Full-time jobs

Job Summary

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

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

Who We Are

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

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

What You’ll Need

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

What We Offer:

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

Our Mission

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

Our commitments

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

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

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

Closing Date: December 5th 2025

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

South East London Mind are working in partnership with South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) to deliver Primary Care and Community Mental Health Services for Lewisham.

The integrated team provide support to people with mental health problems within a primary care and community mental health setting, helping people develop their independence, self-management skills and achieve their recovery goals.

We are looking for a full time Mental Health Advisor to work alongside SLaM colleagues to deliver this service.

As part of an effective Information Advice and Guidance team you will have the caseload management experience and skills to deliver focused, person-centred, individual support and IAG (Information and Guidance) on a wide range of social issues including housing, employment and socialising, liaising appropriately with specialists and professionals.

Successful applicants will be expected to undergo an Enhanced Level Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Closing date: Sunday 9th November (11:59pm)

Likely interview date: Week beginning 17th November

We encourage early applications as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications.

About Carers Bucks

At Carers Bucks we are committed to making a lasting and positive difference in the lives of unpaid carers across Buckinghamshire - from children as young as five, to adults supporting loved ones, through physical or mental illness, frailty, disability or addiction. We understand that caring can impact a person’s health, wellbeing and future opportunities and we are here to change that. 

Our vision is that every unpaid carer in Buckinghamshire feels recognised, respected and supported in their role – so they can access the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them – regardless of age, circumstance and cultural or socio-economic background.

Our team is at the heart of everything we do. We foster a positive, supportive working culture where wellbeing matters, and professional development is encouraged and celebrated. 

Our values reflect our core principles and culture. They guide how we engage with service users and how we work as a team. We are:

Kind                We understand the challenges carers face. With real compassion and empathy we are able to build confidence and resilience in both carers and colleagues. 

Inclusive        We adapt our services to meet the diverse needs of all carers, making sure they feel seen, supported and empowered in their role. 

Collaborative   We work together – with carers, partners and one another – to listen, learn and improve outcomes. 

Innovative      We are curious to find better ways to support carers. We are open to new ideas and committed to improving what we do. 

Reliable          We are informed, trustworthy and confidential. We do what we say we will - every time. 

As a trusted local charity with over 20 years’ experience, we are continually evolving to meet carer’s needs and improve access to support.  

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Team Leader for our Young Carers and Young Adult Carers team. You will play a key role in shaping and guiding the service, managing a dedicated team and overseeing day to day delivery while working with the Head of Services to deliver our strategy. Essential to the role is ensuring the service is inclusive, responsive and shaped by the voices of the young people we support. This is a hands-on, people-focused role, combining team management, safeguarding oversight, caseload guidance and partnership working. 
 

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Coordination and Planning

• Coordinate the day-to-day delivery of the Young Carer Service in line with agreed workplans and available resources.
• Support the Head of Services in implementing strategic priorities and translating them into clear team actions.
• Plan and organise delivery schedules, ensuring one to one work, groups, clubs and school sessions are appropriately staffed and resourced.
• Manage delegated budgets and approve individual expenses in line with organisational procedures.
• Contribute to service planning and improvement by sharing insights from young carers, families and frontline delivery.

2. Service Delivery and Quality

• Oversee the daily flow of referrals, assessments and casework, ensuring timely allocation and consistent quality standards. Provide guidance to the team with their individual caseloads. 
• Coordinate and monitor the delivery of group sessions, clubs and school-based activities to ensure they are safe, engaging and age-appropriate.
• Ensure there is adequate staff and volunteer cover to enable the schedule of sessions and activities.
• Maintain up-to-date and accurate information for families, schools and professionals, including content for the website and promotional materials.
• Support effective volunteer participation in groups, events and activities, working with the Volunteer Manager to ensure volunteers are appropriately trained, supervised and valued.

3. People and Team Development

• Provide day-to-day supervision, guidance and coaching to staff, ensuring they are supported, motivated and clear about priorities.
• Support the Head of Services with team meetings, supervision and annual appraisals.
• Ensure all team members are trained and equipped to the required standard, identifying learning needs and coordinating relevant development opportunities.
• Foster a positive, inclusive and supportive working environment, addressing interpersonal issues promptly and constructively. 

4. Safeguarding and Inclusion

• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), receiving, responding to and recording safeguarding concerns and escalating to the DSL (Head of Services) in a timely manner.
• Ensure robust safeguarding practices are embedded across all delivery settings, including schools and community venues.
• Champion equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring activities are accessible, inclusive and representative of Buckinghamshire’s diverse communities.

5. Partnerships and Representation

• Maintain day-to-day relationships with schools, youth organisations, community groups and VCSE partners to coordinate delivery and share information.
• Represent Carers Bucks at local forums, events and school-based meetings as agreed with the Head of Services.
• Promote awareness of young carers and young adult carers and the support available through Carers Bucks, sharing information and good practice with partner organisations.
• Provide feedback from schools, young and young adult carers and community partners to inform service improvement and planning.

6. Performance, Data and Reporting

• Record and monitor service data accurately, ensuring compliance with GDPR and organisational procedures.
• Track team performance against agreed objectives and highlight areas requiring support or improvement.
• Analyse data and feedback to identify trends and contribute to quarterly and annual reports.
• Provide case studies and operational insights to evidence impact and support funding and reporting requirements.

About you

Qualifications and Experience

• Experience of supervising or leading a team.
• Background in youth work, education, social care or the voluntary sector.
• Experience of working directly with young people and/or unpaid carers.
• Experience of partnership working with schools, community organisations or health and social care professionals.
• Experience of handling safeguarding concerns and maintaining appropriate records.
• Experience of report writing, record keeping and using client databases or CRM systems.

Knowledge and Understanding

• Strong understanding of young people’s development.
• Robust knowledge of safeguarding principles for both children and adults.
• Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion, and how to embed these in practice.
• Awareness of the issues affecting young carers and their support needs.
• Awareness of local services and support available for young people and families in Buckinghamshire.
• Understanding of how compassion, collaboration and reliability build trust and improve outcomes for carers. 

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, adaptable across audiences.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and manage a varied workload.
• Ability to support, motivate and develop a small team through encouragement and shared learning.
• Confident in analysing information and using data to support service improvement. 
• Competent IT user with experience of standard office packages and electronic record systems.

Personal Attributes

• Empathic, approachable and emotionally intelligent, with genuine respect for others.
• Inclusive and open-minded, valuing different perspectives and experiences.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with a positive and flexible approach.
• Calm under pressure, able to use initiative and make sound judgements.
• Team-oriented and collaborative, sharing information and celebrating success with others.
• Commitment to the values and ethos of Carers Bucks.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work across Buckinghamshire.

Why join us?
We have recently published our one-year strategy, guiding us through the next phase of our development -  ensuring our services are embedded with partners in the community and strengthening the way we work both with our adult team and with volunteers.

By becoming part of our team, you will:

• Play a key role in shaping our future: You will help shape and guide the Young Carer and Young Adult Carer Service, working with the Head of Services, and based on the needs of young people.
• Make a lasting impact: Your work will directly support unpaid Young Carers and Young Adult Carers, helping to reduce isolation, promote wellbeing and improve access to support.
• Be part of a supportive, passionate team: You will collaborate with dedicated colleagues who are committed to making a difference and supporting one another.
• Access opportunities for growth: We will support your professional development with training, learning opportunities, and the chance to shape a growing area of work.
• Enjoy flexibility and balance: We offer flexible working arrangements.

If you are seeking a role where your contributions are recognised, your work drives real impact and you can help shape something meaningful, we would love to connect with you.

Employee Benefits Include:

·       25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (increases with length of service)

·       3x Christmas Closure Days

·       Up to 5 days paid Carers Leave

·       Regular training and development opportunities

Equal Opportunities

We want our services to be representative of the community we serve. We are proud of the diversity within Buckinghamshire and particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups.

How to apply
Please submit a CV and covering letter via our online portal.  Successful candidates may be invited to a first interview before the closing date.
 

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. If you require any adjustments to the interview process or would like to discuss your access needs in advance, please let us know by emailing us (email address available on our online portal) - we will do our best to accommodate you.

About Carers Bucks

At Carers Bucks we are committed to making a lasting and positive difference in the lives of unpaid carers across Buckinghamshire - from children as young as five to adults supporting loved ones through physical or mental illness, frailty, disability or addiction. We understand that caring can impact a person’s health, wellbeing and future opportunities and we are here to change that. 

Our vision is that every unpaid carer in Buckinghamshire feels recognised, respected and supported in their role – so they can access the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them – regardless of age, circumstance and cultural or socio-economic background.

Our team is at the heart of everything we do. We foster a positive, supportive working culture where wellbeing matters, and professional development is encouraged and celebrated. 

Our values reflect our core principles and culture. They guide how we engage with service users and how we work as a team. We are

Kind                 
We understand the challenges carers face. With real compassion and empathy we are able to build confidence and resilience in both carers and colleagues. 

Inclusive         
We adapt our services to meet the diverse needs of all carers, making sure they feel seen, supported and empowered in their role. 

Collaborative   
We work together – with carers, partners and one another – to listen, learn and improve outcomes. 

Innovative       
We are curious to find better ways to support carers. We are open to new ideas and committed to improving what we do. 

Reliable           
We are informed, trustworthy and confidential. We do what we say we will - every time.

As a trusted local charity with over 20 years’ experience, we are continually evolving to meet carer’s needs and improve access to support. This new role is part of that process. 

About the Role

In this newly created role, you will work directly with the CEO, providing oversight and direction to Team Leaders to ensure that services operate effectively and meet contractual requirements. You will be passionate about making a difference to the lives of unpaid carers in Buckinghamshire, with the ability to make an impact quickly.  You’ll bring proven hands-on experience in a similar role working with a team to establish effective and innovative ways to deliver services. 
 

Main Responsibilities 

1. Strategic and Operational Leadership

·       Hold overall accountability for service performance and quality, working through the Adult, Young and Hospital Carers Team Leaders who lead day-to-day operations 

·       Ensure alignment with our strategic priorities and our commissioned outcomes.

·       Contribute as an active member of the Senior Management Team, supporting organisational strategy, planning and delivery.

·       Ensure that all carer services operate cohesively, with smooth transitions between age groups and consistent quality standards.

·       Use data and feedback to drive service improvement and innovation.

2. Service Delivery and Quality

·       Oversee the effective management of the Adult, Young, Young Adult and Hospital teams.

·       Embed a culture of high performance, reflective practice and continuous learning.

·       Ensure strong safeguarding practices are central in all services

·       Ensure systems are used consistently for case management, data recording and reporting.

·       Work with the Diverse Communities Worker and other leads to ensure services are inclusive, culturally sensitive and responsive to the needs of underrepresented groups 

·       Oversee the effective involvement of volunteers within carer services, working with the Volunteer Manager to ensure they are well-supported, trained and valued as integral members of the team.

3. People Leadership and Team Development

·       Foster collaboration and a supportive team culture built on the Carers Bucks values.

·       Line-manage and support the three Team Leads, ensuring clarity of priorities, effective supervision and professional growth.

·       Support wellbeing, resilience and a sense of shared purpose across teams.

4. Safeguarding

·       Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Carers Bucks, providing advice and guidance to staff on safeguarding issues, ensuring compliance with policy and statutory requirements, and escalating concerns appropriately.

·       Maintain oversight of all safeguarding cases across the organisation and support Team Leaders in their DDSL responsibilities.

5. Partnership and Representation

·       Provide strategic coordination across thematic leads (Diverse Communities, Hospitals, Volunteers) to ensure alignment and shared priorities across services 

·       Represent Carers Bucks strategically with partners across social care, education and health. 

·       Support the CEO in relationships with commissioners, primary and secondary care, schools and VCSE partners to enhance identification and referral of carers.

·       Champion the voice of carers of all ages through partnership boards, networks and other forums.

6. Performance, Impact and Reporting

·       Monitor performance against contract outcomes, KPIs and quality standards.

·       Work with our Data Lead to ensure accurate reporting and a strong evidence base for our work. 

·       Analyse trends and learning to inform service design and improvement.

·       Contribute to quarterly and annual reports for commissioners and trustees.

·       Provide effective feedback upwards to the CEO.

7. Organisational Contribution

·       Contribute to strategic planning, risk management and organisational development.

·       Represent Carers Bucks at events, conference and key campaigns 

·       Lead on the co-design of new approaches, including digital and preventative models.

·       Stay abreast of local and national developments in carers’ policy and practice.

·       Undertake other duties as reasonably required by the Chief Executive.

Personal Attributes, Skills and Experience
 

Essential Experience or Qualifications

• Proven experience of operating at a similar level, leading a services team in the charity sector.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop teams to achieve shared goals.
• Proven ability to quickly make an impact.
• Experience of delivering training or presentations to external audiences.
• Experience of report writing and using data to inform decisions.
• Proven experience of a commitment to Diversity and Inclusion.
• Experience of safeguarding principles for both adults and children and experience in applying them.
• A full UK driving licence and or access to own transport.

Desired Experience or Qualifications (not compulsory)

• Previous experience of working with carers, health and social care professionals.

Essential Skills / Knowledge 

• Strategic thinker, able to translate organisational priorities into clear operational plans.
• Confident decision-maker who can balance compassion with accountability.
• Skilled at managing change and fostering a culture of learning and improvement.
• Strong time and project management skills, able to balance competing demands.
• Excellent written, verbal and listening skills, with the ability to adapt communication to different audiences.
• Good general level of IT skills.
• Confident and persuasive when engaging with professionals across health, education, and social care.
• The ability to represent Carers Bucks positively and credibly at a senior and strategic level.
• Skilled in building and maintaining productive partnerships and networks.
• Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion, and how to embed this in service design and delivery.
• Confident using data and outcomes measures to monitor impact and inform service development.
• Confident with figures. 

Desirable skill / knowledge

• Well-informed about carers’ rights, challenges and available resources.
• Awareness of developments in health, education and social care policy, and their implications for carers.

Personal Attributes

• Empathic, approachable and emotionally intelligent.
• Self-starter who is organised, proactive and solution focused.
• Calm under pressure, able to prioritise and make sound judgements.
• Collaborative and team-oriented, with a positive “can-do” attitude.
• Committed to the values and ethos of Carers Bucks and to supporting carers’ wellbeing.
• A willingness to actively participate in training and development opportunities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, occasional evening/weekend work as required. 

Why join us?
We have recently published our one-year strategy, guiding us through the next phase of our development. 

By joining our team, you will:

• Play a key role in shaping our future: You will support the CEO and guide the team as we enter our retender.
• Make a lasting impact: Your work will directly support unpaid Carers of all ages, enabling them to access the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them.
• Be part of a supportive, passionate team. You will work with dedicated colleagues who are committed to making a difference and supporting one another.

If you are seeking a role where your contributions are recognised, your work drives real impact and you can help shape something meaningful, we would love to connect with you.

Employee Benefits Include:

·       25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (increases with length of service)

·       3x Christmas Closure Days

·       Up to 5 days paid Carers Leave

·       Regular training and development opportunities

Diversity and Inclusion

We want our services to be representative of the community we serve. We are proud of the diversity within Buckinghamshire and particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups.

How to apply
Please submit a CV and covering letter via our online portal.  Successful candidates will be invited to a first interview by 24th November 2025.
 

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. If you require any adjustments to the interview process or would like to discuss your access needs in advance, please let us know by emailing us (email address can be found on application portal) - we will do our best to accommodate you. 

About the role

You will be part of the regional office team, managing a group of casework administrators. The team provides specialist administrative support and act as a single point of contact to SSAFA branch-based volunteers ensuring that SSAFA beneficiaries receive consistent, timely, and high-quality service. The RCM role will involve developing and maintaining collaborative working relationships with volunteers, including branch-based casework managers.  Additionally, the RCM will occasionally assist the Regional Casework Co-ordinators with call handling, signposting, and triaging initial client enquiries.

To help you establish yourself in this post you will receive excellent training and induction to SSAFA.  You will influence the processes and procedures within the regional office as it develops, working closely with a dedicated team under the guidance of the Regional Manager.

Whilst the post is homebased, to be eligible for this role you are required to live in the North West region consisting of Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Isle of Man, Lancashire and Merseyside. You will occasionally be required to travel within the North West Region or to other locations.

About the team

The regional office is a “virtual” office and supports the six SSAFA branches in the North West of England region, as the branch-based volunteers deliver casework for SSAFA beneficiaries.  The successful candidate will work as part of a larger support team which will include 5 Casework Administrators and a Regional Manager.  All team members are home based, residing in the region.

About you

To excel in this role, you should have a solid educational background and experience in managing employees, as well as overseeing and reporting on service delivery.  You should have a proven ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, achieving results through negotiation and influence.  Previous experience of working with volunteers would be advantageous.  You will have used Microsoft Office 365 to a high standard and be capable of learning a computerised case management system quickly. Additionally, you should be skilled with numerical data.

The successful candidate will be capable of planning and managing their own workload, with minimal supervision and have considerable experience of managing accounts.

It would be desirable to have an understanding of the way of life for today’s Armed Forces, veterans and their families. An understanding of the voluntary sector would be valuable, and the military charity sector landscape across the North West Region would be beneficial.  Commitment to SSAFA’s values including equality, diversity and inclusion is essential.

About SSAFA

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is a trusted source of support for the Armed Forces community in their time of need. In 2023 our trained teams of volunteers and employees helped more than 53,000 people, including veterans, serving personnel (regulars and reserves) and their families.

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

If you have any queries or would like to speak to someone about this role, please contact Hilary Rosenthal, Regional Manager for Casework and Community Engagement, The North of England Region 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.

How to apply

For more information and to apply, please click on the Apply button.

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

Closing date: 16 November 2025. SSAFA reserves the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Interviews: 24 November 2025.

About Us

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future.

St Christopher's is a leading charity for children and young people. We are proud of our history of providing fostering, children's homes and innovative leaving care services across the UK & Isle of Man.  We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do.  We provide positive life experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home.

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong.We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities, and gender-diverse identities.

St Christopher’s Academy

At St Christopher`s we can provide more than just a care job. We can offer you a career where you can develop your skills and knowledge while making a difference to young people’s lives.

When you join St Christopher’s, we will set you up in your career with a tailored development plan. Whether you want to move across to a different service, become a Manager or just explore further your current role, we will support you to map out your career trajectory and help you achieve your professional ambitions. If you want to learn more about St Christopher’s Academy, please visit our website.

We are proud that 84% of all our Team Leaders, Deputies and Managers are internal promotions.

About the role

As an Experienced Practitioner, you will provide direct support and care for our young people who have complex emotional and mental health difficulties (such as trauma and loss) and can struggle to regulate their emotions.

Working within a therapeutic framework, you will develop a direct programme of work aimed at developing authentic relationships with our children and young people (aged 12 – 17 years old), you will also have responsibility for making sure our residents are safe, providing support, liaison with other professionals and completion of support documents to record information.

If applying for the Waking Night role, you will have the additional support of an on-call manager should there be any emergencies. Further to this, you will be involved in monthly team meetings and receive monthly supervision.

Applicants should have

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent (i.e. Level 3 Diploma Children and Young People Workforce with the children's social care pathway) or be willing to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years as per Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 (England).
• Minimum of 1 years’ experience working and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential.
• Genuine commitment to working with and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential; with the ability to build and promote trusted relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.
• An understanding of the issues facing children and Young People and a basic understanding of safeguarding Regulations and Procedures.
• The ability to cope effectively with challenging behaviour.
• Good communication and team working skills.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays.
• Commitment to undertake any mandatory training (outside of working hours) and continuous learning to ensure a high level of service.
• Creativity, enthusiasm and energy to inspire and encourage young people to achieve their goals.

What you should expect from us

• Salary: £28,912 per annum. Overtime / bank holidays paid time-and-a-half and 2 weekends off per month.
• A friendly working environment, a fun, open and honest culture.
• 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata.
• Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy.
• Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme.
• UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary.
• BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK.
• Discretionary funded training programs.
• Employee awards based on performance and length of service.
• Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services.

Recruitment Process

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements.

Applicants will ideally already be on the DBS Update Service; if this is not the case St Christopher's will carry out a DBS (police) check prior to starting.

First Stage Interview 

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview at our Head Office

Second Stage

Successful candidates will then attend the second stage interview at the home they have applied for.

We advise you to apply as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Please note:

• This post has a minimum age restriction of 21 year for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and supported accommodation Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’.
• It is illegal to apply for any role that involves working with children and young people under the age of 18, if you know you are barred from working with children.
• all shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit a Self-Declaration and Disclosure form which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked.

About Us

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future.

St Christopher's is a leading charity for children and young people. We are proud of our history of providing fostering, children's homes and innovative leaving care services across the UK & Isle of Man.  We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do.  We provide positive life experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home.

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong.We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities, and gender-diverse identities.

About the role

As an Experienced Practitioner, you will provide direct support and care for our young people who have complex emotional and mental health difficulties (such as trauma and loss) and can struggle to regulate their emotions.

Working within a therapeutic framework, you will develop a direct programme of work aimed at developing authentic relationships with our children and young people (aged 12 – 17 years old), you will also have responsibility for making sure our residents are safe, providing support, liaison with other professionals and completion of support documents to record information.

Applicants should have

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent (i.e. Level 3 Diploma Children and Young People Workforce with the children's social care pathway) or be willing to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years as per Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 (England).
• Minimum of 1 years’ experience working and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential.
• Genuine commitment to working with and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential; with the ability to build and promote trusted relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.
• An understanding of the issues facing children and Young People and a basic understanding of safeguarding Regulations and Procedures.
• The ability to cope effectively with challenging behaviour.
• Good communication and team working skills.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays.
• Commitment to undertake any mandatory training (outside of working hours) and continuous learning to ensure a high level of service.
• Creativity, enthusiasm and energy to inspire and encourage young people to achieve their goals.

What you should expect from us

• Salary: £27,248 per annum
• A friendly working environment, a fun, open and honest culture.
• 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata.
• Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy.
• Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme.
• UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary.
• BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK.
• Discretionary funded training programs.
• Employee awards based on performance and length of service.
• Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services.

Recruitment Process

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements.

Applicants will ideally already be on the DBS Update Service; if this is not the case St Christopher's will carry out a DBS (police) check prior to starting.

First Stage Interview 

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview at our Head Office

Second Stage

Successful candidates will then attend the second stage interview at the home they have applied for.

We advise you to apply as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Please note:

• This post has a minimum age restriction of 21 year for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and supported accommodation Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’.
• It is illegal to apply for any role that involves working with children and young people under the age of 18, if you know you are barred from working with children.
• All shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit a Self-Declaration and Disclosure form which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked.

Contract Type: x3 Fixed Term for 12 monthse 

Location: We're looking for candidates from Birmingham, London and Manchester/Leeds (Hybrid working with an expectation to be in a centre at least 3 days a week to support the team and develop relationships with local partners, so flexibility and a love for collaboration are key)

Assessment Centre: Manchester 1st of December / Birmingham - 3rd of December / London 9th of December

Are you passionate about creating life-changing opportunities for young people? Join The King’s Trust as our Health and Social Care Delivery Partnerships Development Manager and play a pivotal role in shaping partnerships that open doors to meaningful careers.

You’ll work at the heart of our national delivery strategy, building strong, commercially viable relationships with health and social care employers to support young people into sustainable employment.

In this dynamic role, you’ll lead on developing and managing partnerships across high-need areas, aligning with local delivery teams and national networks. Your commercial acumen, sector knowledge, and ability to translate strategy into action will help us maximise our impact. From building new relationships with local employers to onboarding partners to ensure compliance, performance management and safeguarding, you’ll be a key player in delivering high-quality, inclusive services that reflect our values of empowerment, diversity, and integrity.

We’re looking for someone who brings deep understanding of the health and social care employer landscape, a strong grasp of data and impact measurement, and a genuine commitment to improving young lives. If you’re ready to lead by example, drive innovation, and help shape the future of youth employment, we’d love to hear from you.

What happens next?  

Please submit a CV, and Cover Letter that includes your experience, transferrable skills and motivation to work for The King's Trust! The Team will be in touch about the next steps shortly after the closing date. 

Why do we need Health and Social Care Delivery Partnership Managers? 

Last year, we helped more than 40,000 Young People, with three in four young people on our programmes moving into a positive outcome in work, education or training. The young people we help face a range of challenges, such as unemployment, mental health issues or some who have been in trouble with the law. We believe all young people should have the chance to succeed, and that young people are the key to a positive and prosperous future for all of us. We want to continue having a positive impact on young people’s lives and we couldn’t do this without the important work of Health and Social Care Delivery Partnership Managers! 

Perks for working at The Trust! 

• Great holiday package! 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays. Office closure on the days between Christmas and New Year 
• Flexible working! Where operationally possible, our roles require a combination of office days and working from home (please speak to the hiring manager about this particular role)
• You can volunteer for and/or attend events – The King's Trust Awards, Pride, active events etc. 
• In-house learning platform! Develop your skills for your career and your role 
• Benefits platform! Everything from health and financial well-being support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas. 
• Personal development opportunities through our Networks – KT CAN (Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network), and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 
• Fantastic Family leave! Receive 13 weeks of full pay and 13 weeks of half pay for maternity and adoption leave. Receive 8 weeks of full pay for paternity leave. 
• Interest-free season ticket loans 
• The Trust will contribute 5% of your salary to the Trust Pension Scheme 
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary) 

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Bank Support Worker to join our services in Hertfordshire.

£13.85 an hour on a zero-hour contract.

Want to feel in control of your career? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

Within the Hertfordshire patch Bank Support Workers may be able to work shifts from five different services all working with Learning Disabilities with a focus on Positive Behaviour Support.

• Working proactively with other members of the team to handle the service caseload and administrative responsibilities
• Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers
• Conducting key work sessions that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
• Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
• Proactively manage risk and safety both in and outside of their physical living environment
• Support customers to undertake all domestic tasks wherever possible, including practical assistance where they have not yet developed the skills, to ensure customers enjoy a high quality of accommodation
• Undertake all administrative work and keep accurate and comprehensive tenant/customer records to professional standards
• Report any observations relating to customers welfare

The above sets out the key responsibilities and typical tasks, however not all of these tasks will be relevant to all specialisms. You may also be required to undertake various other tasks and duties to ensure that our customers' needs are fully and effectively met.

About you:

• Is customer-focused - wants to provide a great service to our customers whilst respecting professional boundaries
• Approachable
• Can work well on own and also works well as part of a group or team
• Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or
  obscure their judgement
• Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
• Flexible to ensure a job is done well and supports the customers needs
• Open to feedback and personal development

What you'll bring:

• Previous experience gained from providing great care or support of a vulnerable person/s or work in similar organisations would be an advantage but is not necessary

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

• We focus on Excellence and innovation.
• We are Caring and Compassionate.
• We are Inclusive and Trusted.
• We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see full job description on our website

Location: Northallerton or York – with travel to Northallerton and surrounding areas

Ref: WCO-251

Are you a dynamic, collaborative and compassionate individual with a proven track record as a caseworker delivering gender specific and trauma responsive interventions which support resettlement and rehabilitation of female adults in the criminal justice system, whether in the community or in prisons?

If so, St Giles and the Wise Group are looking for a Women’s Wellbeing Coach to be an integral part of a multi-agency team providing person-centred support, where you will deliver holistic and trauma informed Women’s services to females serving a custodial sentence or a Community Order.

Who are we?

The Wise Group and St Giles came together to form a partnership with the aim of supporting the Probation Resettlement reforms by offering a high-quality service underpinned by staff who have lived experience and cultural competency. As a result, we have been awarded contracts to deliver Women’s Services across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, North Yorkshire, and Durham. These services provide holistic support to community offenders and prison leavers.

The Wise Group is a leading social enterprise which is proud to be making a difference to people’s lives. We’re proud because we help people to find jobs, provide advice to people struggling to heat their homes and support people to find their feet following time in prison. To do this, the Wise Group works in partnership with everyone from large businesses to national and local government and third sector organisations who provide essential specialist support to our customers. Together, we’re greater than the sum of our parts.

St Giles is an award-winning social justice charity using expertise and real-life past experiences to empower people who are not getting the help they need. People held back by poverty, exploited, abused, dealing with addiction or mental health problems, caught up in crime or a combination of these issues and others. We show people there is a way to build a better future for themselves and those they care about and help them create this through support, advice, and training. Our peer-led services form the backbone of our work, putting people with lived experience at the centre of delivery, design, and evaluation of support and services across the UK.

About this exciting opportunity
As Women’s Wellbeing Coach, you will provide person-centred, holistic, and trauma-informed support to female adults serving custodial sentences or Community Orders. This includes conducting trauma-informed assessments and collaboratively developing action plans that align with prescribed outcomes.

The role involves delivering a range of tailored interventions, including group sessions, to help service users achieve their goals. Building and maintaining effective partnerships with external agencies such as Probation, Prisons, and other relevant organisations is essential to support positive outcomes. You will be expected to meet contractual targets within agreed timescales and uphold high-quality standards, accurately recording all casework activity on relevant databases. A proactive commitment to continuous learning and development is also key to ensuring the delivery of a consistently high-quality service for all service users.

What we are looking for

• Proven ability and experience as a caseworker delivering gender specific and trauma responsive interventions which support resettlement and rehabilitation of female adults in the criminal justice system whether in the community or in prisons.
• Experience of working with females and supporting them to achieve positive outcomes.
• Experience of engaging successfully with challenging people, for example people who have complex needs, people who are reluctant to discuss their needs, and people who are angry and confused
• Experience in delivery of 1:1 and group coaching solutions, including preparation and delivery of skills and learning.
• Experience in working with partner agencies either as part of a multi-agency team working towards common objectives or negotiating to establish links to further the aims of a project.

Please note this role requires Enhanced Adult Workforce only.

In return, you can expect a competitive salary, generous leave allowance, staff pension, flexible working, a mentoring programme, an advice and counselling service, clinical therapist sessions, life insurance (4 x annual salary), duvet days, season ticket loan, employee perks programme, eye care voucher and much more.

We are an equity and inclusion confident employer. We welcome all applications, and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi- heritage ) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.

St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Job Description for the vacancy.

Closing date: 01 December 2025 at 9am. Interview date: 10 December 202

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis?

Are you calm, non-judgemental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

If you can embody our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness, and want to help others build resilience and manage their wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Community Outreach Worker (Complex Needs Housing Service)
Reference: 311
Salary: £26,000 - £27,000 per annum depending on skills and experience inclusive of Outer London Weighting (OLW). In addition, this role will have a yearly staff retention bonus of up to £2,106. This payment is allocated at the discretion of Herts Mind Network.
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm)
Contract: 1 Year Fixed Term
Reports to: Team Lead (Complex Needs Housing Service)
Main base(s): Letchworth Wellbeing Centre

About the service

The Complex Needs Housing Service works as a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) with housing teams and Drug and Alcohol Services across District and Borough councils. These teams will be working with individuals who are presenting as homeless and have a number of Complex Needs.

The objectives of the Complex Needs Housing Service are:

• To improve the mental wellbeing of people experiencing mental ill health.
• To increase early access to help for people experiencing mental ill health in, by providing a clear and effective pathway to services provided by Herts Mind Network and other third sector and statutory providers.
• To contribute to an improvement in individual mental wellbeing.
• To remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• To reduce the use of police, ASB, tenancy enforcement, housing needs and environmental health services by clients whose primary need is related to mental ill health.
• To reduce the use of crisis services by people experiencing mental ill health without positive outcomes for the individual.
• To provide an assertive outreach approach for clients who are in crisis and/ or those that may have complex or multiple needs.
• To work collaboratively within an MDT consisting of Change Grow Live (CGL), District and Borough councils, housing teams and other professionals.

Purpose of Post

The Community Outreach Worker will provide advice, information, onward referral and holistic support to clients who are experiencing mental ill health or need support with their mental wellbeing. These will be clients who are presenting to District and Borough councils as homeless and need intervention and support with their mental health and housing. They will ensure that the safety and wellbeing of the client is monitored and reviewed regularly. They will embed a person centred recovery orientated and trauma informed approach in all aspects of the roles and remain a source of independent support for all clients.

The successful candidate will have experience of working with vulnerable individuals, those affected by housing difficulties, they will have a good understanding of mental health conditions and understanding of protection and safeguarding legislation.

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Eligibility for blue light card.
• Health cover (after 6 months employment) - compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.

Being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle (or equivalent) is essential for this role.

Closing date for receipt of applications is Wednesday 26th November at 5pm.
Interviews to be held on Thursday 4th December at our Letchworth Wellbeing Centre.

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 welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. Our inclusive approach recognises the unique skills, knowledge, and perspectives that lived experience brings to our team.

No agencies please.

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis?

Are you calm, non-judgemental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

If you can embody our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness, and want to help others build resilience and manage their wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Services Manager – Complex Needs & Community
Reference number: 313
Responsible to: Director of Complex Needs and Community
Working hours: 37.5 Hours per week
Rate of pay: £37,800 - £38,500 per annum
Working base: One of 7 Herts Mind Network Wellbeing Centres closest to home
Area covered: The role requires travel across Hertfordshire to our Wellbeing centres, community partnerships and external organisations

About Us

For over 50 years, we have supported the people of Hertfordshire with their mental health. We offer a range of Community Support services which provide advice, information, onward referral and holistic outreach support to people who are experiencing mental ill-health or who need help with their mental wellbeing. Our high quality services are flexible and we help people to resolve real-life difficulties and to improve their own independence, quality of life and wellbeing. Each year, we help 15,000 people experiencing mental ill health.

We are a local Mind, affiliated to national Mind, the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. This means that we are an independent charity responsible for raising our own funds through contracts, grants and fundraising.

About our Complex Needs & Community Services

The successful candidate will manage and develop the Complex Needs and Community Teams at Hertfordshire Mind Network. The Services Manager will be responsible for leading a variety of services currently including the Flourish (asylum seekers and refugees) contract and the Primary Care Network contract. As the services grow and develop, other services/projects may sit under this post.

About the role

The role requires travel across Hertfordshire to our Wellbeing centres, community partnerships and external organisations and is responsible for a team of staff and volunteers who work within Complex Needs and Community teams across the county.

As a Services Manager you will be an integral part of the Senior Management Team (SMT) and work in partnership with Complex Needs Team Leaders and the other Service Managers across the Charity. Reporting into the Director for Complex Needs and Community you will be directly responsible for the efficient and effective delivery of two or more of our Services and a key member of the Herts Mind Network Safeguarding team.

Responsibilities of the post

• Support the Director of Complex Needs and Community with effective running of the complex needs and community services.
• Build strong relationships and liaise with commissioners and partner organisations.
• Manage the Flourish and PCN contracts.
• Work closely with all key delivery partners across the system to ensure the service is responsive, inclusive and easy to access.
• Support the development of services by promoting and being responsive to changing needs.
• Oversee the recruitment and management of client facing staff.
• Be a strong safeguarding level 3 champion and manage/support referrals.
• Ensure all policies and procedures are current, understood by staff and that they are working within these policies and procedures.
• Monitor outcomes and evaluate the service, ensure all KPIs are met.
• Process referrals and manage and prioritise all administration tasks associated with the service, including Payroll and expenses submissions.
• Be part of the Senior Management on call rota (out of hours), attend SMT meetings as required and support the work of the wider SMT. 
• Maintain and enhance service delivery standards and effectiveness.
• Contribute to the service development by working alongside the Directors to evaluate service delivery and produce progress and monitoring reports.

Benefits

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays).
• Birthday leave day.
• Cash plan health cover (after 6 months employment).
• Eligibility for blue light card.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.

Being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle (or equivalent) is essential for this role.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm on 26th November 2025. 
Interviews to be held on 2nd December 2025.

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 welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. Our inclusive approach recognises the unique skills, knowledge, and perspectives that lived experience brings to our team.

No agencies please.

PAC-UK Adoption Support Worker

Service: PAC-UK

Location: Hybrid with travel across Yorkshire  

Hours: 37 hours per week (full-time)

Salary: £32,635 - £36,158 FTE per annum

Contract type:  Permanent

Are you a skilled practitioner with excellent communication skills? Are you solution focused and passionate about making a difference? If so, Family Action has an exciting opportunity and would love to hear from you.

Who we are

Family Action is a registered charity, building stronger families since 1869. Today we work with more than 60,000 families in over 200 community-based services, as well as supporting thousands more through national programmes and grants. We transform lives by providing practical, emotional and financial support to those who are experiencing poverty, disadvantage and social isolation.

About the service

Our adult adoption support service works primarily with adopted adults and birth families. Adopted adults can access their records and receive an intermediary service and be supported through a reunion. Birth families are supported at the time of losing children to adoption, helped to stay in touch through letterbox and can potentially also have an intermediary service towards reunion.

Your skills

We are looking for a Social Worker or Counsellor, who has experience of working directly with those affected by adoption. You will have experience and knowledge of adoption law and practice and able to liaise with partner agencies to deliver the service in North and West Yorkshire.

You will be a dedicated and enthusiastic professional who is committed to improving the outcomes for adoptive and birth families, adopted adults and relatives. You will also have strong verbal and written communications skills and be able to deliver the service to a high standard.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQIA+ candidates and candidates with disabilities because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants and will reimburse your travel cost if you attend an interview.

What will we offer you?

We’ll offer you a generous pension scheme and leave entitlements, eye care vouchers, a cycle to work scheme and other great benefits. We are happy to talk flexible working. All roles in Family Action are open to a discussion about possible flexible working options, subject to business needs, and all new starters will have the right to make a flexible working request from day one of employment. We have an excellent wellbeing offer and we will invest in your professional development with on-going quality training and career development opportunities. You’ll join an established, supportive and high-performing service and have the opportunity to thrive in an innovative organisation that values your opinion, encourages learning and has the needs of children and families at its core.

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. If you share these values and behaviours and have the necessary skills then we look forward to hearing from you. 

To Apply:

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

· Closing Date: Sunday 16th November 2025

Appointments are subject to satisfactory Safer Recruitment checks, including a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where appropriate to the role.

*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.

**This post is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement in accordance with the Equality Act 2010 (Schedule 9, Part 1)**

About the role

As the Specialist Social Worker, you will lead the “Serving Women, Never Battle Alone” initiative. This pioneering project provides personalised, confidential advice, practical and emotional support, and advocacy for serving women in the military who are experiencing bullying, harassment, or sexual abuse. The service is available across the UK and open to women in both the Regular and Reservist Armed Forces.

The project is a brand-new service and will be a UK wide first for the Armed Forces. You will have the ability to shape a service that offers a specific service to females in the military, using data and ongoing casework to enhance support structures and ensure that women are truly ‘Safe to Serve’.

The role will involve travel to deliver in-person support to individuals accessing the service, which may include emotional and physical assistance in engaging with relevant authorities, in line with their wishes.

As the Specialist Social Worker, you will be responsible for delivering support and guidance through a Single Point of Contact (SPOC), responding to serving women who reach out to the service, and raising awareness and understanding of the initiative both within SSAFA and among external stakeholders.

About the team

The role sits within the Social Care Directorate, under the broader Safeguarding Team, and reports directly to the Principal Safeguarding Officer (PSO). While you will be the sole practitioner delivering the project, you will have ongoing support from the PSO. Additionally, the Specialist Social Worker will sit on SSAFA’s Safeguarding Board who meet quarterly.

The role involves collaboration with a range of stakeholders, including the Ministry of Defence (MOD), individual service branches, wider SSAFA teams, and other charitable organisations.

About you

We are seeking a qualified and experienced social worker to take on this important role within SSAFA. Ideally, you will have a background in supporting individuals affected by trauma, experience within military environments or safeguarding teams, and a solid understanding of relevant legislation, policies, and best practice in these areas.

Strong communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills are essential, along with a positive, adaptable, and creative approach to problem-solving.

About SSAFA

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is a trusted source of support for the Armed Forces community in their time of need. In 2024 our trained teams of volunteers and employees helped more than 54,000 people, including veterans, serving personnel (regulars and reserves) and their families.

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

If you have any queries or would like to speak to someone about this role, please contact Heather Hammett 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.

How to apply

For more information and to apply, please click on the Apply button.

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

Closing date: Midnight on Sunday 16 November 2025. SSAFA reserves the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Interviews: Week Commencing 23 November 2025.