Service Manager – Skills & Independence

Full-time | Permanent | Circa £40,000 per annum, subject to experience
Based in Shepherd’s Bush, West London (with some flexibility)

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Are you driven by the belief that everyone deserves a second chance?

Do you see practical skills like driving as a powerful route to independence and opportunity?
Join The Upper Room and lead a transformative programme that supports ex-offenders and young people at risk of offending to rebuild their confidence, regain control of their futures, and move towards lasting change.

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About The Upper Room

The Upper Room is a frontline, community-based charity in Shepherd’s Bush, West London, dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals facing homelessness, poverty, and social exclusion. Through a holistic range of services—including hot, nutritious meals, employability training, and tailored support—we help people take practical steps towards greater independence, stability, and wellbeing.

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About the UR4Driving Programme

UR4Driving is one of our key initiatives, supporting individuals who have experienced the criminal justice system, or are at risk of entering it, by helping them obtain a driving licence. This simple yet powerful tool opens up access to employment, responsibility, and self-belief. Through structured one-to-one support, motivational sessions, and practical driving instruction, participants work toward personal goals and reduce their risk of reoffending.

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About the Role

As Service Manager[MH1] , you will lead the delivery, development, and strategic direction of UR4Driving. You will manage its day-to-day operations, finances, partnerships, and team, ensuring the programme is high-quality, participant-focused, and impactful.

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Key Responsibilities

1. Programme Leadership and Development

• Shape and lead a transformative support programme that empowers participants to make lasting change.
• Oversee and improve service delivery, ensuring quality and alignment with The Upper Room’s values.
• Promote the programme and develop referral partnerships, including with prisons, probation services, and community agencies.
• Collaborate with the CEO on future strategy and programme innovation.

2. Team and Budget Management

• Line manage the small UR4Driving team, offering supervision and professional support.
• Appoint and oversee driving instructors, ensuring delivery standards and clear communication.
• Manage the project budget, maintain financial records, and ensure cost-effective use of resources.

3. Stakeholder and Referral Partner Engagement

• Build strong working relationships with a wide range of external stakeholders and funders.
• Represent the project at events, forums, and meetings across London.
• Support fundraising efforts by providing impact data, case studies, and programme insight.

4. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting

• Track participant progress and engagement throughout and beyond the programme.
• Maintain accurate case records and contribute to internal and external reporting cycles.
• Ensure full compliance with safeguarding, data protection, and equality policies.

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What We’re Looking For

Experience & Abilities

• Proven experience delivering structured programmes or support to marginalised groups, ideally including ex-offenders or those at risk of offending.
• Confident facilitating group sessions and providing one-to-one motivation or support.
• Strong organisational, communication and time-management skills.
• Experience managing budgets and working with external stakeholders.
• Ability to maintain clear boundaries while building trust and rapport.
• Genuinely passionate about helping people build the skills they need to move forward. And take charge of their own future.
• Excited to support our clients and play. A hands-on role in growing the UR4 Driving project and exploring new ways it can make a difference.

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Knowledge & Skills (Desirable)

• Understanding of barriers faced by ex-offenders and relevant legislation (e.g. Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974).
• Familiarity with resettlement pathways, coaching or casework.
• Competence using MS Office and digital reporting tools.
• Commitment to inclusive practice and social justice.

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Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 or above (desirable)
• IAG (Information, Advice & Guidance) or other relevant advisory/support qualification

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Salary & Benefits

• Salary: Circa £40,000 per annum, subject to experience
• Hours: 35 hours/week (5 days), primarily office-based with some flexibility
• Holiday: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Additional Benefits:
  • TOIL for occasional evening/weekend work
  • Training and CPD opportunities
  • Supportive, purpose-driven team culture

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How to Apply

Please send your CV along with a covering letter (max 500 words) outlining why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to it. If you’d like to arrange an informal chat before applying, we’d be happy to speak with you.

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Recruitment Process

• Stage 1: Panel interview focused on your experience, motivation and approach.
• Stage 2 (if shortlisted): A short presentation followed by further discussion. Full briefing provided in advance.

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Closing Date: 2nd June 2025