Connection Support Jobs
A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join Westway Trust as a Property Assistant, providing efficient and responsive administrative support across the full property team. You will be a friendly, motivated, and active administrator who will play a key role in the smooth running of the property department.
You will be pro-active, organised, with good initiative being the main point of contact responding to estate and property related enquiries and reports of issues, from tenants, customers, contractors and the community. You will therefore need to possess or demonstrate a willingness to provide a good level of customer service with property knowledge.
Key responsibilities of the role include:
- Provide efficient and effective administrative support across the Property team, including daily active filing, archiving, photocopying, scanning and record keeping.
- Initial point of contact for enquiries to the Property team.
- Provide a responsive customer service handling system to record such enquiries.
- Coordinating the general day-to-day activities of the Head of Property & Estates in relation to emails, posts, and voicemails.
- Assisting in the preparation and maintenance of property particulars, void reports, and reviewing property marketing websites for current information.
- Cross-referencing and managing the prospective tenant’s selection list with the historical enquiry list and alerting the team of any repeat/active enquiries.
- Regular visits to Trust premises to record any Health and Safety/Fire Risk Assessment breaches and reporting these to the appropriate Facilities Management team member.
- Assist with attending Unit Base Parking/Filming/Events on the estate, recording any infringements of agreements on site, and notifying the appropriate team member for further follow-on action.
- Preparing notification details for relevant authorities for entry and exit of tenants – rates, utilities, etc.
- Assisting with servicing property meetings (i.e., circulating papers, coordinating actions where required).
- Responsible for the recording of void premises and issuing of building keys.
- Occasionally provide assistance to the Trust’s reception/office manager for general office duties and reception cover if required.
Knowledge and Experience:
- A minimum of one year’s experience in a busy property department.
- A broad understanding of commercial property or demonstrable experience of transferable skills if you are from a different sector.
- Customer focused, with the ability to provide a friendly and efficient service to customers, staff and tenants.
- Good time management, attention to detail, organisational skills and the ability to work under pressure with changing priorities.
- Excellent administrative skills.
- High level IT skills and experience of using MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Personal skills:
- A personable and collaborative approach, with experience of developing and maintaining positive relationships with a range of stakeholders.
- Good communication skills, orally and in writing.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a multi-cultural and diverse environment.
- Connections to/understanding of the local area would be highly desirable.
Benefits of working with us:
- Great location in the heart of Portobello, North Kensington
- Generous holiday entitlement of 25 days per year + statutory bank holidays
- Sick pay scheme
- Investor in People (IiP) employer
- Free gym membership at health club one minute walk from the office
- Pension scheme
- Life Assurance
- Season ticket / bicycle loan
- Free eye test voucher
There is a rolling deadline for this position. We encourage applicants to submit their application as soon as possible, as this vacancy may be withdrawn at any time. An early application is therefore strongly recommended.
We exist to work together with the local community to enable North Kensington to thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
About Us
Wheels for All is a leading national charity dedicated to making cycling accessible and inclusive for everyone, regardless of ability. For over 30 years, we have built the UK’s largest network of inclusive cycling hubs, supporting communities to be active on their terms and thrive. We are expanding our reach, and we want you to be part of this journey!
The Role
As our new Head of Finance, you’ll lead our financial strategy, manage a small finance team, and support the Executive Management Team in driving sustainable growth. Working closely with the CEO, COO, and Trustees, you’ll develop financial plans, oversee compliance, and ensure robust financial operations to support our mission. This is a leadership role with the chance to make a lasting impact.
Key Responsibilities
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Financial Strategy & Growth: Partner with our leadership to drive long-term financial health and strategic decision-making.
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Financial Management & Reporting: Prepare budgets, forecasts, and financial reports, and ensure accurate, timely reporting for funders and stakeholders.
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Compliance & Governance: Maintain compliance with charity regulations and oversee audits, risk management, and policy development.
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Team Leadership: Lead and develop a small finance team, ensuring systems like Sage meet organisational needs.
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Fundraising Support: Collaborate with fundraisers to create budgets for funding applications and ensure transparent financial reporting to donors.
What We’re Looking For
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Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience with 5+ years in senior finance roles (charity experience a plus)
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Strong knowledge of charity finance, VAT, grant management, and accounting software (Sage preferred)
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A strategic thinker with excellent communication skills to present financial information to non-financial stakeholders
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Passionate about our mission, collaborative, and committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment
Why Join Wheels for All?
We offer a competitive salary, a 3% employer pension contribution, a birthday day off, a volunteering day, flexible working options, a cycle-to-work scheme, access to yoga classes, and an Employee Assistance Program. You’ll also enjoy 25 days of annual leave, plus public holidays, increasing with service.
Wheels for All is an equal opportunity employer, actively fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Head of Fundraising
About Wicksteed Park
Wicksteed Park, in Kettering, Northamptonshire, is one of the UK's oldest leisure parks, founded in 1921 by Charles Wicksteed. Managed by the Wicksteed Charitable Trust, it offers over 25 rides, 281 acres of parkland, playgrounds, and walking trails, catering to all ages. The park also hosts events including live entertainment and workshops, with venues available for weddings and parties. Entry to the parkland is free, making it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers to enjoy year-round.
Role Outline
The Head of Fundraising will be instrumental in the instigation, implementation and completion of the Trust’s long term funding strategy. This important role leads on the Trust’s approach to individual giving, legacies, campaigns and community fundraising. The role plays an important part in raising vital unrestricted income and will act as the connection point with our loyal supporters. The role will lead and develop a fundraising team, working closely with the Community and Heritage team and volunteers.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced fundraiser with demonstrable experience at a senior level, with strong communication and relationship building skills.
This is a full-time position on a temporary contract for an initial period of three years, with potential to become a permanent position. Wicksteed Park operates a 40-hour working week, primarily based onsite. Consideration will be given to requests for flexible working.
Salary: £48,000 per annum
With thanks to the players, this role is initially funded under the National Lottery Heritage Fund grant: Securing a Sustainable Future for the Home of Children's Play.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
CSW is a dedicated team of people working to advance the right of freedom and justice in countries across the world. We are confident in our identity as a Christian human rights organisation that works for freedom of religion or belief for all people, regardless of religion, belief, or non-belief.
The latest internal pulse survey illustrated that CSW is a great place to work: 97% are proud to work for CSW; 97% of staff feel CSW really allows them to make a positive difference, and whilst there is always room for improvement, we couldn’t be prouder of our efforts to curate a healthy culture where every individual is valued and championed.
The Role
This role is all about people – connecting with church leaders and other individuals within church communities, sharing your passion for freedom of religion or belief through sermons, presentations and conversations to inspire others to take action. You’ll be a natural networker and someone entrepreneurial who takes initiative and comes up with your own ideas for how best to reach busy church leaders and congregations. You will be self-motivated and able to work collaboratively.
Key responsibilities (full responsibilities listed in the application pack):
- Proactively source speaking engagements in churches across the UK and fulfil these engagements, both by deploying a network of staff and volunteer speakers and by speaking yourself.
- Develop a plan to reach new and lapsed churches for CSW
- Use the CRM, as well as your own connections, to identify key church stakeholders to approach about partnering with CSW
- Build meaningful relationships with new and existing church partners, with the view to supporting churches in learning about justice and religious freedom issues and establishing or renewing support through prayer, campaigning and giving
Essential criteria (full criteria listed in the application pack):
- Proven experience of church engagement for a charity with demonstrable outcomes
- Experience of public speaking, preferably in churches
- A minimum of two years’ experience of account management or managing relationships with customers/ supporters
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Mind BLMK works across our communities to support positive mental health and wellbeing. Working closely with a range of partners, we offer a number of activities from our wellbeing centres and local venues to make a difference to the mental health and wellbeing of people in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, and our aim is to make sure that no-one has to face a mental health problem alone.
Community Connectors (Mental Health Resilience Worker)
Post no: 610
Working base: Leighton Buzzard
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: £24,720 per annum
Hours: 37.0 hours per week, Monday to Friday
About the Role
Community Connectors work as part of an integrated, blended mental health offer to support people with emotional, social and practical needs to access a range of local, non-medical and non-clinical services, to improve confidence, social inclusion and independence.
This role will involve working as part of a multi-disciplinary team with statutory, third sector and NHS colleagues to support clients who are suffering from moderate to severe mental health difficulties. You will need to have experience working with those suffering with mental health illness as well as being able to demonstrate in depth knowledge of the services, support networks and local resources that may assist in improved outcomes for those dealing with complex and enduring mental health issues. The ability to be adaptable, work independently and the resilience to work in some challenging environments are key attributes for this role.
Service Delivery
- Assess suitability for community connection support as part of a blended team approach and support individuals to access the service by utilising in depth knowledge of local voluntary and community services and networks in your respective area
- To work with individuals to coproduce a plan to address their mental health and wellbeing goals. Am enable people to achieve these goals through facilitating access and connecting with appropriate resources
- Enable people to access community resources which may include accompanying them.
- Offer support, guidance and help where possible to people to gain confidence, overcome initial fears and seek solutions to any barriers inhibiting attendance.
- Take a holistic approach, based on the individuals’ priorities and wider determinants of health that impact on their health and wellbeing, such as debt, poor housing, being unemployed, loneliness and caring responsibilities.
- To work as part of an integrated team to ensure the best outcomes for each person accessing the service.
- Identify and build good working relationships with the community groups, relevant services and activities for partnership work and signposting as well as keep updated information about them.
- Competently work as part of a blended team, under direction from Mind BLMK and ELFT, working with independence and in an agile way to support people with complex mental health challenges.
Entitlements/benefits:
- 25 days (pro rata) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
- Auto-enrolment NEST pension scheme (employer contributes 3%, employee contributes 5%)
- Health Plan with a wide variety of benefits
- Discounts available through Blue Light Card & Tickets for Good
- In-house and external Learning and Development as appropriate for the role.
- Flexible Working On request (in line with Mind BLMK policy on Right to Request Flexible Working)
If you have a passion for working in mental health and possess the required skills, we would love to hear from you.
Closedown: 5pm on Friday 25th October 2024
Interview date: TBC
Please note: We reserve the right to close this advert early if enough suitable applicants apply
Start date: ASAP
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
Mind BLMK has been committed to the Mindful Employer charter and the Disability Confident Employer Scheme since 2008.
Please note: Mind BLMK follows Safer Recruitment practices and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Therefore all our roles are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
No agencies please.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?
Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge?
Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard?
Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.
We are looking for a new Advocate to join our team in South Gloucestershire. We are seeking applicants who have transferable skills, a willingness to learn and a desire to help those in need of support.
About us
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.
We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.
About the role
We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team covering South Gloucestershire. Your role will require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes across the area to meet with clients and professionals and be home based for administration; therefore, access to your own transportation and a suitable home internet connection is essential.
About you
Desirably you will have some experience of working, providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education and support.
You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.
How will you make a difference?
You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.
You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.
You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support. You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them. You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard.
Professional Development?
You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day.
Benefits:
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- 5% employer pension & 3% employee contribution
- Salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Separate Life Assurance Cover
- Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays etc
- Discounted Gym Membership; Employee Assistance programme
- Supportive working environment fostering a good work/life balance
- Support with continuous professional development
Equality and Diversity
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.
VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.
How to apply
To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form.
Important Dates:
Closing date for applications; 09:00 on Monday 18th November, however, VoiceAbility reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy before this date.
Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.
Hint: you can use work, personal and/or voluntary experiences and examples to tell us why you should be our next Advocate.
We look forward to hearing from you.
NB:
If you don't already hold the Independent Advocacy Qualification, and you are successful in your application, it is a requirement that you complete this within 12 months of commencing the training. VoiceAbility will fund this training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
In this role you will connect people, ideas and resources to empower the community of Roehampton to thrive. Every day will be a chance to listen, to understand and to make a difference where it matters most as Roehampton is a place where there is a great need to build the ability, knowledge and potential of our community. This work will aid people in the community to collaborate in tackling inequalities which are deep and entrenched. You will be a confident self-starter who is unafraid of taking the initiative but understands the importance of democratic processes, openness and accountability.
We are seeking an energetic, empathetic and resourceful community lead who has the skills, experience and tenacity to engage widely and support effectively. You will be our person on the ground - getting to know residents and organisations, making things happen, not just with the existing community groups and leaders in the Roehampton area, but also forging new connections with residents, activists and across the wider community and voluntary sector.
Your day-to-day work will be varied and we expect this to include tasks such as:
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supporting local community organisations on a one-to-one basis, as well as creating and delivering high quality resources and support for them
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delivering meaningful engagement with residents, empowering them to develop their own networks and co-design projects and programmes which support them effectively
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managing a local grants programme which pilots and develops effective responses to community needs
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co-producing and developing our Community Weeks programme as a platform for community support and engagement
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gathering feedback and carrying out evaluation of our projects and of those we fund.
Please send a CV and a cover letter of no more than two sides of A4, explaining why you want the job and how your experience relates to the person specification. We’ll use your cover letter to assess your application alongside your CV. Please ensure that your cover letter explains how you meet the essential criteria that are assessed at application stage i.e. criteria numbers 1-9 on the person specification.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Our Roehampton is committed to improving the social, economic, health and well-being outcomes of residents in Roehampton and the surrounding area.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Senior Peer Support Development Officer – North West
About Kinship:
Kinship is the leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We offer kinship carers financial, legal, practical and emotional support and understanding from the moment they need it, for as long as they need it. Our expert advice, information and guidance helps with complicated and stressful decisions that so many kinship families have to make. We are always there to support them through challenging times and celebrate the good.
Kinship carers are strong and determined. Together, they are powerful. We help them build communities of support and action by connecting families locally and across England and Wales.
We are at the heart of kinship networks, partnering with and influencing service providers, local and national government and other organisations. We give everything we have to fight for each family and their rights, changing society until every kinship family is recognised, valued and supported.
Kinship care often begins in crisis. A child has parents who are unable to care for them, for whatever reason. It can be frightening, confusing and heart-breaking.
Instinctively, a loved one steps in – a grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or family friend. They are now a kinship carer, bringing up the children they love. There is often no chance to prepare. Plans may be pushed aside. Relationships, jobs and savings are frequently sacrificed.
It is life changing and challenging raising children who have been hurt or neglected, but kinship carers do it anyway because they put the children first. We know how hard life can be for kinship carers, but we have seen the amazing things they are capable of, with someone by their side. With the right support, children raised in kinship families can flourish.
That is why we support, connect and campaign – to keep kinship families stronger by keeping them together.
About the Team
The Peer Support and Community team at Kinship is dedicated to enhancing the lives of kinship carers across England and Wales by delivering the first national peer support service. With a focus on building and sustaining networks of peer support groups, the team aims to empower kinship carers through access to resources, training, and development opportunities.
By fostering connections within local, regional, and national ecosystems, the team plays a vital role in ensuring that every kinship carer has access to a supportive community.
As part of our commitment to growth and impact, the team develops innovative approaches to peer support, creating an inclusive environment where kinship carers can share experiences and access essential services. We prioritize collaboration across various departments, ensuring that support group leaders receive high-quality advice and training, facilitating their sustainability and effectiveness. This integrated approach also includes alignment with national and local campaigning efforts to further engage and support the kinship carer community.
In line with our strategic focus on cultivating a vibrant Kinship Community of over 10,000 carers, the team leads initiatives aimed at enhancing community connection and empowering kinship families. By developing a robust model of community engagement that encompasses both in-person and digital services, the team aims to amplify the voices of kinship carers, enabling them to effect meaningful change in their lives and communities.
About the role
This role is community-based and focuses on engaging kinship carers, bringing them together to form Peer Support Groups, and supporting them to achieve independence at which point they will receive ongoing support from our national Hub. You will do this by working with local authorities, schools, other charities and community groups. Arranging information events such as coffee mornings to engage kinship carers. You’ll create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community for kinship carers, building belonging, resilience, and empowerment. Funded by the Department of Education, the National Peer Support Service is a game-changing service that creates a sustainable and life-changing legacy. It builds on Kinship’s 10 years of experience in developing peer support groups and two years of delivering a national service that has set up 145 new groups.
Who we are looking for:
We are seeking an individual located in or around Greater Manchester, and willing to travel across the North West of England who possesses the drive, passion, and skills to:
· Establish new Peer Support Groups across a diverse range of communities
· Supervise a small team of Peer Support Development Officers
· Demonstrate the energy and enthusiasm required to inspire yourself and your team to achieve key targets and objectives
· Work collaboratively within the Peer Support and Community Team, as well as throughout the broader organisation, to ensure the delivery of safe and effective support services for the kinship community.
· Maintain current Peer Support Groups, taking the lead from the national Hub.
· Maintain accurate records that are used to populate reports, identify learning and share key insights across Kinship that allow the organisation to continuously improve our services and products.
In the role of Senior Peer Support Officer, you will be instrumental in ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, consistent, and sustainable peer support service that has a significant impact on the lives of kinship carers.
You should have experience in developing and maintaining meaningful relationships with various community-based stakeholders such as local authorities, health services, schools, charities, and kinship carers. You will need to understand the key success factors involved in establishing and developing new in-person groups in areas of high need, as well as how to support existing groups in their journey towards sustainability.
As a practical thinker, you will work creatively to identify stakeholders and assets in areas of high need. You will build local connections and bring together kinship carers across the region, empowering them to build resilient and robust peer support communities.
You will be confident in building relationships that generate referrals from external stakeholders and in contacting kinship carers directly to secure engagement with local coffee mornings, community, and training events that will help kick start a thriving peer support group.
As you establish new groups, you will provide training to help them lead their groups effectively, and develop their group culture, resilience, and skills to function independently while offering reassurance and support to empower them.
You will be an inspirational and energetic team leader with experience in providing day-to-day line management and operational support for a small team.
We are ideally looking for candidates based in or around Greater Manchester but willing to work initially across the whole of the North West. This role may involve working to establish groups in West Yorkshire and into North Staffordshire.
A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes are essential, as this role may require travel across London and its periphery to reach areas in need of dedicated support.
Key responsibilities:
Service delivery:
- In person (face-to-face) strategic outreach into local and regional communities including setting up and attending local engagement events.
- Work creatively to set up and develop new sustainable in peer support groups, attending up to six sessions in person (if needed) before transition to self-sufficiency. Existing groups that are at risk, closed or need support will need replacing or rejuvenating to maintain DfE service level agreements across the team, in addition to new groups.
- Recruit and retain support group leaders to develop their peer support groups.
- Deliver training to support group leaders (group roles and responsibilities, safeguarding, setting up, running and promoting a group).
- Develop strong boundaries and positive relationships with support group leaders – building resilience, empowerment and community.
- Support established groups in your area to access support group leader networks and training (this includes visiting groups in person) to build a peer community.
- Help develop and deliver a service blueprint for sustainable peer support groups, thinking strategically about how to develop groups.
- You'll collaborate closely with the ‘Hub’ team to provide a joined up and positive user experience for kinship carers. This collaborative approach is key to our success and ensures that kinship carers receive the best possible support.
- Manage special interest groups and regional online groups as required, transitioning to ‘Hub’ team for sustainability and work with partners.
Service quality, development and data management:
- Accurately record all recruitment, contact information and volunteer case management in Salesforce in line with service framework and data protection requirements.
- Ensure accurate data entry in Salesforce to support service performance, evaluation and learning.
- Provide regular reports to ensure targets and SLA are met for the service.
- Support continuous development and improvement of the service (new systems and processes) as required.
Management and supervision:
- Inspire, motivate and be responsible for day-to-day line management and supervising up to 4 staff members
- Oversee tactical development of new sustainable groups in your area and your team.
- Help set clear objectives to achieve targets and outcomes.
- Actively encourage personal development and learning.
- Increase efficiencies and impact across the team.
- Ensure good team induction processes and systems are in place.
- Role model Kinship values.
Team culture:
- Act in the best interest of Kinship and the families we support.
- Maintain and contribute up to date understanding of kinship care.
- Deliver effective administration with attention to detail and keeping to deadlines.
- Identify and contribute to appropriate case studies to demonstrate the impact of Kinship services and contribute to policy and campaigns work.
- Actively contribute to delivering and evidencing a high performing service.
- Take responsibility for your ongoing continued professional development.
- Work in line with the Kinship values.
Knowledge, abilities, skills and experience (person spec):
Essential:
- Experience of team leadership or line management and supervision of a small team and managing performance to deliver targets effectively.
- Proven experience in reaching and establishing strong relationships with hidden or underserved communities in person.
- Experience developing peer support communities.
- Proven experience of recruiting, managing, training and supporting volunteers in community settings with an emphasis on understanding and working with vulnerable volunteers.
- Proven experience of ensuring outcomes and impacts of services is evidenced through high-quality data collection.
- Evidence of delivering training/support to volunteers,
- Strong facilitation skills and essential experience of peer support or user led groups with charity beneficiaries.
- Understanding of safeguarding particularly around vulnerable families.
- Excellent communication and engagement skills, with good attention to detail.
- Full driving licence and use of a car for work purposes.
Desirable:
· Lived experience of kinship care.
· Understanding of children’s social care.
· Digital community building (Facebook / WhatsApp etc).
· Full, clean driving licence/own car.
General characteristics and attributes:
· Flexible and willing to travel for work across England and Wales.
· Drive and have access to a vehicle.
· Commitment to the values, aims and objectives of Kinship.
· A real commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion within your role and a respectful approach to working with people from a range of backgrounds.
· Good standard of written and spoken English.
· Permission to work in the UK.
· Able to remain focused on the primary task of establishing new peer support groups, ensuring that more kinship carers have access to high-quality peer support.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams. We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us.
Candidate Application Information
Please refer to the Job Description for this role to check that you meet the criteria necessary for the job. Closing date and interview details:
Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm
Interviews: 1st Interview Week Commencing 4 November
2nd Interview Week Commencing 11 November
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated deadline.
We will guarantee interviews to any candidates with experience of kinship care (either of being in kinship care or of being a kinship carer) who demonstrate they meet the essential skills and experience outlined.
Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments, we can make to assist you in your application. If you have a disability, which you would like us to consider, please tell us about this when you apply. Please let us know if we can help and remember that you can request information in large print or in a different format.
We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.
Hours: 40 hours per week
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Start Date: As soon as possible
Application Deadline: 8th November 2024
About The Anti-Slavery Collective (TASC)
Founded in 2017, The Anti-Slavery Collective (TASC) is a connector and convener of people, groups, and ideas. Our mission is to create linkages between decision-makers, corporates, and civil society allies to disrupt modern slavery and human trafficking.
We have built partnerships with business pioneers, civil society allies, and leaders, hosted high-level events, brought the issue of modern slavery back to the World Economic Forum, and amplified survivor leaders' voices.
TASC's mission is twofold:
- Shifting societal consciousness: We seek to transform public awareness so society rejects the trafficking and exploitation of people and demands ethical products and services.
- Supporting businesses: We provide businesses with tools, information, and connections to eliminate modern slavery from their supply chains, promoting global business practices that prioritise human welfare.
About the Role
The Director of Partnerships will lead TASC’s partnership efforts, responsible for cultivating and securing new partnerships, and delivering on partnership strategies. You will manage relationships with key strategic partners, donors, civil society allies, and academic stakeholders. The Director of Partnerships will work closely with the CEO, contributing to the charity’s broader external relations activities, while operating with independence and professionalism.
Key Responsibilities
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Partnership Strategy and Relationship Management:
- Contribute to developing new partnership strategies.
- Manage deliverables and track impact milestones as outlined in partnership strategies.
- Oversee day-to-day correspondence with donors and strategic partners.
- Facilitate meetings and visits with key stakeholders.
- Support the CEO and team members in engaging with strategic partners.
- Lead or contribute to relevant research projects.
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Internal Coordination:
- Build strong relationships with colleagues to ensure effective information sharing.
- Coordinate joint inputs for briefs, communication materials, and applications.
- Collaborate with the team in producing and disseminating deliverables, updates, and communication materials.
- Regularly contribute to TASC's internal Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.
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Operational Support:
- Support the organisation’s broader projects or events as required.
- Maintain relationships with NGOs, research institutions, and stakeholders to stay informed about trends, collaborations, and funding opportunities.
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Grant Management:
- Manage all aspects of grant servicing, ensuring deadlines are met and donor requirements are fulfilled.
- Draft and collate reports and grant applications, ensuring alignment with donor requirements.
- Maintain systems for tracking grant data and provide information for internal use and Board papers.
-
Management:
- Line-manage a direct report (Partnerships Manager).
Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
- Right to work in London.
- Excellent written English.
- Proven experience in building cross-sector partnerships, especially with corporate partners.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage with a range of stakeholders.
- Ability to meet tight deadlines and manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
- High level of initiative and ability to work independently.
Desirable:
- Experience in a corporate partnership or similar role.
- Knowledge or experience in the field of modern slavery, human rights, or development.
- Understanding of contracting and grant-making processes.
- Willingness and ability to travel locally and internationally.
Compensation
- 25 days holiday (pro rata), plus public holidays.
- For further details regarding salary, please inquire.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted in English and include a CV, a one-page cover letter, and the contact details of two referees (one must be your current or most recent line manager or Head of HR).
Please email your application in PDF format with "Director of Partnerships" in the subject line by 5:00 PM on 8th November 2024.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further consideration.
The Anti-Slavery Collective is an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage applications from people with disabilities, Black, Asian, Indigenous or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+, and from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
Applicants must be eligible to work in London.
TASC is committed to meaningful survivor inclusion and leadership. We strongly encourage applicants with lived experience of trafficking or forced labour to apply.
As Content Manager, you will be responsible for implementing and iterating the content framework. The framework describes the what, why, and how of producing high-quality, effective content at Battersea:
- What: Defining content pillars and content types that the content team works on.
- Why: Ensuring that all content the team produces supports Battersea’s overall marketing strategy and organisational strategy.
- How: Upholding an efficient process for content production and effective collaboration with stakeholders.
Collaboration is essential within this role. You’ll need to work closely with senior stakeholders and channel owners across the Brand team, Digital team, Communications, Insight and Impact and the wider organisation.
Strong communication, interpersonal and consultative skills, and the proven ability to build relationships are vital to aid the smooth delivery of strategic projects and to drive to do things more effectively and efficiently through buy-in.
You’ll be adept at using data to inform content strategy and content approach exploring the ‘why’ across user needs. This includes leveraging insights, conducting content evaluations, and performing your own desktop research to bring our work to life, as we continue to develop our audience building and evaluation frameworks.
You’ll be supporting a dynamic Content team, giving guidance, coaching and fostering a culture of creativity and strategic direction, so they can deliver the right content, to the right audience at the right time which inspires connection to our cause and engagement with our brand.
What we can offer you:
In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:
- 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year
- Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work schemes
- Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources.
- Generous pension contributions – up to 10% employer contribution
- Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year.
- Annual interest-free season ticket loans
We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.
Our Hybrid Working Policy:
We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.
Diversity and inclusion
At Battersea, we are committed to developing and supporting a diverse workforce and inclusive culture in all aspects of our organisation. We aim to ensure that this pledge, reinforced by our values, is embedded in our day-to-day working practices and our work together.
By hearing from and valuing different experiences, perspectives, and contributions, we know we can provide the best expert care for every dog and cat who needs us. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from diverse ethnic communities and people with disabilities, who we know are currently underrepresented in our workforce.
As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best.
More about us
At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.
Closing date: 3rd November 2024
Interview date(s): 7th November 2024 (1st round); 14th November 2024 (2nd round)
Start date: ASAP
To apply for the role, please click the button below. All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.
Battersea is here for every dog and cat, and has been since 1860. We believe that every dog and cat deserves the best.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Peer Support Development Officer – Greater London
About Kinship:
Kinship is the leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We offer kinship carers financial, legal, practical and emotional support and understanding from the moment they need it, for as long as they need it. Our expert advice, information and guidance helps with complicated and stressful decisions that so many kinship families have to make. We are always there to support them through challenging times and celebrate the good.
Kinship carers are strong and determined. Together, they are powerful. We help them build communities of support and action by connecting families locally and across England and Wales.
We are at the heart of kinship networks, partnering with and influencing service providers, local and national government and other organisations. We give everything we have to fight for each family and their rights, changing society until every kinship family is recognised, valued and supported.
Kinship care often begins in crisis. A child has parents who are unable to care for them, for whatever reason. It can be frightening, confusing and heart-breaking.
Instinctively, a loved one steps in – a grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or family friend. They are now a kinship carer, bringing up the children they love. There is often no chance to prepare. Plans may be pushed aside. Relationships, jobs and savings are frequently sacrificed.
It is life changing and challenging raising children who have been hurt or neglected, but kinship carers do it anyway because they put the children first.
We know how hard life can be for kinship carers, but we have seen the amazing things they are capable of, with someone by their side. With the right support, children raised in kinship families can flourish.
That is why we support, connect and campaign – to keep kinship families stronger by keeping them together.
About the Team
The Peer Support and Community team at Kinship is dedicated to enhancing the lives of kinship carers across England and Wales by delivering the first national peer support service. With a focus on building and sustaining networks of peer support groups, the team aims to empower kinship carers through access to resources, training, and development opportunities.
By fostering connections within local, regional, and national ecosystems, the team plays a vital role in ensuring that every kinship carer has access to a supportive community.
As part of our commitment to growth and impact, the team develops innovative approaches to peer support, creating an inclusive environment where kinship carers can share experiences and access essential services. We prioritize collaboration across various departments, ensuring that support group leaders receive high-quality advice and training, facilitating their sustainability and effectiveness. This integrated approach also includes alignment with national and local campaigning efforts to further engage and support the kinship carer community.
In line with our strategic focus on cultivating a vibrant Kinship Community of over 10,000 carers, the team leads initiatives aimed at enhancing community connection and empowering kinship families. By developing a robust model of community engagement that encompasses both in-person and digital services, the team aims to amplify the voices of kinship carers, enabling them to effect meaningful change in their lives and communities.
About the role
This role is community-based and focuses on engaging kinship carers, bringing them together to form Peer Support Groups, and supporting them to achieve independence at which point they will receive ongoing support from our national Hub.
You will do this by working with local authorities, schools, other charities and community groups. Arranging information events such as coffee mornings to engage kinship carers. You’ll create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community for kinship carers, building belonging, resilience, and empowerment.
Funded by the Department of Education, the National Peer Support Service is a game-changing service that creates a sustainable and life-changing legacy. It builds on Kinship’s 10 years of experience in developing peer support groups and two years of delivering a national service that has set up 145 new groups.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking an individual located in Greater London, who possesses the drive, passion, and skills to:
- Develop new Peer Support Groups across a diverse range of communities
- Demonstrate the energy and enthusiasm required to achieve key targets and objectives
- Work collaboratively within the Peer Support and Community Team, as well as throughout the broader organisation, to ensure the development of safe and effective support services for the kinship community.
- Maintain current Peer Support Group levels, taking the lead from the national Hub.
- Maintain accurate records that are used to populate reports, identify learning and share key insights across Kinship that allow the organisation to continuously improve our services and products.
You should have experience in developing and maintaining meaningful relationships with various community-based stakeholders such as local authorities, health services, schools, charities, and kinship carers. You will need to understand the key success factors involved in establishing and developing new in-person groups in areas of high need, as well as how to support existing groups in their journey towards sustainability.
As a practical thinker, you will work creatively to identify stakeholders and assets in areas of high need. You will build local connections and bring together kinship carers across the region, empowering them to build resilient and robust peer support communities.
You will be confident in building relationships that generate referrals from external stakeholders and in contacting kinship carers directly to secure engagement with local coffee mornings, community, and training events that will help kick-start a thriving peer support group.
As you establish new groups, you will provide support and training to help them lead their groups effectively, and develop their group culture, resilience, and skills to function independently while offering reassurance and support to empower them.
We are ideally looking for candidates based in or around Greater London and willing to work initially across London Boroughs. This role may involve work to establish groups on the periphery of this area that currently have no dedicated Development staff.
An essential requirement of the role is to be a driver with access to a vehicle for work purposes.
Key responsibilities:
Service delivery:
- In-person (face-to-face) strategic outreach into local communities including setting up and attending local engagement events.
- Set up and develop sustainable in person peer support groups, initially attending and leading sessions in person before transition to self-sufficiency.
- Working with existing groups that are at risk, closed or need support that need replacing or rejuvenating to maintain DfE service level agreement, in addition to new groups. Targets are subject to change and are not fixed.
- Recruit and retain support group leaders to develop their peer support groups.
- Assist with the delivery of training to support group leaders and groups to become self-sufficient.
- Develop strong boundaried and positive relationships with support group leaders – building resilience, empowerment and community.
- Support established groups (including independent) in your area to access support group leader networks and training (this includes visiting groups in person) to build a peer community.
- Follow (and where appropriate support further development off) the service blueprint to develop sustainable peer support groups.
- Collaborate with the Peer Support Hub team to provide a joined-up and positive user experience for kinship carers.
- Manage special interest groups and regional online groups as required, transitioning to ‘Hub’ team for sustainability and work with partners.
Service quality, development and data management:
- Accurately record all recruitment, contact information and volunteer case management in Salesforce in line with service framework and data protection requirements.
- Ensure accurate data entry in Salesforce to support service performance, evaluation and learning.
- Provide regular reports to ensure targets and SLA are met for the service.
- Support continuous development and improvement of the service (new systems and processes) as required.
Team culture:
- Act in the best interest of Kinship and the families we support.
- Maintain and contribute up to date understanding of kinship care.
- Deliver effective administration with attention to detail and keeping to deadlines.
- Identify and contribute to appropriate case studies to demonstrate the impact of Kinship services and contribute to policy and campaigns work.
- Actively contribute to delivering and evidencing a high performing service.
- Take responsibility for your ongoing continued professional development.
- Work in line with the Kinship values.
Knowledge, abilities, skills and experience (person spec):
Essential:
· Proven experience in reaching and establishing strong relationships with hidden or underserved communities in person.
· Significant experience developing peer support communities.
· Proven experience of recruiting, managing, training and supporting volunteers in community settings with an emphasis on understanding and working with vulnerable volunteers.
· Proven experience of ensuring outcomes and impacts of services are evidenced through high-quality data collection.
· Evidence of developing and delivering training/support to volunteers, based on the needs of service users (in this case kinship carers).
· Strong facilitation skills and essential experience of peer support or user-led groups with charity beneficiaries.
· Proven experience of using a customer relationship management system effectively (we use Salesforce).
· In-depth understanding of safeguarding particularly around vulnerable families.
· Excellent communication and engagement skills, with good attention to detail.
Desirable:
· Lived experience of kinship care.
· Understanding of children’s social care.
· Digital community building (Facebook / WhatsApp etc).
· Full, clean driving licence/own car.
General characteristics and attributes:
· Flexible and willing to travel for work across England.
· Commitment to the values, aims and objectives of Kinship.
· A real commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion within your role and a respectful approach to working with people from a range of backgrounds.
· Excellent written and spoken English.
· Permission to work in the UK.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams. We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us.
Candidate Application Information
Please refer to the Job Description for this role to check that you meet the criteria necessary for the job. Closing and Interview details are:
Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm
Interviews: Week Commencing 4 November
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated deadline.
We will guarantee interviews to any candidates with experience of kinship care (either of being in kinship care or of being a kinship carer) who demonstrate they meet the essential skills and experience outlined.
Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments, we can make to assist you in your application. If you have a disability, which you would like us to consider, please tell us about this when you apply.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams. We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us.
Candidate Application Information
Please refer to the Job Description for this role to check that you meet the criteria necessary for the job. Closing and Interview details are:
Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm
Interviews: Week Commencing 4 November
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated deadline.
We will guarantee interviews to any candidates with experience of kinship care (either of being in kinship care or of being a kinship carer) who demonstrate they meet the essential skills and experience outlined.
Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments, we can make to assist you in your application. If you have a disability, which you would like us to consider, please tell us about this when you apply. Please let us know if we can help and remember that you can request information in large print or in a different format.
We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Title: Individual Giving and Supporter Care Manager
Reporting To: Head of Marketing
Manages: Supporter Care Officer
Location: Home-based (some travel across UK when necessary, including the Leicester office)
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £37,945.00
Hours: Full time (36 hours per week). Flexible working offered.
About Home-Start UK
Home-Start is a federated charity consisting of a central national office – Home-Start UK - and 178 geographically dispersed local Home-Start organisations, all working together under the same identity.
We recognise that being a parent has never been easy. Every Home-Start volunteer is trained to work alongside parents to overcome the challenges they are facing. We work with parents to build on their strengths and give them the support that they tell us they need. We offer no judgement – just compassionate, confidential help and expert support. This peer-to-peer support is key to the difference Home-Start makes and often our volunteers have lived experience of the challenges their families are facing themselves.
About The Role
This is a key role within the marketing team at an exciting time of growth for the charity. You will be joining us at a development stage and will have a real opportunity to shape our supporter journeys and supporter care programmes across Home-Start UK. Be part of a movement focused on improving the long term outcomes of children across the UK, and help us grow, so that we can be there for every child who needs us.
The Individual Giving and Supporter Care Manager will develop and implement campaigns that build our supporter base along with retaining our existing supporters. Through compelling and personalised supporter journeys, you will ensure our supporters feel like our partners in ensuring that no child’s life chances are limited.
You will communicate effectively with our supporters and build a strong connection with them by placing supporter care at the heart of our work, while also engaging potential new supporters.
Reporting to the Head of Marketing you will be responsible for all supporter care activities and our acquisition campaigns. You will also manage the Supporter Care Officer and will create a supportive environment where you will help them achieve their objectives.
You will have experience of working in an individual giving/supporter care team or marketing role within the charity sector managing campaigns and supporter communications. With a proven track record in delivering successful campaigns, the ability to work to tight deadlines and with excellent attention to detail, you will be able to effectively manage key relationships internally and externally to deliver on campaigns with agreed time frames.
If this sounds like your type of challenge, we’d love to receive your application.
Closing date for applications: Thursday 31st October 2024, 5pm.
Interviews will be held virtually on the 1st and 2nd November 2024.
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
Home-Start UK is committed to Equality of Opportunity and Diversity. We wish to encourage applications from all parts of the community irrespective of gender, race, colour, age, sexual orientation or disability.
Candidates will also be sent the interview questions ahead of their interview so that they may fully prepare. Appointments will be based on merit, following an open and clear selection process.
Home-Start UK, a charitable company limited by guarantee. Company No. 5382181. Charity No. in England and Wales 1108837 and in Scotland SCO39172.
No agencies please.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Floating Scheme Manager to oversee two key homelessness support projects in St Albans and Broxbourne. This position is ideal for an experienced/skilled manager who can ensure the smooth, safe, and effective day-to-day operation of both a night shelter and a supported housing project, delivering trauma-informed care and managing all housing and support functions to a high standard. You will have proven experience of managing homelessness support schemes or similar settings, ideally within night shelters, supported housing, or outreach. This role is to cover for up to 3 months whilst a permanent Scheme Manager is appointed or you can apply for the permanent role, whilst working in the temporary role.
- Oversee the operations of a 12-bedroom night shelter in St Albans, catering to rough sleepers, single homeless, and vulnerably housed individuals, prioritising those with a local connection.
- Manage a supported housing project in Broxbourne, providing housing and outreach services for 16 single adults experiencing multiple disadvantages.
- Ensure a strong management presence at both sites, actively engaging with service users and ensuring safe, effective service delivery.
- Lead, supervise, and support a dedicated team of support workers & night workers, empowering them to deliver trauma-informed, psychologically grounded support.
- Oversee training, performance management, and the development of staff to maintain a supportive, safe environment.
At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.
In order to apply please submit your CV in the first instance. Should your experience be suitable, we will arrange for a call to brief you on the role. We are looking forward to connecting with you.
Trees for Cities is an independent, national charity that works with communities to plant and care for urban trees, helping to create greener and healthier cities across the UK and internationally for the last 30 years.
We are in a pivotal decade for environmental action, and our current strategy, The Turn of Trees (2022-25), is focused on engaging communities in climate action through the simple yet powerful act of tree planting. Looking ahead, our new strategy launching in 2025 will build on this momentum to create a social movement for tree equity - ensuring that all communities regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or geographic location have access to the benefits that trees provide, including cleaner air, cooler temperatures, improved mental health, and enhanced biodiversity.
The Role
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Head of Marketing & Digital Engagement to lead our efforts in inspiring, engaging, and empowering communities, volunteers, and supporters across the UK. This is a critical new role, focused on implementing and operationalising our new strategy, enhancing our reach, and building the foundations for our future growth. The role offers the opportunity to lead the development of Trees for Cities’ first national digital engagement strategy, ensuring we build strong connections with communities and supporters through creative campaigns and digital platforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of our first national digital engagement strategy, driving public awareness and support for urban trees.
- Inspire and mobilise communities and supporters through innovative campaigns that highlight the benefits of tree planting and urban greening.
- Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure the successful implementation of our organisational strategy, enhancing our digital presence to extend our reach.
- Oversee a talented marketing and engagement team, providing leadership, direction, and fresh ideas to foster growth and deepen our connections.
- Act as a senior voice in the organisation, influencing decision-making and shaping the future direction of Trees for Cities.
About You
We are looking for an experienced marketing leader with a passion for the environment and community engagement. You will have a proven track record of developing and implementing successful digital engagement strategies, and experience leading creative campaigns that inspire action – this could be within a charity or a wider commercial setting. You will be an excellent communicator, capable of influencing at a senior level, and able to bring fresh perspectives to the organisation.
Why Join Us?
At Trees for Cities, we pride ourselves on our warm, inclusive, and vibrant work culture. Our team is deeply motivated by the cause, and we are committed to supporting each other as we work towards a greener, healthier future. This is a fantastic opportunity to join an organisation making a tangible difference in urban environments and communities across the UK.
If you are passionate about mobilising social action and inspiring change, and have the skills and experience to lead our marketing and digital engagement efforts, we’d love to hear from you.
To learn more about the role and organisation, including how to have an informal conversation about the opportunity and apply, please download the full appointment brief.
Closing date: 17 November 2024
Panel Interview Dates: 2 December and then 9 December 2024
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Peer Support Development Officer – South East and M4 Corridor
Thank you for your interest in the above role. This pack tells you more about Kinship, how we work, and details of the role and the people you will be working with. It also gives information on how to apply.
About Kinship:
Kinship is the leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We offer kinship carers financial, legal, practical and emotional support and understanding from the moment they need it, for as long as they need it. Our expert advice, information and guidance helps with complicated and stressful decisions that so many kinship families have to make. We are always there to support them through challenging times and celebrate the good.
Kinship carers are strong and determined. Together, they are powerful. We help them build communities of support and action by connecting families locally and across England and Wales.
We are at the heart of kinship networks, partnering with and influencing service providers, local and national government and other organisations. We give everything we have to fight for each family and their rights, changing society until every kinship family is recognised, valued and supported.
Kinship care often begins in crisis. A child has parents who are unable to care for them, for whatever reason. It can be frightening, confusing and heart-breaking.
Instinctively, a loved one steps in – a grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or family friend. They are now a kinship carer, bringing up the children they love. There is often no chance to prepare. Plans may be pushed aside. Relationships, jobs and savings are frequently sacrificed.
It is life changing and challenging raising children who have been hurt or neglected, but kinship carers do it anyway because they put the children first.
We know how hard life can be for kinship carers, but we have seen the amazing things they are capable of, with someone by their side. With the right support, children raised in kinship families can flourish.
That is why we support, connect and campaign – to keep kinship families stronger by keeping them together
About the Team
The Peer Support and Community team at Kinship is dedicated to enhancing the lives of kinship carers across England and Wales by delivering the first national peer support service. With a focus on building and sustaining networks of peer support groups, the team aims to empower kinship carers through access to resources, training, and development opportunities.
By fostering connections within local, regional, and national ecosystems, the team plays a vital role in ensuring that every kinship carer has access to a supportive community.
As part of our commitment to growth and impact, the team develops innovative approaches to peer support, creating an inclusive environment where kinship carers can share experiences and access essential services. We prioritize collaboration across various departments, ensuring that support group leaders receive high-quality advice and training, facilitating their sustainability and effectiveness. This integrated approach also includes alignment with national and local campaigning efforts to further engage and support the kinship carer community.
In line with our strategic focus on cultivating a vibrant Kinship Community of over 10,000 carers, the team leads initiatives aimed at enhancing community connection and empowering kinship families. By developing a robust model of community engagement that encompasses both in-person and digital services, the team aims to amplify the voices of kinship carers, enabling them to effect meaningful change in their lives and communities.
About the role
This role is community-based and focuses on engaging kinship carers, bringing them together to form Peer Support Groups, and supporting them to achieve independence at which point they will receive ongoing support from our national Hub.
You will do this by working with local authorities, schools, other charities and community groups. Arranging information events such as coffee mornings to engage kinship carers. You’ll create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community for kinship carers, building belonging, resilience, and empowerment.
Funded by the Department of Education, the National Peer Support Service is a game-changing service that creates a sustainable and life-changing legacy. It builds on Kinship’s 10 years of experience in developing peer support groups and two years of delivering a national service that has set up 145 new groups.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking an individual located in South East of England, who possesses the drive, passion, and skills to:
- Develop new Peer Support Groups across a diverse range of communities
- Demonstrate the energy and enthusiasm required to achieve key targets and objectives
- Work collaboratively within the Peer Support and Community Team, as well as throughout the broader organisation, to ensure the development of safe and effective support services for the kinship community.
- Maintain current Peer Support Group levels, taking the lead from the national Hub.
- Maintain accurate records that are used to populate reports, identify learning and share key insights across Kinship that allow the organisation to continuously improve our services and products.
You should have experience in developing and maintaining meaningful relationships with various community-based stakeholders such as local authorities, health services, schools, charities, and kinship carers. You will need to understand the key success factors involved in establishing and developing new in-person groups in areas of high need, as well as how to support existing groups in their journey towards sustainability.
As a practical thinker, you will work creatively to identify stakeholders and assets in areas of high need. You will build local connections and bring together kinship carers across the region, empowering them to build resilient and robust peer support communities.
You will be confident in building relationships that generate referrals from external stakeholders and in contacting kinship carers directly to secure engagement with local coffee mornings, community, and training events that will help kick-start a thriving peer support group.
As you establish new groups, you will provide support and training to help them lead their groups effectively, and develop their group culture, resilience, and skills to function independently while offering reassurance and support to empower them.
We are ideally looking for candidates based close or within easy reach of our priority development areas in the South East of England which include; Reading, Oxfordshire, West Berkshire, Slough and Hampshire but also able to travel to locations along the M4 corridor.
An essential requirement of the role is to be a driver with access to a vehicle for work purposes.
Key responsibilities:
Service delivery:
- In-person (face-to-face) strategic outreach into local communities including setting up and attending local engagement events.
- Set up and develop sustainable in person peer support groups, initially attending and leading sessions in person before transition to self-sufficiency.
- Working with existing groups that are at risk, closed or need support that need replacing or rejuvenating to maintain DfE service level agreement, in addition to new groups. Targets are subject to change and are not fixed.
- Recruit and retain support group leaders to develop their peer support groups.
- Assist with the delivery of training to support group leaders and groups to become self-sufficient.
- Develop strong boundaries and positive relationships with support group leaders – building resilience, empowerment and community.
- Support established groups (including independent) in your area to access support group leader networks and training (this includes visiting groups in person) to build a peer community.
- Follow (and where appropriate support further development off) the service blueprint to develop sustainable peer support groups.
- Collaborate with the Peer Support Hub team to provide a joined-up and positive user experience for kinship carers.
- Manage special interest groups and regional online groups as required, transitioning to ‘Hub’ team for sustainability and work with partners.
Service quality, development and data management:
- Accurately record all recruitment, contact information and volunteer case management in Salesforce in line with service framework and data protection requirements.
- Ensure accurate data entry in Salesforce to support service performance, evaluation and learning.
- Provide regular reports to ensure targets and SLA are met for the service.
- Support continuous development and improvement of the service (new systems and processes) as required.
Team culture:
- Act in the best interest of Kinship and the families we support.
- Maintain and contribute up to date understanding of kinship care.
- Deliver effective administration with attention to detail and keeping to deadlines.
- Identify and contribute to appropriate case studies to demonstrate the impact of Kinship services and contribute to policy and campaigns work.
- Actively contribute to delivering and evidencing a high performing service.
- Take responsibility for your ongoing continued professional development.
- Work in line with the Kinship values.
Knowledge, abilities, skills and experience (person spec):
Essential:
· Proven experience in reaching and establishing strong relationships with hidden or underserved communities in person.
· Significant experience developing peer support communities.
· Proven experience of recruiting, managing, training and supporting volunteers in community settings with an emphasis on understanding and working with vulnerable volunteers.
· Proven experience of ensuring outcomes and impacts of services are evidenced through high-quality data collection.
· Evidence of developing and delivering training/support to volunteers, based on the needs of service users (in this case kinship carers).
· Strong facilitation skills and essential experience of peer support or user-led groups with charity beneficiaries.
· Proven experience of using a customer relationship management system effectively (we use Salesforce).
· In-depth understanding of safeguarding particularly around vulnerable families.
· Excellent communication and engagement skills, with good attention to detail.
Desirable:
· Lived experience of kinship care.
· Understanding of children’s social care.
· Digital community building (Facebook / WhatsApp etc.).
· Full, clean driving license/own car.
General characteristics and attributes:
· Flexible and willing to travel for work across England.
· Commitment to the values, aims and objectives of Kinship.
· A real commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion within your role and a respectful approach to working with people from a range of backgrounds.
· Excellent written and spoken English.
· Permission to work in the UK.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams. We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us.
Candidate Application Information
Please refer to the Job Description for this role to check that you meet the criteria necessary for the job. Closing date and interview details:
Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm
Interviews: Week Commencing 2024
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated deadline.
We will guarantee interviews to any candidates with experience of kinship care (either of being in kinship care or of being a kinship carer) who demonstrate they meet the essential skills and experience outlined.
Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments, we can make to assist you in your application. If you have a disability, which you would like us to consider, please tell us about this when you apply. Please let us know if we can help and remember that you can request information in large print or in a different format.
We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.