Jobs for the Disability sector

About The Advocacy Project

We help people speak up and make decisions about their health, wellbeing and social care. We’re here to make sure people who are vulnerable because of their circumstance can understand their rights, make effective choices about their lives and voice their concerns.

Some of the ways we do this include:

• advocacy services that make sure people can express their wishes when decisions are being made about their care or wellbeing
• user involvement projects that help organisations improve what they offer by listening to people who use their services
•  local Healthwatch services, which act as health and social care champions for the areas they serve and give people a direct channel to share their feedback
• Accessible communication - we specialise in producing easy read documents designed to help organisations communicate with people with learning disabilities. 

Our services are independent, confidential, and free to those receiving them. Together, our teams are standing up for essential rights and supporting people to have a say on the issues that matter to them.

About the role

The Senior Advocate (Practice Lead) provides organisation-wide advocacy practice leadership while maintaining a complex advocacy caseload when required. The postholder manages the operational delivery of the Spot Purchase Advocacy Service and Paid for Advocacy service and provides expert case consultation to all advocates, supports safeguarding practice, allocates spot purchase referrals, mentors advocates, delivers training and contributes to the continuous development and quality assurance of advocacy practice across the organisation. Working under the direction of the Head of Service Delivery, the postholder supports service development, raises awareness of advocacy services and deputises for aspects of the safeguarding lead role when required.

Key responsibilities

Practice Leadership

• Provide expert case-related advice and guidance to advocates across all advocacy services.
• Act as the first point of contact for complex advocacy practice queries.
• Support quality assurance through case audits, reflective discussions and feedback.
• Identify learning needs and contribute to improving advocacy practice across services.
• Support advocacy managers with practice-related issues.

Spot Purchase Service

• Manage the day-to-day operational delivery of the Spot Purchase Advocacy Service.
• Support the Customer Advisors with referral allocation, operational queries and monitoring.
• Allocate referrals appropriately according to advocate skills, availability and contractual requirements.
• Monitor referral progression, maintain spreadsheets and ensure contractual timescales are met.
• Support invoice checking and performance reporting.
• Help develop and expand the Spot Purchase Advocacy Service alongside the Head of Service Delivery.

Paid for Advocacy service

• Maintain online appointment diary for enquires.
• Undertake initial triage conversations.
• Provide advocacy as required.
• Manage end to end process.
• Report monthly on activity.
• Support with marketing of service as required.

Advocacy Casework

• Maintain a reduced but complex advocacy caseload across statutory and non-statutory advocacy services if/when required.
• Provide urgent advocacy cover where operationally required.
• Work across multiple advocacy services according to organisational need.
• Support zero-hours advocates and new staff through mentoring and shadowing.

Safeguarding

• Provide safeguarding advice and guidance to staff.
• Deputise for the Designated Safeguarding Lead during periods of absence.
• Support safeguarding decision-making and promote best practice.
• Training & Awareness
• Deliver induction, refresher training and practice workshops.
• Support awareness raising and promotional activity for advocacy services.
• î  Contribute to presentations for professionals and stakeholders.

General

• Develop effective relationships with commissioners, professionals and partner organisations.
• Undertake projects delegated by the Head of Service Delivery.
• Participate in meetings, service development and organisational initiatives.
• Comply with all organisational policies and procedures.
• Carry out other projects and tasks as needed

Person Specification

Essential

• Independent Advocacy Qualification in at least one statutory advocacy discipline (e.g. Care Act Advocacy, IMCA or IMHA).
• Significant experience working as an advocate.
• Excellent knowledge of advocacy legislation including the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Mental Health Act 1983, Human Rights Act and safeguarding adults.
• Experience supporting or mentoring advocates with casework.
• Experience managing complex advocacy cases.

Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures and ability to deputise for the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

• Excellent organisational, leadership and prioritisation skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent IT skills including Microsoft Excel and case management systems.
• Ability to manage spreadsheets, referral allocation and operational monitoring.
• Ability to work independently and across multiple advocacy services.
• Willingness to undertake advocacy casework when required.

Desirable

• Qualifications in multiple advocacy disciplines (e.g. Care Act, IMCA, IMHA, RPR).
• Experience in delivery training.
• Experience promoting or marketing advocacy services.
• Experience supporting service development and quality improvement.
• Knowledge of commissioning and contract monitoring.

Personal Attributes

• Professional and approachable.
• Supportive and collaborative.
• Solution-focused with excellent attention to detail.
• Creative and proactive.
• Committed to high-quality advocacy and continuous improvement.

Benefits of working for us

We’re committed to providing an empowering, flexible and supportive working environment for all our staff.

Our employee benefits include 30 days annual leave (including up to 3 days between Christmas and New Year), participation in a pension scheme with 6% employer contribution, access to a free confidential counselling service, and an interest-free travel/bike loan.

All our staff are supported to learn and develop in a variety of ways, including a monthly lecture series where we invite sector experts to talk to our staff on topical issues.

We are a Disability Confident and Mindful Employer.

Join the Lake District Calvert Trust and turn great relationships and inspiring events into life-changing impact. Lead and grow income from corporate partnerships and events, creating engaging fundraising opportunities that help more disabled people experience the confidence, independence and achievement that adventure can bring. If you’re a natural relationship-builder, creative fundraiser and collaborative team player who thrives on achieving ambitious income targets, we’d love to hear from you.

The postholder will build strong relationships with a range of external stakeholders, businesses and individual supporters, delivering engaging fundraising opportunities that generate sustainable income and raise awareness of the charity's work.

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of fundraising at one of the UK's leading accessible outdoor adventure charities. Every partnership you develop, every event you deliver and every supporter you inspire will help more disabled people discover confidence, independence and achievement through adventure.

Joining the Lake District Calvert Trust means becoming part of a passionate, supportive team committed to creating life-changing experiences and ensuring that adventure is accessible to everyone.

Music as Therapy International is looking for an ambitious, creative and relationship-focused Fundraising Manager to lead our fundraising as we enter an exciting new phase of our development.

Registered in 1998 and recently converted to a CIO, we are a small, established charity with a big ambition: To inspire, guide and champion caregivers to use music to strengthen care. Our work equips caregivers with practical skills and approaches that use music to improve the lives of people in vulnerable situations around the world.

As our Fundraising Manager, you will have a genuinely influential role in making that ambition possible. Working closely with our Director and wider team, you will take the lead on developing and delivering our fundraising strategy across trusts and foundations, major donors, regular giving, community fundraising, corporate partnerships and legacies.

This is not a role where you will be one small part of a large fundraising machine. You will have the opportunity to shape our approach, develop meaningful relationships with supporters and funders, identify new opportunities and turn our impact into compelling propositions that inspire people to give.

We have entered a new strategic period focused on extending our reach, evolving our training and securing the future of music in care. In 2025 we operated with an income of c.£225k.  We are now looking for someone to build on this, bringing fundraising expertise, initiative and curiosity to help us turn our strategic ambitions into sustainable growth. 

If you are an experienced fundraiser who enjoys having responsibility, building relationships and seeing the direct results of your work, we would like to hear from you.

Are you passionate about empowering young people to break down barriers, gain independence, and achieve their career goals?

Volunteer Centre Kensington & Chelsea (VCKC) is looking for a dedicated Stepping Stones: XP Officer to join our team. In this delivery-focused role, you will provide person-centered, strengths-based support to young people aged 16–25 who identify as having Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND).

You will manage a small, targeted caseload, guiding participants through their journey from building initial confidence to securing inclusive volunteering placements, work experience, and paid employment.

Key Responsibilities

• 1-to-1 Caseload Support: Co-design realistic action plans, identify reasonable adjustments, and deliver tailored employment and volunteering readiness support.

• Brokerage & Employer Engagement: Build strong relationships with local employers and volunteer-involving organisations to source safe, accessible placements.

• Practical Guidance: Assist participants with CV writing, application forms, and work-readiness skills tailored to their unique needs.

• Placement Monitoring: Provide light-touch, SEND-informed support to both participants and hosts to ensure placements are successful and sustainable.

• Network & Resource Mobilisation: Connect clients with external support services, training opportunities, and grants for work clothing or tools.

What We Are Looking For

• Relevant Experience: Proven track record of supporting young people (aged 16–25) or adults facing barriers to work, particularly those with SEND.

• Strengths-Based Approach: Ability to deliver empowering, direct 1-to-1 support that builds confidence and self-advocacy.

• Relationship Building: Experience working alongside employers and community organisations to champion inclusive practice.

• Organisational Skills: High-level administrative abilities to manage time, maintain accurate client data, and handle record-keeping effectively within a part-time role.

• Values-Driven: Strong commitment to safeguarding, equality, inclusion, and the values of VCKC.

(Note: Appointment is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check).

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing how your experience meets the criteria outlined in the person specification.

This is a varied and rewarding leadership role that combines operational management, people leadership, and business development. You'll play a key part in growing our impact by developing new partnerships, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and expanding both our on-site and outreach programmes.

To succeed in this role, you'll be a confident and adaptable manager who can balance day-to-day operational demands with strategic thinking and creativity. You'll enjoy problem-solving, prioritising competing demands, and managing a diverse workload where no two days are the same.

We're looking for someone who:
• Has strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Can foster positive collaboration across teams and functions
• Has experience building and managing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders
• Brings commercial awareness and business development experience
• Has experience working in the charity, social care, health, or related sectors

We're looking for someone who:
• Has strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Can foster positive collaboration across teams and functions
• Has experience building and managing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders
• Brings commercial awareness and business development experience
• Has experience working in the charity, social care, health, or related sectors

In return, Thrive offers the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day, working with a values-driven charity that transforms lives through gardening and nature. In addition, you’ll be working in a collaborative and supportive organisation at our National Office, set in 3 acres of beautiful grounds.

Are you passionate about using your business development, marketing and fundraising skills to make a real difference? Do you have the energy and entrepreneurial flair to help our charity reach its potential?

About us

Claremont Project is an arts, mental health and wellbeing charity based in Angel, Islington, supporting mostly older adults. We support around 900 members aged from 55 to 101, many of whom face challenges with their mental or physical health, live with disabilities and first come through our doors feeling profoundly lonely and isolated. Our mission is to give people a chance to shine and to live happier, healthier and more connected lives: We nurture a welcoming and inclusive community where people in later life can flourish and feel like they matter.

We do this through:

• A vibrant programme of free and low-cost classes and activities

• Over 100 special events, concerts and parties each year

• A low-cost psychotherapy service

• A social prescription service offering personalised support to vulnerable adults

• Facilitating financial support for those in hardship

With a history stretching back to 1819, Claremont is standing at a pivotal crossroads. Our 2026-2029 strategy sets our ambition to become a financially resilient organisation: A community anchor, with a diversified business model which means we can assure our members that Claremont will always be there for them.

About the role

The Business Development and Fundraising Manager will play a crucial role in delivering a key pillar of our strategy: to build Claremont’s financial strength and sustainability.

The purpose of the role is to increase Claremont’s income from hall hire, therapy room hire, office lettings and donations, so that we can strengthen our much-loved services for vulnerable people.

By tapping into unrealised revenue streams (especially from in our large and centrally located building) the Business Development and Fundraising Officer will bolster our independence and ensure that our services are not put at risk when grants come to an end.

Key relationships:

• CEO

• Buildings and Facilities Manager

• External hirers and prospective hirers

• Tenants and prospective tenants

• Individual givers

Key Responsibilities

1. Business Development, Marketing and Promotion

• Develop and implement marketing initiatives to increase bookings for Claremont's halls and meeting rooms.

• Promote our hire spaces across online platforms (such as TagVenue and Sharesy), build new partnerships, and grow bookings through local networking and word-of-mouth.

• Improve our online presence and promotional materials by creating engaging content, including photography, video tours, signage and marketing literature.

• Support the marketing and promotion of office space rentals, responding to prospective tenant enquiries and assisting with the lettings process.

• Monitor booking trends and recommend new opportunities to maximise bookings and income.

2. Customer Engagement and Venue Hire

• Work closely with the Facilities Manager to respond promptly and professionally to enquiries about hall and room hire.

• Welcome new hirers, deliver customer inductions and support them throughout the booking process.

• Build strong relationships with regular customers, identifying opportunities to improve their experience and encourage repeat bookings.

• Help coordinate office space lettings and provide an excellent experience for prospective and existing tenants.

• Continuously review and improve the customer journey, using feedback to enhance Claremont's venue hire and lettings offer.

3. Fundraising and Individual Giving

• Work with the Head of Operations to plan and deliver fundraising events, including the Claremont Exhibits Private View, Craft Fairs and new legacy programme activities.

• Develop and administer processes for Gift Aid and individual donations, ensuring records are accurate and compliant.

• Explore innovative ways to increase individual giving, improve donor engagement and reduce barriers to giving using digital tools.

• Support the development of Claremont's legacy giving programme and wider fundraising initiatives.

4. Operational Support

• Be an active member of Claremont's small team, contributing to the smooth day-to-day running of the centre.

• Provide occasional front desk cover during staff absences, welcoming visitors and responding to enquiries.

• Assist with setting up and packing away rooms and equipment for activities and events when required.

• Support the successful delivery of centre events and activities, working flexibly to meet operational needs.

• Undertake other duties appropriate to the role that contribute to Claremont's mission and objectives.

Person Specification

With energy, passion, and entrepreneurial flair, you’ll be looking to take the next step and build your skills as in business development and fundraising professional.

Essential Criteria

Experience

• Experience of business development, marketing, sales, fundraising or customer engagement in the charity, public or commercial sector.

• Experience of promoting services or venues and achieving measurable improvements in customer engagement and income.

• Experience of providing excellent customer service and building positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.

• Experience of organising projects from planning through to delivery.

• Experience of using digital tools and technology to promote services or support customers.

Knowledge

• Understanding of marketing and business development principles.

• Understanding of the importance of excellent customer experience and relationship management.

• Knowledge of fundraising methods, individual giving or donor stewardship, or a willingness to develop expertise in these areas.

• Ability to use digital tools for marketing and bookings management, with knowledge of (or ability to teach themselves) Wordpress and video editing.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with customers, tenants, partners, donors and colleagues.

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

• Ability to identify opportunities to increase income and improve services.

• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to produce engaging promotional content and correspondence.

• Ability to work independently, take initiative and solve problems creatively.

• Ability to analyse information, monitor performance and make recommendations for improvement.

• Flexible and willing to contribute to the wider work of the organisation, including occasional evening or weekend events where required.

Personal Attributes

• Enthusiastic, proactive and self-motivated.

• Friendly, approachable and committed to delivering excellent customer service.

• Creative and entrepreneurial, with a willingness to generate new ideas and improve existing ways of working.

• Collaborative team player who is equally comfortable working independently.

• Adaptable and resilient, with a positive, can-do attitude.

• Committed to the values and mission of Claremont.

Desirable Criteria

Experience

• Experience of working in a charity or community organisation.

• Experience of venue hire, hospitality, property lettings or facilities management.

• Experience of fundraising, donor engagement or administering Gift Aid.

• Experience of managing partnerships or developing new business opportunities.

Knowledge

• Understanding of legacy fundraising, individual giving and Gift Aid.

• Knowledge of local community organisations, businesses and networks.

Qualifications

• A qualification in marketing, business, fundraising, communications or a related discipline; or equivalent relevant experience.

This job description is neither prescriptive nor totally inclusive of all the possible tasks or roles that are or may be expected of the post holder. The post holder may be from time to time called upon to undertake other tasks not explicitly stated here but which are consistent with the nature of the post and of Claremont’s work.

Deadline for applications: 5pm on Monday 28th September

Interviews: Thursday 8th and Friday 9th October

Do you want to make a real difference to the lives of people affected by kidney disease?

We’re looking for an experienced manager who wants to be part of work that genuinely transforms lives.

About Kidney Care UK

There are 7.2 million people with some form of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the UK, equivalent to 1 in 10 people. There are one million people in the UK who have CKD but are not aware of it.

Since 1975, Kidney Care UK has been at the forefront of supporting people with kidney disease. From our early days when we campaigned to introduce donor cards in the UK, we have worked hard to support and represent the interests of everyone affected by kidney disease.

About the Patient Support Service

The Patient Support Service provides practical, emotional and financial support for anyone affected by chronic kidney disease. Whatever the need presented, we empower people living with CKD and their families and carers to understand their options and make informed choices to positively navigate their experience of CKD. We’ll walk alongside them for as long as they need us to.

About the role

We are looking for a passionate and inspirational individual to lead our Patient Support service across Scotland & Northern Ireland. You and your team will reach kidney patients at their point of need and ensure they are supported or signposted to the services that will improve their wellbeing and maximise outcomes in line with the objectives of the service as directed by the Programme Manager/Head of Service. 

Alongside our other Regional Managers, you will be the national face of Kidney Care UK patient support services, raising awareness of the service and the Charity and building strong relationships with the kidney patients, renal units, Kidney Patient Associations (KPAs), health professionals and other kidney stakeholder groups in your regions. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a team of five Patient Support Officer’s to deliver an accessible, valued and effective service across your designated region. Responsibility for the training, development and wellbeing of the regional team. 
• Lead the delivery of Kidney Care UK service and funder required outcomes into service delivery aligned with the Kidney Care Patient Support service strategy.
• Through in-person attendance at stakeholder events and meetings, build strong relationships with key decision makers and influencers in health and care commissioning and delivery in your region.
• Develop and maintain effective monitoring and measurement to demonstrate the outputs and effectiveness of the service and its impact on patient experience and outcomes. 
• Using data and insight, report internally and externally with updates on regional issues, needs and challenges to inform service development.
• Manage the budget designated for your region, keeping accurate records of expenditure and reporting.
• Act as an organisational Designated Safeguarding Person in accordance with policy and procedures.

About you

We’d love to hear from you if you have:

• Understanding of the workings of NHS patient care pathways.
• Experience of delivering patient support services in a kidney or related health condition environment.
• Understanding of kidney disease and the needs of people with kidney disease, their families and their carers.
• The ability to influence, inspire and effectively manage a team.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to listen, with experience in building credibility with senior external stakeholders and managing relationships with diplomacy.

Experience of working within an NHS charity or large health related fundraising environment is highly desirable,as is understanding of relevant UK benefits legislation and entitlements.

Please note: You must live within one of the regions (Scotland or Northern Ireland) and have the ability to travel within those regions independently and on a regular basis. There may also be some travel across the UK.

What we offer

Working at Kidney Care UK is incredibly rewarding and you will see the life-changing impact that the charity has on kidney patients and their families:

• Flexi-time – we are flexible about start and finish times, and flexible about your location.
• Annual and Christmas leave – we offer 25 days annual leave for full time employees plus bank holidays. We also close for three days between Christmas and New Year, and you don’t need to take this from your annual leave allowance.
• Pension – you’ll be eligible for and auto-enrolled into a pension scheme where your employer will contribute 8% of your salary.
• Health cashback plan – ability to claim back a wide variety of routine medical treatments.
• Employee Assistance Programme – access to a wide variety of support including counselling, health resources and advice.
• Cycle2Work scheme
• Learning and development – you’ll be able to access the full benefits of our membership of Fundraising Everywhere, Charity Comms and NVCO.

Apply today
If you feel the role is for you we’d love to hear from you.

Press Apply, where you will be asked to upload a recent CV which includes a cover letter. In your cover letter please demonstrate in no more than 2 sides of A4 how you meet the person specification within the job description.

CVs submitted without a cover letter will automatically be rejected.

Please note we will be reviewing applications as they come in and may choose to close the advert early.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Please note a covering letter is required in order to be considered for the post.

Are you an experienced community engagement professional who would love to use your skills to help us Beat Macular Disease? 

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world-class research, and the best advice and support. 

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to beat macular disease forever. 

This is a permanent, part-time job-share role working Monday and Tuesday. You will work closely with the existing Community Engagement Manager, who works Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, providing an important overlap day on Tuesday. 

The role covers the whole of the South of England, including London. You will help strengthen community connections, support volunteers and local groups, and build relationships with organisations and stakeholders across the region. 

Key accountabilities of the role: 

• Support community groups and peer networks across the South of England, including London. 

• Lead local community engagement and ensure community insight informs wider work. 

• Work closely with the other job-share postholder to provide clear handovers and consistent support. 

• Support and engage volunteers in partnership with the Volunteer and Group Support Team. 

• Build relationships with community organisations, healthcare professionals and other key partners. 

• Gather and share insight to help shape services and organisational decisions. 

• Support relevant fundraising and partnership opportunities. 

• Provide information, advice and learning to external partners. 

• Maintain knowledge of local and national services to support signposting and referrals. 

• Plan volunteer development and community engagement activities. 

• Promote inclusive, accessible and welcoming approaches.  You will have experience of community engagement, partnership working or service delivery and be confident building trusted relationships with a wide range of people and organisations. 

• You will be able to work independently, manage competing priorities and work effectively as part of a job-share arrangement. Strong communication, organisation and IT skills are essential. 

  In return we provide a great working culture and offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, rising to 27 after one year's service, pro rata for part-time employees, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies and a 6% pension contribution. 

• In line with our value of “Showing we care”,we ask that the covering letter is written in your own words and not heavily reliant on AI-generated content. 

  Closing date: Monday 21 September 2026 

  We are an equal opportunities employer, and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons. 

  Travel across the South of England, including London, will be required, along with occasional attendance at events or meetings at our Andover office. 

Chief Executive Officer

Age UK Gateshead

Age UK Gateshead is looking for its next Chief Executive Officer,  someone who is passionate about people, believes in the strength of community and wants to lead an organisation that makes a real difference every day.

We are a genuinely community-driven local charity. Our services have grown and developed by listening to the people around us, understanding what our communities need and finding practical ways to respond.

From information, advice and advocacy to community activities, dementia support, day services, hospital-to-home support and regulated care through our subsidiary, Living Well North, our work reaches people at very different points in their lives.

Despite the breadth of what we do, the principle behind it is simple:

It’s simply about people.

We are looking for a CEO who shares that belief and can lead Age UK Gateshead through its next chapter.

The Role

As Chief Executive, you will have overall responsibility for the leadership, development and sustainability of Age UK Gateshead and its subsidiary.

Working closely with our Board of Trustees and leading an experienced senior team, you will provide direction while ensuring the organisation remains financially sustainable, well governed and focused on the people we exist to support.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing clear and positive leadership across Age UK Gateshead and its subsidiary
• Working with the Board to develop and deliver organisational strategy
• Leading our people, culture and organisational development
• Maintaining strong financial oversight and long-term sustainability
• Overseeing service quality, performance and continuous improvement
• Ensuring effective governance, safeguarding, risk management and regulatory compliance
• Providing strategic oversight of regulated services within our subsidiary, including appropriate assurance around quality and CQC requirements
• Developing sustainable income through funding, commissioned services, partnerships and new opportunities
• Building strong relationships with local authorities, NHS organisations, commissioners, funders, businesses and community partners
• Identifying opportunities for growth, collaboration and service development
• Representing and championing Age UK Gateshead locally, regionally and, where appropriate, nationally
• Providing the Board of Trustees with clear information, advice and assurance
• Ensuring the voices and experiences of the people we support continue to influence our decisions and direction

You won't be expected to do all of this alone. A big part of being our CEO is about leading people well, trusting good people to do their jobs, developing a strong senior team and creating clear accountability throughout the organisation.

Who We're Looking For

We aren't looking for someone who simply wants the title of CEO.

We're looking for someone who is genuinely passionate about supporting people and understands the responsibility that comes with leading an organisation that people and communities rely upon.

You will be comfortable moving between the strategic and the practical. One day you may be discussing finances, governance, contracts or organisational strategy; another you could be meeting a commissioner, visiting one of our services or simply having a conversation with the people we support.

We want someone who is visible, approachable and willing to listen, but who also has the confidence to make difficult decisions when they are needed.

You'll need strong leadership skills, sound judgement and commercial awareness, with an understanding of finance, organisational performance and good governance. You'll also need the ability to build strong relationships and bring people with you.

Our subsidiary delivers regulated care services. You don't necessarily need to have spent your career in regulated social care, but you will need to understand the importance of strong quality assurance and be comfortable providing senior oversight within a CQC-regulated environment.

About Age UK Gateshead

Age UK Gateshead is an independent local charity with deep roots in the communities we serve.

Our staff and volunteers support people in many different ways – sometimes through specialist advice or structured services, sometimes by helping someone regain their independence, and sometimes simply by making sure someone has somewhere to go and somebody to talk to.

Through Age UK Gateshead and our subsidiary, our work spans community support, information and advice, advocacy, wellbeing, dementia services, day opportunities, hospital-to-home support and regulated care.

Our next CEO will inherit an organisation with committed staff and volunteers, established services, strong partnerships and significant opportunities for further development.

They will also be leading in a challenging environment. Demand continues to grow, funding is increasingly competitive and the expectations placed upon charities and care providers continue to increase.

We therefore need a CEO who can balance ambition with sustainability and compassion with commercial awareness – someone who understands that growth only matters when it improves what we can do for people.

Experience & Qualifications

Strong leaders come from different professional backgrounds, and we don't expect our next CEO to tick every box. However, we would particularly value:

• Significant senior leadership or executive experience, ideally within the charity, community, health or social care sectors
• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Trustees, Directors or similar governing body
• Strong financial, governance, risk and organisational management experience
• Experience of developing strategy, leading change and supporting organisational growth
• Experience of income generation, commissioned services, contracts, grants or business development
• Strong partnership experience, particularly with public, voluntary or community sector organisations
• Knowledge or experience of regulated health or social care services and CQC expectations would be advantageous
• Experience of leading and developing multidisciplinary teams
• A relevant professional, management or leadership qualification would be beneficial, although equivalent senior leadership experience is equally valued

Most Importantly

Qualifications and previous job titles only tell us part of the story.

We want someone who knows how to listen, lead and bring people with them. Someone who trusts and develops their team, challenges things when they can be better and is willing to have difficult conversations when necessary.

Someone who can protect what makes Age UK Gateshead special while having the ambition and ability to move it forward.

Because behind the contracts, funding applications, CQC requirements, targets, strategies, budgets and Board reports are real people.

That's why we're here.

It’s simply about people.

Salary: £55,000–£60,000 per annum, dependent on experience.

Interviews to take place: Friday the 18th September

We're looking for an experienced Senior Trusts & Foundations Manager to lead our trusts and foundations fundraising programme, securing high-value and multi-year grants that help transform lives. You'll work closely with senior leaders to develop compelling funding propositions, manage key funder relationships and oversee a strong pipeline of opportunities.

You will also line manage a Trusts Officer. If you have a proven track record of securing significant grant income and thrive on developing ambitious funding strategies, we'd love to hear from you.

Key attributes:

Strategic thinker and strong relationship builder with the confidence to engage and influence funders, senior stakeholders and executive leaders

Excellent bid writer and project manager, able to turn complex programmes and impact data into compelling funding proposals while managing multiple deadlines and priorities simultaneously

Analytical and commercially aware, using data, forecasting and pipeline management to drive performance. People-focused manager with experience developing and supporting team members to achieve success.

Shaftesbury is the disability charity that’s committed to enabling children, young people and adults to live a life that adds up for them.

What makes life liveable is never down to just one thing - it’s the sum of many things. From friendship to fun; from companionship to community; from a great chat to a challenge overcome, it all adds up – to Shaftesbury.

Through a wide range of disability care, special education, and rehabilitation services we promote inclusion and wellbeing for all. Together, we work to see people take part, contribute and be valued. We put the elements in place that all add up to connected lives.

Shaftesbury is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced DBS/Access NI check.

Shaftesbury is committed to the Disability Confident Scheme and to equal opportunities therefore we welcome and encourage applications from everyone regardless of age, disability, gender, ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation.

We’re looking for a Project Development Lead to join our Day Opportunities team in Flintshire and play a key role in transforming what day opportunities can look like for the people we support.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about employment, independence, inclusion and creating real opportunities for people to achieve their ambitions.

About the role

As Project Development Lead, you’ll be a catalyst for change.

Working alongside people we support, colleagues across Hft, commissioners, education providers, employers and community organisations, you’ll help us reimagine and develop day opportunities across Flintshire and North Wales.

A key focus of the role will be supporting the development of a new autism service and creating a programme that enables people to build skills, confidence and experience based around their individual interests, strengths and aspirations.

This isn't simply about getting people into jobs. It’s about helping people discover what they want to achieve, developing the skills and confidence to get there, gaining meaningful experience and creating sustainable pathways into employment, volunteering, education and other opportunities within their communities.

You’ll have the opportunity to challenge traditional approaches, identify new possibilities and develop projects that help people live gloriously ordinary lives – with greater choice, independence and connection to their communities.

What you'll be doing:

• Design and deliver training and development programmes that help people build the skills and confidence they need for employment and greater independence.

• Review existing day opportunity provision across Flintshire and identify opportunities to develop and improve our offer.

• Develop project plans, implementation plans and risk assessments to turn ideas into successful projects.

• Work closely with people we support to understand their interests, strengths, career goals and aspirations.

• Develop personalised pathways towards employment, education, volunteering and other meaningful opportunities.

• Work alongside Hft’s Supported Employment team to help people progress towards meaningful, paid employment where this is their goal.

• Build strong partnerships with education providers, employers, commissioners, local authorities and third-sector organisations.

• Challenge low expectations and advocate for reasonable adjustments, inclusion and equality of opportunity.

• Ensure projects are delivered safely, respectfully and in a genuinely person-centred way.

• Support colleagues to develop the skills and knowledge needed to deliver new approaches.

• Develop tools to measure the impact of the programme, including personal outcomes, skills development, qualifications, vocational achievements and employment or move-on opportunities.

• Maintain accurate records and ensure projects meet Hft and commissioning requirements.

About you

We’re looking for someone who is ambitious, creative and passionate about what people can achieve when they are given the right opportunities and support.

You’ll bring experience of successfully delivering projects and be confident managing multiple priorities, developing partnerships and turning ideas into action.

You'll ideally have experience working with learning disabled and/or autistic adults, particularly within education, supported employment, employability, health or social care.

You’ll also have:

• A project management qualification and demonstrable experience of successfully delivering projects.

• A strong understanding of person-centred and strength-based approaches.

• A genuine belief in every person's right to work, develop skills and build a career if that is what they want.

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

• Experience working collaboratively with employers, education providers, community organisations or other external partners.

• Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage your own workload and priorities.

• A solution-focused and collaborative approach, with the confidence to challenge existing thinking and explore new possibilities.

• Good IT skills, including the ability to maintain accurate records and produce reports.

• A full UK driving licence, access to a vehicle and willingness to use your own vehicle for work purposes. Mileage will be paid.

• Welsh language skills would be desirable.

Why join us?

This is a chance to take on a role where your work can have a genuine and lasting impact.

You’ll be joining a team that wants to do things differently – moving beyond traditional models of day opportunities and creating more opportunities for people to develop skills, build confidence, connect with their communities and pursue the future they want.

At Hft, our values guide everything we do:

Diverse – We appreciate that everyone is unique and champion equity, diversity and inclusion.

Kind – Our compassion shines through everything we do.

Positive – We focus on finding solutions, partnering for progress and getting others involved.

Visionary – We are proud to paint a picture of what the best life possible could look like.

If you’re passionate about creating opportunities, challenging expectations and helping people turn their aspirations into reality, we’d love to hear from you.

About The Advocacy Project

We help people speak up and make decisions about their health, wellbeing and social care. We’re here to make sure people who are vulnerable because of their circumstance can understand their rights, make effective choices about their lives and voice their concerns.

Some of the ways we do this include:

•  advocacy services that make sure people can express their wishes when decisions are being made about their care or wellbeing
• user involvement projects that help organisations improve what they offer by listening to people who use their services
•  local Healthwatch services, which act as health and social care champions for the areas they serve and give people a direct channel to share their feedback
• innovative Personal Health Budget projects that allow people to access items and services to improve their wellbeing.

Our services are independent, confidential, and free to those receiving them. Together, our teams are standing up for essential rights and supporting people to have a say on the issues that matter to them.

About the role

The post-holder will provide independent advocacy in various settings, including in the community, people’s homes, and hospital settings including mental health wards. You’ll raise awareness of advocacy, including for people from minority ethnic communities. You’ll work as part of a team of independent advocates, reporting to the Advocacy Service Manager. 

You will work as part of the Westminster and RBKC advocacy team. You may also need to carry out your role in other London boroughs.

Under the Health and Social Care Act 2008, the post holder will be required to visit CQC registered care homes and would be subject to government requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Provide advocacy for eligible people under Mental Health Act 2007, the Health and Social Care Act 2012, Mental Capacity Act 2005 and under the Care Act 2014.
• Provide a one-to-one advocacy service for people and undertake case work, evidencing and uploading case notes and data in a timely manner.
• Provide instructed and non-instructed advocacy, where appropriate.
• Provide information, support or signpost clients in order to inform or empower individuals on any issues about their treatment under the relevant legislation.
• Act as duty advocate for our Single Point of Access referral line on a rota basis.
• Meet case-working standards, monitoring system requirements and the goals for our service, making sure everyone needing advocacy is referred into the service in the right way.
• Work within the location-specific engagement protocols, security, confidentiality and safeguarding policies (in addition to the Advocacy Best Practice Handbook).
• Actively promote self-advocacy throughout all work with patients, where practical.
• Raise awareness of independent advocacy and referring pathways to eligible people and referring agencies.
• Keep your knowledge of legislation and policy up-to-date, including the mental health act, mental capacity act, care act, and local / national policy.
• Keep up to date with developments and good practice in independent advocacy (including different advocacy models).
• Develop good working relationships with key staff within health and social care services.
• Be an active member of the advocacy service, contributing to service planning and providing cover for other colleagues when needed.

General responsibilities

• Participate in team meetings and training.
• Participate in personal, team and organisational development.
• Contribute to monitoring reports.
• Keep to our policies, including health & safety, and risk regulations.
• Work to our mission, vision, and values.
• Carry out other projects and tasks as needed.

Person specification

We welcome applications from people with transferrable skills and qualities, and people with diverse employment histories and personal backgrounds.

Essential qualities and attributes:

• Understanding of the role and responsibilities of an advocate.
• Understanding of issues faced by people with mental health conditions, physical health conditions and learning disabilities.
• Ability to listen and build trust, to encourage people to express their own views and to represent clients’ self-defined interests.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal). Good at working with a wide variety of people including commissioners, service users and colleagues.
• IT literate, including working knowledge of Microsoft packages (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Commitment to working within The Advocacy Project code of conduct, equality and safeguarding policies.
• Ability to work as part of a team and on your own initiative, to plan and prioritise your own workload.
• Willingness to promote The Advocacy Project and its services in line with our mission, vision and values.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

Desirable knowledge, experience and qualifications:

• Experience of delivering different forms of advocacy (instructed and non-instructed; IMHA, ICAA, IMCA, IHCA,) within a statutory advocacy service.
• Knowledge of the Mental Health Act / Mental Capacity Act / Care Act and other statutory legislation as it applies to advocacy.
• Knowledge of mental health sections and social care services, including current issues in policy and practice.
• Understanding of the Accessible Information Standard.
• Advocacy qualification.

Benefits of working for us

We’re committed to providing an empowering, flexible and supportive working environment for all our staff.

Our employee benefits include 30 days annual leave (including up to 3 days between Christmas and New Year), participation in a pension scheme with 6% employer contribution, access to a free confidential counselling service, and an interest-free travel/bike loan.

All our staff are supported to learn and develop in a variety of ways, including a monthly lecture series where we invite sector experts to talk to our staff on topical issues.

We are a Disability Confident and Mindful Employer.

Inclusion Barnet is Barnet's Deaf and Disabled People's Organisation (DDPO), committed to creating more inclusive communities and greater social justice for all. We are looking for a Community Development Outreach Officer to support voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise organisations across Barnet.

This is a community-based outreach role that will play a key part in supporting Barnet's local voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector. The role delivers as part of the award-winning Barnet Together partnership with Young Barnet Foundation and Groundwork London.

A significant majority of this role will be based in the community. The successful candidate will spend most of their time travelling across Barnet, meeting organisations face to face, attending local meetings and events, visiting communities and building relationships with existing and potential members. Applicants must therefore be comfortable with regular travel throughout the borough and confident working independently in a range of community settings.

The postholder will carry out proactive outreach to community groups, voluntary organisations, resident-led groups and local networks. They will build trusted relationships, identify development needs and help organisations access the support, training and opportunities available through Inclusion Barnet Community Organisation Support. The role will involve providing one-to-one support to organisations on areas such as governance, safeguarding, small funding bids and project planning, as well as signposting groups to relevant services, networks and development opportunities. The postholder will also support community-led activities that help strengthen neighbourhoods and improve local places.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a demonstrable commitment to the social model of disability and disability equality.
• Is passionate about supporting communities and helping organisations to grow and succeed.
• Has experience of working, volunteering or engaging with community groups, voluntary organisations, residents or local projects.
• Has an interest in community development and the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector.
• Has experience of building positive relationships with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Has strong communication, engagement and relationship-building skills.
• Is confident working independently in community settings and representing Inclusion Barnet and Barnet Together at local meetings and events.
• Can identify when organisations or individuals may benefit from additional support and confidently signpost them to relevant services, opportunities or resources.
• Has good organisational, digital and record-keeping skills.
• Has an understanding of safeguarding, or a willingness to develop this knowledge.
• Takes a practical, solutions-focused approach to supporting others.
• Can manage their own workload, prioritise effectively and follow through on agreed actions.

As Barnet's Deaf and Disabled People's Organisation, we encourage applications from people with lived experience of disabiliy, which could include mental health issues, neurodivergence or long term health conditions. Lived experience is highly valued within our organisation and helps shape and strengthen our work. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in employment.

We also welcome applications from people with transferable skills gained through education, volunteering, community involvement, employment or lived experience.

While some home working is available, regular face-to-face engagement across Barnet is an essential requirement of the role.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, and be willing to undergo a DBS check at an appropriate level for the role.

Headway UK developed the Approved Provider Scheme in 2011, which is a voluntary standards-based accreditation, for rehabilitation and residential units for people with a brain injury and we are looking for a new part time team member.

• Location: Preference for Midlands based, either home based or in Headway UK’s office in Nottingham.
• Salary: £35,000 FTE (pro rata for 21 hours per week) (days are flexible)

Brief overview

Are you a professional with experience supporting brain injury survivors?

Are you passionate about improving standards or care, for brain injury survivors?

Would you be good at conducting assessments and supporting residentials care units to improve the care that they provide?

Headway UK developed the Approved Provider Scheme in 2011, which is a voluntary standards-based accreditation, for rehabilitation and residential units for people with a brain injury and we are looking for a new part time team member.

By participating in the scheme Approved Provider units affirm their dedication to excellent care, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement. The accreditation of units is then published for families, individuals and professionals to help inform their choices when identifying suitable provision for brain injury survivors. Our accreditation process is designed to be collaborative and supportive, guiding units through every step towards achieving and maintaining exemplary service standards.

The role will involve, conducting and writing assessments and working with the Approved Provider and Training Manager to manage Lead Assessors, who are based around the UK and the Service User Perspective Assessors, who are either brain injury survivors, or family members/ carers.

Embrace Headway’s mission of Improving Life After Brain Injury. Join us to ensure the highest quality care for ABI survivors throughout their journey to recovery.

What you will do:

• Conduct Approved Provider assessments, which includes going into brain injury residential units and assessing the services they provide and making recommendations, to improve practice against the framework.
• Writing and reviewing reports for Approved Provider units, following assessments, that clearly highlight strengths and areas for development.
• Contributing to the development and growth of Headway UK’s Approved Provider scheme, by continuing to drive forward standards and onboarding new units.
• Working with freelance Lead Assessors and Service User Perspective Assessors (who are brain injury survivors or family members) who are based around the UK, to organise assessments and ensure the schemes standards are upheld.

About you

We’re open-minded and welcome all applicants who believe they can succeed. Though ideally, you will have:

• Prior experience of working in the field of acquired brain injury.
• Relevant professional qualification (e.g. occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, clinical psychology, physiotherapy, nursing, social work).
• Ability to write and moderate written reports of high quality and clarity, to provide accurate and accessible feedback.
• Very good IT skills, including be proficient in the Microsoft Office suite (e.g., Outlook, Word, Excel and Teams).
• Ability to gain the trust, confidence, and respect at all levels within external organisations and staff groups.
• Be an excellent communicator, with new and existing Approved Provider units.

Benefits

As a staff member at Headway UK you’ll have access the following range of benefits;

Financial Security 

• Competitive Salaries
• Pension - You’ll be automatically be enrolled into the Pensions People with Headway contributing between 5 – 8%
• Occupational Sick Pay Scheme – Increasing with length of service.
• Death in Service Benefit - You’ll have the security of knowing if anything happens to you your loved ones will be provided for

Flexible Working

• Remote working – For the majority of our roles we can facilitate fully remote or hybrid working.
• We understand that a healthy work-life balance is essential for our team to thrive. Headway UK offers flexible working arrangements, promoting well-being and ensuring you can take care of yourself while you care for others.

Wellbeing

• You’ll benefit from a fully comprehensive 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme including access to counselling services.
• Eye Test Vouchers
• Mental Health First Aiders

Holidays and leave

• You’ll get 25 days leave incrementally increasing to 30 days based on service plus Bank Holidays.
• Birthday leave

Benefits

• You’ll have access to a range of shopping and lifestyle benefits and discounts through our IMHR Plus Privilege membership.

About us

Headway UK plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals and families affected by brain injuries. Our comprehensive services encompass rehabilitation, counselling, and practical assistance to help survivors regain independence and improve their quality of life. Headway UK is at the forefront of raising awareness about the challenges faced by those with brain injuries and advocates for their rights, ensuring they receive the care and understanding they deserve. Through a combination of educational initiatives, community outreach, and personalised support, Headway UK strives to rebuild lives, offering a lifeline to those navigating the complexities of brain injury recovery.

Embark on a fulfilling career with Headway UK and join our compassionate team and contribute to our mission of rebuilding lives after brain injury. Make a meaningful impact with Headway UK, where every role plays a crucial part in empowering those on the path to recovery.

Safeguarding

At Headway UK we are committed to the safeguarding and welfare of vulnerable adults. We expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We follow best practice as set out within the Care Act 2014. All successful applicants will be subject to safer recruiting procedures and will be required to complete mandatory pre-employment checks including a criminal background check and two satisfactory references.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion 

We recognise, value and champion diversity and inclusion. We want to ensure are staff population reflect the diverse service users that we support. For us diversity and inclusion is about building happy teams, full of people that want to learn and be inspired by each other, by our different experiences and backgrounds. Inclusion means providing the people we recruit with opportunities and valuing everyone’s contributions and perspectives.

We are also committed to removing barriers for applicants with a disability during our recruitment process, upon appointment and as an employee.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need support with the application or you would like a chat about what it’s like to work with us.

Thank you for your interest in Headway UK and we look forward to getting to know you!