Challenge event manager jobs in Leeds, west yorkshire

About the role

As Spear expands its reach, we are looking for a Development Coach who will focus on two things: equipping young people facing barriers to employment with the confidence, mindset and skills to move into sustainable work, and developing the coaches around you to do the same.

To do this, you will work across Spear Centres throughout the UK - delivering coaching sessions directly with 16–24-year-olds as well as supporting and upskilling Spear Centre teams.

You’ll move between Centres depending on where support is needed. Your location will be taken into consideration in the planning.

Key information:

• Salary: from £27,000 - £32,000 (dependent on location)
• Contract: Part-time or Full-time, 12-14 month Fixed Term Contract, with the possibility of extension; Term time only contracts would be considered
• Location: We’re looking for multiple roles to cover the UK. We welcome applications from across the UK and will discuss which regions you'd be able to practically travel to during the interview process. Applicants happy to travel to centres in North-West or North-East of England, or both, are particularly encouraged
• Closing date: Friday 29th May (we interview on a rolling basis and will close the role early if we find the right candidate)

For more information please read through our Job Specification and Work with Us Pack.

If you require any reasonable adjustments as part of the recruitment process, please let us know.

Person Specification

• A practising Christian, passionate about personally representing the values and beliefs of Spear, and our mission to equip and support young people facing barriers to employment
• Demonstrable experience as a coach, or a background in youth work or teaching, and are keen to develop these skills further
• A heart for young people and releasing their potential, no matter what challenging circumstances they are facing
• Effective interpersonal skills and high emotional intelligence with a sense of humour and fun
• Exercises initiative, highly self-motivated, flexible and a forward planner
• Good administrative and organisational skills, and prioritises workload effectively
• Works well under pressure with the ability to exercise initiative

Position: Communications and Engagement Officer

Location: Barnsley, South Yorkshire

Hours: 22.5 hours per week, 1 day working from home allowance

Salary: £24,454 FTE (£14,870 actual); 5% pension contribution, 33 days of annual leave entitlement (inclusive of bank holidays) pro rata

Contract type: Permanent

Reportable to: Communications and Engagement Manager

Direct reports: No direct reports

Benefits:

• 5% pension contribution
• 33 days of annual leave per year (pro rata) which increases with length of service
• Enhanced sick leave entitlement with length of service
• Enhanced maternity pay
• Individual training budgets
• Discounts on local Barnsley Gyms
• Free parking in the town centre

Job Purpose

At an exciting time of growth and strategic development, Barnsley CVS is looking for a creative and motivated Communications and Engagement Officer to help tell our story and strengthen connections across the borough.

In this entry-level role, you will support how we communicate, connect and engage with local communities, members, stakeholders and the wider VCSE sector. You’ll help bring our work to life – creating accessible, engaging content and supporting campaigns that showcase the impact of local organisations and the difference they make every day.

Working as part of a small, supportive team, you will contribute to delivering communications that inform, inspire and involve. From digital content creation and social media to events and community engagement, you’ll play a hands-on role in helping people understand, access and take part in opportunities across Barnsley.

You will also help ensure that we are quick and effective at responding to the voices of local people and organisations. Your role will be key to supporting Barnsley CVS’s mission to build a strong, connected and thriving VCSE sector that has a positive impact on communities.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone starting their career in communications and engagement, who is passionate about communities, keen to develop their skills, and motivated to make a meaningful difference.

To be successful in this role, you will be someone who already has some experience and knowledge of communications and digital media but also has a genuine interest and passion for the VCSE/Charity sector in Barnsley and is motivated to highlight the work of the sector across our Borough.  Paid working experience is not essential if you can demonstrate an appetite and a commitment to charitable causes and creative communications.

Harris Hill has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Events Fundraiser, to support a charity for 2 to 3 months, covering long term sick leave. 

This role will start on the 18th May, and can be a remote role however, they would like the successful candidate to go into the office on the first week to meet people. 

The role will support the charity during a busy period, whilst they gear up for two £100k events in the next 2 months. These events will walking events, so we'd ideally like someone who has experience of supporting similar challenges/ community events. 

The first walk is require you to deliver the remaining actions of the walk, and the second event you will act as event lead. You will also deliver post events activity and evaluations. 

If you are immediately available, please apply for more info. 

Role Purpose

The Adult Bereavement Counsellor provides therapeutic support to adults- particularly parents and carers- who are experiencing acute or complex grief following the death of a child.

The post holder will provide comprehensive psychosocial assessments and deliver therapeutic interventions working therapeutically using a range of counselling methods, approaches, and techniques, consistent with Level 3 of the NICE psychological intervention framework (2004).

They will also deliver crisis interventions where appropriate to ensure emotional safety and stability. In addition, the role includes designing and implementing a variety of therapeutic interventions across individual, couple, and group contexts, drawing on different models as required.

Main Responsibilities

Communication and Relationships

• Communicate effectively and sensitively within the organisation and with external professionals, including health and mental health services such as CMHTs and GPs.
• Convey complex and emotionally sensitive information to adults with clarity, empathy, and professionalism.
• Manage interactions with individuals or groups who may be distressed or emotionally impacted by information shared.
• Develop and maintain strong, positive working relationships with colleagues and peers to promote effective teamwork and collaboration.
• Model organisational values and behaviours, demonstrating respect, compassion, and integrity in all communication and relationships.

Knowledge, Training and Experience

• Undertake detailed psychosocial assessments and risk evaluations for parents and carers bereaved of a child, determining the most appropriate interventions and levels of support.
• Deliver individual and, where appropriate, couple or group counselling sessions using evidence-based approaches to address complex grief, trauma, and adjustment to loss.
• Ensure all practice meets professional standards and complies with relevant codes of conduct and national guidance.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current research, evidence-based practice, and developments in bereavement and trauma-informed care.
• Provide crisis interventions when required, ensuring emotional containment, safety and referral to appropriate support.
• Support service users to develop coping skills, resilience, meaning making, and strategies to manage distress and ongoing adjustment.
• Integrate trauma-informed principles, recognising the emotional and physiological impact of bereavement and its intersection with other mental health concerns.
• Engage in continuous professional development and maintain an active professional portfolio in line with professional body requirements.
• Demonstrate knowledge and compliance with organisational policies, procedures, and safeguarding legislation, including Safeguarding Children and Adults and the Mental Capacity Act.
• Provide guidance, supervision, and support to volunteers individually or in groups as required.

Analytical and Judgement Skills

• Apply sound professional judgment and analytical skills to assess needs, plan interventions, and evaluate outcomes in accordance with best-practice frameworks.
• Participate actively in team meetings to plan, review, and evaluate care strategies and approaches.
• Ensure the accurate and timely recording of data and information to support monitoring, evaluation, and service development.
• Contribute to the collection, analysis and reporting of outcome measures to support quality assurance, demonstrate impact, inform practice and interventions, and inform continuous improvement.

All Staff

• Contribute to the vision and mission of Child Bereavement UK; whilst embedding the values into your daily work activities.
• Promote equality of opportunity and diversity in accordance with Child Bereavement UK policy.
• Contribute to the overall success of the charity’s fundraising needs by providing case studies, attending events and adding value to the experience of our supporters as required.
• Contribute to the brand and reach of the charity by working alongside our Marketing & Communications Team when relevant press opportunities arise or when required for social media and online content (including the use of photography).
• Work to objectives, targets and work plans agreed with your line manager.

Person Specification

Education/Professional Qualification

Essential

• MA/MSc or Postgraduate Degree (minimum Level 4 or equivalent) in Counselling, Psychotherapy, Arts Therapy
• Registration with a professional body (ie. HCPC, UKCP, BACP, BAAT, etc)
• Evidence of continuing professional development

Desirable

• Certificate/diploma in supervision
• Dual qualification (social work and counselling/psychotherapy)
• BACP accreditation or eligible for BACP accreditation

Skills and Experience

Essential

• Able to make clear psychosocial assessments and managing complex emotional and mental health needs, risk, and safeguarding
• Awareness of the intersection between loss, mental health, relationships and identity
• Strong assessment, formulation and planning skills within a therapeutic context
• Substantial post qualification experience in counselling or psychotherapy
• Experience of working therapeutically with adults (pre and post bereavement)
• Experience of using outcome measures, feedback tools and data to evaluate effectiveness and impact of interventions

Knowledge and Understanding

• A strong understanding and knowledge of relevant psychological theories, therapeutic interventions, and models of grief work
• In-depth understanding of the impact of bereavement, trauma, and loss especially after the death of a child
• Knowledge of child development, attachment, and resilience frameworks
• Sound awareness of risk assessment, safeguarding legislation and information sharing processes
• Knowledge of evidence-based models of counselling and therapeutic interventions including creative and systemic approaches
• Proven ability to design, deliver and adapt psychosocial assessments and therapeutic counselling interventions effectively through digital platforms, maintaining therapeutic alliance, safety and impact when working remotely with adults.
• Knowledge of safeguarding legislations and impact on practice
• Inclusive in approach, sensitive to diverse experiences of grief and cultural expressions of loss
• Awareness of the importance of service evaluation, outcome measurement, and reflective practice in demonstrating impact and improving quality
• Undertake specific projects and other ad hoc duties agreed with your line manager, fulfilling any deadlines, reviews and reporting procedures required.
• Take an active part in the Quarterly review process and participate in training agreed with your line manager.
• Recognise and champion the lived experience of children and young people with bereavement within your work.
• Ensure the health and safety of all colleagues, volunteers and visitors in accordance with Child Bereavement UK policy.

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 27th May 2026 at midnight

First Stage Screening Interviews

You may be asked to attend a 10-minute Screening Interview on MS Teams with the Hiring Managers for the vacancy, to assess your suitability for the role. During the interview, you will be asked two skills-based questions.

Second Stage Interviews

If you are progressed to a second stage interview, you will be invited to attend a 1-hour formal interview on MS Teams with the Hiring Managers for the role. It is our policy to share the role-specific interview questions with applicants ahead of the interview, to aid their preparation. You may also be asked to complete an interview task, which will also be shared with you in advance.

Youth Team Forum Discussion

For roles in our Bereavement Services Team, we will invite those applicants selected for interview along to a discussion forum with members of our Youth Team. This session is held remotely and lasts approximately 20 minutes. The discussion topic will be shared with you in advance of the session.

Bowel Cancer UK is the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. We support and fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We currently have employees working across four nations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re in a privileged position to be able to deliver our ambitious new strategy, On a Mission. There are huge challenges facing bowel cancer patients across the UK and our community needs us now more than ever. We’re building a strong and united team to bring us closer to a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

Job Summary

As the Senior Public Affairs and Campaigns Officer, and with the support of the Senior Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager you will be responsible for the development, implementation and monitoring of public affairs and campaigns activity in order to achieve real change through influencing policy and legislation on health services which impact the lives of people affected by bowel cancer in England, with a particular focus on Westminster.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and at Bowel Cancer UK we are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful candidates may be subject to either a satisfactory basic, standard or enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dependent upon the role.

Location(s)   

This position is open to candidates currently based in Scotland, in line with the role’s operational requirements. The role is home-based with in person attendance to our ‘All Staff Days’ in London (5 per year), team meetings (roughly 6 meetings per year) and occasional travel to other meetings and Westminster as required. Where possible, these are combined with an overnight stay. 

London office: AdviceUK, 83 Victoria Street, London, SW1H 0HW 

Job Title:  Policy and External Affairs Manager (Scotland) 

Employment Type:  Part-time 

Reporting to:  Head of Policy, Programmes and Media 

Pay scale: £40,000 - £42,500 Full time equivalent  (Actual salary £32,000-34,000)

Interview: In person interviews will take place on Friday 29th May at our London office

Working hours: 28 hours per week (4 days/0.8) within normal operating hours. Flexible working arrangements will be considered. (Normal operating hours are 8.00am - 6.30pm, Monday – Friday.) Lunch & other breaks are unpaid. 

Special conditions: Some evening and weekend work may be required for which time off in lieu (TOIL) will be granted. Some travel will be required which may entail some overnight stays.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly encouraging those from underrepresented groups. 

CHARITY OVERVIEW 

Since 1979, AdviceUK has been supporting advice organisations by helping them to be efficient, competent and effective, and by campaigning for a policy environment that supports advice agencies and people needing advice.

We are both a membership body and charity. We support our 700+ members (109 of which are located in Scotland) to provide advice to around 2 million people every year. We are working towards a world in which every individual, regardless of means, is able to access the advice they need to exercise their rights and deal with any legal and social welfare challenges they may face. 

JOB PURPOSE  

To set up and manage our policy and public affairs activities in Scotland ensuring AdviceUK has a strong voice, so we can secure policy change to benefit organisations delivering advice and the communities they serve. The post holder will be responsible for establishing AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, including through developing policy solutions informed by strong evidence and rooted in member experience, and leading effective political and stakeholder engagement which will influence change. They will work closely with colleagues across the UK to join up policy, influencing and communications work. 

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

1.Strategy 

1.1 Develop AdviceUK’s first policy and influencing strategy for Scotland, through consultation with members and stakeholders and analysis of the landscape and opportunities in Scottish policy making. 

1.2 Put plans in place to roll out a specific programme of proactive and reactive policy work to further AdviceUK’s strategic aims in Scotland and represent the voices of Scottish members. 

1.3 Devise measures to monitor the impact of our policy and influencing work in Scotland and report back to staff, trustees, members and stakeholders about the difference we are making. 

2.Policy development 

2.1 Collaborate with AdviceUK members, partners, sector stakeholders and 

beneficiaries to develop clear, concise and authoritative policy positions on key issues. 

2.2 Produce high-quality, well-argued policy materials based on data and evidence, including reports, select committee responses, evidence statements, briefings and responses to Scottish Government consultations. 

2.3 Provide policy input for media statements, press releases and social media posts relating to Scotland, which are managed by the Press Officer and Digital Marketing Officer.

2.4 Develop an expert knowledge of policy issues affecting Advice UK members, keep up to date on the political and legislative environment and identify opportunities to use these to further Advice UK’s strategic objectives. 

2.5 Represent AdviceUK at policy and/or sector meetings and events.

3. Public affairs 

3.1 Roll out a programme of public affairs work including Scottish parliamentary engagement to promote AdviceUK’s strategic priorities. 

3.2 Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across the Scottish Government and parliament, local and decision makers, non-governmental bodies and other relevant stakeholders. 

3.3 Champion an evidence based approach to all Advice UK’s advocacy and external relations work, drawing on research and member insight to inform our campaign messages. 

3.4 Ensure regular opportunities for Advice UK members in Scotland to feed into our public affairs and advocacy work, and regular communications on our impact, to demonstrate how we amplify their voice. 

3.5 Monitor and evaluate public affairs work, including collecting relevant metrics, to report back on our success and inform future campaigns. 

4. Research and data 

4.1 Work with Policy, Programme and Media (PPM) colleagues as well as the wider AdviceUK team to develop the evidence base needed to inform our policy and campaigns work in Scotland. 

4.2 Work with the Research and Policy Analyst to carry out analysis that identifies emerging trends in the Scottish advice world and use this to provide evidence-based policy briefings and specific policy solutions. 

5. General duties 

5.1 Ensure you effectively communicate Advice UK’s vision, mission and objectives to staff, members and external stakeholders.

5.2 Ensure you demonstrate Advice UK’s values and behaviours in all aspects of your work

5.3 Build and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders including staff trustees; members, partners and suppliers 

5.4 With support from your manager, deliver your agreed personal objectives and undertake any agreed development or training

5.5 Maintain a strong understanding of our members and the advice sector more generally, by reading internal reports; accessing relevant data reports; following our social media channels and, where possible, attending member and other relevant events. With the agreement of you line manager, ensure you make time to speak to members and visit their services.

5.6 Adhere at all times to Advice UK’s policies and procedures

5.7 Carry out any reasonable duties compatible with the post assigned by your line manager 

Would you like to work for an established, forward thinking charity and raise vital funds to help support survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence?

Staying Put is well known for the great care we take with clients and employees alike. We are experts in the domestic abuse field and we continue to develop exciting, new services that are breaking the mould of traditional service provision in this sector.

About the role

The focus of the role will be on writing grant applications and competitive tenders to generate new income streams for the charity. These new income streams will allow us to move away from our reliance on core funding enabling us to follow our strategic plans and diversify where necessary to support more survivors.

This role will work closely with the Service Managers to identify funding opportunities which match our capacity for delivery.

The Bid Writer will develop and maintain networks and beneficial working relationships to raise the profile of Staying Put.

The role will involve analysing and researching information from various sources and then presenting these in a cohesive and persuasive way for the required audience. Writing reports and analysis for SLT will be required as part of this role.

Part-time, 18.75 hours per week, over 3 days. £32,900 FTE per annum.

About you

Educated to degree level, our ideal candidate will have excellent written communication skills, with the ability to produce effective grant applications tailoring the content depending on the audience. We are looking for someone with significant experience in a similar bid writing role who can demonstrate success in meeting challenging financial targets. Knowledge of domestic abuse and sexual violence, the impact it has on victims and issues they face, would be an advantage.

You will need to be a self-starter with a professional attitude. Our ideal candidate will be able to problem solve in dynamic situations and have a creative approach to income generation.

As well as experience of working in the charity sector, we need someone who is detail-oriented and has strong time management and organisational skills. We are looking for candidates who are able to work with initiative, have a high level of self motivation with a “can-do” attitude but who can recognise, work with and develop their strengths within a team

About us

With over 24 years solid experience of helping survivors of domestic abuse, Staying Put are part of an exciting and innovative, multi-agency partnership working together with Family Action and Women Centre, to develop a ‘one system approach’ to families affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence.

We are proud to provide vital support and services to men, women and children of Bradford who are survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence. We help people have better lives – and you can too.

We are looking for enthusiastic, experienced, engaged and highly motivated people to join our expanding team.

Be part of an organisation that makes a difference and where 85% of colleagues agree or strongly agree they feel valued.

We want to be a great place to work so have attractive benefits;

• 30 days annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays (pro rata), additional leave on your birthday
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced maternity pay after 1 year
• Healthcare scheme after probation
• Employee discount scheme & wellbeing platform
• Free on-site parking at most sites
• Clinical supervision with external providers

Closing date: 5pm Monday 1st June 2026

Shortlisting date: Wednesday 3rd June 2026

Interview date: Thursday 11th and Tuesday 16th June

Mass Participation and Events Fundraising Lead

We are seeking an experienced leader to drive forward the development and implementation of the events and mass participation fundraising strategy.

Position: CE405 Mass Participation Lead

Location: Home-based, UK Nationwide. However, frequent travel will be required as part of this role (may include team meetings or other work-related meetings)

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Salary: Circa £49,000 per annum (inner London weighting £3,950 per annum/pro rata or outer London weighting £2,457 per annum/pro rata may be applied in accordance with where you live)

Contract: Permanent

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Tax-free childcare, Health Cash Plan, Working Pattern Agreement, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: 5 June 2026 Midnight

Interview Date: 16 and 17 June 2026. Interviews will be held via video conferencing. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you email your application.

The Role

Reporting to the Head of Regional Fundraising this is an exciting role leading our ambitious vision for this area of our team. Worth currently over £2m annually we are looking to grow our income from third party and owned products and events.

You will provide strategic leadership to the Mass Participation team (2 direct reports and accountability for a further 6) as well as playing an active leadership role across the Regional Fundraising Team and Mass Engagement department, contributing to the wider directorate goals and objectives.

You will be an innovative thinker with the ability to review our existing programme, the wider market environment and identify opportunities for supporter acquisition, engagement, and retention. You will oversee a customer-centric approach where supporters receive an outstanding experience and feel proud of their continued contribution.

Key responsibilities will include:

· Developing strategy for events and mass participation products

· New fundraising product development

· Strategic leadership of a geographically dispersed team, embedding a culture of high performance

· Setting meaningful income and expenditure budgets and being able to accurately re-forecast putting action plans in place to mitigate shortfalls.

About You

We are looking for someone with experience of:

· Delivering targets with successful outcomes.

· Developing strategy for events and mass participation products

· Project planning and problem solving.

· Delivering formal presentations and public speaking.

· Budget development, planning and forecasting and an understanding of risk, mitigation and contingency planning.

· Achieving annual income and expenditure targets.

· Recruiting, managing, motivating, developing and training staff and/or volunteers.

· Analysing and interpreting data.

You will need a full driving licence and own vehicle (or can demonstrate that you meet the travel requirements of the role which include travelling extensively across the region/country).

To fulfil the role, you must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

Applications

Please submit your CV, (including details of your current address), and a supporting statement of no more than two pages, demonstrating how you meet the person specification and what you bring to the role in terms of your skills and experience.

You will be able to view the role profile when you apply.

Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

You may also have experience in areas such as Mass Participation, Mass Participation Manager, Mass Participation Officer, Challenge Events, Events Lead, Fundraising Events Lead, Events Fundraiser, Events Fundraising, Regional Fundraiser, Supporter Engagement, Community Fundraiser, Participation, Individual Giving.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People

We are looking for a highly motivated and organised individual with the ability to manage teams, build strategic relationships with employers to grow the Living Wage network, and develop projects that will grow our accreditations schemes and proactively influence change across a broad range of stakeholders in public life.

• Develop and deliver strategies, working collaboratively across the organisation.

• Direct a team and line manage multiple staff and freelancers, supporting them to deliver projects and contribute to the LWF business plan.

• Monitor and evaluate the impact of our work to refine our strategy, deliver projects effectively and demonstrate the value of the real Living Wage.

• Clearly communicate the evidence for positive change to grow the Living Wage movement. Encourage employers and key stakeholders to become champions of the Living Wage movement.

• Oversee accreditation processes, identify and implement improvements to make our work more efficient.

• Build and manage relationships with key stakeholders, policy makers and employers to support them to pay the real Living Wage and seek accreditation.

• Create, develop and employ the tools and knowledge available to inform and advise employers on implementing the Living Wage throughout their organisation.

Remote role with travel across the UK particularly to Birmingham.

What does it take to lead the national voice for special schools at a time of real change?

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – National Association of Special Schools (NASS)

National – home-based, with regular travel across England and Wales, particularly London

£90,000–£110,000 per annum

Full-time, permanent.

About NASS 

The National Association of Special Schools (NASS) is the membership association for special schools in England and Wales. We bring together independent special schools, non-maintained special schools, special academies, maintained special schools and multi-academy trusts with specialist provision.

We exist to inform, support and represent our members, helping specialist schools improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND and secure the place of specialist provision within the wider education system. NASS is known for being accessible, responsive and personal, combining national influence with practical support that members value as timely, human and trustworthy.

This is a pivotal moment for the organisation. In February this year, the Department for Education published a major white paper on SEND reform which will require NASS to both influence national policy on behalf of our members and children and young people, as well as support them to navigate the changes. Our new CEO will need to review our strategy while building on our strong platform and momentum to further deepen our influence and strengthen our internal capacity.

As our next Chief Executive, you will:

• Strategy & Impact: Lead NASS through a period of policy and structural change, ensuring the organisation remains clear on purpose, responsive to members and influential in the SEND landscape.
• Governance & Finance: Work closely with the Board of Trustees to provide strong governance, prudent financial stewardship, robust risk management and clear strategic oversight.
• Operational Leadership: Provide confident leadership to a small, remote team, strengthening collaboration, accountability, resilience and a positive, high-trust culture.
• Income Generation: Oversee budgeting, planning and reporting while developing thoughtful opportunities to diversify income through membership, partnerships, events and related activity.
• Community & Partnerships: Build and sustain trusted relationships with government, parliament, regulators, sector bodies and member schools, ensuring NASS remains relevant and well connected.
• Member Services: Protect and enhance the practical offer to members, from briefings and special interest groups to conferences, webinars, training and peer-to-peer learning.
• Brand & Profile: Act as a credible public ambassador for NASS, helping to modernise communications and broaden the organisation’s voice beyond a founder-shaped model.
• Future Growth: Shape a distributed leadership profile and support a more varied, accessible and engaging approach to membership, advocacy and communications.
• A seasoned senior leader with experience in a charity, membership body, education or public sector setting, and a clear track record of leading through change.
• A strong strategic thinker, able to absorb complex information quickly and translate it into clear, practical direction.
• A confident communicator with the gravitas to represent NASS with members, staff, trustees, MPs, peers, media and national partners.
• A politically astute relationship-builder, comfortable navigating a complex and fast-moving external environment.
• Experienced in governance, with a sound understanding of working with boards or trustees and supporting effective decision-making.
• Numerate and commercially minded, with experience of budgets, financial planning, income generation or partnership development.
• Credible, approachable and resilient, with the emotional intelligence to lead well in a high-profile, remote and sometimes uncertain context.
• Direct SEND experience would be a significant advantage, alongside understanding of specialist education or similarly complex stakeholder environments.

Why NASS?

• This is a chance to lead a respected, member-led organisation with a strong national reputation and a clear public purpose.
• You will help shape the future of specialist education at a time when SEND reform is high on the agenda.
• NASS has a loyal, experienced and collegiate remote staff team, supported by an active Board of Trustees.
• The organisation offers a genuinely influential platform, with strong connections across the sector and with government.

Application

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 8th June 2026

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

This is a grant funded role, fixed term for two years, with the opportunity for conversion to a permanent role should funding allow.

Main Purpose of the Role:

To provide proactive, emotional, and practical support to families and individuals affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) across Scotland. The role will focus on early engagement, wellbeing assessment, community building, and delivery of workshops and events, while ensuring accurate tracking of support outcomes and data.  
 
The successful candidate will also lead on support for young people living with Duchenne during 2 key transition points (primary to secondary school stage and moving into adulthood). They will work closely with the England-based Transitions Coordinator to deliver a joined-up programme of support across the UK. 

Specific Tasks:

1. Proactive Family Support 

• Initiate contact with newly registered families within agreed timeframes (email within 3 working days, call within 7–10 working days) 

• Contact to be made to all registered Action Duchenne members, knows to us in Scotland, to ensure the current support offer is clear  

• Provide ongoing support tailored to individual needs, including emotional wellbeing, physical health, housing, financial security, self-esteem and respect, decision-making, social engagement, quality of life, and access to care 

• Use the Action Duchenne Assessment Form and Action Plan to identify and respond to areas of concern 

2. Transitions Support 

· Lead transition support across all nations, with a focus on Scotland, for children and young people facing key life changes, including: 

· Moving between educational settings such as primary to secondary 

· Transitioning from paediatric to adult health services 

· Changes in mobility and independence (e.g. transitioning to using powerchairs)

· You will lead, but expected to work collaboratively with the England-based Transition Coordinator to ensure consistency and continuity of support across the UK 

· Develop resources, guidance, and workshops to support families through transitions 

3. Wellbeing Tracking and Outcome Measurement 

· Administer wellbeing questionnaires and record scores across key domains (e.g. physical health, emotional wellbeing, financial security) 

· Collaborate with families to co-create action plans and track progress 

· Ensure all data is entered into CRM (E-Tapestry or similar) within the allotted timeframe, i.e. immediately after or during the call. 

4. Community Engagement and Event Delivery 

· Organise and deliver regional meetups (minimum one per quarter) 

· Facilitate support groups (virtual and in-person) for parents, young people, and extended family 

· Support delivery of workshops and events aligned with programme schedule (e.g. music, life skills, employability) 

5. Stakeholder Collaboration 

· Liaise with external organisations including NHS care advisors and clinics, local authorities, counselling services, and other charities 

· Represent Action Duchenne in Scotland and build relationships with local networks 

6. Administration and Reporting 

· Maintain accurate records of all interactions and support provided 

· Contribute to quarterly reporting on activity delivery, capacity utilisation, and family impact 

· Support development of CRM processes and service delivery improvements 

7. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): 

· New contact acknowledgement email: within 3 working days 

· New contact follow-up call: within 7–10 working days 

· Families contacted per week: 12–15 hours of direct contact 

· Regional meetups: 1 per quarter 

· Support groups delivered: 9–12 per year 

· CRM data entry: within 24 hours of interaction 

· Family outcomes tracked: via wellbeing questionnaire and action plan 

· Transition support delivered: tracked through engagement, resources, and feedback 

NB This is not an exhaustive list, the role holder will be asked to carry out additional tasks as required for the Team’s successful service delivery. Such tasks will always be reasonable and broadly in line with current knowledge levels and skill sets.

Please find below the job specification, including required skills and qualifications.

About Adolescent Health Study

The Adolescent Health Study (AHS) (Registered Charity Number 1213337) is an ambitious new UKRI-funded initiative to establish a prospective, longitudinal population study that will generate a globally leading open science data platform and research resource. AHS aims to recruit at least 100,000 young people aged eight to 18 years from across the UK and to follow their mental and physical health and wellbeing over at least 10 years. It plans to collect data through questions and measures; to obtain bio-samples for a wide range of genomic and other high-throughput assays; and to capture linked data relevant to health and wellbeing from participants’ health, education and other administrative records.

There will be a strong emphasis on engaging with and involving young people, schools, parents and other relevant stakeholders in the design and delivery of the study, as well as on including young people that represent as wide as possible a range of backgrounds, experiences and characteristics. AHS will focus on enabling a wide range of research, including studies of the critical biological and social developments that occur during the transition from childhood to adulthood and the determinants of both mental and physical health and wellbeing in adolescents and young adults.

Purpose of the post

The Engagement and Involvement Lead will engage with young people, families, schools and other interest-holders in the process of designing, delivering and ensuring the best outputs from the Adolescent Health Study, and is critical for the success of the project.  We are at the early stages of laying the foundations for this and in this new role we are seeking an experienced and passionate individual to co-ordinate and lead AHS’s cross-UK participant and public involvement and engagement activities.

This is a role that requires high levels of confidence, autonomy, enthusiasm and skill. The postholder will be responsible for delivering the project’s new Engagement and Involvement Strategy, including:  coordinating a Young Persons’ Advisory Group for AHS; developing and delivering AHS public engagement and involvement activities; outsourcing and supervising engagement and involvement activities that are better provided by external partners; scoping and advising on which routes for involvement and engagement activities are best suited to different tasks. 

Main responsibilities

 Planning & strategy delivery

•  Ensuring the study delivers the values and approaches set out in the AHS engagement and involvement strategy
•  Planning, delivering and reporting on an ongoing, regular and important programme of engagement events and activities
•  Reviewing/revising/adding to existing policies, processes and procedures to support effective working together with people and communities (such as reimbursement, compensation, making reasonable adjustments)
•  Developing and implementing appropriate evaluation, monitoring and reporting of Community Engagement & Involvement
• Keeping up to date with good practice & sector advances and sharing these with the AHS team.

Practical engagement and involvement

• Developing methods to enhance engagement and involvement, and helping to build positive relationships with young people and stakeholder groups, including charities, third sector & advocacy groups
• Overseeing day-to-day planning & delivery of a high-quality engagement and involvement programme.  To include, for example:
  • Managing and supporting Youth Advisors
  • Running a standing Young People’s Advisory Group (YPAG)
  • Organising & delivering other ad hoc engagement activities as necessary
• Securing external partners where necessary, and managing contracts and delivery of their work across the UK
• Ensuring that any external parties (e.g. organisations, freelancers, consultants) supporting AHS’s involvement and engagement work have clear roles, responsibilities & goals
• Working with the Head of Communications to develop and manage provision of relevant information to members of the public, teachers, young people & researchers
• Keep clear records of involvement and engagement activities, ensuring results are used to inform the study and the wider research community.

Team support

• Checking for and capitalising on possible opportunities for engagement and involvement to be embedded in the work of the wider team
• Ensuring appropriate induction, training, mentoring and support is organised for the research team and communities involved
• Sharing examples of emerging good practice and impact across the research team.
• Line managing an Engagement and Involvement Officer

Wider

• Contributing to shared learning and future sustainability as part of wider communities of practice
• Acting as a key point of contact for community members and partners involved in the research
• Representing and presenting the AHS study’s engagement and involvement work to the wider research community at a senior level, including in national engagement & involvement networks as necessary.

Knowledge, skills and experience

 Essential criteria

Engagement and involvement

•  Experience developing and delivering engagement and involvement activities with young people and other relevant interest-holders (such as parents, families, teachers and schools)
•  A proven track record or professional background in working with young people – such as in youth work, counselling, mentoring, education, or a related setting
• Understanding and experience of good practice in youth engagement and involvement,  including the principles and implementation of safeguarding, data protection, and inclusive practice
• Awareness of culturally sensitive approaches and methods to be inclusive of all relevant perspectives, including  marginalised and vulnerable groups
• Ability to design and deliver workshops, focus groups or meetings that encourage open dialogue and collaboration
• Demonstrated commitment to youth participation and the meaningful inclusion of young people’s perspectives.

Other essential criteria

• Undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field
• Experience of successful project management and ability to deliver, working independently.
• Ability to manage a budget and report on financial activity accurately
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team, with experience of working alongside and influencing senior level professionals
• Research literacy, with a clear understanding of large UK-wide research initiatives and the various competing demands and pressures the study will face
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills - able to communicate effectively and confidently with a range of stakeholders and to summarise and report key information clearly and accurately, both verbally and in writing
• Confident using online tools (e.g. MS Teams, Zoom), and collaborative platforms (e.g. SharePoint, Microsoft 365)

Desirable criteria

• Relevant qualification in engagement and involvement
• Post-graduate degree or equivalent experience
• Understanding of key concepts and challenges in young people’s health and wellbeing and the transition to adulthood
• Familiarity with health research and data governance frameworks
• Understanding and knowledge of key potential partners across the UK for delivering youth engagement in the sector.
• Experience using digital engagement and facilitation tools for online workshops (e.g. Miro, Mural, Mentimeter, Canva, PowerPoint)

Dimensions

• This has been designed as a full-time role, although part-time work could be considered for the right candidate.
• Flexible working across several geographical locations in the UK.  Travel may be required to AHS locations and partner organisations.
• AHS is a national organisation, and our activities take place across the UK.

Application Process

This post is subject to receipt of satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check and right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available).

Please apply via CharityJob, making sure to answer the screening questions in full.

The closing date for this position is midnight on Sunday 31st May. 

 Interviews are currently expected to be held Wednesday 1st/Thursday 2nd July.

Equal Opportunities Policy Statement

AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. It is our policy to provide employment equality to all, irrespective of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Beyond these protected characteristics, we acknowledge the importance of socio-economic background, childcare and caring responsibilities, educational background, neurodiversity, and any other factors that shape an individual’s identity and opportunities. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel valued, supported, and able to contribute fully.

Values

It is an exciting time for the Adolescent Health Study (AHS) as we establish our senior leadership team and begin to plan the pilot studies. As the senior executive team evolves, the AHS values will be grounded in inclusivity, integrity, accountability, and collaboration. 

Permanent | Full Time | Circa £30,000 + Excellent Benefits

Location: Central Scotland | Community Based/Home Working

Make a Difference Every Day

For more than 100 years, the RAF Benevolent Fund has been supporting the RAF Family. We are a key partner in the Royal Air Force’s mission to look after its people during and after service, ensuring that this service is valued, recognised, and people are supported even when uniforms are eventually shed. We are a national charity with international reach, delivering emotional, financial and practical support wherever and whenever it is needed. Each year, our vital services and support continued to help those serving, families, veterans, and the bereaved, in 30 other countries and in 2024 more than 64,000 people benefitted from the charity’s work.

As an organisation, we encourage learning and development and there will be ample opportunity to learn more about the Royal Air Force, the broad impact of the Fund’s work as well as developing your own skillset. 

Do you want to play a part in what we do?

People are at the heart of everything we do. Together, we:

• Provide personalised support to members of the RAF Family – listening carefully, offering guidance, and tailoring our services to individual circumstances so no one is left behind.
• Improve quality of life for serving and former RAF personnel and their families through life-changing financial assistance, housing support, and help with essential living costs.
• Increase independence by enabling members of the RAF Family to live life on their own terms, whether through mobility equipment or housing adaptations.
• Enhance wellbeing for those who serve and have served, and their families, through mental health and emotional support, youth programmes, and restorative respite and holiday breaks.

About the Role

We are seeking an individual to undertake the dual role of promoting the profile of the RAF Benevolent Funds welfare offer, whilst also carrying out welfare casework. This is a community-based position working from home but covering South Central Scotland.

Post holders will be expected to undertake holistic assessment of need both remotely (over the telephone and online) and when required in person across their region. You will be expected to work with individuals who may have complex and sometimes challenging welfare needs, assisting them by identifying appropriate support from within both the RAF Benevolent Fund and the wider statutory and military charity sector, ensuring that support is made available to meet their need through the case working process.

The successful candidate will have experience of working in a social welfare role supporting individuals and will have strong people and relationship-building skills, as well as empathy with or understanding of issues affecting the Armed Forces community.

This is home based and the candidate must have their own vehicle for use of traveling around the region covered. Occasional travel to London will be required.

Additional Information

· Driver’s License

· Enhanced DBS check

· Must have the right to work in the UK.

How to Apply
Click [here] to submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why you’re the perfect fit, including examples of how you meet the job profile.

Closing Date: Friday 22nd May 2026, 5:00pm.

A copy of the Fund’s Candidate Privacy Notice can be found on our website. As an equal opportunities employer, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. The Fund takes safeguarding seriously, and appropriate background checks will be completed. You can find out more about our commitment to safeguarding on our website.

The RAF Benevolent Fund follows Safer Recruitment practices as it strives to ensure that everyone who comes into contact with the Fund will be protected from harm. The successful candidate for this role will need to be Enhanced DBS checked and prove they have the right to work in the UK. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join the Fund.

The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is a Registered Charity (No. 1081009).

Harris Hill has an exciting opportunity for a Community Fundraising Consultant, to help cover an interim permanent recruitment period of 3-6 months, on a full or part time basis. 

This role is totally remote however, you may need to attend certain events around the country, with all travel and expenses paid. The pay rate is based on a salary of £66500, and can be paid either PAYE, or Umbrella. The client is looking at freelance payments, but this is still only a possibility, The pay will be weekly, and you will also receive holiday pay contributions.

Job notes:

Operating at Head of Department Level

Excellent experience in driving fundraising performance, especially across Community streams, including Sports 

Ability to hit the ground running and work autonomously in a fast-paced environment

Skillset:

Strong people leadership skills to catalyse colleague engagement and fundraising momentum

Comfortable working at pace, bringing clarity, challenge and focus

Able to balance strategic thinking with hands-on team support

Creative approach to supporter stewardship, including senior stakeholders 

Other:

Remote working

Open to parttime 

If you would like to be considered and to find out more, please apply for further information.