Parenting jobs

About Kinship

We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to. 

Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.

About the role

The Senior Advice Worker – SEND will be the specialist and subject expert in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and kinship care. You’ll provide 1:1 advice directly to kinship carers on all issues that impact on their caring role.

You will often be supporting kinship carers in high crisis. It will be part of your job to calm a situation quickly and support people to communicate what they need so you can provide personalised in-depth advice.

You’ll provide advice by phone, video calls and email, but you’ll also need to be able to respond to text, WhatsApp and online chat and other channels as we develop the service.

You’ll specialise in providing advice and information to enable kinship carers to support children with SEND needs, including speech, language and communication difficulties, social, emotional and mental health challenges, specific learning difficulties, and autism.

This will include advice and casework to support kinship carers to navigate the education system, understand Education, Health and Care Plan processes and access support from schools, children’s services and CAMHS.

As subject expert, you’ll provide expert input to the development of written information and resources and the development and delivery of specialist training for kinship carers.

Key responsibilities include:

• Respond to enquiries through a range of incoming channels. This includes taking calls on our advice line, as well as responding to enquiries submitted through our website, via internal referral or other channels.
• Provide high quality advice and information to kinship carers on their rights, entitlements and responsibilities in relation to welfare benefits, local authority allowances, support from children’s services, relevant legal orders, sources of educational, parenting and legal support and other issues that may be required.
• Assess vulnerability and risk to prioritise and respond to kinship carers’ issues in a timely manner.
• Research individual cases and identify possible courses of action.
• Address all safeguarding concerns in line with policy.
• Facilitate access to our advice service for people with diverse needs, e.g. by using appropriate translation services or assistive technology.
• Adapt communication style to respond appropriately to differing needs.
• Provide advice in a format that is manageable and understandable for the individual kinship carer.
• Apply agreed Kinship models of practice as appropriate, e.g. taking a trauma-informed approach.
• Provide specialist advice and casework on SEND-related issues. This may involve:
  • providing additional advice or support to enable a client to take action
  • undertaking follow-up action on behalf of the client to move the case on, e.g. negotiating with third parties
  • taking on complex casework to pursue significant outcomes for the client or strategic impact for all kinship carers

• Proactively update colleagues across Kinship on relevant updates in the SEND landscape, providing guidance to teams.

• Work closely with training colleagues to develop, create and occasionally lead training sessions to support kinship carers to navigate the SEND system.

Essential requirements include:

• Minimum of 2 years’ recent experience of delivering in-depth advice work on complex social welfare legal issues (e.g. benefits, housing, education or social care) to members of the public.

• Experience of giving both telephone and written advice.

• Either significant knowledge of and expertise in the SEND system and SEND-related issues, with the ability to develop expertise in kinship care advice; or, Significant knowledge of and expertise in kinship care advice, with substantial knowledge of SEND-related advice issues and the ability to become an expert in SEND advice for kinship carers.

• A demonstrable knowledge of relevant sources of advice and information. 

• Knowledge and evidence of good understanding of safeguarding issues and good practice.

• Proven understanding of the importance of confidentiality and a non-judgmental approach.

• Experience and confidence in development of resources

• Experience of effective management and supervision of staff, projects and/or services.

• Experience using Case Management Systems and/or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platforms.

What we offer you:

• Flexible working - we understand how important it is to balance family and work life.
• ​30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (1 April to 31 March) pro rata (3 to be taken at Christmas shutdown)
• Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential advice line and counselling)
• Charity Worker Discounts.

Key dates:

• Application deadline: Monday 20 April 2026, 12pm
• First interview: w/c 4 May 2026 (online)
• Second interview: w/c 11 May 2026 (if required)

How to apply:

Please apply for the role of Senior Advice Worker - SEND by sending a CV and answering the questions below. The deadline is 12pm on Monday 20 April 2026. Any applications arriving after the closing date will not be considered for shortlisting unless there are exceptional reasons. Please ensure you have read the application timelines.

Please provide a cover letter answering the following 4 questions (up to 250 words per answer):

1. Give an overview of how your experience, qualifications and training equip you for the role of Senior Advice Worker - SEND.
2. Explain why you want to work for Kinship.
3. What are the key skills and personal attributes that you would bring to the role?
4. What do you see as the most significant advice issues confronting kinship families navigating the SEND system?

Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.  We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams.  We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work.   We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us. 

JOB TITLE: Kinship Community & Family Support Worker

RESPONSIBLE TO: Kinship Services Manager

HOURS OF WORK Part-time 28hours (evening and weekend work will be required)

LOCATION: Hybrid – in person community delivery, with requirements to attend office base in Edinburgh/East Lothian, and home working possible

SALARY / GRADE: Fixed term 24 months (with potential for extension, funding allowing)

Grade 4 / £28,615 per annum fte – pro-rata

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•Kinship Services Manager

•Adoption UK Scotland and Kinship service colleagues

•The Adoption and Kinship Community in Scotland

•Local Authorities and external commissioners

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

·To support the community work of Adoption UK Scotland and their kinship services, to provide professionals, parents/carers, children, and young people access to information, resources, and services for kinship communities and to engage with families in their local communities.

·To offer a front-line service, primarily to kinship families based in the East Lothian Community, by supporting delivery and administration for activities and events, including regular support groups delivery, youth and family events. Support of events in other areas in Scotland based on resources and availability.

·To hold and manage kinship care family cases, providing direct family support within service guidelines and delivery model.

·Support planning, organisation of, and attendance at, in person and online events through funded projects and services to bring together kinship families and individuals, enable peer support, build a sense of community and promote an active and supportive Community Network.

·To respond to enquiries received via the Information and Support Service and relevant email inboxes with relevant information and/or signposting.

·To be part of the wider kinship service team within Adoption UK Scotland, working across teams and services.

·Work collaboratively with colleagues across all services areas of Adoption UK

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·Working alongside service leads within the kinship teams, and with the wider community team members to plan and deliver specific events and activities for East Lothian Council Kinship community members, and kinship families in wider areas where resources and availability allows.

·Provide administrative coordination for community groups, including collating event materials, gathering feedback and evaluations for reporting purposes, supporting delivery of events, maintaining records using existing required systems, and responding to enquiries via our Information and Support line and relevant email inboxes.

·To facilitate referral meetings with new kinship carers accessing the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including initial assessment of need to identify suitable support and signposting requirements

·To hold responsibility for administrative requirements relating to referrals and cases within the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including setting up new cases and recording service delivery interactions, using existing Adoption UK systems and processes

·To work with colleagues in the Foundations for Families kinship support service to support delivery where time and resources allow, and coordinate activities between services where appropriate.

·To report to line manager and directors in Adoption UK Scotland relating to service delivery, including contributing to monitoring and reporting on activities.

·To work alongside Adoption UK colleagues to develop and improve resources and services for kinship carers

Knowledge and experience

• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the kinship legislation system, issues and challenges faced by kinship individuals. (Essential)
• Experience of engagement and direct work with families (Essential)
• Experience of facilitation of in person and online groups (or commitment to learn) and commitment to digital safeguarding (Essential)

Qualifications and Education

• Relevant degree or qualification (e.g. community work, social sciences) or equivalent experience (Essential)

Skills and abilities

• Report writing and record keeping (Essential)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal (Essential)
• Ability to build and maintain relationships (Essential)
• The ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) (Essential)

Accountability

• Liaise with colleagues to share updates and information
• Report to supervisor and relevant managers and external commissioners on activities

Behaviours

• Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values and mission in all interactions with external stakeholders.
• Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.
• Follows all policies and procedures relating to risk assessments, safeguarding and youth service delivery
• Contributes to an open and honest culture
• Encourages challenge and creativity, transparency and consistency.
• Leads by example.
• Offers outstanding service to members.
• Promotes cross functional team working, sharing skills and knowledge
• Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.
• Valuing the opinion of other. Treating colleagues and other stakeholders with respect.
• Takes pride in own development, committed to achieving high standards and agreed objectives

Can you help us develop an outstanding service for parent/carers in Surrey?

Do you have a passion to support young people's emotional health and wellbeing?

Barnardo's Parenting Wellbeing Service (PWS) are seeking to recruit two reliable and motivated individuals to join our team who share our commitment and vision to develop an outstanding service and embed Barnardo's basis and values in all we do. Barnardo's PWS offers advice, guidance and support to parents and carers across the county of Surrey.

The contracted hours for these two positions are 26.75 hours per week. Flexibility can be discussed about how these hours are completed within the working week. It is essential that Tuesdays are a working day and there will other occasions where early evening working (up to 6pm) will be required however this would be planned in advance to cater for our parent/carer schedules.

As a Parenting Wellbeing Practitioner, you will hold a rolling caseload and provide support to parents/carers whose children/young people are experiencing difficulties with their emotional health and wellbeing. PWS aims to upskill parents/carers and empower them to explore new strategies to make effective change. PWS encourages parents/carers to use a solution focussed, goal-based strength approach, building on their existing knowledge to support their child(ren) to thrive.

Parents/Carers are offered a hybrid model of support over a number of sessions which are continuously assessed to measure progress. This is usually provided through one 60-minute session per week which can be received either online, over the phone, at home or out in the community.

The Parenting Wellbeing Service operates within a Thrive Framework where choice and shared decision making is fundamental. It is a relational model, and we hold a non-judgmental and trusting relationship between the staff member and parents. You will receive training on the Thrive model at the start of your employment. 

To be successful in this role you will:

• Have experience working with and supporting parents/carers whose children and young people are experiencing difficulties with their emotional health and wellbeing.
• Have the ability to plan, deliver and evaluate 1:1 and groupwork wellbeing interventions with a solution focussed, goal-based strength approach.
• Be able to engage and communicate online and in person with parent/carers, schools, and other professionals or stakeholders representing Barnardo's.
• Have an understanding of how to work within a trauma-informed framework.
• Have knowledge of safeguarding issues, working within multi-agency frameworks and conducting risk assessments.  
• Have good time-management, organisational, numeracy and literacy skills including competency on IT software.
• Have a full UK driving licence and access to a roadworthy and taxed car.

Although the role is hybrid with the ability to work from home, it is essential to meet the needs of the service to travel around Surrey when necessary. Due to this, access to a vehicle and a valid driving licence will be essential. Car insurance must include business use and be in place before starting with the service. The office base (Surrey Wellbeing Hub) for this role is currently in Leatherhead, Surrey and there is a requirement to regularly attend meetings and collect resources from this location. This base determines your normal deductible commute.

Barnardo's offer their staff regular supervision, external clinical supervision and give all colleagues access to at least three learning days a year (pro-rata). Barnardo's University (BU) facilitate a range of opportunities which will be available through B-learning online and the BU prospectus. However, staff can use this time in a way that works for them – for instance to spend a day shadowing another team.

When completing your application please refer to your skills, knowledge and experience in relation to the Person Specification and Job Description. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Pay & Reward Framework

We know that our colleagues go above and beyond in delivering our vital work, driven by their passion and commitment to Barnardo's values.  We also know that we can only realise our ambitions and achieve better outcomes for more children, thanks to the talent, hard work and creativity of our people. 

For all these reasons, we are committed to a new approach to pay and reward, to ensure it is fair, attractive and progressive, which was rolled out in April 2023. This is a positive change for the charity, and a part of our People & Culture Strategy. It will assist us in supporting colleagues to belong, thrive and grow in their colleague journey at Barnardo's and in time will offer clear routes of progression for colleagues in both their career and their pay. 

Whilst the full pay band and salary range is advertised, our approach to starting salaries is to appoint between the minimum to mid-point of the pay band – this ensures that pay steps are available to reward our colleagues annually based on their contribution to excellence and alignment to our values and behaviours.  More details on Barnardo's pay framework can be found upon application. 

Benefits

Workplace Offer: What it means for you

Our hybrid working initiative is based on trust, flexibility and empowerment. We understand our workplace offer means different things to different people, and we encourage those conversations. This may mean working at one of our stores, services, working at home, in the community, at one of our Collaboration Hubs or depending on the role any combination of these. Please read through the advert carefully to understand the remits of hybrid working that will be specific to the role.

• Barnardo's believe in creating equality of opportunity in the workplace and supporting people to manage their work-life balance; we are therefore open to offering flexible working arrangements.
• Annual Leave entitlement for full-time colleagues is 26 days per annum, increasing to 27 days per annum, after 3 years Barnardo's service, 29 days per annum, after 5 years Barnardo's service and 30 days per annum, after 7 years Barnardo's service. Those working less than full time are entitled to the same level of holiday pro rata
• The ability to buy up to another 5 days annual leave via our Buy Your Leave scheme
• A host of family friendly leave options including company Maternity Paternity and Adoption pay; together with all family additional leave options
• Service related sick pay from day 1
• Access to a Group Personal Pension with a matched 4% or 6% contribution from Barnardo's. Ability to pay via salary sacrifice to garner both tax and NI savings on your own contribution
• Death in service cover of 4x annual earnings for all staff contributing to our Group Personal Pension
• Cycle2work scheme
• Interest free season ticket loans
• Discounts and cashback from at high street shops including major supermarkets, cinemas, gyms, leisure/theme parks, holidays and much more via our Benefit Portal
• 20% discount at Barnardo's stores
• Opportunity to purchase a health cash plan to claim towards dental, glasses, therapy etc
• Free access to round the clock employee assistance program for advice and support
• Access to Barnardo's Learning and Development offer

*T&C's apply based on contract

About Barnardo's

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and cultivating a culture where everyone can belong and thrive through inclusion and connectivity. We want our workforce to be reflective of the communities we work with, and for equality, diversity and inclusion to be embedded in everything we do. We are a Disability Confident Leader, are progressing our ambition to be an anti-racist organisation with Anti-Racism Commitments and actions in place and have networks for colleagues who are disabled, LGBT+, Black and Minoritised Ethnic and Women. We particularly encourage applications from Black and Minoritised Ethnic and/or disabled candidates who are currently underrepresented in our workforce. For disabled applicants, we offer reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Our basis and values

About the role
We are excited to recruit a Community Organiser for our Newport Parent Power project. This role offers a meaningful, paid professional development opportunity. The Brilliant Club will work in partnership with Jesus College, University of Oxford, King’s College London and the University of South Wales to engage with parents in Newport. Newport Parent Power is an established project which utilises the community organising-based model first created by King’s College London and Citizens UK with South London Parent Power.

Parent Power supports parents and carers to develop skills in community organising and advice and guidance on accessing higher education, empowering them to make change to support their children’s future and ensure that they have a fair chance in education and their future careers.

Working with us, the Community Organiser will:

• Support local pupils from underrepresented backgrounds by empowering their parent/carers to become higher education experts;
• Receive community organising training from Citizens UK and develop transferable skills;
• Build campaigns to combat local educational barriers with parent/carer communities;
• Join a nationwide community of community organisers making a significant impact on university access.

About you
The role will best suit someone who:
Essential

• Has knowledge of challenges faced in Newport’s communities.
• Has a demonstrable passion for furthering The Brilliant Club’s mission.
• Can adhere to information security policies included in the charity’s ISO 27001 manual (information security training provided).
   

Desirable

• Has prior experience of community focused work.
• Understands the current climate in the UK school system and some of the challenges young people and parent/carers might be facing.
• Understands the barriers young people face to university access and some of the ways these might be overcome.

We are looking for a Campaigns Assistant (New Parent Leave Cover), to support the Campaigns and Movement Building team in delivering campaigns to stop new oil and gas fields and accelerate a fair phase-out of oil and gas in the UK. The Campaigns Assistant will play a key role in ensuring campaign infrastructure runs smoothly and that mobilisation activities, stakeholder communications, and campaign logistics are effectively coordinated.

Join a team that's making a real difference.

Adfam is the leading national charity tackling the effects of alcohol, drug use or gambling on family members and friends. We improve life for thousands of people. One way we do this is by empowering families and friends to get the support they need.

We want anyone affected by someone else's drug or alcohol use or gambling problem to have the chance to benefit from healthy relationships, be part of a loving and supportive family and enjoy mental and physical wellbeing.

This role offers the opportunity to be part of a successful national remote service, offering support via the phone or Zoom to affected adults in the UK. We are looking to recruit experienced Family Support professionals to provide these virtual support sessions to individual family members and sometimes groups. We are offering a number of roles at 15-20 hours per week, across 3-5 days, including Wednesday and at least 2 evenings per week (Mon-Wed).

Experience in supporting family members affected by someone else’s substance use is essential, as is experience with assessing and managing risk. Ideally, you would also have experience of working to support parents with their parenting and / or those experiencing domestic abuse. We offer fixed hours part time contracts within a friendly and supportive team. Whilst based at home and requiring the ability to work autonomously, Adfam prides ourselves on our supportive team ethos and working culture. 

• Salary: £30,000 pro rata
• 6.5% contributory pension scheme
• Contract: One year with likely extension

This is a remote working position based at home.

Please note, although counselling skills and qualifications are welcome and valuable as part of a skillset for this role, these are not counselling roles. This is professional support work and requires additional experience or skills in substance use, social work, complex family work or a related field. The role requires directive and facilitative guidance and input. If you are a counsellor looking for typical counselling work, please do not apply for this role. Thank you.

Closing date: Sunday 19th April

Application packs can be downloaded from our website. Alternatively, please email us to request one.

Adfam actively welcomes applications from all sections of society.

Would you like to make a lasting difference in the lives of children affected by domestic abuse? Join an award-winning trauma recovery service provider that is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children and families.

Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) is a lifeline for children healing from the trauma of domestic abuse. We’re expanding our service and looking for new administrator to join our team – helping guide children and families on their healing journey.

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Administrator

Location: Reading with hybrid working arrangements.

Contract: Permanent full time 37 hours per week. Part time opportunities will also be considered at a minimum of 15 hours per week over at least 2 days.

Salary range: Full time salary range £24,243 to £26,855 per annum. Part time opportunities on a pro-rata basis of this range.

About the role:

As the BB4K Administrator you will provide essential administrative support to the BB4K team and service we deliver. This includes:

· database administration

· planning and managing the service delivery diary

· ordering resources and stock for service delivery

· general administrative tasks

· responding to initial enquires

· arranging meetings and taking minutes 

About you:

As a successful BB4K Administrator, you will have experience of providing administrative support in a busy environment, with accurate attention to detail. With excellent interpersonal skills, you’ll work collaboratively with a positive and flexible approach. You’ll be organised, able to meet deadlines and confident collating and recording accurate information. You’ll be efficient working with data to identify and present key points and produce clear, informative reports.

If this sounds like you please visit our website and apply today to join a collaborative and dedicated team who are part of something truly meaningful. Please also visit our website for contact details for an informal chat about the role.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with personal lived experience of domestic abuse or from underrepresented communities, who meet the essential role requirements.

Closing date: 9am, Tuesday 07 April 2026          

Early applications are encouraged as we may review and appoint on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is secured.

All opportunities with PACT are based in the UK, and you must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Admin Assistant, Administrator, Admin Support, Customer Admin Support, etc.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS). The role description provides information on what our safer recruitment enquiries include and the level of DBS required to work in the role.

Location: Haringey

Salary: Unqualified: £29,385 - £30,671 per annum

Qualified: £30,671 - £33,438 per annum

(Please note that applicants are usually appointed at the bottom of the relevant band based on fairness and our pay scales)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week 

Contract: Fixed Term Contract (Until 31st March 2027)

Closing Date: Wednesday 22nd April 2026

Closing Time: 00:00am

Are you looking for a rewarding role working for an intersectional feminist organisation? If so, we have an incredible opportunity for you to join our team as a Family Support Worker at Solace Women's Aid.  

You will be joining a team of committed and inspiring individuals whose dedication has saved the lives of thousands of women, men and children in the capital. We are looking for friendly and diligent individuals to join our services and help us make a difference.

Our core values reflect our history and were developed in consultation with staff and service users. Feminism and intersectionality are key to our work and we are committed to the principles of being survivor-led, trauma-informed, empowering, diverse, anti-racist and anti-discriminatory.

About the Service

Solace provides safe refuge and move on accommodation to hundreds of women and children made homeless through domestic or sexual abuse. We run 19 refuges across London, including specialist refuge spaces for women with multiple needs. Of these, this role will involve working across three refuges in the borough of Haringey, in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

About the Role

The primary role of a Family Support Worker is to provide effective, efficient, and supportive service to children and their mothers residing in refuge with Solace Women’s Aid. The staff member will lead on the development of a child and family-centered approach to work in the refuge. In so doing, they will:

• Develop and deliver a range of trauma-informed services to children and young people (0-16 years) and their mothers within the refuge and when they are resettled into the community
• Ensure the completion of comprehensive assessments of family needs and risk of families, ensuring an integrated approach with children and adult services (internal and external)
• Ensure ongoing development of age-appropriate children activities
• Promote ‘Integrated Working’ through internal and external mechanisms in partnership with colleagues and community partnerships
• Coordinate the delivery of activities through session staff, volunteers, and student placements

About You

The ideal candidate will have demonstrable experience of working with vulnerable children, young people, and/or families, as well as knowledge of the effects that domestic abuse can have on young people.

You will be familiar with Assessment, Action Planning, and Evaluation for families, with experience in maintaining records. You will also have the ability to work on your own initiative, as well as in partnership with other agencies or professionals, to promote family/child wellbeing. 

What we can offer you

We provide a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees, including:

• Flexible working
• Focus on learning and development (internal career progression and training)
• Generous holiday entitlement
• Employer pension contribution
• Family-friendly leave and enhanced maternity pay
• Access to Inclusion Networks
• Daily clinical debriefing
• Employee Assistance Programme providing free 24/7 support and advice
• Employee Benefits Platform offering staff discounts, benefits and savings
• Flow & Restore yoga classes
• Meditation sessions
• Cycle to Work Scheme

How to apply

When applying for this role, kindly highlight in your Supporting Statement how your values, knowledge, transferrable skills, and experience align with each point within the following sections of the Job Profile Document:

• Values, Behaviours & Competencies
• Knowledge, Experience and Skills

Solace Women's Aid values diversity, promotes equity, and challenges discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, abilities, perspectives, and lived experiences. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay, and benefits. Our Inclusion Networks support staff with protected characteristics and offer inclusive spaces to connect.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We anticipate and provide reasonable adjustments as needed and support employees who acquire a disability or long-term health condition, enabling them to stay in work.

This service is run by women for women and is therefore restricted to female applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, and Part 1. Section 7(2) e of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 apply. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

As part of safer recruitment practices, we carry out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and right to work in the UK checks.

No agencies.

Are you an experienced fundraiser, skilled in crafting persuasive appeals and telling moving stories of impact and change? We have a fabulous opportunity for you to use your creative and organisational skills to make a difference to families in South London and East Surrey.

Our programmes include individual family support, domestic abuse recovery and a range of parenting and group work programmes to enable families to thrive.

The core of your role will be in generating funds from trusts, foundations and grant making trusts.

• Identify and research prospective funders aligned with Welcare’s priorities.
• Develop tailored, high-quality grant applications, expressions of interest, and monitoring reports.
• Manage a rolling pipeline of small, medium, and large grant opportunities.
• Lead on multi-year and restricted funding applications where appropriate.
• Ensure accurate tracking of deadlines and submissions using eTapestry (Blackbaud’s CRM/Supporter Management System)
• Work closely with CEO, Head of Practice and Business Manager to gather data, case studies, and outcomes.

• Translate impact data into compelling narratives aligned with funder priorities.
• Support development of monitoring and evaluation frameworks to strengthen future bids.

Salary:  £41,771 FTE (pro-rata £25,062)

Fully remote working

Generous Annual Leave allowance

Longlisted candidates will be required to complete a full application form prior to interview.

Application closing date: 6 April 2026

Interview date: rolling interview

Job Summary

We are seeking an individual with experience in communications and public affairs, to develop the campaigning activity of the First 1001 Days Movement.  The Movement is a campaigning alliance of over 200 charities and professionals who work together to inspire, support and challenge decision makers to value and invest in babies’ emotional wellbeing and healthy development.

The Movement is hosted by the Parent-Infant Foundation – the only national charity driving the growth and quality of parent-infant teams, across the UK. 

This is the perfect role for an organised and motivated individual who shares our commitment to making sure every baby gets the best start in life. You will have the opportunity to build relationships with parliamentarians and leading charities in the sector.

This is a home-based role, working closely with colleagues at the Parent-Infant Foundation, and with the First 1001 Days Movement’s Steering Group. 

Join our Psychology and Therapy Hub (PATH) and make a meaningful difference in everyday life for adoptive, kinship and care-experienced families. We’re recruiting an Occupational Therapist with specialist expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and attachment-informed practice to deliver practical, trauma-informed assessment and intervention that strengthens regulation, participation and connection. 

• Make a difference that families feel every day: co-produce practical strategies that support calmer routines, better sleep, smoother transitions and greater participation at home, school and in the community. 

• Bring specialist sensory expertise: assess sensory processing and regulation needs and translate findings into clear, realistic plans for parents/carers and partner professionals. 

• Work at the sensory–attachment interface: use a trauma- and attachment-informed lens to understand behaviour and build felt safety and co-regulation alongside sensory strategies. 

• Thrive in an MDT: contribute an OT perspective to formulation-led work within PATH, collaborating with psychology and therapy colleagues to create joined-up support. 

• Flexible, UK-wide reach: deliver support primarily online with occasional travel for team days, training or commissioned work (as required and agreed). 

You’ll need: 

• HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist. 

• Strong experience supporting children/young people and their parents/carers (including complex presentations). 

• Proven skills in sensory processing assessment and intervention, including regulation strategies, activity adaptation and environmental modification. 

• Confidence working in an attachment- and trauma-informed way with adoptive/kinship/care-experienced families (or closely related work). 

• Excellent communication and report-writing skills, able to translate specialist thinking into practical, non-judgemental guidance that families can use. 

ROLE PROFILE

JOB TITLE:

Occupational Therapist

ACCOUNTABLE TO:

Clinical Lead

RESPONSIBLE TO:

Clinical Director

HOURS OF WORK:

Full time / Part time

LOCATION:

Remote working with travel flexibility

DURATION:

Permanent

SALARY / GRADE:

Grade 8 - £43.471

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•      Clinical Director and PATH Clinical Lead
•      PATH team
•      AUK staff
•      Children and adults accessing our services
•      Referrers and external agencies as appropriate

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Occupational Therapist (Sensory & Attachment) will deliver high-quality, trauma-informed occupational therapy assessment and intervention to families with a history of adoption, kinship care and long-term fostering. The postholder will bring advanced expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and the impact of early adversity, attachment disruption and developmental trauma on regulation, participation and family life. The role will work as part of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) within PATH, contributing to formulation-led support, practical strategies and therapeutic approaches that strengthen safety, connection, and everyday functioning at home, school and in the community.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·Provide specialist assessment and intervention where sensory processing differences interact with attachment needs, developmental trauma, neurodiversity and emotional/behavioural presentations.

·Co-produce practical, strengths-based support plans with parents/carers and, where appropriate, the child/young person; provide clear strategies that are realistic for family life.

·Deliver evidence-informed interventions (1:1 and group-based as appropriate) including sensory-based regulation strategies, activity adaptation, routine design, environmental modification and caregiver coaching.

·Integrate attachment- and trauma-informed principles (e.g., PACE/connection-based approaches) into OT recommendations, ensuring strategies support safety, relational connection and felt security.

·Contribute to MDT formulation and case discussions, offering an occupational therapy perspective on function, participation, sensory-motor development and regulation

·Prepare high-quality written outputs including assessment summaries, recommendations, letters and reports suitable for families and professionals; contribute to documentation required for commissioning/regulated service evidence as needed.

·Support families to understand the sensory, neurodevelopmental and trauma/attachment factors that may underpin behaviour and distress, and to implement strategies safely.

·Maintain accurate, timely records in line with organisational policies, data protection and confidentiality requirements.

·Contribute to the development of resources (e.g., guides, webinars, workshops) that translate specialist OT knowledge into accessible tools for families and professionals.

·Contribute to delivery of training in your specialist area (sensory processing, regulation, sensory-attachment interface) internally and externally.

·Actively manage a caseload, prioritising risk and complexity, and working within agreed service pathways, timescales and outcome measures.

CRITERIA

Knowledge and Experience

•  Significant experience working with children and young people and their parents/carers.

•  Experience delivering assessment and intervention for sensory processing differences and regulation needs.

•  Experience delivering remote/online OT interventions and caregiver coaching.

•  Experience of group work (parents/carers and/or young people).

•  Experience of working with adopted children, previously looked-after children, kinship or long-term foster families (or closely related settings).

•  Strong understanding of attachment, developmental trauma and the impact of early adversity on regulation, behaviour and participation.

•  Ability to integrate sensory strategies with relational/attachment-informed approaches.

•  Training/experience in DDP, PACE, NVR, therapeutic parenting or other attachment-informed models.

•  Expert knowledge of sensory processing and sensory-based regulation strategies.

•   Ability to differentiate sensory needs from (and understand overlap with) trauma responses, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental differences.

•  Sensory Integration training (e.g., postgraduate modules) and/or recognised competency frameworks.

•  Knowledge of neurodevelopmental profiles (e.g., autism, ADHD, DLD, FASD) and how these can interact with trauma/attachment and sensory processing.

•  Ability to provide accessible psychoeducation to families and partner professionals.

Qualifications and Education

   •Degree/diploma in Occupational Therapy.

   •     Current HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist. Postgraduate       training/qualification relevant to sensory integration, sensory processing or advanced   paediatric OT practice.

•  Evidence of continuing professional development (Essential)

•  Training in a range of therapeutic modalities e.g. DDP, Theraplay, BUSS model, Sensory Attachment Intervention (Essential)

Skills and Abilities

   •         Experience of working within an MDT and contributing an OT perspective to shared          formulations and plans.

•Leadership and support skills

•Group work skills

•A reflective and empowering approach

•Strong application of theory

•Creativity and innovative approach to service delivery

•A commitment to the voice of children and families

Accountability

•Consultant Clinical Psychologist

•Responsible for maintaining own professional standards

•Responsible for delivering practice within the policies and standards of the charity

Behaviours

•Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at      all times.

•Contributes to an open and honest culture

•Supports, encourages, and motivates colleagues.

•Encourages challenge, creativity and innovation.

•Leads by example.

•Values transparency and consistency.

•Understands the role of individual and collective accountability.

•Actively contributes to Adoption UK’s mission.

•Has a clear understanding of other colleagues’ roles and responsibilities

•Shares skills and knowledge.

•Promotes Cross Functional team working.

•Offers outstanding service to members.

•Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values in all interactions with external stakeholders.

•Identifies and uses the most appropriate form of communication.

•Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.

•Treats colleagues and other stakeholders with respect, honesty, fairness and courtesy

•Is responsive to colleagues, third party professionals and service users.

•Takes pride in own development.

•Enthusiastic and committed to achieving high standards and meeting agreed objectives.

•Takes an active interest in recognising professional and personal development needs and priorities within Adoption UK.

This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation.

Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.

Our Purpose

Unlocking Potential is the charity that supports schools and communities to ensure no child or family struggles alone with their social, emotional and mental health needs. We provide flexible, over-time, multi-disciplinary therapeutic support that meets children and families where they are, and enables them to feel safe, understood and the best version of themselves.

Vision

Everyone feels supported, equipped and able to achieve their potential.

Mission

Our mission is to provide tailored therapeutic support to more children, while training the practitioners of the future to build holistic, resilient social systems that equip children and their families with the confidence, tools, and skills to thrive at school and within their communities.

Values

Individual: Everything we do is about the individual and what is right for them – no two children, families or schools are the same.

Innovative: We look for new solutions, evolving our thinking and approach – ensuring the use of bold, co-designed practice.

Collaborative: We choose to work with others to find the best solutions – we are stronger together.

Overview

We launched our new programme in September 2025, initially as a pilot working with families across Wandsworth, with aims to be able to expand and continue beyond this. This service will offer flexible, relationship-based support to families facing a range of challenges, helping them navigate systems, strengthen protective factors, and improve outcomes for children. Operating across extended hours, the service will be accessible and responsive, with a strong focus on early intervention, collaboration, and building trust with families.

The role

This is a unique opportunity to take on a senior, hands-on role within an innovative early help service working within a small, dynamic team to make a tangible difference to the lives of children and their families. As a Senior Family Support Worker, you will deliver flexible,and therapeutically minded support to families often facing multiple and complex challenges, drawing on your experience to provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced colleagues. You will build trusted relationships through home visits, school meetings, and provide practical support—facilitating parents and carers to feel empowered to strengthen routines, manage behaviour, improve attendance, and access services. Your work will be informed by detailed needs assessments and focused on achieving meaningful outcomes with each family.

Family Support & Group Coordinator
Salary: £31,069 FTE equivalent
Hours: 25 hours per week (Tuesday to Friday)
Contract: Permanent
Location: Home-Start Elmbridge, Walton-on-Thames
Responsible to: Director of Services

Home-Start is one of the UK’s leading family support charities. Our ethos is to help parents build better lives and better futures for their children. At Home-Start Elmbridge we do this by recruiting and training local parent volunteers to offer practical and emotional support to families in their own homes. We also have dedicated Carer Support Co-ordinators who support families with illness, disability or additional needs and we offer other types of support such as crisis support and counselling.

About the role

As Family Support and Group Coordinator, you will be responsible for:

• Ensuring allocated caseload of families receive the most appropriate form of support, monitoring and reviewing from referral to completion
• Implementing good safeguarding practice in all areas of work, promoting children’s welfare at all times
• Contributing to the recruitment and ongoing training, and providing regular support and supervision of home-visiting volunteers
• Planning and running Home-Start Elmbridge group/s as required
• Ensuring effective communication and working in partnership with other professionals

We’re looking for someone with:

• Proven experience of supporting parents and young children in a paid or voluntary capacity
• A solid understanding of safeguarding practices and experience working with vulnerable families
• Knowledge of current legislation and policies relating to children and families
• Knowledge of other agencies providing services for children and families
• Ability to supervise and manage volunteers and to work as part of a team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and relationship building abilities
• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills
• A commitment to the values and ethos of Home-Start
• A clean driver’s licence and access to a car
• Ability to work flexibly, occasional evening or weekend work

What we offer:

Home-Start Elmbridge is a supportive, family friendly employer. We offer:

• Flexible working (within service need)
• Generous annual leave
• Pension contribution
• Ongoing training and professional development
• The opportunity to be part of a well-respected local charity making a meaningful difference to families’ lives

This post requires an Enhanced DBS check with Child Workforce barred list information (under the Adult and Child Workforce). Employment is subject to satisfactory references and DBS. We will only discuss or request criminal record details once a conditional offer has been made, in line with Home-Start Elmbridge’s Safer Recruitment Policy.

Home-Start Elmbridge is committed to safeguarding and to equality, diversity and inclusion.

We welcome applications from people with disabilities and anyone who may need adjustments or support to complete the application process is encouraged to contact us during the recruitment process.

Schedule and Interview Process

• Closing date: 23rd April 2026
• Shortlisting: Candidates notified by 24th April
• Formal interview (date tbc) will take place at the Home-Start Elmbridge offices in Walton-on-Thames (panel interview & presentation)

The post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and requires the ability to travel efficiently around Elmbridge.

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.

No agencies please.

Make a real difference to families every day

Are you passionate about supporting families and giving children the best start in life?

We’re looking for a Family Support and Activities Coordinator to join our friendly and committed team. This is a varied, hands-on role where no two days are the same. You’ll work directly with families in their homes and communities, coordinate volunteers, and plan engaging activities for young children and parents.

About the role

You’ll support families with young children who may be facing challenges such as isolation, low confidence, or complex needs. At the same time, you’ll design and deliver fun, development-focused activities and groups that help children thrive and parents feel more confident.

A key part of this role is delivering sessions during school holidays, when families often need additional support. Your work will help ensure continuity of care and reduce isolation during these times.

You’ll also:

• Assess family needs and provide tailored support
• Match and support volunteers working with families
• Plan and deliver stay-and-play sessions, workshops, and activities
• Build strong relationships with local partners, schools, and services
• Promote our work in the community and support outreach efforts

Around 70% of your time will be spent out in the community, including home visits and delivering groups.

About you

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in working with children and families (e.g. schools, nurseries, family services or similar)
• Confident delivering group activities or workshops
• Warm, approachable, and able to build trust with a wide range of people
• Organised and able to manage a varied workload independently
• A strong communicator with good written and IT skills

Why join us?

At Home-Start, you’ll be part of a supportive team making a genuine difference in families’ lives. We offer:

• A meaningful and rewarding role in the community
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• A flexible, supportive working environment
• The chance to shape activities and support that truly meet families’ needs

Apply now

If you’re passionate about supporting families and want a role where you can see the impact of your work every day, we’d love to hear from you.