Public relations jobs

Family Support Manager

£29,000 pa + Company Car (with an approx. retail value of £23,000-26,000, taxable benefit in kind of £6-£8k) and other excellent benefits

This team covers Essex and the surrounding areas. 

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is going through an exciting time where we are growing, with the aim of reaching more families in need.

About the role:

We are looking to appoint a Family Support Manager on a full-time basis (35 hours, 5 days per week), to deliver a high-quality family support service as part of our Essex Care Team to families in the local area, at a time where they need it most. 

Reporting to the Head of Care out of our Essex base and working in partnership with health, education and social care professionals, you will take responsibility for delivering a high-quality family support service; and will act as the local Registered Manager for the Care Quality Commission, providing management and leadership to the team in relation to all safeguarding issues.

What we’re looking for: 

• An experienced child health, education or social care professional - applications will be particularly welcome from those who have worked in a community environment and those with a recognised qualification in education, health or social care
• A poised and convincing communicator - you will maintain effective relationships with stakeholders including families, referrers, partners and other statutory, private and voluntary agencies.
• Practiced in child protection, information sharing and the rules around data protection - you lead by example, drawing on your own professional experience and working within established guidelines
• A persuasive, inclusive approach to achieving goals quickly and correctly – with a warm and friendly working style.
• Comfortable with a changing environment - you will thrive working at a fast pace and controlling tasks from conception to completion and understand that quickly connecting with people is essential.

What we offer:

We are proud to be a Best Companies Two-Star rated organisation, an outstanding place to work! As a Top 10 Charity, we have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, including:

• Control over your own schedule, based on the needs of families on your caseload, to balance home and working life
• Company car for front line care posts (car P11D value of £23,000-26,000, taxable benefit in kind of £6-£8k)
• Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%
• 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 days to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)
• The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping
• Time off in Lieu
• Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year
• Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand
• Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts
• Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes
• A recommend a friend recruitment bonus scheme
• Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth.

If you’d like to find out more about these benefits and working with us, please visit our why work with us page.

More information about us and our recruitment process can be found in our Candidate Pack.

Development opportunities:

As part of our learning and development Anne Harris Skills Development Programme, we aim to provide a high level of training and development opportunities for all staff, so you are able to perform to the best of your ability, achieve individual and team objectives aligned to Rainbow Trusts strategic plan, supporting staff to be their best and feel a valued member of a high performing organisation.

Our Family Support Teams are given the opportunity to complete a number of diverse training courses in their first 12 months, including but not limited to: Mental Health First Aid, Makaton, counselling skills, introduction to play.

The programme aims to provide a building block for you to individually tailor your own learning and development needs.

About us:

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of time together, providing expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed. For families living with childhood illness, time is everything. Right now, there are too many families coping alone with no support, no time to think, no time to make memories and no time for each other. We believe that no family should go through this alone, so we are here to change that.

How to apply:

Please complete an application form by applying online via teh link.

Closing date:  07 July 2026

Interview dates: Interview Date to be confirmed

For a full job description and person specification visit our website 

Please disclose on your application form if you have used AI for any part of your job application.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early.

Additional information:

Interviews will take place at our Essex Care Team Office, we will only contact those applicants who have been successful.

If you require any adjustments during the interview process, please let us know as part of your application.

There will be a requirement for a full current driver’s license to accommodate team and family need and an enhanced DBS disclosure.

Rainbow Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Having worked regularly in a demanding and emotional environment, within the community, you have a commitment to working in partnership with children, young people and their families, developing, monitoring and delivering service outcomes and building and maintaining successful professional partnerships to ensure the service is accessible to relevant families

Pdap has been delivering services to victims of domestic abuse for 50 years through our emergency accommodation and community outreach services. We are a values-led organisation, and we believe that everyone has a right to live a life free from fear and abuse. We offer safe, effective and high-quality support to all those experiencing domestic abuse. Our flexible, inclusive and responsive services are shaped by our clients, with a focus on ensuring safety and supporting their path to recovery. The Accommodation Manager post will play a key role in the delivery of our mission and offers an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to be part of the continuing growth and development of our safe accommodation services.

Head of Operations Role Profile Role: Accommodation Manager Term: Permanent Salary: 38 - 40k Responsible to: Chief Executive Officer Responsible for: Accommodation Team Leader/Housekeeper & Maintenance officer Pension: 6% employer contribution Health: Cash Plan Health Scheme and Health & Wellbeing Assistance Programme Hours: 37.5 hours per week Annual Leave: 30 days (inclusive of birthday) plus 8 bank holidays
Pdap has been delivering services to victims of domestic abuse for 50 years through our emergency accommodation and community outreach services. We are a values-led organisation, and we believe that everyone has a right to live a life free from fear and abuse. We offer safe, effective and high-quality support to all those experiencing domestic abuse. Our flexible, inclusive and responsive services are shaped by our clients, with a focus on ensuring safety and supporting their path to recovery. The Accommodation Manager post will play a key role in the delivery of our mission and offers an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to be part of the continuing growth and development of our safe accommodation services.
Key aspects of the role
•
To ensure the effective management of Pdap safe accommodation services. We currently have 3 refuge sites across Kirklees and a combined bed space of 23, with plans for further expansion in 2027.
•
To provide regular line management and development opportunities to your team and ensure they are adequately supported on a day-to-day basis.
2
•
To be responsible for accommodation contract compliance and maintain effective relationships with our partners and commissioners in Kirklees.
•
Develop and maintain excellent links with our accommodation landlords ensuring they are kept up to date with any concerns, areas for development and opportunities for growth at each site.
•
To ensure our buildings and support services meet all legal regulations (e.g. Health & Safety/ HMO licencing conditions & Safeguarding).
•
Lead on the implementation and compliance of our Leading Lights accreditation within our accommodation team.
•
To work with the CEO to contribute to Pdap Strategic Planning, including opportunities for further development and expansion of our safe accommodation services.
•
To educate and inform the public and other professionals; raising awareness, increasing understanding of domestic abuse and improving the multi-agency response in Kirklees.
•
To ensure Pdap values are central to delivery of all services including that our homes are fit for purpose as welcoming places for our families to live.
• To ensure that the views of those with lived experience of domestic abuse are at the core of the work Pdap carries out and that they inform and shape the development of new services
Oversight of high quality service delivery
• To develop and implement policies and procedures relating to the accommodation service ensuring they are kept up to date and in line with current legislation.
• Embed accreditation requirements throughout service management and delivery.
• Monitor and evaluate the service, producing accurate data reports as and when required for commissioners, CEO and the Board of Trustees.
• Support the accommodation team in providing a safe, secure and welcoming environment for victims of domestic abuse.
• To ensure that our commitment to inclusion, equity and diversity is embedded across all aspects of employment and service delivery.
• To ensure our accommodation services are delivered and adequately resourced in line with the DA Act and the LA Statutory Duty requirements, identifying any gaps in delivery and working with the CEO and commissioners to address these.
• Take part in the out of hours (back up) on call management rota.
Supporting our Staff • To lead on the recruitment, induction and deployment of accommodation staff, volunteers and student placements ensuring effective cover across all sites.
• To provide regular supervision, support and development opportunities to the accommodation team leader, maintenance officer and housekeeper.
• Oversee training and development opportunities for accommodation staff, empowering them to develop their skills and knowledge whilst being managed with a fair and consistent approach.
• Act as Safeguarding Lead for Accommodation services.
• Promote and foster good working relationships between all Pdap staffing teams.
Working with our Partners
• To represent the values of Pdap in all our external partnership working.
• To represent Pdap at a strategic level including attendance at and chairing meetings, attending advisory groups and influencing how stakeholders respond to domestic abuse.
• To develop and maintain good positive working relationships and referral pathways with relevant agencies and professionals.
3
• To liaise with universities and external tutors in relation to student placements.
• Foster positive relationships with our commissioners, landlords and funders.
Finance & Administration
• To oversee and deliver agreed budgets relating to the accommodation service.
• To assist the Finance Director with setting annual budgets.
• To be responsible for the effective operation of accommodation services, ensuring that all resources, assets and monies are always properly accounted for. Promoting equity, diversity & inclusion
• Regularly review service level accessibility data and update the EDI action plan with actions to address these.
• Actively and appropriately challenge all forms of discrimination.
• Proactively promote equity, diversity and inclusion in all work with clients, ensuring fair access to services for all.
Other
•
Flexible working hours according to the needs of the project.
•
Evening and weekend work may sometimes be required.
•
Annual leave and time off in lieu to be taken at times to meet the requirements of the organisation, and with the prior agreement of the COO.
•
The role will predominantly be based across our accommodation sites or at our main office.
•
As our sites are across Kirklees, use of a car is desirable
•
Please note this post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.
Person Specification
Skills & Experience Essential/Desirable
Experience of managing a HMO or similar supported housing service
Essential
Significant experience in a line management role
Essential
Ability to identify areas of development for staff and support them to improve their practice
Essential
Experience working in Domestic abuse or aligned sector such as substance misuse, housing, mental health, social care etc
Essential
Experience of working in the third sector
Desirable
Ability to work independently and within a team, to plan and manage a complex workload, meet deadlines, problem-solve and respond to unplanned demands
Essential
Ability to analyse data to identify gaps, and actions and write high quality reports and action plans
Essential
4
Proven track record translating strategy into operational delivery
Essential
Be able to demonstrate excellent literacy and IT skills, including case management systems, Word, Outlook and Excel.
Essential
Experience & confidence delivering presentations/ training and talks to a wide range of audiences
Essential
Ability to build and maintain strong partnership relationships with landlords, contract managers and commissioners
Essential
Able to demonstrate strong professional boundaries and maintain confidentiality
Essential Knowledge Essential/Desirable
Sound understanding of domestic abuse and VAWG
Essential
Knowledge of charity governance and financial management
Desirable
Understanding of the full range of housing management responsibilities including preventing rent arrears, supporting safe and planned transitions to permanent housing, health and safety, and the housing, legal and welfare rights of those experiencing domestic violence
Essential
Understanding of commissioning requirements and contract compliance
Essential
Understanding of housing legislation in relation to the delivery of supported housing and HMOs
Essential
Excellent understanding of quality assurance including Leading Lights or equivalent accreditation
Desirable
Commitment to working in partnership and building strong relationships with stakeholders
Essential
Excellent understanding of and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
Essential

We are looking for an experienced and driven fundraiser with strong leadership skills to play a pivotal role in contributing income for Moya Cole Hospice. This is an exciting opportunity to lead, engage and inspire a committed fundraising team across a range of disciplines.

You will grow support through motivating the team to give excellent stewardship of supporters, effective promotion of fundraising initiatives and building a strong and sustainable volunteer network within the community. You will be passionate about engaging supporters and empowering your team to maximise opportunities that make a real difference to the patients and families we care for.

Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will liaise closely with communications and trading colleagues and build strong relationships with staff across all hospice sites. You will partner with the Fundraising Appeals & Operations Lead to ensure robust administrative and financial processes underpin activity, and work alongside the Innovation & Digital Fundraiser to keep approaches relevant and forward-thinking. With the opportunity to deputise for the Head of Fundraising when required, you will be at the heart of our fundraising success, helping to safeguard and grow vital income streams that support the hospice’s essential work.

Job Title

Fundraising Manager

Location

Cross-Site

Salary

Hospice Band 6 – £39,959 – £48,117 pro rata (Competency Based Framework)

Hours

Full Time – 37.5 Hours Per Week

Contract

Fixed Term – 12 Months

Introduction

At Moya Cole Hospice, there’s one thing that motivates us and that’s providing excellent care and support to those living with or affected by life-limiting Illnesses. We’re continuously developing our plans for delivering outstanding person-centered care that is innovative and evidence- based and to ensure Moya Cole is in the best shape possible for future generations. You’ll be challenged, inspired and empowered to help us achieve our purpose and to play your part in making a difference.

The Role

The Fundraising Manager will: 

• Manage a team of fundraisers to deliver growth and diversification of fundraising across community, corporate, events and philanthropy income streams
• Deliver Income in line with the budget as agreed with the Head of Fundraising
• Work closely with the Fundraising and Communication team to ensure activities are maximised.
• Deliver inspiring team meetings, workshops and training to develop the skills of the fundraising team.
• Ensure effective use of the organisation’s fundraising database by all staff to provide effective information and comply with regulatory requirements.
• Build relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• Attend networking events and meetings with potential donors
• Promote effective management of the health and safety of all staff and volunteers involved in fundraising activity, including the preparation of risk assessments
• In conjunction with the Innovation and Digital Fundraiser facilitate the testing of new platforms for fundraising which will increase and sustain income and the visibility of hospice fundraising within communities.
• To work with non-fundraising teams across the hospice to ensure promotion of fundraising activity, excellent supporter care and knowledge of hospice activities.
• To work closely with the Communications team to ensure that supporter stories are shared with the wider public and community events are promoted effectively.
• To plan work to inform and facilitate the achievement of the budget and maintain thorough record keeping in line with Moya Cole Hospice and Fundraising Regulator policies and guidelines.

Requirements

The Fundraising Manager will have: 

• Educated to degree level or equivalent relevant experience; substantial practical fundraising experience is essential
• Significant, hands-on experience of delivering successful fundraising across multiple income streams in the UK charity sector (including community, corporate, events and philanthropy), with the capability to lead across all areas
• Proven track record of leading, motivating and developing teams, including effective management of people processes, to deliver strong results
• Demonstrate strong IT capability, including Microsoft 365 (particularly Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, Excel and PowerPoint), with the ability to produce high-quality progress reports and presentations
• Experience of using Raiser’s Edge or similar CRM systems to support fundraising activity, data management and reporting
• Manage budgets effectively, including forecasting, financial performance monitoring and income planning
• Proven ability to analyse and interpret data, produce performance reports, and use insight to inform decision making and drive income growth, including developing robust strategic business cases and reporting to senior stakeholders
• Fully conversant with legal and regulatory requirements relating to fundraising, including the Code of Fundraising Practice, data protection and information governance, ensuring compliant and ethical practice
• Lead the recruitment of staff and oversee the effective recruitment, engagement and management of fundraising volunteers
• Ability to travel independently as required for the role, including cross-site working and attending events
• Work collaboratively with other members of the fundraising team and wider hospice for the benefit of supporters and the hospice
• Be highly motivated and have the ability to work autonomously
• Take initiative and make decisions.
• Demonstrate energy, enthusiasm and flair to work hard and achieve ambitious targets.
• Build strong relationships with individuals and key stakeholders
• Demonstrate excellent team working skills
• Manage workload under own initiative with support of Line Manager
• Show commitment and motivation to the purpose of the hospice
• Be creative and innovative using technology to maximize income opportunities.
• Demonstrate a commitment to equal opportunities and diversity
• Show a flexible approach to work and be able to work out of hours as required

Key Benefits

• 35 days annual leave rising to 37 after 5 years and 41 after 10 years (inc. bank holidays, pro rata for part-time employees)
• Buy an additional week annual leave (pro rata for part-time)
• Heath cash plan
• Contributory pension scheme up to 7% matched contribution (or the ability to continue with a previously held NHS pension (subject to making contribution’s into the scheme in the previous 12 months)
• Life cover
• Free parking
• Discounted meals on site
• Meaningful work, making a difference in the lives of others
• Opportunity to develop your leadership skills within a structured development framework
• IIP Platinum employer creating the right environment for everyone to thrive and reach their potential

How to Apply

If you would like to contribute to making a difference for a much-loved charity, we’d love to hear from you.

Applicants must be authorised to work in the UK. We are not able to offer sponsorship at this time.

The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS Check at the level appropriate to the role, the cost of which is covered by the hospice. Any post holder within the organisation will be expected to undertake safeguarding training appropriate to their role and adhere to safeguarding policies and procedures. All staff must work in accordance with their statutory roles and responsibilities in relation to safeguarding in accordance with the Working Together to Safeguarding Children 2023, The Care Act 2014, and Prevent Duty 2015.

Timescales

We reserve the right to close and interview prior to the dates outlined below.

Closing date: 3rd July 2026

Interview date: 14th July 2026

Salary: £35,159 to £36,935 (starting salary range)

Working pattern: Full-time, Permanent (35 hours per week)

Pension: USS

Annual leave: 25 days plus 8 bank holidays, 3 well-being days, and a Christmas office closure

Location: Hybrid, flexible working model with an office located in central London. Occasional UK-wide travel for GHE and relevant events.

Reports to: Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation, International)

Purpose

GuildHE is seeking an ambitious Policy Officer to play a pivotal role in the next phase of our organisation’s growth. Working directly with the Head of Research Policy and the Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation, International), you will help monitor, analyse, and respond to policy initiatives within the research and innovation space.  You will support a range of member-focused events and activities to ensure staff in our member institutions are well-informed and supported. This includes supporting the management of the GuildHE Research Consortium and leading on the organising and delivery of our flagship annual PGR Doctoral Festival, helping our members develop, share best practices, and maximise their research impact.

Key Responsibilities 

Policy Analysis & Communication

1. Horizon Scanning: Monitor government departments (e.g., DSIT, DfE), funding and regulatory bodies (UKRI, Research England, OfS, Innovate UK), and other stakeholders for policy updates, funding calls, and consultation launches in relation to Research and Innovation policy.

2. Briefings: Produce concise policy briefings, data summaries, and position papers for GuildHE members and leadership on key Research and Innovation issues (e.g., REF, knowledge exchange, KEF, commercialisation, research culture, open research). Develop high-quality external reports, consultations, blogs and other materials articulating member challenges and opportunities.

3. Consultation Drafts: Assist senior policy colleagues in gathering evidence, analysing member feedback, collaborating with sector stakeholders, and drafting compelling arguments that articulate the unique perspectives of GuildHE institutions.

4. Share Best Practice: Identify case studies across the GHE membership to share best practice internally and externally and drive national conversations about new ways of working and operating in the sector.

5. Policy issues: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of national and institutional research and innovation policies indicated by the Head of Research Policy or Policy Manager (Research, Innovation, International).

Member Support & Consortium Coordination

1. Member Engagement: Maintain regular, positive communication with research and innovation leads across member institutions, fostering a collaborative network.  Support relevant GuildHE member networks, including the Knowledge Exchange, Innovation and Place network, promoting communication, collaboration, and best practice exchange to inform evidence-based policy development.

2. Member development: Provide support for timely implementation of good practice guidelines and associated resources, within agreed budgets. This includes assisting with members' business development initiatives, such as Research Degree Awarding Powers.

3. Event Delivery: Develop and deliver content for events including the GuildHE Research Consortium meetings, the Research and Knowledge Exchange Symposium, PGR Doctoral Festival, the PGR Network for global majority students and sandpits/match events, workshops and roundtables. 

4. Shared Services: Collaborate with other GHE teammates to maintain and deliver our shared services (i.e. research outputs repository, shared postgraduate online training, research impact tracking and researcher development tools) and explore new services in response to members’ needs

5. PGR Students: Develop and deliver initiatives for postgraduate students and early career researchers (e.g., our PGR Support Programme and associated student networks), working closely with the Policy Manager (Student Experience) to ensure postgraduate students are reflected in broader student support policies.

The postholder will also be expected to:

1. Actively support the delivery of the GuildHE strategy.

2. To contribute positively to a small, professional team focused on delivering excellence in their members’ interests.

3. Support GuildHE events and communication activities as appropriate - including campaigns, writing articles, blogs and press releases.

4. Build strong relationships with key stakeholders at HE institutions and sector agencies, including senior leaders, academics, and policy staff.

5. Gather feedback from HE institutions and use this to inform the continuous improvement of our services.

6. Demonstrate a proactive approach to embedding EDI principles within all policy development and advocacy efforts.

7. Represent GuildHE externally on a range of HE sector groups and projects and deputise for the Head of Research Policy or the Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation and International) as appropriate.

8. Undertake any other reasonable duties as may be required.

Person Specification

Core Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships

• Clear, concise writing skills for drafting policy responses, reports, and emails to senior stakeholders with excellent attention to detail.

• Problem-solving, Influencing and advocacy skills 

• Ability to digest complex, lengthy policy documents and extract key themes relevant to GuildHE members.

• Confident digital skills and highly proficient user of computer packages including MS Office and G Suite

• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively, adhere deadlines, and maintain project momentum. This includes the capacity to monitor progress, identify and mitigate potential risks, and proactively address challenges.

• Experience in using data and evidence to enhance and impact assess activities. 

• Facilitation and convening skills would be advantageous 

Core Attributes

• Ability to build professional relationships quickly and sustainably with members and a wide range of stakeholders

• Able to meet deadlines, to prioritise work and to anticipate issues and problems with strong attention to detail

• A collaborative, communicative and flexible team player who is also comfortable working independently.

• An individual who shares our values of equity and inclusion and can translate these values into day to day work and impactful outcomes.

• An understanding of, or a keen interest in, the UK higher education sector, research funding landscape, or public policy.

• To be willing to travel across the UK for meetings with members, stakeholders and events and to work flexibly, when and where necessary.

Ideal Experience

• Knowledge and understanding of higher education policy, working in research and innovation and/or supporting a research environment. 

• Experience of developing policy positions and responses

• Experience in synthesising complex data and/or ideas

• Experience in supporting training and development

Job Advert

GuildHE is a formal representative body, representing diversity in the higher education sector and the widest variety of institution types across the UK.  We are undergoing an exciting period of transformation, evolving our policy approach and member-focused services to significantly increase our impact within the sector and ensure we’re providing timely, proactive support to our members as they address emerging 21st century challenges.  

GuildHE is seeking an ambitious Policy Officer to play a pivotal role in the next phase of our organisation’s growth. Working directly with the Head of Research Policy and the Policy Manager (Skills, Innovation, International), you will help monitor, analyse, and respond to policy initiatives within the research and innovation space.  You will support a range of member-focused events and activities to ensure staff in our member institutions are well-informed and supported. This includes supporting the management of the GuildHE Research Consortium and leading on the organising and delivery of our flagship annual PGR Doctoral Festival, helping our members develop, share best practices, and maximise their research impact.

If you think you can bring bold, creative and proactive energy to our small-and-mighty team to help take us to the next level, we want to hear from you!

Application closing date: Monday 12th July

Interviews: Tuesday 21st July 

Curious about the role? Please contact DanaGamble, Policy Manager for more information

Are you looking for a dynamic and rewarding role working for an organisation with the feminist agenda at the core of its ethos? Then Advance Charity could be the career choice for you!

We are looking for a Specialist Prison & Probation Advocate

Salary: £27,000 - £29,000 (pro rata)

Location: HMP Bronzefield

Hours: 21 hours per week

Contract: Fixed Term – until 31st March 2027

This post is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

Please note: Any offer of employment will be made subject to references, confirmation of the right to work in the UK, and satisfactory enhanced DBS check. This role is also subject to Police Vetting.

About us

Advance is an award-winning and innovative women-only organisation, established in 1998, providing emotional and practical support to women and girls survivors of domestic abuse and supporting women with short-term sentences to reduce offending. We believe in empowering women and girls to lead safe, non-violent, equal lives so that they can flourish and contribute to the community.

We are a community-based organisation who lead in best practice approaches to supporting women in their local community. We achieve this by being available to meet and support women in local settings and at our women’s centres, and by working in close partnership with other agencies.

Our values are to listen and support, to empower and respect, collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

About the role:

The Advance Prison Advocate will support sentenced women facing imminent release from custody, providing pre-release support; focused on Accommodation, Finance, debt & benefits, Family & significant others and Social inclusion.

The Prison Advocate will develop a referral pathway with the Offender Management team within the prison, for women to access the service and will work in partnership with the existing service providers operating within the prison. You will co-design a person-centred support and action plan with women accessing support, enabling you to support them to address their needs and any risks in relation to the interventions identified above including providing ‘through the gate support’. The role will combine a casework- based approach, along with a signposting and advice service for the women in custody.

You will have demonstrable experience and understanding of working with women in a challenging multi-agency environment, ideally working with prisoners and/or their families.

You will build strong relationships with the Pre Release teams to ensure clients are able to maintain or access suitable accommodation, finance, benefits and debt, family and social inclusion support including negotiating terms on behalf of the women. Ensure that interventions are responsive to and meet the needs of women from diverse and minoritised backgrounds. This, together with referrals to wider partner organisations in the community, will ensure additional support needs are addressed post-release and continuity of support exists

A car may be desirable for this role, though not essential

About You:

To be successful as the Advance Prison Advocate you will need the below experience and skills:

Knowledge and experience of the criminal justice system obtained through academic study, experience of working in the criminal justice system (or closely associated social system).

The ability and experience as a caseworker delivering gender specific and trauma responsive interventions which support resettlement and rehabilitation of female adults in the criminal justice system whether in the community or in prisons.

You will possess excellent organisational skills, excellent communication skills and be able to work in a prison environment whilst remaining calm.

Knowledge and understanding of the requirements of managing a caseload including maintaining and updating records, remaining focused on action plan goals, and keeping to deadlines

You will have the ability to complete trauma informed, support and action plans in collaboration with the woman; to support in addressing their multiple and individual needs and enable them to engage with services, which will result in timely and prescribed outcomes being achieved.

How to apply:

Please apply with a copy of your CV and a cover letter through our website.

Closing Date for Applications: 21st June 2026

Interviews will take place on a rolling basis

*Advance reserves the right to close the advert early, or on the appointment of a candidate.

What we can offer you - Employee Benefits:

•  35-hour working week
• An exceptional 30 days of paid holiday per year (pro rata for part time), PLUS public holidays on top (that's nearly 40 days paid holiday per year!)
• Additional days off to celebrate International Women’s Day, and for religious observance and moving home
• Perkbox - an employee discount platform where you can receive free rewards as well as take advantage of savings on clothes, groceries, travel, leisure and more
• Pension scheme
• Enhanced maternity/adoption provision
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee eye-care scheme
• Clinical supervision for front line staff and first line management roles
• Refer a Friend Scheme - £250 for each referral who passes probation
• Organisation wide away days
• One-week paid carers’ s leave
• Career development pathways

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Under the Equality Act 2010, we are required to make any reasonable adjustments. If you have a disability as defined under this act and/or have special needs, please email the Talent Acquisition Team via the Advance website and will aim to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.

Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity and actively seek to recruit people from groups underrepresented in our current team. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay and benefits.

Safeguarding

Advance is committed to safeguarding and creating a culture of zero-tolerance of harm and expects all staff, including volunteers to share this commitment. We believe all individuals have the right to live their life free from violence and abuse and the right to feel and be safe. We have a suite of safeguarding policies, procedures and practice guidance, accessible to all staff, which promotes safeguarding and safer working practices across all our services and activities. When we recruit staff, we follow rigorous safer recruitment practices, this involves carrying out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and identity checks. We ensure all staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training relevant to their role and responsibilities, to empower them to be competent and feel confident in recognising and responding appropriately to safeguarding issues and promote wellbeing.

JOB TITLE: Retail Manager

LOCATION: Alderley Edge

DATE WRITTEN: May 2026

ACCOUNTABLE TO: Retail Area Manager

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

To manage an Age UK Cheshire Charity Shop located in the Cheshire area, ensuring efficient and effective management of colleagues, volunteers, premises, sales, and stock to provide a high-quality retail service in relation to agreed performance targets. 

To achieve the maximum potential of funds for Age UK Cheshire by achieving charity retail standards and community engagement.

To ensure all appropriate standards of security and health and safety are met. To organise and manage the day-to-day operations of the store including effective communication with the Head of Retail and reporting of relevant data.

Main Duties:

1. To ensure that the Age UK Cheshire Charity Shop achieves required standards of performance and agreed sales targets:

§  Maximisation of sales through stock rotation, correct pricing, brand awareness and merchandising, to use the full potential of the stock available to you.

§  To gain Gift Aid on eligible donations to Age UK Cheshire to maximise funds for the charity in line with HMRC guidelines. This includes signing up new donors to the scheme and selling stock accordingly.

§  Responsible for managing, training, and developing the Assistant Retail Manager to achieve pre-set objectives.

§  Support, train, and coordinate the work of volunteers in the shop as required.

§  Working with the Assistant Retail Manager to ensure that the shop complies with all the relevant legislation, trading standards and health and safety.

§  Ensuring stock from donors is correctly received and stored within the shop. Working with the Area Retail Manager to make certain of timely collections and suitable deliveries to merchandise appropriately and safely.

§  Administrative systems and working practices to include daily and weekly sales reports, charity log and financial information.

§  Identify stock which can maximise income when sold via e-commerce, auctions, or other sales opportunities.

§  To plan and prioritise special promotions, seasonal adjustments, and sale events.

§  Ensuring professional signage throughout the shop; to be clear and on brand.

§  Engage with the Retail Operations Manager regularly to create a cohesive working relationship with the wider retail team in order to gain support and advice

2. Maintain a high level of commercial awareness by staying informed of sales trends, stock position and local competition.

3. To work as a member of the wider retail team to ensure that all shops across the region are covered appropriately. Have a flexible approach to days worked and location, to provide support to other colleagues and providing holiday cover for the Assistant Retail Manager.

4. To participate in recruitment, induction, training and deployment of colleagues and volunteers. To work with other organisations when necessary to ensure compliance with all legislation and good practice.

5. To develop and manage “designated volunteers” through appropriate training and development, to ensure that they can take responsibility for the running of the shop in the absence of paid colleagues, including holiday cover if necessary.

6. Implement the highest standards of customer care and service.

7. To maximise income by participating in fundraising and trading opportunities.

8. To take responsibility for the shop to implement shop procedures, as follows: -

§  To act as a key holder at an assigned location

§  To prepare the shop for opening by the correct time

§  To close the shop at the correct time and ensuring the shop is secure before leaving

§  To assist in the acquisition of donations including furniture and to liaise with the Area Retail Manager on collection and delivery procedures

§  To sort, prepare and price stock to in line with charity retail processes.

§  To present stock in the sales area to the agreed standard

§  To recruit, train, organise, supervise, and care for the welfare of colleagues and volunteer helpers

§  To reconcile the cash register, banking and to work to Age UK Cheshire’s financial policies and procedures

§  To complete paperwork as necessary, to include use of information technology on computerised systems

§  To carry out Age UK Cheshire’s policy on Health and Safety of colleagues and customers, including all manual handling policies and procedures for goods and furniture, emergency and accident procedures, trading standard policy, refunds and exchange policy.

9. To use initiative to ensure any issues in the shop are resolved quickly and effectively. To follow the correct reporting procedure to inform the Health & Safety Manager of any problems or concerns.

10. To understand and achieve daily/weekly/monthly/annual targets which will be reviewed regularly with the job holder. To undertake performance related reviews with Assistant Retail Managers as required.

11. To be a role model for Age UK’s mission statement and values and to understand how the role of a Retail Manager complements this.

12. To undertake such duties as may from time to time be reasonably requested by management within the flexible definition of the post.

AGE UK CHESHIRE

RETAIL MANAGER - PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Criteria:

- strong communicator with the ability to deliver team messages, deal with customer issues and resolve problems with firmness and fairness.

- ability to understand and interpret financial information in order to manage shop performance outcomes.

- good administrative and organisational skills with the ability to undertake banking tasks, keep basic records and organise resources in a busy environment.

- the ability to recognise stock potential in order to generate income and the importance of attractive presentation.

- supervisory experience with the ability to motivate, inspire and lead a team.

- IT literate

- ability to travel freely between shops (ideally full driving licence and use of a properly insured vehicle during work hours).

Desirable Criteria:

- basic knowledge of Health & Safety and Fire regulations and ability to identify potential risks to include items that sold under Health & Safety regulations.

- proven retail experience

- experience of working with volunteers.

- general understanding/empathy with the aims of the organisation.

Processing stock deliveries will regularly involve carrying and moving heavy stock.  You will also be on your feet for long periods of time.  On occasions you may be required to work on your own within the shop.

AGE UK CHESHIRE

RETAIL MANAGER - ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The organisation currently operates 9 charity shops and has ambitious plans to open more charity shops which all help to provide funds for the charity to deliver its services for older people in Cheshire, as well as being a location to promote Age UK Cheshire services.

All Age UK Cheshire shops sell unwanted household and personal goods donated by the public and other commercial companies. The success of the shops is dependent upon achieving a regular adequate supply of donations.  Age UK Cheshire shops have established a reputation for selling good quality items, well presented and at reasonable prices. 

The shop staffing structure is supported by volunteer helpers.  They do not receive any payment other than the reimbursement of their exact travel costs from their home to the shop. 

The shops are all expected to trade profitably. Their function is to provide income to the organisation. Each shop is given a weekly sales target to achieve to produce a targeted net profit once rents and other costs have been deducted.

Each shop has a mixture of staff and volunteers covering a 6- or 7-day working period.  The Retail Manager will be supported by an Assistant Retail Manager working flexibly to provide cover at the shop. At times you might be asked to cover other shops depending on staffing issues, so flexibility is a must. Volunteer support is key to the success of the operation and development of “designated volunteers” who can take responsibility for the shop, during some periods of staff absence. 

Location: Shop Base – Alderley Edge. You may be required to cover other shops on an ad hoc basis.

Hours: 36.25 hours per week, worked over 5 days Monday to Sunday.  Hours are required to be flexible to ensure that the shop is staffed appropriately.  There may be a requirement to travel between shops.  In exceptional circumstances you may be required to work 6 days per week. The role will require working over the Christmas period and potentially all bank holidays.

Salary:  £25452.03 per annum (£13.50 per hour).  Overtime payments can be paid for exceptional circumstances where additional days have been worked.

Pension: Age UK Cheshire has an automatic enrolment workplace pension scheme in place for eligible employees.

Leave: 25 days’ leave per annum (plus Bank Holidays) rising after 5 years’ continuous service by one day per year (pro rata) to a maximum of 30 days’ leave after 10 years.

Contract: All new staff are subject to a three-month probationary period. 4 weeks’ notice is required to terminate employment by either side i.e., the employee or Age UK Cheshire. During the probationary period, one week’s notice is required by either side.

Health Care: All staff will automatically join the Age UK Cheshire’s Health Care Cash Plan and will be entitled to receive healthcare benefits.

Criminal Disclosure:  Basic DBS Check applicable for this post.

Age UK Cheshire is a Mindful Employer and positive actions will be taken to ensure that people will not be excluded from working for Age UK Cheshire because of their age, race, ethnicity, faith, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, physical or mental health.

Registered charity no. 1091608