982 Social work jobs

As a User Journey Support Manager, you will play a key role in helping social entrepreneurs access the funding and support they need to create positive social change. Working as part of our Social Entrepreneur Support Directorate, you'll be one of the first people applicants engage with, helping them understand our funding opportunities, navigate the application process, and access the right support at the right time.

Working across a range of funds and programmes, you will perform numerous actions such as answering applicant enquiries, assessing applications, managing award communications and delivering pre-application support. Your work will ensure applications move smoothly through the process and that every applicant receives a fair, accessible and inclusive experience.

Alongside delivering high-quality support, you'll help us continuously improve the experience we offer. Working closely with colleagues, you'll identify barriers faced by applicants, contribute to the development of accessible resources and processes, and bring the voice of social entrepreneurs into how we design and deliver our services. If you're passionate about equity, inclusion and helping people turn ideas into lasting social impact, this is an opportunity to make a real difference every day.

This role would suit someone who enjoys balancing people-focused support with strong organisation and attention to detail. You'll be equally comfortable speaking with applicants, managing complex information and data, and working collaboratively with colleagues to improve systems, processes and the overall applicant experience.

Hours:  36 hours per week on a rota basis covering daytime Recovery Space hours of 9am-5pm, 7 days per week. Weekend working is required (every other weekend)

Responsible to: Recovery Space Manager.

Location: Croydon Health and Wellbeing Space in the Whitgift Centre.

Main purpose of job:

The aim of the service is to divert people away from Emergency Department. The Recovery Space Workers provide a non-clinical, warm and welcoming setting to support individuals in crisis, assess their needs, provide emotional support and to help develop coping strategies.

The day crisis worker role involves running 1:1 sessions with clients, supporting the with the drop-in at the Croydon Health and Wellbeing Space, where clients in crisis can drop-in for immediate support between 10am-1pm on Monday-Saturday, running group sessions promoting coping skills to clients, engaging in managerial and clinical supervisions, engaging in team meetings and completing administrative duties as required.

For more information, please see the attached job description.

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

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

This is an exciting opportunity for a Support Worker to join our friendly team and help support the continued work of our LifeSkills Plus team. You will provide intensive support to adults with complex needs who are further away from employment or training by using a strength-based approach, ensuring those accessing the programme receive appropriate practical and emotional support by visiting them at home or in the community.

The LifeSkills programme supports individuals and families to build their confidence, social networks, financial and employability skills. The LifeSkills Support Worker will work closely with the linked LifeSkills programme, entitled LifeSkills Open.

Our Specialist Social Workers work closely with the Head of Expert Witness Service to ensure the delivery of high-quality independent social work reports (ISWRs). They supervise volunteer social workers, quality assure reports, carry out social work assessments themselves, and contribute towards volunteer training opportunities and service development to maintain excellence in social work practice. 

The core Specialist Social Worker role is three days per week, with the opportunity to work additional days by taking on service operations and referral coordination responsibilities. 

Benefits:

• Regular professional supervision from the Head of Expert Witness Service 
• Access to training and CPD opportunities to support Social Work England registration requirements 
• Professional development opportunities, including support to begin working towards a formal expert witness accreditation
• Laptop and mobile phone provided 
• Travel expenses reimbursed in line with expenses policy 

FCDO Mental Health Social Work Adviser

Location: Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Consular Directorate, King Charles St, Westminster, London, SW1A 2AH and Heathrow Travel Care (HTC), London Heathrow Airport

Salary:  £40,000 per annum, plus benefits

Vacancy Type: full-time, permanent contract

We currently have an exciting opportunity to join us as a Social Work Adviser (Mental Health) based at the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in Westminster, seconded from Heathrow Travel Care (HTC), the airport social work team.

You will join us on a full-time, permanent contract and you will receive a competitive salary of £40,000 per annum, plus benefits.

The role of our Social Work Adviser (Mental Health) is to enable the FCDO to offer advice and assistance to vulnerable British nationals known to the UK Consular Network.

Responsibilities as our Social Work Adviser (Mental Health):

FCDO

• Providing advice, support and guidance to consular assistance staff in London and overseas on mental health for British nationals
• Working collaboratively with the Social Work Adviser team to review cases and relevant policy
• Investigating, risk assessing, signposting, planning with consular staff who are working with British nationals to provide specialist advice to the consular staff
• Referral of 'meet and assist’, cases to relevant service providers at UK ports
• Policy, guidance and training input to Consular staff on relevant issues
• Building and maintaining links with relevant assistance NGOs & travel partners via outreach work
• Building and maintaining links with Consular Regional Directors
• Cover for Social Work Adviser team as required
• Recording of all cases on a secure consular information network and monthly reporting to HTC
• International outreach – there may be opportunities for international travel to support FCDO staff abroad

HTC (1 day per 5 weeks)

• Liaison between airport crisis team (focus on ‘meet and assist’) and FCDO Consular Directorate
• Contribution to airport crisis preparation work
• Contribution to Heathrow Travel-Care policy, guidance and strategic planning
• Participation in emergency preparedness and response at Heathrow
• Continuing professional development

What we’re looking for in our Social Work Adviser (Mental Health):

• 2 years’ recent statutory social work experience
• Recent experience of working directly in the mental health sector
• Understanding of Mental Health Act and mental health procedures within Local Authorities / NHS / statutory frameworks
• Understanding of Mental Capacity Act
• Understanding of adult social care legislation and statutory frameworks
• Understanding of how mental health conditions affect individuals including stigma and discrimination
• Experience of problem-solving under time pressure
• Experience of prioritising casework according to risk and need
• Ability to make clear recommendations on how to address risk and need based on professional judgement and experience.
• Experience of undertaking eligibility, risk and mental capacity assessments.
• The ability to work effectively in partnership with other agencies

Interview date: Thursday 24th September in person at Westminster

You must be legally able to work in UK.  Security clearance is required for this role. You must have been resident in the UK for a least 2 of the previous ten years, at least one year of which must have been a consecutive 12-month period and you must have resided for at least 3 consecutive years in one country. All applicants should be aware that a lack of sufficient background information may preclude an applicant from being granted security clearance.

To Apply

If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Heathrow Travel Care, please do not hesitate to apply.

Barnardo's is one of the UK's leading children's charities, and our North England Fostering Service is committed to providing safe, nurturing, and supportive homes for children and young people. We are now seeking a passionate and skilled Supervising Social Worker to join our dedicated team.

 North England service cover Yorkshire, Humber and the North East of England. The successful applicant must be willing to drive across this region as part of their role.

About the Role

As a Supervising Social Worker, you will play a vital role in supporting foster carers to provide high-quality care. You will:

Supervise, support, and develop foster carers to ensure the best outcomes for children.

Undertake assessments of prospective foster carers.

Contribute to the matching process and foster home stability.

Work collaboratively with children, families, carers, and professionals.

Maintain accurate and timely records in line with regulatory requirements.

Delivering training to foster carers

Following induction period, join our out of hours rota

What We're Looking For

We're seeking someone who is:

A qualified Social Worker (DipSW, CQSW, or equivalent) registered with Social Work England.

Experienced in fostering or children's social care.

Skilled in building strong, supportive relationships.

Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Able to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends.

Why Barnardo's?

A supportive and inclusive working environment.

Access to high-quality training and development.

Generous annual leave and pension scheme.

Opportunities to grow within a respected national charity.

Supplementary Information

A professional Social Work qualification and SWE registration are essential for this post as is experience in Family Placement, Child Protection or work with children looked after.

The duties of this post require the applicant to have a full current driving license that enables them to drive in the UK and have use of a car and business use insurance.  

This is a fixed term post for one year covering maternity leave.

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.

If you’re looking for a rewarding role helping local people to improve their health and wellbeing, as part of a supportive and award-winning team, then you’re in luck! 

We’re hiring for several roles at Live Well Wakefield, a community-based service that supports adults aged 18+ to improve their health, wellbeing and independence. We’re looking for dynamic, compassionate and motivated people to join the team.

About the roles

As a Social Prescriber, you’ll support people one-to-one to identify their needs, set wellbeing goals, and access community-based solutions.

The Social Prescriber roles we have available are:

• Within the Primary Care Network
• Within our Trailblazer work (employment support)
• Within our Healthy Working Life project (employment support)

All roles are fixed term until 31 March 2027 or 30 June 2027. Please review the Job Descriptions and Person Specifications for information related to each role.

What are we looking for?

We’re looking for people who:

• Have experience working with Primary Care and/or have experience supporting individuals around employment
• Have experience in supporting people to improve their health and wellbeing, including those with complex needs, or from diverse communities
• Are confident working independently and within multi-disciplinary teams
• Are good listeners with strong communication and organisational skills
• Are committed to equality, inclusion, and making support accessible to all
• Have a strong understanding of health inequalities and employment issues
• Has a full driving licence and access to a vehicle

Secondment opportunity

We welcome applications from people who may wish to undertake this role on a secondment basis, and would be happy to have conversations about arrangements with your employer. Please get in touch to discuss.

What do we offer?

“I love my job and am inspired by the people I work with to continually do my best” - from our 2026 staff survey

• 28 days holiday a year plus bank holidays
• 5% salary contribution to a pension scheme
• Access to Occupational Health
• Access to health service discount schemes, including Blue Light Card
• A range of policies and practices to ensure a supportive and inclusive workplace
• Competitive salary and annual pay reviews

Nova Wakefield District is a local charity that supports Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise organisations in Wakefield District. Nova and South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust deliver Live Well Wakefield, which is commissioned by Wakefield Council and Wakefield’s seven Primary Care Networks.

We are an equal opportunities organisation and invite applications from all sections of the community. It’s important to us that everyone is welcomed and valued in our workplace, so we support staff and applicants in a number of ways.

How to apply

If you’re ready to support us in achieving our goal of creating healthier, more connected communities across Wakefield District, we’d love to hear from you.

Please note these posts requires an Enhanced DBS Check to be carried out.

To apply, visit our website and complete the online application form.

Closes: Sunday 20 September at 5pm
Interviews: will take place in person in Wakefield District on Tuesday 29 September

Senior Supervising Social Worker

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Senior Supervising Social Worker 

Homebased (Northampton and Peterborough) travel across Greater Manchester and Merseyside)

£37,829 Per Annum (increasing to £42,032 after 18 months) + £1,500 Per Annum Out of Hours Allowance + £750 Per Annum Homeworking Allowance

35 hours | Mon–Fri | Permanent

Why Join TACT?

• Top 5 UK Charity to Work For (2024)
• 97% proud to work at TACT | 92% love working here
• Not-for-profit – every surplus reinvested into children, carers & staff
• Children’s voices shape every decision, system, and improvement we make at TACT.
• Flexible homeworking from day one
• Trauma-informed, values-led organisation

Benefits

• 31 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays
• Progression to salary target rate upon completion of 18 months of service.
• 55p per mile business mileage
• Stakeholder Pension (salary sacrifice)
• Family-friendly & flexible working policies
• Volunteer days

Wellbeing & Non-Salary Benefits

• Homeworking IT bundle + home office loan
• HelpHand EAP (24/7 GP, CBT, physio, mental health support)
• Over 35 hours a year of access to on line wellbeing events and team wellbeing days
• Menopause Policy + free clinician appointments
• Regular team wellbeing & connection events

Training & Career Development

• Excellent learning & development programme
• Opportunity to grow therapeutic & trauma-informed practice
• Supportive leadership and clear career progression pathways
• Involvement in innovative projects (e.g. TACT Connect, Health, Education)

The Role

You’ll work closely with foster carers and social work colleagues to deliver high-quality, trauma-informed support and improve outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities:

• To supervise and support a diverse range of foster carers and children.
• Ensure children are safe, well cared for and achieve positive outcomes consistent in line with TACT policies.
• Undertaking Form F assessments where needed.
• To facilitate regular support groups and learning opportunities, which will include the delivery of training.
• Developing the service and supporting colleagues. 
• Recording and updating CHARMS and all other appropriate central/social work systems.
• Participating in Out of Hours Service.

What You’ll Need

• A degree in Social Work or equivalent.
• Up-to-date registration with Social Work England.
• A minimum of 2 years post-qualifying experience in a regulated fostering service.
• A proven track record in working with and on behalf of children, respecting and maintaining their individuality, and promoting their positive development.
• Up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations.
• Enhanced DBS (processed by TACT).

Travel

• Homebased in the Eadt Midlands area. Caseload is across Northampton and Peterborough. Travel across other areas of the East Midlands may be required.
• Monthly face-to-face meetings in the East Midlands area
• Additional travel for training, team and carer events

Key Dates

• Closing Date: Tuesday 29th September 2026 (midnight)
• Interviews: Thursday 8th October 2026 (Microsoft Teams)

Safeguarding Commitment

Safeguarding is everyone’s business, and TACT believes that only the people with the right skills and values should work in social work.  As part of TACT’s commitment to safeguarding, we properly examine the skills, experience, qualifications, and values of potential staff in relation to our work with vulnerable young children.  We use rigorous and consistent recruitment approaches to help safeguard TACT’s young people.  All our staff are expected to work in line with TACT’s safeguarding policies. 

Apply early - we may close the role if we receive a high volume of applications.

Have you ever wanted to make a difference to the lives of children in need of foster care.

The Together Trust Fostering Service places children with foster families of all shapes and sizes across the North West of England. These foster families provide safe, secure, and caring homes to children and young people.

As one of the we are looking for a dedicated, proactive and experienced Senior Practitioner/Supervising Social Worker

Location: Working across Lancashire & Greater Manchester

Hours: 37.5 hours - Full Time

Salary: £43,150 per annum (£22.25ph)

Full driving licence and access to a vehicle, mileage will be paid at £0.45 per mile.

The Together Trust is one of the North West’s leading charities, offering individual care, support, and education to hundreds of children, young people, and adults each year. We are a not-for-profit charitable trust, so every penny goes back into benefiting the people that we support.

We believe that everyone deserves a place to call home - whether that is a place to call your own or somewhere to experience feelings of safety, stability, and support. You will be helping children to grow their independence and shape their own story within a supportive, caring home.

We are looking to grow the Together Trust’s Independent Fostering Agency. If you are looking for an opportunity to join and work for a charity provider, working for a fostering agency where the values and ethos of the not-for-profit sector are embedded, we would very much like to hear from you.

Safeguarding checks will be undertaken for the successful candidate in line with our safer recruitment policy, including an Enhanced DBS check (at no cost to yourself).

Responsibilities include but are not exhaustive.

• To work in line with current fostering legislation, regulations and guidance relating to the recruitment, assessment, approval, training, support, supervision, and review of foster carers.
• To manage, support and supervise approved Together Trust foster carers.
• To provide ongoing supervision, support, and reviews for foster carers, including facilitating support groups, reflective practice and training where required.
• To receive, process and progress referrals for children and young people, liaising with local authorities and supporting appropriate matching as directed by the Registered Fostering Manager.
• To contribute to the development of a high-quality, flexible, and effective service, taking lead responsibility for agreed areas of service development.
• To develop, facilitate and deliver training for prospective and approved foster carers, and participate in relevant professional development opportunities.
• To deputise at meetings and undertake specific tasks as required by the Registered Fostering Manager.
• To undertake independent and complex assessment work commissioned by external agencies, as directed by the relevant Manager.
• To supervise staff and students as allocated by the Registered Manager.
• To undertake any other duties required to support the ongoing development of the service.

About You.

• Professional Social Work qualification (CQSW, DipSW or Social Work Degree).
• Registered with Social Work England.
• Relevant experience in fostering in IFA’s, local authority, or related social work settings.
• Skills in the assessment, supervision, and support of foster families.
• Ability to work reflectively and continuously develop practice.
• Ability to work within agreed boundaries while exercising professional judgement.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, and guidance.
• Understanding of social work values and principles.
• Strong written, verbal, and non-verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise workloads and perform effectively under pressure.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to support change and service development.
• Self-motivated with strong organisational and time management skills.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Flexible to work occasional evenings and weekends as required.

Benefits

• Annual Leave27-day holiday plus 8 days bank holidays rising to 30 after 5 years, 33 days after 10 years.
• Generous pension schemeand death in service benefit, up to 7% company pension contributions initially rising with length of service and up to 6 x basic salary death in service benefit.
• Occupational sick payand family friendly policies including enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoptive leave.
• Reward and Discount platformoffering discounts at high street shops, travel, insurances etc.
• Eligibility to apply for Blue Light card.
• Proud to be a real living wage employer.
• Refer a friend scheme, be rewarded for recommending a friend to work with us.
• Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including apprenticeship qualifications.
• Long service awardsincluding cash gifts and extra holiday.
• Promotion of Wellbeingacross the organisation including Mental Health First Aiders offering wellbeing support from trained colleague and free weekly yoga session in person or online
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for you and adults at your home

Please see the job description below for full details

We may remove this advert should we find the successful candidate prior to the closing date therefore early applications are encouraged.

Safeguarding checks will be undertaken for the successful candidate in line with our safer recruitment policy, including an Enhanced DBS check (at no cost to yourself).

Applications are very welcome from all regardless of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, race, sex, sexual orientation, trans status, or socio-economic background. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments for disabled people. We positively encourage applications from those with lived experience.

If there is any part of your lived experience, you want to keep confidential in some way please talk to the Recruitment or HR shared service teams and we will do what we can do to support you.

The Together Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the people we support and expects all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

This role will involve regulated activity

Full Time | Permanent Contract
Salary: £12.71 per hour (increasing to £13.45 after 6 month probation) 

Are you passionate about supporting vulnerable women to overcome challenges, rebuild confidence and achieve greater independence?

Harrogate Homeless Project is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Women’s Support Worker to join our Client Services Team. This rewarding role provides vital support to women experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity, helping them access the services, opportunities and encouragement they need to move forward with their lives.

Working across our hostel, Springboard Day Centre and supported accommodation, you will provide person-centred support in a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental environment. You’ll be part of a supportive team committed to empowering women to achieve positive outcomes and maintain sustainable tenancies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day support and assistance to female clients living within our hostel and supported accommodation.
• Deliver a professional and welcoming reception service to clients, visitors and members of the public.
• Support the induction of new female residents, ensuring all relevant paperwork and processes are completed.
• Work closely with caseworkers to encourage and support clients to engage with agreed support activities and appointments.
• Build positive, professional and trusting relationships with clients, providing practical and emotional support where appropriate.
• Maintain a safe, non-discriminatory and inclusive environment for all clients.
• Manage client behaviour in accordance with organisational policies and procedures, issuing warnings and evictions where necessary.
• Collect service charges and donations, ensuring accurate cash handling and record keeping.
• Maintain accurate client records, support notes and incident logs using HHP’s database systems.
• Carry out health and safety checks, including room inspections, to ensure accommodation remains safe and suitable.
• Support the reporting and resolution of maintenance issues within client accommodation.
• Assist clients with housing benefit applications and related documentation.
• Support the induction and supervision of volunteers.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, volunteers and partner agencies to achieve positive client outcomes.
• Contribute to fundraising events, promotional activities and the wider work of the charity.

What We Are Looking For…

We are looking for someone who is caring, resilient and committed to supporting women facing complex challenges.

Reporting to: Senior Support Worker
Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Contract: Permanent

This post is restricted to female applicants only under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. The role involves direct support, room checks and accommodation-related work with vulnerable female residents where privacy, dignity and wellbeing are central to the role.

Benefits Include

• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays) plus birthday leave.
• Healthcare package.
• Travel benefits.
• Workplace pension scheme.
• The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of women experiencing homelessness.

About Us

Harrogate Homeless Project provides people experiencing homelessness with a safe place to stay and the support they need to build confidence and move towards independent living.

We work with partners to give people facing disadvantage hope of a different future and empower people to change their lives through support, accommodation and opportunity.

Harrogate Homeless Project is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter to Eden Makey or call for an informal conversation about the role.

Closing Date: 4 October 2026

We will assess applications as they are received and interview suitable candidates on a rolling basis. Therefore, we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is appointed. Early applications are encouraged.

Westway Trust is seeking a creative and driven Social Media Officer who will play a pivotal role in bringing the Trust’s story to life across our digital channels. You will implement our social media strategy, drive engagement through organic growth, and develop content that demonstrates and promotes our strategic priorities. This role is critical in building meaningful connections between the Trust and the diverse communities we serve across our 23-acre estate.

Key responsibilities of the role include but are not limited to:

• To oversee the social media content calendar and plan, publish and grow day-to-day organic activity across Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Bluesky, X and YouTube, supporting the roll-out of new channels including Nextdoor and WhatsApp.
• To produce high-quality multimedia content end-to-end, from pitching through to filming, editing and publishing.
• To act as the organisation’s digital communications specialist, providing well thought out suggestions on best practice, and to monitor performance and produce monthly reports to improve reach and impact.

Knowledge & Experience:

• Experience running a busy content calendar, including brainstorming meetings.

• Experience developing, maintaining and analysing the performance of digital channels using social media insights and Google Analytics.

• Experience growing and managing online communities day to day.

• Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to produce clear, engaging, accessible content in plain English.

• Experience creating static and video content for social media, from pitching through to shooting and editing.

• Skilled in one or more of: Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, Canva, CapCut, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop.

• Demonstrated ability to work across internal departments and generate content for different audiences.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work independently and manage competing deadlines.

• A creative, enthusiastic approach to social media, with a willingness to test, experiment, and develop new skills.

• Demonstrable understanding of, and commitment to, equal opportunities and diversity.

The application deadline is Monday, 21 September, when applications will be reviewed and shortlisted for interview. However, we reserve the right to close the application early. An early application is strongly recommended. Interviews will be held on Friday, 2 October.

Please apply directly from our website.

Earliest Start Date: 2nd November 2026

Contract: 12 Months with Potential for Exentension

Job Title: Known internally as "Key Work Manager (Maternity Cover)"

Location: 30 Petworth Street, Battersea, SW11 4QW. The post will also involve working in the community so some local travel will be required.

Hours: 37.5 hours per week, including some evening & occasional weekend work

About the Role

As Key Work Manager you will lead on and oversee all Key Work activity at Carney’s Community. This includes undertaking key work yourself on a one to one basis with young people involved in the criminal justice system as well as managing a small team of key workers.

You will provide advice, practical support and befriending to a caseload of participants, aged 11-30, who are at risk of/involved in offending; to encourage and enable them to participate in Carney’s Community’s personal development opportunities and to access the wider services and support they may need in order to give them the best chances of being “the best they can be”. This will involve supporting young people to engage in positive and constructive activities, attend Youth Justice Service or Probation appointments and creating opportunities for their personal, social and emotional development

You will work alongside the employment support manager to plan and deliver the employment group, supporting participants that attend this group and leading specific employment programmes. As manager of the key work project you will oversee the small team of key workers, provide support, guidance and supervision. You will be involved in monitoring and reporting for the project, collecting feedback from participants. You will manage referrals to the project from other organisations including schools, social services, probation and the youth justice service.

About You:

You must have proven experience of working directly with young people in a youth work or key work setting, providing one to one support. You will have the ability to empathise and mediate for young people, a strong understanding of the local area, barriers facing young people, the interplay between material disadvantage, vulnerability and social exclusion and be highly skilled in diplomacy, professional distance, demonstrating empathy, boundaries and sound judgement. You will have experience managing other staff or volunteers.

About Carney’s Community

We support young people living in and around Wandsworth, targeting ages 11-30 facing extreme challenges including criminal justice system involvement or care experience. Carney’s works differently by providing long-term, consistent, unconditional support with empathy; a safe space and activities including boxing, bike workshops, employment support, studio sessions, mentoring and key work. Inspired by boxing legend Mick Carney, the charity was founded in his name after his passing in 2011, building on work led by our co-founders. We aim to create a “virtuous cycle”: while support is free of charge, we ask that when young people are ready, they channel the positivity they have received into others. As a result, many go on to volunteer, mentor, join our staff team or even set up their own community initiatives. Former participants make up the majority of our workforce. They provide the most authentic role models, people who genuinely understand the challenges our young people face and who show what is possible. For our young people we strive for equality and aim to: Improve Physical and Mental Health; Improve Education, Skills and Employability; Improve Community Engagement; Reduce Offending and Reoffending.

About Us

The Comedy School draws on the power of comedy to improve wellbeing across community, health, education and criminal justice settings. Since 1998, we have co-designed and delivered workshops, courses and training projects that build confidence, resilience and life skills for socially isolated and vulnerable people. We have worked with individuals with mental health conditions in collaboration with South London and Maudsley Recovery College for 15 years, and in 2023 expanded this work to veterans in partnership with London’s NHS Veterans Mental Health Services. Our Comedy for Veterans programme delivers evidence-based interventions that improve confidence, connections, wellbeing and sense of purpose.

Purpose of Role: The Veterans’ Worker will lead on outreach and peer support within the Comedy for Veterans Project, with a specific focus on engaging veterans from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and other communities underrepresented in traditional support pathways. The role aims to ensure inclusive participation, support mental wellbeing, and sustain long-term engagement with the project.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead outreach and engagement efforts to promote the Comedy for Veterans Project, focusing on building trust and participation among veterans from Black, ethnic minority, and underserved communities.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with veteran organisations, community groups, and stakeholders to enhance referrals, collaboration, and community presence.
• Provide peer support and mentoring to veterans enrolled in the project, encouraging sustained participation, confidence-building, and shared learning.
• Identify and address participation barriers, including logistical, emotional, or wellbeing challenges, and signpost to appropriate services when needed.
• Support the delivery of workshops and events, working closely with facilitators to ensure activities are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to participants’ needs.
• Collaborate with staff and partners to monitor progress, share relevant participant insights (within confidentiality boundaries), and contribute to a safe, trauma-informed environment.
• Document attendance, feedback, and outcomes for evaluation purposes, and report on engagement levels and project impact.

Essential Criteria: 

• Proven experience in outreach, peer support, mentoring, or community engagement—ideally with veterans or marginalised groups.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport across diverse social, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
• Understanding of mental health and wellbeing, including challenges commonly faced by veterans, and the confidence to respond supportively.
• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures, confidentiality protocols, and maintaining professional boundaries when working with vulnerable adults.
• Ability to work independently and manage time, alongside a flexible approach to group dynamics, changing needs, and varying energy levels.
• Commitment to inclusion and accessibility, with sensitivity to the social, cultural, and structural barriers some veterans may face.

Desirable: 

• Background in social work, community organising, mental health support, or creative arts facilitation.
• Certification in Mental Health First Aid or equivalent.
• Understanding of trauma-informed approaches in community and learning settings.

Security Checks: Enhanced DBS clearance required and project specific security checks maybe required.

This post is funded by the Veterans’ Foundation

Location: Hybrid working part-time home and between the Christie and Manchester Children’s Hospital

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

We challenge the systems and policies that surround children and young people, we highlight gaps and campaign for change. Because we know what a better future could look like. And we know what we need to do to make that future a reality. We need to push harder, reach further and work smarter. And we need the right people on our team to help us get there. People like you.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Social Worker to join our Manchester Team supporting children and young people diagnosed with cancer.

We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality support tailored to the needs of the children and young people and their families. The work we do is rewarding but also complex and demanding. You will be part of a close-knit Young Lives vs Cancer social work team, working with established NHS multi-disciplinary teams and services in the community.

This role is hybrid working requiring two to three days per week to be hospital based. Your contractual base will be both Home and Hospital.

This role is subject to a Criminal Record Check. In the event of a successful application, a Enhanced Criminal Record Check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually.

 This role is also subject to a Social Worker Registration.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

• You will be committed to changemaking and delivering high-quality social work support to promote the best outcomes for the children, young people and families we work with.
• You will assess needs and develop an action plan, you will need to be curious, creative, resourceful, courageous and resilient.
• You will have a positive attitude and be willing to embrace difference.
• You will need a willingness to work collaboratively with the wider Young Lives vs Cancer team; you will actively engage with the work of the charity and welcome opportunities to get involved.

What do I need?

Diverse perspectives and unique skillsets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• A recognised Social Worker qualification and current registration with Social Work England/ Scottish Social Services Council/Social Care Wales/Northern Ireland Social Care Council
• Experience working with children, young people and their families/carers in a social care setting.
• Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary environment, ideally in an NHS setting.
• Sound knowledge of child and young people development.
• An understanding of the impact of serious illness for children, young people and their families.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.

What will I gain?

 For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. CVs can be uploaded, but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the work history sections of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly and objectively.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

To arrange an informal chat, please contact Liz Morrey.

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