week (4 days)

Salary:

Scale 26

£ 36,242.00 - FTE

£ 28,993.60 – actual salary including inner London weighting

Contract:

Fixed term  – until 31 March 2027

Location:

Central London – Office N1 7EU.

(Hybrid working, 1 day working in office). Another working day in the office, will be needed during the induction and training period.

Job Purpose:

The post’s primary focus is to provide specialist education advice primarily by telephone and email, to parent carers with disabled children in the UK. The post holder will be working on the Contact national helpline service. Service hours are Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm.

Main Duties:

To respond professionally and with empathy to incoming calls, emails, web form and social media enquiries on SEND and related education issues.

To deal effectively with enquiries by offering specialist education advice, information and relevant signposting.

To provide, information and signposting on the wider concerns of families with disabled children including health and social care.

To build positive working relationships with colleagues, contributing to a culture of mutual respect, trust, and shared responsibility.

To work collaboratively as part of a team, sharing and supporting colleagues to deliver a reliable and responsive helpline service.

To respect diverse experiences and perspectives within the team and contribute constructively to problem‑solving and decision‑making.

To enter accurate enquiry data on the Contact database in a timely manner ensuring appropriate follow up actions to calls and accurate written notes.

To keep up to date on law and guidance relevant to education in England and to be aware of education law relating to Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

To communicate, be flexible and responsive, with team members, to ensure coverage of the helpline rota.

To ensure the helpline operates in accordance with confidentiality, safeguarding, privacy and data-protection policies and procedures.

To provide a high-quality service, with commitment to ongoing service development, improvement and good practice.

 General duties

In common with all Contact staff, the post holder will be expected to work in accordance with the aims of Contact and to observe the policy and procedures set out by the directors of the charity.

The post holder will be expected to assist with any reasonable duty at the request of the line manager for the post.

Staff will be expected to attend and participate in Contact staff meetings and the staff annual conference.

Staff will be expected to attend training events relevant to their specific responsibilities.

Staff will be offered supervision, support and annual appraisal incorporating their training needs.

Barnet Mencap is a charity based in Finchley that provides support and runs a multitude of projects for people with learning disabilities and/or Autism. We are dynamic, enthusiastic, diverse, and committed to equal opportunities and the safeguarding of children and adults at risk.  

There is currently a vacancy within our Equality Housing Team for a focused individual to join our caring, passionate, and diverse team in supporting adults with moderate learning disabilities and autistic adults to live independently in housing situations of their choice. Please view the Job Description and Person Specification for a better idea of what the role entails and what we’re looking for. 

The successful candidate will have: 

• Experience of working with adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults in a community setting 

• Understanding of the issues faced by people with learning disabilities and autistic people living independently and the skills to meet their practical, social and emotional needs 

• A ‘Person Centred Planning’ ethos 

• Providing support with personal care as required

• Excellent communication and record keeping skills 

We know job satisfaction, flexibility, work/life balance, and a great team are incredibly important. So, at Barnet Mencap, in addition to offering 30 days of annual leave per year (including Bank Holidays), we have a TOIL system to allow flexible working, and our team can benefit from other perks including the Blue Light Card. 

Please note that unfortunately we are unable to support with sponsorship.

To apply, please send your CV alongside a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria on the person specification or fill in an application form which you can find on our website.   

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997.   

Closing Date:  Thursday 14th May

Interview Date:   We will review applications as they come in and offer interviews to those who meet the criteria. 

Job Title: Travel Trainer  - Lambeth Area     

Report To: Laurence Orrell, travel training coordinator

Salary: £13.85 per hour

Location: Travel within the Lambeth areas as required

DBS:This post is subject to a criminal record check under the arrangements established by the Disclosure & Barring Service

Context of Job

AFK is a national charity helping young disabled people develop their independence and find employment.  As part of this we provide bespoke travel training on London’s public transport network to and from school, college and work placements in the North London area.

We are looking for enthusiastic and flexible candidates to train and support young people to travel specified journeys safely and independently using public transport.

Overall Job Purpose

To train and support a young person to travel a specified journey safely and independently using public transport.  Record your observations and give feedback to the travel training coordinator, the young person and their family.  To take part in reviews of training as it progresses.

Working Conditions

• Casual working assignment with no minimum hours guaranteed

• Each assignment must be mutually agreed by both parties

• You will be expected to work mornings and/or evenings as required by the job and we will also consider job sharing for this role.

Responsibilities

• Support a young person door-to-door as they travel on public transport.
• Familiarise yourself with the following documents –

1. Journey Plan – describes the route you and the trainee will follow, and the alternative route(s) if the need arises. 
2. Risk Assessment – outlines the support needs of the trainee, and risks and strategies to mitigate them.

• Record your observations using standardised forms and relay your observations to the travel training coordinator on a weekly basis.
• Allow the young person to learn independently and only guide, support or intervene when necessary (this will be included in your induction)
• Approach travel training in a positive manner by reinforcing achievements and viewing obstacles as opportunities to learn.  Discuss strategies and agree solutions with the young person, their family and the travel training coordinator.
• To contact the travel training coordinator immediately if there are any emergencies or unexpected situations.
• Ensure that the young person is trained to use the alternative route safely and independently.
• Ensure that the young person learns and/or knows how to contact parents or carers in case of an emergency
• Any issues or concerns must be raised with the travel training coordinator or the business development manager.

Additional Responsibilities

• Learn the support needs of the young person prior to training
• Become familiar with the route
• Become familiar with and then follow AFK’s safeguarding policies and procedures

For more information or an informal chat please call Laurence on 07384 79 55 35.

Please see the attached Job Pack for more details about the role 

To apply please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you would suit the role.

Recruitment Timeline and details

• We will be interviewing on a rolling basis as we receive applications.
• There will be a short test using your mobile phone so please bring it with you
• Please let us know if you need any adjustments in relation to the recruitment process

Job Description

Job Title: Digital Content Officer – SEND

Responsible To: Senior Parent Adviser - SEND

Team Membership: Helpline/IAS- (Information, Advice and Family Support Directorate)

Hours: 14 hours a week  

Salary scale:

Scale point 26
£32,168.00 FTE
£12,867.20 – actual (14 hours a week) plus £26.00 a month home working allowance

Contract: Fixed – until 31 March 2027

Location: Home based - UK

Job Purpose:

To write engaging plain English website copy on SEND law and related education law matters in England.

To help ensure the provision of quality information, advice and support to parent carers.

Main Duties: 

 To write quality plain English copy for the Contact website.

To review, edit and update existing SEND and education related copy on the Contact website.

To work with the education helpline team to identify and prioritise the information and advice needs of parent advisers and parent carers.

To write and develop content to respond to common SEND and related education law concerns of parent carers.

To help ensure our information and advice reaches more families by working with the comms team to promote our IAS through social media, and digital channels.

To build positive working relationships with colleagues, contributing to a culture of mutual respect, trust, and shared responsibility.

To respect diverse experiences and perspectives within the team and contribute constructively to problem‑solving and decision‑making.

Demonstrates awareness of education legislation, statutory guidance, and good practice in England.

A commitment to the provision of quality information and advice.

 General duties

In common with all Contact staff, the post holder will be expected to work in accordance with the aims of Contact and to observe the policy and procedures set out by the directors of the charity.

The post holder will be expected to assist with any reasonable duty at the request of the line manager for the post.

Staff will be expected to attend and participate in Contact staff meetings and the staff annual conference.

Staff will be expected to attend training events relevant to their specific responsibilities.

Staff will be offered supervision, support and annual review s incorporating their training needs.

About the Role

As an Advocate with us, you’ll support individuals in diverse circumstances to have their voices heard by health and social care professionals and other key stakeholders. Your work will help ensure people are empowered to make informed decisions about their lives and care.

The role involves travel to locations such as clients’ homes, hospitals, care homes, and community settings. While some work can be completed from home, particularly administrative tasks, access to your own transport and a reliable home internet connection is essential.

As this is a newly funded project, the postholder will play a key role in shaping how SHOUT is delivered locally. This includes developing strong working relationships with schools, SEND teams, Transitions services and community partners, identifying unmet need, promoting the service, and contributing to the growth and sustainability of the project.

About You

We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds. Ideally, you’ll have some experience in advocacy or in providing support, or welfare services to adults or young people - particularly those with learning disabilities and/or autism, communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or difficulties accessing support.

You may have worked or volunteered in health or social care, education, youth services, support services, or in advice and guidance roles. Above all, we’re looking for people who are passionate about making a difference and supporting others to be heard.

How will you make a difference?

You’ll actively promote SHOUT within local communities and professional networks, helping to build awareness and increase access to early advocacy support.

· You’ll help young people to understand their rights, entitlements, and choices; providing clear, accessible information tailored to their needs.

· You’ll support young people to express what matters to them - or speak on their behalf when needed - ensuring their views, wishes, values, and beliefs are represented.

· You’ll promote self-advocacy and confidence-building at every opportunity, encouraging young people to speak up for themselves.

· You’ll work creatively and collaboratively to empower young people to participate in decisions affecting their lives.

· You’ll act in line with relevant legislation (including the Children Act 2004, Working Together to Safeguarding Children, Keeping Children Safe in Education, Mental Capacity Act, Care Act, Human Rights Act and Equality Act 2010), and you’ll constructively challenge professionals and services to uphold their duties.

· You’ll escalate concerns appropriately to safeguard individuals and contribute to improved service delivery.

To learn more about Advocacy and the services we provide, please visit our website.

Professional Development

We’re committed to helping our team grow. Whether you’re starting your career in Advocacy or looking to expand your expertise, we offer a range of development opportunities. We’re proud of our track record in supporting staff to build knowledge, skills, and experience across various advocacy roles.

Equality and Diversity

At Your Voice Counts, we are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace. We value diversity, promote equality, and work to ensure everyone can reach their full potential.

We are a Disability Confident employer. Applicants who identify as disabled and meet all essential criteria will be offered an interview. If you require an alternative way to apply, please contact our HR team to discuss your needs.

Person Specification

We’re looking for passionate and committed individuals who can support people to be heard and make informed choices. Below are the qualities, experience, and skills we’re looking for in an ideal candidate.

Essential Criteria

Experience and Knowledge

· Understanding of SEND processes, including EHCP reviews and transition planning.

· Experience of working or volunteering in health, social care, education, youth services, support services, or advice and guidance.

· Understanding of the challenges faced by people with learning disabilities and/or autism.

· Awareness of the importance of confidentiality, safeguarding, and professional boundaries.

· Knowledge of health and social care systems, and how to support people to access services.

Skills and Abilities

· Strong communication skills, including the ability to listen actively and adapt communication to meet individual needs.

· Ability to build trust and positive relationships with clients, professionals and partner agencies.

· A person-centred and empathetic approach to supporting others.

· Confidence in working independently, managing your own time and workload.

· Ability to write clear and accurate case notes and reports.

· Confidence using IT systems, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), and experience of using contact or case management systems such as Charity Log.

Commitment and Practicalities

· Commitment to upholding the rights of individuals and promoting equality and inclusion.

· Willingness to travel across Newcastle, South Tyneside, and Gateshead to meet clients and professionals in various settings.

· Access to your own transport and a suitable home internet connection for remote working and admin tasks.

Desirable Criteria

· Experience of working with young people aged 14–18.

· Knowledge of safeguarding children procedures.

· Previous experience working as an Advocate or in a similar role supporting people to understand their rights and make decisions.

· Experience of supporting individuals with complex needs, including those who may lack capacity or have significant communication barriers.

· Familiarity with relevant legislation (e.g. Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act, Care Act, Human Rights Act).

· Experiencing facilitating or co-facilitating peer groups or community-based sessions.

Barnet Mencap is a charity based in Finchley supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people across Barnet. Through our Bright Futures Employment Programme, we support individuals into meaningful employment, training, and long-term independence.

We are looking for a motivated and outcome-focused Employment Officer to join our team.

This role is centred on supporting individuals into sustained employment, managing a caseload of learners, and working directly with employers to create real opportunities.

The Role

You will:

• Manage a caseload of learners and support them into work
• Deliver 1:1 employability support and job club sessions
• Support CV writing, applications, and interview preparation
• Build relationships with employers and identify opportunities
• Support individuals in the workplace where needed
• Track outcomes and maintain accurate records

This is a results-driven role, focused on real job outcomes, not just engagement.

 The Candidate

You will have:

• Experience working with people with learning disabilities and/or autistic people
• Understanding of barriers to employment
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Ability to motivate and support individuals
• Experience delivering structured support (desirable: employment programmes)

 What We Offer

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata, including Bank Holidays)
• TOIL system and flexible working approach
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunity to be part of a high-impact employment programme

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria on the person specification.

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997.  

Closing Date: Friday 15th May 2026

Interview Date: We will review applications as they come in and offer interviews to those who meet the criteria. 

Be the person who makes the system work for children and young adults

Circles Network is looking for a skilled, compassionate Keyworker to join the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Keyworker Collaborative, supporting children and young adults up to 25 with learning disabilities, autism, or both, who have complex needs and are at risk of admission to specialist hospitals or out‑of‑area placements.

This role exists because the system does not always work as it should. Your job will be to make it work better, by standing alongside young people and their families, coordinating support, challenging poor practice, and ensuring the right help is in place at the right time.

If you are passionate about rights, inclusion, trauma‑informed practice, and persistent advocacy, this role will give you real scope to make a difference.

What the role involves

As a Keyworker, you will:

• Work directly with children and young adults, and with those who support them, to reduce risk and improve outcomes
• Act as a consistent, trusted point of contact for families navigating education, health, and care systems
• Coordinate and challenge multi‑agency support, holding services to account when needed
• Contribute to Care, Education and Treatment Reviews and Dynamic Support Register processes
• Use creative, accessible communication to ensure children and young adults are truly heard
• Champion person‑centred, trauma‑informed approaches across the system
• Maintain clear, accurate records and share learning locally, regionally, and nationally

This is a role for someone who is organised, resilient, values‑driven, and comfortable working in complexity.

About you

You will have:

• Experience supporting children or young adults with learning disabilities, autism, or related needs
• A strong understanding of the education, health, and care system, or the confidence to navigate it quickly
• Excellent communication skills, including adapting your approach to different needs and situations
• The confidence to escalate concerns and advocate firmly but respectfully
• A commitment to equality, inclusion, and safeguarding
• The ability to manage your own workload while remaining responsive to families

Lived experience, professional qualifications, or knowledge of CETRs and the Dynamic Support Register are welcome, but what matters most is your values, curiosity, and commitment to doing the right thing.