53 Jobs for the Social Welfare sector

Westway Trust is seeking a dedicated Head of Operations with a minimum of 5 years’ senior leadership or operational management experience in a multi-disciplinary organisation, ideally within a community, charitable, social enterprise or values-led setting.

In this newly created role, you will act as a key advisor, reporting directly into the CEO, and will have responsibility of key areas of the Trust’s operational functions, ensuring the smooth and effective running and delivery of services. You will directly manage the leads of HR, Learning, Communications & Marketing, and Community Engagement, supporting them to deliver high-quality work and develop professionally.

If you are a values-led operational leader who is committed to community transformation and organisational excellence, and thrives on steering strategic decisions, this role is for you!

Key responsibilities of the role include but not limited to:

• Oversight and line management of the HR, Learning, Communications & Marketing, and Community Engagement functions of the Trust.
• Oversight of key projects essential to the delivery of the Horizon (strategic) Plan 2025-2028 as agreed with the CEO.
• Be a key part of the Executive Team, chaired by the CEO.
• Maintain an overview of all projects and programmes of activity, outputs and outcomes within the role and ensure reports are written and submitted on time.
• Provide day-to-day operational leadership across teams, driving high performance, alignment with values, and maintaining individual, personal & team wellbeing.
• Develop and implement planning processes and performance management tools to ensure effective delivery of goals.
• Develop, drive and maintain the data gathering and analysis for the Westway Trust, that enables the Social Impact Framework and to play a key role in the organisation’s progress towards creating a strong narrative in respect of achievement.
• Attend People Committee Meetings and the Board as requested, and contribute to the preparation of meeting papers as necessary in line with agenda requirements.
• Provide upward reporting and insight to the CEO including written briefings, performance dashboards, and recommendations.
• Attend internal and external meetings, including those that require representing the Trust publicly, in line with agreed strategies and perspectives.
• Monitor, update and ensure compliance with organisational policies and legal requirements (e.g. safeguarding, employment, health & safety, data protection) to build a positive work culture.
• Champion collaboration and integration across departments, ensuring consistent implementation of work priorities that align with community needs and objectives.
• Support a values-based culture that centres equity, sustainability, openness, courage, and integrity.
• Contribute to organisational development and support the process of communicating and managing change effectively at the Trust in line with agreed policies and frameworks.

Essential Experience, Skills and Attributes:

• Minimum 5 years’ senior leadership or operational management experience in a multi-disciplinary organisation, ideally within a community, charitable, social enterprise or values-led setting.
• Proven ability to lead, guide and motivate diverse teams and to support the professional growth of those who report to you as a line manager.
• Demonstrable experience of good practice approaches to conflict resolution, working in collaboration with others and encouraging honesty, transparency and open ways of working across teams that benefit the organisation’s effectiveness and efficiency.
• Excellent planning, organisation and performance management skills.
• Excellent writing and reporting skills, including the ability to summarise complex data and issues for decision-makers.
• Experience in researching, developing and managing departmental budgets.
• Ability to analyse information, and formulate practical and reasoned operational plans that can be easily understood and monitored.
• Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills – able to offer both moral and professional support to teams.
• Experience of supporting organisational change, transition, or transformation programmes.
• Experience of embedding inclusive and equitable practices across teams.
• Demonstrable alignment with the Trust’s values and commitment to anti-racism and community power.

Desirable Experience, Skills and Attributes:

• Previous experience overseeing HR or education/community programmes is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with communications/marketing functions is a plus but not essential.
• Degree-level education together with a recognised professional qualification in any of the fields this role covers – or equivalent lived/professional experience – is highly desirable.

The application deadline is 5 pm on Sunday, 27 September, when applications will be reviewed and shortlisted for interview. However, we reserve the right to close the application early. An early application is strongly recommended.

Lead services that support those who serve on the frontline
 

DMWS is seeking an experienced operational leader to develop and deliver high-quality services for blue light organisations and their workforces. This senior role combines strategic thinking, practical delivery, partnership building and strong project management.
 

A key part of the role is bringing services together. You will work closely with DMWS welfare teams, psychological services and clinical governance colleagues to strengthen referrals, coordinate support pathways and ensure operational delivery is safe, responsive and well governed.
 

What you will do
·   Lead operational plans, service performance, contracts, budgets and improvement activity.
·   Manage service mobilisations, pilots and improvement projects from scope through delivery, evaluation and handover.
·   Build effective working relationships across welfare, psychological, occupational health and partner services.
·   Coordinate cross-functional teams, project governance, milestones, risks, dependencies and reporting.
·   Strengthen relationships with military, blue light organisations, commissioners, public-sector partners, funders and suppliers.
·   Use evidence, outcomes and feedback to improve services, demonstrate impact and create opportunities for sustainable growth.
·   Lead and develop staff while maintaining high standards of governance, safeguarding and compliance.
 

What you will bring
·   Senior operational leadership experience in a complex service environment.
·   Strong project or programme management skills and a track record of delivering change.
·   Credibility with varied stakeholders and the ability to work effectively across professional boundaries.
·   An understanding of welfare, wellbeing and psychological support pathways and the importance of clear clinical and safeguarding escalation.
·   Commercial awareness, sound financial judgement and a commitment to quality and value for money.
·   A collaborative, evidence-led and values-driven approach.
 

Why join DMWS?
 

This is an opportunity to shape a growing area of work, strengthen integrated support for military Services, blue light communities and help DMWS turn trusted expertise into sustainable, high-impact services across the UK. This role is progressive and offers the right candidate an opportunity 
 

How to apply
 

Please submit your CV and a supporting statement explaining how your experience meets the requirements of the role by 28th September 2026. Applicants must hold a full UK Driving Licence and have access to a vehicle which is required for this role. 
 

DMWS is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds.

AKF(UK) JOB DESCRIPTION

1. JOB TITLE

Facilities and Operations Manager

2. REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

JOB TITLE

FOR

2.1 REPORTS DIRECTLY TO

Head of Kings Cross Properties

Strategic direction, measuring performance against targets, regular reviews, role modelling, support, guidance, development and performance management.

2.2 REPORTS INDIRECTLY TO

AKF(UK) Property Committee

Reporting on financial results, compliance, company law, charities legislation.

2.3 DIRECT REPORTS

Facilities and Maintenance Assistant Manager

Facilities and Maintenance Officer x 3

Strategic & Operational direction, measuring performance against targets, regular reviews, role modelling, support, guidance, development and performance management.

3. JOB PURPOSE

In the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter, the Aga Khan Centre (AKC) is a place for education, knowledge, cultural exchange and insight into Muslim Civilisations and is home to three organisations founded by His Highness the Aga Khan, The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), the Aga Khan University Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations (AKU-ISMC) and the Aga Khan Foundation United Kingdom (AKF(UK)).

This role is responsible for managing the effective functioning of the Aga Khan Centre to provide safe, efficient, secure, legally compliant and environmentally friendly spaces for residents, employees, students and visitors.

1. Leading a small team, the Facilities and Operations Manager will be responsible for providing a seamless support service to manage and deliver high quality proactive and reactive maintenance to a standard which is in accordance with the nature of the Aga Khan Centre and provides value for money. The role covers all aspects of repairs & maintenance including plumbing, air conditioning, electrics, building fabric, health & safety and emergency support and requires the postholder to be hands on, supporting the maintenance team with technical support, knowledge & coordination as well as executing PPM plans, managing contractors and overseeing and inspecting works.

The Facilities and Operations Manager will be a natural people person who leads with warmth, fairness and consistency, builds strong relationships across the team and the wider building, and is confident in managing day-to-day people situations with empathy, sound judgment and a balanced approach.

This is an office-based role, Monday to Friday, 8 hours per day (including a 1-hour unpaid break), to be worked flexibly within the hours of 8am and 6pm. Whilst weekend work is rare, there may be occasional requirements to attend site outside of normal working hours. The postholder will also be required to be on call for out of hours emergencies.

4.  KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1 AKC Building Operations

· Oversee and manage the teams responsible for the reception, security and cleaning.

· To prepare and keep up to date the Facilities Management (FM) Plan for AKC and the approach taken for each ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ FM service, including planned preventative maintenance and lifecycle replacements, ensuring that a suitable, safe, high-quality operating environment is provided.

· To act as a point of contact for technical support in order to reduce supplier callouts and ensure the correct supplier is allocated to resolve the problem, after issues have been looked at in-house first.

· To manage, plan and monitor the day-to-day repairs and maintenance activities of the building management team, ensuring works are completed on time, to the highest quality and in line with the approved FM plan.

· To coordinate and manage activities of suppliers working in and around AKC including checking and approving completed work, ensuring it is on budget, within agreed timescales and to the quality required.

· To act on defects highlighted in suppliers’ reports and ensure resolution following up on any unresolved issues that could affect plant or equipment performance and safety.

· To ensure the AKC maintenance reporting system is updated with work carried out and outstanding tasks.

· To ensure maintenance supplies, spares and stock levels are monitored and supplies are always available.

· To receive, review, store and respond to suppliers’ reports, i.e. lifts, eye bolts, water sampling, lighting protection, etc. and supply a level of technical advice to ensure compliance with the relevant legislation.

· To maintain and review equipment asset registers and update accordingly.

· Responsible for the Health and Safety policy for AKC and liaising with outsourced consultants to ensure that AKC is compliant and required checks are carried out.

· To maintain all maintenance and H&S documents, registers and systems at all times and act as knowledge-holder on behalf of AKF(UK) for Operation Manuals, as-built drawings, maintenance records, licences and operating certificates related to AKC.

· Working in conjunction with the AKC IT team and external providers be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the core building services systems including for FM, Room Booking and Security.

· To adhere to the AKC environmental policy promoting and driving energy & water saving initiatives as well as recycling initiatives at all times.

· Plan and implement minor projects to optimize space utilisation within AKC. Participate as a key stakeholder in major projects.

· Support the relationships with the tenants of the AKC retail units.

· Ensure that the gardens embedded within the AKC, and the surrounding grounds and gardens are properly cared for and landscaped.

· Liaise with the Estate Landlord and their agents regarding estate management, central services, infrastructure and security issues and maintenance of the public realm around AKC

· Liaise with other building managers on the KX Estate and maintain good neighbourly relations.

· Respond to emergency situations or other urgent issues involving AKC.

4.2 AKC Building Administration

· To prepare an annual operational plan and budget for the AKC building management team.

· To provide commentary and analysis for the monthly building management finance report and work with the Property Finance Manager to ensure that there is an up to date forecast at all times.

· To lead any supplier procurement processes related to building management.

· Monitor and approve all building management supplier invoices and staff expenses for payment in line with approved budgets. Seek additional approvals for unbudgeted or excess expenditure.

· To ensure that safeguarding processes are embedded into all building management operations, all building management supplier contracts and the building management policies and processes.

· To routinely review standards of service and ensure best practices are being followed and to benchmark the costs of AKC building management against equivalent buildings to assess and demonstrate value for money.

· Manage and maintain the SLA standards, KPIs and targets for the AKC building management team.

· To own the AKC building management risk register ensuring that it is up to date at all times.

· To attend the AKF(UK) Property Committee meetings

· Work flexibly in terms of working hours to support and accommodate events and incidents outside of regular working hours.

· To ensure all tasks from the Security Audit are completed promptly, while maintaining up to date policies including the Critical Incident Plan and Office Security Plan

4.3 AKC Events

· To ensure that the building management team support the events management team with all large and complex events, including organising facilities for car parking, traffic control, security, first aid, and hospitality.

· To ensure that the building management team supports the dismantling and removal of the event materials and clearing the venue efficiently.

4.4 People Management

· Help the AKF(UK) CEO and Senior Management Team promote an organisational culture of teamwork and service, high-quality, transparency and accountability, innovation, and inclusiveness.

· Supervise, coach and mentor building management staff, building a highly skilled and motivated team demonstrating best practice in the sector and exemplifying AKF (UK) values and behaviours.

· Oversee and set annual performance objectives and evaluate performance in accordance with the AKF (UK)’s staff performance management procedures.

· Identify staff with potential for advancement and, as part of succession planning, contribute to their development.

· Build a culture throughout the building management team of continuous improvement, in which staff are cognizant of and influence the broader learning agenda alongside delivery objectives.

Carry out any other duties as assigned by the Head of Kings Cross Properties.

5. QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, ATTRIBUTES & BEHAVIOURS

5.1 Qualifications

· A degree in Facilities Management or similar qualification would be an advantage.

5.2 Experience

· Experience of staff management

· Experience of managing third-party contractors

· Experience in managing complex mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems

· Experience of managing planned preventative maintenance for hard and soft services

· Experience of working in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment

· Experience in planning programmes of work for maintenance in accordance with the buildings requirements and identifying gaps in the maintenance strategy.

· Experience of identifying trends and developing/implementing management reports.

· Experience in a similar field e.g. school, university or charity.

5.3 Skills

· Good interpersonal, customer care and liaison with a wide range of stakeholders

· Ability to explain technical issues to non-technical personnel.

· Ability to work both strategically and operationally.

· Ability to successfully manage time, plans and other related tasks.

· Ability to continuously meet targets and surpass expectations.

· Ability to lead, inspire and motivate a team to meet objectives.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

· Good presentation skills.

· Excellent communication skills and able to communicate with internal and external customers.

· Commercially aware with good negotiating skills.

· Excellent client facing skills with the confidence to deal with people at all levels.

· Capable of working independently and collaboratively as part of a wider team.

· Good numeracy and presentation skills.

· Self-motivated, action-focused and with a proactive approach.

· Ability to always maintain a professional appearance and approach.

· Proven ability to deal with change.

5.4 Knowledge

· Knowledge of statutory legislation (Pressure Systems Safety Regs, HSG 274 Parts 1, 2, 3, 17th Edition Electrical Regs, LOLER, Working at Height Regs, etc.) and capable of verifying certification relating to the relevant statutory legislation.

· Thorough understanding of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire safety).

· Working knowledge of a CAFM system (Concept Evolution, TABS FM etc.)

· A good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Project, Excel and PowerPoint.

· Awareness of sustainability and energy efficiency practices

5.5 Attributes

· Demonstrates equity, transparency and integrity with high personal and organisational ethical standards; is fair, honest and trustworthy with respect for confidentiality; inspires and builds trust and respect.

· Respectful of diversity; sensitive towards others; open and understanding toward other people’s cultures, values, autonomy, and faiths; demonstrates compassion and empathy; is courteous to others with respect for their background, religion, gender and age

· Committed to acting ethically and upholding safeguarding standards towards all staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries of the organisation.

5.6 Behaviours

· Communicates clearly and concisely, individually and across a broad scope of stakeholders and communities; expresses complex ideas and concepts in simple terms; listens to the views of others; changes communication styles to meet individual and audience needs; encourages dialogue and effective communication by others.

· Builds, maintains and deepens constructive and effective relationships with stakeholders, changes approach to achieve desired results if required.

· Has a customer focused approach, is flexible and always puts the good of others at the centre of decision making; optimises the culture of volunteerism and respect for others and is dedicated to AKF’s purpose and fulfilling the mission.

· Is a supportive team player, collaborates creating a culture of knowledge sharing and team learning. Is proactive in teamwork.

· Inspires self and others to greater performance, professional standards and results; likes to get things done; accepts new challenges and opportunities to enable self-reliance and achievement of full potential; gives and receives timely balanced feedback.

· Acknowledges creativity; adapts established methods for new uses; is focused on improving systems and processes; open to change; analyses, synthesises and challenges conventional thinking.

· Enterprising attitude that is quick to search out alternative solutions to needs or problems; creates and participates in communities of practice to establish networks of problem solving and organisational learning.

· Drives commitment to delivering high quality results with cost-effective use of resources; sets appropriate deliverables and uses innovative working methods to develop capacity, capability and a sustainable environment; has a clear vision of outcome and communicates this to inspire resources.

6. KEY RELATIONSHIPS

Internal Relationships

· AKC Events

· AKC IT

· AKC Gallery

· IIS

· AKU-ISMC

External Relationships

· Suppliers

· Kings Cross Estate

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Contract Type: 21 hours per week. Initial 12-month fixed term contract with the potential for extension and/or a permanent position at the end of the term.

Salary: £27,00 - £30,000 per annum dependent on relevant experience (£45,00 - £50,000 FTE)

Base: Remote/Hybrid

About us

Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others? Do you want to work with like-minded professionals in a great team?

Rees seeks to support those who have, at some stage in their lives, been in foster care or residential care, including those with custodial experience. The charity understands the importance of having a lifelong support network. Our aim is to help care experienced people thrive in all aspects of their lives at any age. We seek to listen; and offer help and advice about any aspect they may have.

Rees delivers its services and products to public and voluntary sector commissioners, businesses, other agencies, and professionals.

Role Purpose

The Head of Commercial Income is a senior leadership role and a member of the Senior Leadership Team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer.

The postholder will lead the Charity's commercial income function, with responsibility for growing sustainable income through commissioned and commercial services, training, Ask Jan membership and other opportunities.

This is a strategic, commercially focused and hands-on role. The postholder will be a visible face of the Charity, building strong relationships with local authorities, commissioners, public sector organisations, businesses and other partners. They will identify opportunities, understand customer and commissioner needs, develop compelling propositions and secure sustainable business.

A particular focus will be growing the Charity's position within the statutory sector. The postholder will develop a strong understanding of local authority priorities, commissioning, procurement and purchasing processes and use this insight to anticipate emerging needs and create opportunities for the Charity to provide innovative and valuable solutions.

The postholder will lead and develop the Commercial Income function, with the Business Development Manager and Training & Commercial Services Co-ordinator reporting directly to them. They will set direction, priorities and targets while maintaining an active role in developing relationships, identifying opportunities, progressing bids and supporting commercial negotiations.

Working across the Charity, the postholder will ensure commercial opportunities are translated into high-quality, financially sustainable services that deliver positive outcomes for care experienced people.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Provide strategic and commercial leadership for the Charity's commissioned and commercial services, training portfolio and Ask Jan membership offer.
• Lead and develop the Commercial Income function, line managing the Business Development Manager and Training & Commercial Services Co-ordinator.
• Set clear commercial priorities, targets and performance expectations and ensure the team has a strong focus on growth and results.
• As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, contribute to the leadership, planning and future development of the Charity.
• Develop a proactive, creative and customer-focused commercial culture across the function.
• Work collaboratively with the Head of Income and Development, Head of Service Delivery and wider Leadership Team to maximise income and impact.
• Balance strategic leadership with direct involvement in key commercial relationships, opportunities and negotiations.

Strategic Partnerships and Business Development

· Provide strategic leadership to the Charity's relationships with local authorities, commissioners and key partners, building senior-level relationships and positioning the Charity as a trusted partner.

· Oversee the commercial services pipeline, providing direction and support to the Business Development Manager to identify, prioritise and progress opportunities for growth.

· Develop approaches to securing new commissioned and commercial opportunities, working with Service Development and Service Delivery colleagues to shape services in response to market and beneficiary needs.

· Provide senior leadership and input on key bids, tenders and commissioned service proposals.

· Represent the Charity at strategic commissioning forums, partnership meetings and senior stakeholder events, promoting its expertise, services and impact.

· Monitor developments in commissioning, procurement, public policy and relevant markets, using this insight to identify emerging opportunities and potential challenges.

Commissioned and Commercial Services

• Provide overall strategic oversight of the Charity's commissioned and commercial services portfolio, ensuring services meet contractual obligations, quality standards, agreed outcomes and financial targets.
• Work with operational and service development colleagues to ensure services respond effectively to commissioner and customer needs.
• Identify opportunities to develop, improve and expand existing services and create new commercial offers.
• Ensure commercial propositions are viable, deliverable, competitive and aligned with the Charity's mission.
• Monitor market, commissioning and policy developments and identify their implications for the Charity's services and commercial opportunities.

Training and Ask Jan

• Provide strategic leadership for the continued growth and development of the Charity's training offer and Ask Jan membership service.
• Ensure training and membership propositions remain relevant, innovative and responsive to customer and sector needs.
• Identify opportunities to develop new training, membership and other commercial products and services.
• Work with colleagues to ensure these offers are effectively positioned, developed and brought to market.

Financial and Operational Management

• Provide strategic oversight of the financial performance and sustainability of the commercial income portfolio.
• Set and monitor income, growth and performance targets and report progress to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team.
• Oversee the commercial pipeline, income forecasting, contract performance and retention.
• Ensure commercial services are delivered within agreed budgets and provide value for money.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, pricing, sustainability and long-term income.
• Ensure appropriate monitoring, reporting and evaluation arrangements are in place for commercial activity.
• Ensure commercial activities comply with contractual, legal, regulatory and organisational requirements.

General

• Work collaboratively across all departments to maximise impact for care experienced people.
• Maintain an awareness of developments in local government, commissioning, procurement, children's services, social care and the wider charity sector.
• Promote the Charity's expertise, services and impact and protect its reputation through high-quality commercial relationships.
• Ensure the Charity's commercial activity remains consistent with its values, purpose and commitment to care experienced people.
• Contribute to organisational planning, continuous improvement and long-term sustainability.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the level and responsibilities of the role.

Essential

• Significant experience of leading and growing commercial income, commissioned services, business development, sales or other income-generating activity.
• Proven track record of securing new business, growing existing contracts and generating sustainable income.
• Experience of building strong relationships with local authorities, commissioners, public sector organisations and other senior stakeholders.
• Experience of leading or overseeing successful tenders, procurements, bids or commissioned service proposals.
• Understanding of public sector commissioning, procurement and purchasing processes, ideally with experience of local authorities and the statutory sector.
• Experience of identifying customer or commissioner needs and developing services, products or propositions in response.
• Strong commercial and business development approach, with the ability to build relationships, influence decision-makers, negotiate and secure business.
• Experience of managing and developing staff within a commercial, business development, sales or income-generation function.
• Strong commercial, financial and strategic awareness.
• Ability to combine strategic leadership with an active role in business development and income generation.
• Creative, proactive and opportunity-focused, with excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to the values and mission of the Rees Foundation.

Desirable

• Experience of working with local authority children's services, social care, leaving care, corporate parenting or related statutory services.
• Knowledge of the care experienced and/or social care sectors.
• Experience of developing and selling services to local authorities or other public sector organisations.
• Experience of managing training, membership or subscription-based services.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, GDPR, charity governance and relevant regulatory requirements.

Application Process

The closing date for this position is Friday 18th September 2026 at 5pm. Please note that we reserve the right to close applications before the advertised closing date or extend the application window at our discretion.

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and welcome applications from those who are care leavers.

Mind BLMK works across our communities to support positive mental health and wellbeing. Working closely with a range of partners, we offer a number of activities from our wellbeing centres and local venues to make a difference to the mental health and wellbeing of people in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, and our aim is to make sure that no-one has to face a mental health problem alone.

Job title: Lived Experience Facilitator – Peer Support
Post no: 669
Area covered: Central Bedfordshire and Bedford (Dunstable, Biggleswade, Leighton Buzzard and Ampthill and Bedford)
Hours: 15 hours per week. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday
Working pattern: Tuesday – (HQ Flitwick 10am to 12pm) and (Ampthill) 12pm to 3pm, Wednesday – HQ (Flitwick) 10am to 3pm, Friday – 10am to 3pm (Biggleswade) OR (10am to 3pm) Leighton Buzzard
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £24,454.04 per annum FTE (£9,913.80 per annum actual for 15 hours per week)

About the Role and the Service

This role offers an exciting opportunity to join our Peer Support service for Central Bedfordshire and Bedford.

As a Lived Experience Facilitator, you will be at the heart of the service, using your lived experience of mental health difficulties and recovery to facilitate and guide peer support group sessions.

You will also hold a one to one mentoring caseload, using your lived experience to empower people to take meaningful, practical steps in their recovery, supporting them to building confidence, resilience and independence within their communities.

In addition, you will assess individuals’ suitability for the service and signpost to wider services where necessary. There will also be opportunity to support events in the community to raise awareness of Mind BLMK services and build professional relationships with local organisations.

About You

You will need to be empathetic, energetic and deliver a person-centred approach in a non-judgemental way, collaborating with people to empower and engage them.

The successful candidate will work with the Bedfordshire Wellbeing Hub Service Manager to ensure that the Peer Support service is delivered effectively in line with best practice.

You have an understanding of Peer Support, a minimum of 2 years’ experience working with people with mental health needs and supporting recovery as well as personal lived experience of mental health challenges and recovery You can build constructive working relationships with a wide range of people, including those from culturally diverse communities.

A strong communicator, you are able to build positive peer relationships, maintain professional boundaries, manage challenging situations calmly, and work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team. You are committed to empowering others, embracing lived experience as a valuable asset, and are comfortable using IT systems and travelling across Bedfordshire to deliver services.

Entitlements/benefits:

• 25 days (pro rata) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Auto-enrolment NEST pension scheme (employer contributes 3%, employee contributes 5%)
• Optional Health Plan
• Discounts available through Blue Light Card & Tickets for Good
• In-house and external Learning and Development as appropriate for the role.
• Flexible Working On request (in line with Mind BLMK policy on Right to Request Flexible Working)

If you have a passion for working in mental health and possess the required skills, we would love to hear from you.

Closedown: Monday 28th September 2026 at 5pm
Please note: We reserve the right to close this advert early if enough suitable applicants apply
Start date: ASAP

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Mind BLMK has been committed to the Mindful Employer charter and the Disability Confident Employer Scheme since 2008.

Please note: Mind BLMK follows Safer Recruitment practices and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Therefore all our roles are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

No agencies please.

Hope Nottingham's vision is to inspire and grow communities of hope across Nottingham where local people are enabled to volunteer to support those in need, addressing poverty of resources, reducing loneliness and providing spiritual support. We are rooted in our Christian faith and currently have a staff team of 9 and support over 320 volunteers in teams across Nottingham.

We are looking for an energetic, compassionate, highly organised and values-led Charity Area Teams Manager to lead and inspire our staff, volunteers, and service delivery teams, as they deliver practical help, community connection and Christian care across our food banks, hubs and community activities.

In this pivotal role, you will oversee the effective management of team operations, ensuring that service standards are consistently met and that our charitable initiatives reach those in need. You will ensure activities are safe, welcoming, well-planned and aligned with Hope Nottingham's vision, mission, values and Theory of Change.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support staff through objectives, reviews, training and wellbeing conversations
• Recruit, induct, develop and engage volunteers and volunteer leaders
• Oversee service delivery across multiple locations, maintaining safe, inclusive and welcoming standards, focused on making a real difference in our communities
• Act as Safeguarding Coordinator and escalate concerns appropriately
• Use feedback and impact information to improve support, training and delivery
• Uphold and promote Hope Nottingham's Christian ethos while welcoming people of all faiths and none
• Ensure compliance with organisational policies, safety standards, and legal requirements across all service activities.
• Foster strong relationships with community partners, stakeholders, and local organisations to enhance outreach efforts.
• Monitor operational metrics and prepare reports to evaluate team performance, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate successes.

Skills

• Proven team management, volunteering and service delivery experience in a charity, community, church or social action setting.
• Approachable and confident communication skills both verbally and in writing to represent the organisation both compassionately and professionally
• Ability to lead diverse teams effectively in a fast-paced environment, balancing compassion with accountability
• Strong organisational skills with the capacity to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances while maintaining focus on service quality
• Demonstrable commitment to community service and organisational values.
• Proficiency in using office 365 and service related software

A full driving license and access to a car are essential.

28 days holiday per year (includes 3 days between Christmas and New Year) + bank holidays, Life Assurance, 3.5% employer pension contribution, wellbeing scheme including access to counselling and bi-annual staff team retreat days.

There is a genuine occupational requirement under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, for the postholder to be a practising Christian because the role supports Hope Nottingham's Christian ethos, prayer, chaplaincy and faith-based activities.

If you are passionate about developing people, volunteering and community transformation, we would love to hear from you.

ID: 1866 Participation & Co-production Lead (London Region)

Service: Family Action London Region Services

Salary:

- Grade 3 point 24-28

- Starting at £36,501 - £40,024 FTE per annum (£21,900.60 - £24,014.40 per annum, pro rata)

- Inclusive of £3,866 Inner London Weighting FTE per annum

Location: London Region (hybrid working arrangements available, subject to service requirements).

Hours: Part-time, 22.2 hours per week (0.6 FTE). We offer flexible working arrangements.

We offer flexible working arrangements - please see below for more details.

Contract: Permanent position (funding is currently secured for two years and may be extended if additional funding is secured).

Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead and strengthen participation and co-production across Family Action's London services. This role will enable children, young people, families and adults to influence the design, delivery, evaluation and continuous improvement of services, ensuring that lived experience is at the heart of decision-making.

As the regional lead for participation and co-production, you will provide leadership and specialist advice to managers, build organisational capacity, and establish sustainable participation structures across London. While the role has a broad regional remit, youth participation will be the initial priority area.

Main Responsibilities:

· Lead and champion participation and co-production across Family Action's London services.

· Support the implementation, development and continuous improvement of Family Action's national Participation and Co-production Strategy across London services, ensuring regional learning and lived experience inform organisational practice.

· Coordinate regional participation initiatives, including advisory groups, consultations, engagement activities and co-production opportunities.

· Establish sustainable participation structures, including a Young People's Advisory Group during the initial phase of the role.

· Support managers and teams to embed inclusive participation and co-production approaches within services.

· Work collaboratively with EDI, Learning & Development, Practice Development and Communications colleagues to promote participation, share learning and communicate impact.

· Monitor, evaluate and evidence impact, contributing to service improvement, partnership development and future sustainability.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

We are looking for someone with:

· Experience of leading, facilitating and embedding participation, engagement and co-production approaches within services or organisations.

· Experience of influencing managers, leading projects and driving positive organisational change.

· Experience of working with diverse communities, including people experiencing disadvantage, inequality or social exclusion.

· Experience of facilitating inclusive engagement and empowering people with lived experience to influence decisions affecting their lives and communities.

· Strong communication, relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.

· Knowledge of participation and co-production principles, frameworks and methodologies.

· A strong commitment to participation, co-production and ensuring the voices of people with lived experience shape service development.

Desirable:

· Personal lived experience relevant to the communities we support.

· Knowledge of national participation structures, standards and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Appointments are subject to Family Action receiving a satisfactory disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service – Enhanced

Benefits:

- an annual paid leave entitlement that commences at 25 working days, and after a full year of service, rising each April by one day, subject to a maximum of 30 working days plus bank holidays / of 30 working days plus bank holidays

- up to 6% matched-pension contributions

- enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions

- eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers

- cycle to work scheme

- investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

· Click the ‘Apply’ link below and fill out our digital application form

· Closing Date: Sunday, 20th September 2026 at 23:59

Interviews are scheduled to take place from 14th-15th October 2026 at Family Action Head Office, with slots throughout the working day and early/late slots available.

For any queries, or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the selection process or the potential for flexible working, please email: austra.welburn (full email addres located on advert document)

All appointments with Family Action are subject to satisfactory Safer Recruitment checks.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates. We are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Actionbecause we know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and we strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support.

All candidates with a disability are welcome to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and request priority consideration for an interview, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse reasonable travel costs if you are invited to attend an interview in person.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons.

Location: Hybrid · London, with flexibility to work remotely

About the role

This is a rare opportunity to join a well-established finance team in a national charity. You will be looking for a hands-on role overseeing the day-to-day financial operations of the charity and its commercial subsidiaries whilst managing a small team, reporting to the Finance Director.

You will be keen to partner other teams in their business decisions and take an active role in other areas such as risk management and insurance.

This role is known internally as Finance and Risk Manager.

About the team

 This is a small team which has worked together well for many years, committed to delivering excellence to all our stakeholders, providing support to staff and volunteers across the charity within and outside the UK.

About you

You will be ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified with experience as Financial Controller or Finance Manager, ready for your next move. You will enjoy working with external and internal stakeholders at all levels with experience of management and financial reporting and relish the challenge of implementing process improvements.

About SSAFA

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been providing practical, emotional, and financial support to our Forces and their families since 1885. SSAFA, is a trusted source of support for the Armed Forces community in their time of need; last year our trained teams of volunteers and employees helped more than 53,000 people in need, including veterans, serving personnel (regulars and reserves) and their families.

SSAFA understands that behind every uniform is a person. We are here for that person and their family – any time they need us, in any way they need us, for as long as they need us.

 Diversity and Inclusion at SSAFA

SSAFA exists to support a diverse range of beneficiaries within the armed forces community, and we believe diversity within our teams is key to ensuring we can deliver our services effectively. We thrive on differences and believe it is critical to our success as a worldwide charity. SSAFA is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that seeks to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We therefore encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and any other groups that could bring diverse perspectives to our business.

SSAFA is committed to using the Disclosure & Barring Service to ensure we, as an employer, safeguard those we serve.

Further information about the role

Click on the Redirect button to find out more.

View the benefits SSAFA has to offer on our website.

If you have any queries or would like to speak to someone about this role, please contact Philip Town for an informal discussion.

No agencies please. Any unsolicited submissions from agencies will be accepted as a direct application from the candidate and no fees will be payable.

If you need any adjustments to support you with the application process, please contact us.

Closing date: Midnight on 21 September 2026. SSAFA reserves the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Interviews: 30 September 2026

An exciting full time opportunity has opened up at CPSL Mind.

CPSL Mind is a vibrant, values-led charity that supports local people in their recovery from mental health issues, promotes wellbeing and campaigns against stigma and discrimination.

Head of Finance and Sustainability
Hours: Full Time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary Scale Point: 33
Salary: £42,525.00 per annum
Based: in Cambridge or Peterborough with hybrid working options.

About CPSL Mind

Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire (CPSL) Mind is a progressive and expanding mental health charity. Our vision is a society in which everyone has positive mental health and feels part of a connected community.

Our work ranges from prevention and early intervention to award-winning crisis support. We also seek to influence positive change through our training services and ground-breaking campaigns activity.

About the Role

As a key part of CPSL Mind’s Senior Leadership Team, this role will provide strategic and operational leadership for the organization financial management, ensuring robust governance, financial sustainability and informed decision making across the charity.

You will lead the finance function, ensuring the highest standards of financial control, compliance, reporting and operational efficiency, while driving a culture of financial accountability throughout the organization.

Alongside this, you will oversee our income generation portfolio, including fundraising, training and events, ensuring these functions contribute to a diversified and sustainable income base. You will also lead our broader approach to financial sustainability, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, strengthen commercial decision making, maximise value for money and ensure every pound delivers the greatest possible impact for the communities we serve.

Key Criteria You must have:

• a relevant accounting qualification, e.g. ACA, CIMA, ACCA
• experience of managing budgets and detailed reporting on financial performance/forecasting
• experience of working with and presenting to Trustees, Directors and Senior Leaders

Closing date: 11th October 2026
Interview Date: 22nd October 2026 in Cambridge

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

CPSL Mind is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

We actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential and welcome applications from a wide range of candidates, including those with criminal records.  Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us. This will depend on the nature of the position and the circumstances and background of your offences.

CPSL Mind is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment and work in accordance with our safeguarding policies and procedures.

No agencies please.

Stroke Survivor Involvement Lead
Ref: 000051
Location: Home-based, Wales - However, frequent travel will be required as part of this role (may include team meetings or other work-related meetings)
Hours: 35 hours per week (worked over 5 days a week, Monday to Friday)
Contract: 18-month fixed-term contract
Salary: Circa £41,300 per annum

We’re looking for a motivated and passionate person to join the Wales Locality Team.

The involvement Lead is a new role for the Stroke Association in Wales.

Working in partnership with colleagues at NHS Wales and Welsh Government, this role will set a strategic direction to involve and work closely with people affected by stroke; including stroke survivors, their carers, professionals and other stakeholders.

This role will embed a culture of involvement, ensuring the patient and carer lived experience is incorporated into all future work and used to facilitate service improvement.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Taking the lead in ensuring that lived experience shapes the implementation of key policy documents including but not limited to; the Quality Statement for Stroke and Life after Stroke Service Standards for Wales.
• Liaising with patients and families concerning complex, distressing and emotional discussions around their experiences; enabling those experiences to contribute to future improvements in stroke care.
• Building effective relationships and working closely with key stakeholders including Welsh Government, NHS Wales, Third Sector organisations and other Service User representatives.

You will have a proven record of:

• Practical experience of patient involvement.
• In-depth knowledge of patient and public involvement legislation, strategies and methodologies
• Practical experience of qualitative and quantitative social research methods and data analysis
• Knowledge of NHS Wales’s structures and key policies – particularly stroke services
• This role requires extensive travel across a large geographical locality to visit people at community settings or at home. Candidates must be able to demonstrate how they can meet this requirement of the role

To fulfil the role, you must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

About Us

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke.

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

We believe everyone deserves to live the best life they can after stroke. And it’s a team effort to get there.

Closing Date: Sunday 27 September 2026 (Midnight)
Interview Date: Week commencing 5 October
N.B. Interviews will be held via video conferencing. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you submit your application.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

No agencies please. 

Are you an experienced and highly organised professional who enjoys making sure an organisation runs smoothly and wants to make a real difference?

Kapella’s mission is to build better relationships and improve the wellbeing of families and individuals. We provide accessible and affordable services, including counselling, family mediation, training and domestic abuse programmes across Birmingham, the Black Country and the wider Midlands area. Our work includes self-paying clients as well as funded projects delivered through contracts, grants and partnerships.

We are looking for an Administration and Operations Manager to lead and strengthen the day to day operations that underpin our services and help us prepare for our next phase of development. Working closely with the CEO and service managers, you will oversee the running of the organisation across our two main premises and other community venues, as well as manage the administration and appointments functions. This role provides the operational support to our service delivery, ensuring that processes, resources and systems are well organised and focused on quality, sustainability and a positive user experience.

We are entering an exciting phase of growth and are looking to expand our services and extend our reach across Birmingham, the Black Country and surrounding areas. This new role is central to these plans.

Initially, the role will be hands-on, with responsibility for recruiting and training additional administrative staff, fully opening our main premises and moving to a hybrid model of online and face-to-face counselling. You will also support the implementation of new online appointment and case management systems as well as updated policies and procedures.

As we grow there is significant opportunity for development, allowing you to contribute to how our services are delivered, strengthen our team and help us meet the increasing need for our services.

Based at our Birmingham office, you will be supported by a small administration team that will grow. This role will require some flexibility in working hours to meet service needs, including working at other centres from time to time.

What you’ll do

• Oversee the day-to-day operational running of the Birmingham and Wolverhampton centres and community venues.
• Lead and manage the administration team, including recruitment, training and volunteer coordination.
• Manage appointments, service utilisation, waiting times and payments.
• Streamline processes and systems to improve efficiency, consistency and client experience.
• Support the implementation of new technology, online appointments and case management systems.
• Ensure premises are safe, functional, welcoming and fit-for-purpose.
• Monitor service activity, performance, budgets and KPIs, providing clear reports for management and funders.
• Promote a positive, inclusive and supportive workplace culture.
• Work closely with service managers and the CEO to ensure operational activity supports organisational priorities.
• Oversee HR systems and administration.
• Ensure compliance with HR, health and safety and organisational policies.

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience in administration and operational management, ideally in the third sector, health or community services.
• Significant administrative experience, including the use of databases and case management systems.
• Experience monitoring activity, performance, budgets and KPIs, with the ability to use information to inform decisions.
• Experience developing and embedding effective processes and systems.
• Confidence in implementing new technologies and supporting teams through change.
• Experience overseeing premises and creating safe, fit-for-purpose and welcoming environments.
• Understanding of the client journey and accessibility, with experience improving service utilisation and engagement.
• HR and health and safety knowledge, with experience supporting staff wellbeing and compliance.
• Strong leadership, communication and relationship-building skills, with a commitment to inclusion and equity.
• A practical, proactive and solutions-focused approach, with the ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.

Why join Kapella?

• Play a key role in expanding essential services to families and individuals across Birmingham and the Black Country.
• Be part of a passionate, supportive and values-driven team.
• Have a significant opportunity to shape operational processes and develop into a senior leadership role.
• Benefit from ongoing development, 25 days’ annual leave, professional development opportunities, a 5% employer contribution pension scheme and staff wellbeing support.

How to apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and how you meet the requirements of the role.

Kapella is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Closing date: 27 September 2026

Location: Birmingham office, with travel to Wolverhampton and other community venues
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week

Job Title: Welfare Rights & Debt Adviser
Contract Length: One-year fixed term commencing November 2026
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Line Manager: Advice Service Manager
Location(s): Salford
Salary: £26,400 per annum

About Us

Mind in Salford is an independent, user focused charity providing vital services to make a positive difference to the wellbeing and mental health of local people. We represent the voice of Salford in campaigning to dispel stigma and influence political, social and cultural change around mental health.

This role offers the opportunity to make a direct and practical difference to people in Salford who are experiencing financial difficulty, welfare rights challenges and mental health needs.

The Welfare Rights & Debt Adviser will:

• Deliver high-quality welfare rights advice, debt advice, budgeting support, grant applications and financial capability support to people experiencing mental health difficulties.
• Manage a caseload of clients on a one-to-one basis, ensuring advice is accurate, holistic, person-centred and responsive to individual needs.
• Contribute insight from frontline advice work to service development, partnership working and Mind’s wider campaigning activity.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Client advice and casework: provide welfare rights advice, debt advice, grant applications, information and support through appointments, telephone support, drop-ins and community-based settings.
• Quality and compliance: maintain accurate case records, work within agreed case-working standards, meet monitoring requirements and keep knowledge of welfare rights policy, systems and legislation up to date.
• Partnership and team working: work collaboratively with colleagues and external professionals to provide joined-up support for clients across different service settings.
• Service development: contribute to service planning, improvement activity and wider organisational learning based on client needs and service evidence.

The successful candidate will have at least one years’ experience delivering both welfare rights advice and debt advice in a relevant setting and be able to understand the wishes and needs of people using mental health services and advocate appropriately on their behalf. They will be able to engage effectively with vulnerable adults and build positive working relationships with professionals across disciplines, have good negotiation, problem-solving and organisational skills. This role will need the ability to prioritise and manage a caseload while meeting agreed case-working standards, targets and service goals, someone who can maintain accurate and comprehensive records on a client management database and someone with a commitment to equal opportunities, diversity, service user empowerment and reliable team working.

Benefits of working for Mind in Salford:

• We provide face-to-face training to strengthen your knowledge of mental health, alongside access to a learning platform with a wide range of courses across different subject areas.
• The role offers flexible working, agreed in line with service needs.
• Generous annual leave entitlement, including three days leave over Christmas.
• You will receive an additional day of annual leave for your birthday.
• You will also have access to three hours of wellbeing leave each month.

Application deadline: 5PM on Friday 2nd October 2026
Interviews will be held on Thursday 15th October 2026.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are committed to achieving equal opportunities in employment and the service we provide, and welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental health issues. We encourage applications from everyone, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership and pregnancy and maternity.

We work with children and adults who may be at risk of abuse and therefore everyone is subject to a DBS check (level of check is dependent on the nature of the role) and receipt of two satisfactory references.

No agencies please.

Job Title: EDIS Community and Engagement Officer (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Science and Health)
Reporting to: Head of EDIS
Responsible for: No direct reports
Based: Our Head Office is based in London, but we have an agile working policy enabling people to work at another UK location up to 4 days/week.  Requests for permanent remote working will be considered and we welcome applications from people based in other parts of the UK.
Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week). Requests for part-time or flexible working will be considered.
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £34,572 to £36,506 FTE per annum

About Us

The British Science Association (BSA) was founded in 1831 and is a registered charity.

We are creating a future where science is more relevant, representative, and connected to society.

We have ambitious goals to put people at the heart of science.

About the role

The EDIS Community and Engagement Officer will provide the coordination, communication and relationship-building needed to support the growth, participation and value of the EDIS membership community.

The role will support day-to-day member onboarding, engagement activity, communications, events and community-building processes across the EDIS portfolio. It will ensure that members are supported to connect with each other, contribute to EDIS priorities and access opportunities to learn, share and collaborate. You will work with the EDIS team and with BSA communications team colleagues to support their work.

A central focus will be building effective, inclusive and accessible routes for member participation. Working with EDIS members, partners and colleagues across the British Science Association, the postholder will help to ensure that engagement activity is joined up, responsive to member needs and focused on meaningful participation across the science and health research sector.

This role would suit someone who combines strong organisational approaches with proactive communication, relationship building, and a commitment to and knowledge of equity, diversity and inclusion. The successful candidate will be confident supporting communities, networks and membership groups, helping to strengthen the EDIS community while ensuring that engagement, communications and events are delivered effectively.

Key responsibilities

• Support day-to-day member onboarding and support processes, ensuring new and existing members understand how to participate in EDIS activity.
• Coordinate with the Communications Team to develop member communications, newsletters and engagement content, ensuring activity is joined up, accessible and responsive to member needs.
• Plan and support delivery of events, workshops, peer learning sessions including ‘special interest’ groups and network activity that create practical opportunities for members to learn, share and collaborate.
• Maintain accurate membership records, contact lists and engagement data, supporting clear information flow across BSA, EDIS members and partners.
• Gather member insight and feedback, identifying themes, opportunities and barriers to participation that can inform programme design and delivery.
• Apply inclusive practice in all communications, events, engagement activity and member support, reflecting a clear commitment to and knowledge of equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Support membership growth and retention by helping demonstrate the value of involvement in EDIS and strengthening routes for member participation.
• Work with the Research and Policy Officer and Programme Manager to ensure member insight informs evidence, programme design, engagement activity and delivery.
• Support the production of accessible resources, meeting materials and event content that help members connect with each other and contribute to EDIS priorities.
• Contribute to the promotion of EDIS activity across sector networks and communication channels, supporting meaningful participation across the science and health research sector.

About you

The successful candidate will bring the following experience, skills and approach.

Essential criteria

• Experience of coordinating activity within a membership organisation, community group, network, events or engagement programme.
• Strong approach to organisation, with the ability to coordinate varied tasks, manage competing priorities and work towards agreed deadlines with appropriate support.
• Demonstrable commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, with practical experience applying inclusive approaches in events, communications, member support or engagement activity.
• Ability to communicate clearly in writing and through other appropriate channels, tailoring style and content to encourage understanding and engagement across varied audiences.
• Experience developing communications tailored to specific professional audiences, including meeting materials, event content and/or engagement updates.
• Experience maintaining accurate records, contact lists, membership information or engagement data, with attention to detail and appropriate handling of information.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with members, partners, community groups or stakeholders, supporting participation and responding constructively to different needs.
• Experience gathering feedback, insight or views from members, participants or stakeholders, and identifying practical themes that can inform activity or improvement.
• Proactive and reflective approach to problem solving and continuous improvement, with the ability to identify practical improvements and support an evolving programme.

Desirable criteria

We do not expect candidates to have all of the following, but one or more would be helpful in the role.

• Experience working in science, research, health, charity or membership settings.
• Experience using CRM, event or membership management systems.
• Experience supporting consultation, co-design or peer learning activity.
• Experience producing digital content or newsletters.

The closing date for applications is Monday 5th October 2026.
First interviews are due to take place online on 4th November 2026, with second interviews (in person in London) expected on 11th November 2026.

Interview dates have been scheduled outside the school holiday period to support participation from the broadest possible pool of candidates and to minimise potential barriers for those with caring or family responsibilities.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

As part of the British Science Association’s commitment to being a Disability Confident employer, all disabled applicants who meet the ‘essential criteria’ for this vacancy will be offered an interview under our guaranteed interview scheme.

No agencies please.

Role/Job Title: Development and Opportunities Lead
Location:
Office Base to be either 19 High Street, Battle, TN33 0AE or Cornford Lane, Pembury, TN2 4QU
Hybrid role but regular travel required (Battle, Hastings and Pembury)
Mileage expenses will be paid for travel to locations away from your main workplace, in accordance with the organisation's mileage policy. 

Hours:  37 hours per week (Monday – Friday)
Salary: £40,000 to £45,000 per annum

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 30th September 2026
We encourage early applications, as we reserve the right to close this vacancy before the advertised closing date should we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Equal Opportunity/Accessibility and Accommodations Statement:
As a Disability Confident employer, Aspens Charities is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities. We actively promote the recruitment, retention, and career development of people with disabilities, recognising the invaluable contributions they make to our organisation. We are dedicated to ensuring an accessible recruitment process for all candidates. If you require any accommodations during the application or interview process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Aspens is entering an exciting new chapter. Following a recent organisational restructure, we've strengthened the way we deliver care, creating an even more effective, responsive and sustainable model of support for the people we support.

As part of this transformation, we've created new opportunities to join our leadership team - roles that didn't previously exist. We're looking for passionate, values-driven leaders who are committed to delivering outstanding, person-centred support, driving continuous improvement, and embedding high-quality, consistent standards across our services.

This is an opportunity to make a real impact: empowering teams, sharing best practice, strengthening governance, and ensuring every person we support receives exceptional care, regardless of where they live or who is supporting them.

If you're ready to shape the future of social care, inspire others, and be part of an ambitious organisation dedicated to improving lives, we'd love to hear from you. Join us and help lead the next stage of the Aspens journey.

Lead Innovation. Drive Growth. Create Opportunities.
Aspens is seeking an exceptional Development & Opportunities Lead to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our services and creating meaningful opportunities for the people we support.

This is a high-impact leadership role for an ambitious, strategic thinker who is passionate about innovation, service development, and delivering outstanding outcomes for autistic people and people with learning disabilities. Working closely with the Head of Service Development and PBS and the wider leadership team, you will identify opportunities for growth, develop new services, lead transformational projects, and ensure our services continue to evolve and thrive.

About the Role:
As Development & Opportunities Lead, you will lead service innovation and growth across our day and community-based services. You will oversee the strategic development of our day opportunities provision while identifying new ways to diversify services, generate income, and respond to emerging community needs.

This role combines strategic leadership, operational oversight, project management and quality improvement, making it an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys turning ideas into reality and influencing positive change at organisational level.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, expansion and scaling of high-quality services across the organisation.
• Embed co-production throughout the organisation so the voices of the people we support are heard at all levels
• Identify opportunities for innovation, growth and service diversification. 
• Develop business cases and support funding applications for new initiatives.
• Drive continuous improvement and embed best practice across services.
• Lead the strategic development and operational oversight of day services.
• Build strong relationships with commissioners, funders, families, regulators and key partners.
• Use data, evidence and insight to shape decision-making and measure impact.
• Lead, coach and support managers while developing talent across the organisation.
• Horizon-scan for emerging opportunities, research and sector developments.
• Support organisational strategy and contribute to long-term sustainable growth.
   

About You:
We're looking for a forward-thinking leader who combines commercial awareness with a genuine passion for inclusion and person-centred support.

Essential Experience & Skills

• Significant senior leadership experience within health and social care.
• Proven experience leading service development, growth and transformation initiatives.
• Experience overseeing day services or community-based support models.
• Experience managing multi-site services.
• Strong strategic thinking and programme management skills.
• Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to turn evidence into action.
• Financial, commercial and operational awareness.
• Values-driven leadership with high emotional intelligence.
  
  

Qualifications

• Degree-level qualification in Health & Social Care, Education, Psychology or a related field. 
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

What We Offer:

· Comprehensive paid training and excellent career progression opportunities, including recognised qualifications in health and social care

· Paid DBS check

· Flexible work arrangements, with the option to take on additional bank shifts

· Nest Pension and Death in Service benefit

· Access to a dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders

· Blue Light Card discounts

· 20% discount at Aspens High Street Stores for all staff

· Discounted staff menu available at the Bluebell Café (Pembury)

· Refer a Friend scheme - earn up to £250 for every successful referral

· Employee recognition programmes, including ‘Employee of the Month’

Apply now and one of our team members will reach out to discuss the role further.

If shortlisted, we will contact you directly to schedule an interview. We strive to respond to all applicants; however, if you have not received a response within a reasonable timeframe, please feel free to contact us for a status update or feedback (where available). After the interview, you will be notified of the outcome. If successful, you’ll receive a formal offer in writing. Upon acceptance, we’ll guide you through the onboarding process, providing you with all the details you need

Please note, any offer of employment will be subject to Disclosure and Barring checks (which we will arrange on your behalf if you don’t already have one) and satisfactory employment references.