Communications and engagement manager jobs

Bid Writer — The Heritage Alliance

Application Deadline: 22 May 2026

Fixed Term: 0.4 FTE (14 hours per week) for 6 months 

Start Date: June 2026 

Salary: £33,000 FTE per annum, pro-rata (£6600 total for the contract period) 

Leave: 24 days FTE per annum pro-rata, in addition the Heritage Alliance Office closes between Christmas and New Year 

Line Manager: Head of Development and Membership 

Place of Work: The Heritage Alliance Office, Central London, EC4M 
(Flexible working arrangements can be considered) 

The Opportunity

Are you an experienced bid writer looking for an intensive, focused role with a leading heritage organisation? We are seeking a skilled professional to join our "Creating Connections" project team for a targeted 6-month assignment.

This role is part of The Heritage Alliance's NLHF-funded resilience project, specifically supporting Strand C: Future-proofing our charity. You will work with a pipeline of funding opportunities already developed by our professional fundraising consultant to secure vital long-term funding for our sector support activities.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced bid writer to make a significant impact in a short time-frame, working with high-quality prospects and supporting England's heritage sector through sustainable funding solutions. 

About The Role

Key Tasks:

Research & Development

• Conduct detailed research on prospective funders to tailor applications effectively 
• Develop compelling case studies and evidence base to support funding applications 
• Research and incorporate relevant sector data, impact statistics, and beneficiary testimonials 
• Stay informed about current funding trends and opportunities in the heritage and charity sectors 
• Identify additional funding opportunities that align with our strategic priorities

Strategic Bid Writing 

• Develop compelling funding applications to trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies using an established pipeline of prospects 
• Write high-quality proposals for long-term support of the Heritage Funding Directory 
• Create applications for new sector-wide support programmes addressing skills needs and emerging challenges identified in our sector capability-building strategy 
• Adapt proposals to different funder requirements, priorities, and application formats 
• Work closely with the Head of Development to ensure applications align with organisational strateg

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration 

• Work with a professional fundraising consultant to prioritise and progress pipeline opportunities 
• Collaborate with the Heritage Alliance senior team to gather project information and organisational data 
• Engage with relevant staff members to collect evidence, case studies, and impact data 
• Coordinate with the Project Administrator and other team members to ensure consistency in messaging 
• Liaise with potential funders as appropriate during the application process 

Project Support & Administration 

• Maintain accurate records of all funding applications and their progress 
• Manage application deadlines and submission processes 
• Support the development of a sustainable fundraising strategy for post-project continuation 
• Contribute to project reporting and evaluation activities 
• Participate in project team meetings and provide updates on fundraising progress 

Key Competences: 

Experience: 

Essential:

• Proven track record of successful bid writing with demonstrable results in securing funding 
• Experience writing applications to trusts, foundations, and statutory funders 
• Strong background in the charity/not-for-profit sector with understanding of funding landscape 
• Experience managing multiple applications simultaneously and meeting tight deadlines 
• Knowledge of different application formats and funder requirements 

Desirable: 

• Experience in the heritage, cultural, or arts sectors 
• Previous work with membership organisations or sector support bodies 
• Experience with capacity-building or infrastructure funding applications 
• Knowledge of NLHF and other major heritage funders 
• Experience working with professional fundraising consultants 
• Understanding of digital heritage projects and online resource development 

Skills, Abilities and Knowledge: 

Essential: 

• Exceptional written communication skills with ability to adapt tone and style for different audiences, and present detailed information clearly and concisely 
• Strong research skills and ability to quickly understand complex organisational contexts 
• Excellent project management skills with ability to prioritise and meet multiple deadlines 
• High attention to detail and accuracy in application preparation 
• Understanding of charity finance, governance, and impact measurement 
• Ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced environment 
• Strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement and collaboration 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of heritage sector challenges, funding landscape, and policy environment 
• Understanding of digital transformation and accessibility requirements for online resources 
• Experience with monitoring and evaluation frameworks 
• Knowledge of social impact measurement and outcome reporting 
• Familiarity with Data Protection legislation and compliance requirements 
• Understanding of partnership working and collaborative funding approaches

Application Process

To apply, please submit a CV/resume detailing your qualifications and experiences together with a cover letter (to be pasted into the box labelled 'Anything else to mention').

All applications should be submitted through our WorkSmarter vacancy page by 22 May 2026.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted w/c 25 May to arrange interviews. We will also request that shortlisted candidates provide a portfolio of successful funding applications (anonymised as appropriate) demonstrating your track record and writing style. 

The Heritage Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.

Thank you for considering a career at The Heritage Alliance. We look forward to receiving your application!

About the Heritage Alliance 

Established in 2002, The Heritage Alliance represents the independent heritage movement in England. We have a unique role, promoting and championing the sector in all its diversity: 

We influence legislation and policy through our extensive links with Government, Parliament and Sector Networks 

We bring the sector together in our advocacy and working groups, events and publications 

We help our members grow through both member-only initiatives and broader sector support programmes with partners like the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, Media Trust and Clore Leadership. 

Our membership ranges from large bodies such as the National Trust, Historic Houses, Canal & River Trust to specialist charities and community organisations, across the breadth of sector, from museums, conservation, archaeology to science and construction. 

Senior Health Advisor

Contract type: 14 months fixed-term contract, Full-time

Location: The role can be based in London, United Kingdom or one of the following countries, subject to right to work eligibility in the respective countries.

Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Mozambique, Malawi, Nepal, Pakistan

For the UK location, we have hybrid working – a minimum of 40 % of working time is spent face-to-face (London office, external meetings or travel). 60/40 hybrid working at WaterAid means roughly three days wherever you work best and two days together in person.

Salary: Salaries and benefits for different countries will vary in line with the location of the successful candidate and depending on experience. For all country programme locations, we offer a competitive salary package aligned with the local market and candidate experience.

• For all country programme locations, we offer a competitive salary package
• For UK location: £52,468 per year with excellent benefits*

*We offer competitive, market-aligned starting salaries. While most roles are offered at the advertised starting salary, we may adjust this in exceptional cases depending on a candidate’s experience, skills, and potential.

Change starts with water. Change starts with you.

Every day, millions of people live without clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid exists to change that – for everyone, everywhere. Join us, and your energy will help unlock people’s potential and create a fairer future.

About WaterAid

We’re a global federation driven by one vision: a world where everyone, everywhere has clean water, sanitation and hygiene by 2030. Powered by our values of Respect, Accountability, Courage, Collaboration, Integrity and Innovation, we work alongside communities, partners and supporters to make change happen.

About the team

WASH Technical Effectiveness is part of the Programme Support & Knowledge team (PSK), a key unit of the WaterAid UK International Programmes Department (IPD) operating in 17 African and Asian countries. PSK is a diverse and motivated group of 20+ technical specialists and advisors, passionate about bringing sustainable WASH to the world’s poorest and most marginalised people. PSK leads and supports organisation-wide programme learning and knowledge management, collating and disseminating programme knowledge and facilitating knowledge exchange. The team provides technical advisory expertise and fosters and supports internal and external programme and technical partnerships and networks.

About the role

As our Health Senior Advisor, you will provide and coordinate targeted technical support to WaterAid WASH and health programming and work closely with Country Programmes and partners, regional and global teams to drive sustainable change.

In this role, you will:

• Provide in-depth strategic and technical advisory support on WASH and health integration, WASH in health care facilities, health systems and programming, public health, environmental health, and/or other inter-related topics such as nutrition, cholera, neglected tropical diseases, maternal and child health, infection prevention and control, for high quality WASH programming in both urban and rural, low-income settings, including households, schools, health care facilities and/or other relevant public places, incorporating WaterAid’s and the sector’s leading practices, innovations and methods.
• Provide high quality, detailed technical analysis and advisory support to project design, inception, implementation, troubleshooting, monitoring, and/or assessments.
• Co-lead capturing of organisational programme knowledge and experience on health-related topics.
• Support country, regional and global colleagues to develop a consistent understanding and application of health-related technical considerations into WaterAid's core programme work, and in applying relevant guidance, standards and considerations to their specific context.
• Support fundraising, external engagement, and communications
• Champion WaterAid’s commitment to equity, inclusion and safeguarding.

To be successful, you will need:

• Strong technical experience in WASH and health integration, WASH in health care facilities, health systems and programming, public health, environmental health, and/or other inter-related topics such as nutrition, cholera, neglected tropical diseases, maternal and child health, infection prevention and control, across different settings, demonstrated through a progressive career record.
• A relevant post-Graduate degree or equivalent work experience.
• Strong experience in offering technical assistance, consulting, and/or advisory services to empower and to develop capacities.
• Ability to handle highly specialised, unusual, and challenging technical assignments, resolve complex issues in practical and imaginative ways.
• Strong writing ability in English. Experienced in producing practical knowledge products targeting needs of diverse audiences.
• Organised and efficient. Demonstrated ability to drive tasks forward to completion in a timely manner while maintaining high quality.
• Solid IT skills, particularly with core Microsoft Office software.
• Ability to travel internationally up to 30%.

Although not essential, we’d prefer you to have:

• Relevant technical experience in systems strengthening, sustainable development, water, sanitation, hygiene, behaviour change, gender, inclusion, environment and/or other WASH-related topics.
• Working knowledge in Portuguese

Closing date: Applications close 12:00 PM UK time on 19 May 2026. Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 26 May 2026.

How to apply: Click Apply to complete the pre-screening questions and upload your CV and cover letter.

In your cover letter, please briefly summarise the skills you bring to this role, the reason you are passionate about applying for this role and explain your experience (with specific examples where possible) in providing WASH and health technical support and working on integrated WASH into public health programmes in Africa and/or South Asia.

Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application? At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.

Pre‑employment screening: To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Benefits

As a global organisation, WaterAid is committed to creating an environment where you can thrive and be yourself at your very best. Alongside our inspiring mission and meaningful work, we offer a range of benefits tailored to each country’s context and policies. These will be shared during the process (or you may choose to insert your specific country’s benefits here)

Our Global Commitment:

Our People Promise

We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.

Safeguarding

We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).

Together, we’ll change the world through water.

Join us and be part of the change!

Forced Marriage and Honour Based Abuse Support and Outreach Worker

We are looking for a Forced Marriage and Honour Based Abuse Support and Outreach Worker to provide direct support and advocacy to victims of Forced Marriage (FM) and Honour Based Abuse (HBA)

Join an organisation that supports Black & Minoritised communities affected by domestic abuse. Set up in 1979, the charity is a leading provider supporting survivors through their journey to safety, confidence and independence to live free from violence, abuse and fear.

Please note that due to the nature of this role, we can only accept female applicants.

Position: Forced Marriage and Honour Based Abuse Support and Outreach Worker

Location: West Midlands

Hours: Full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Salary: £25,000 - £26,000 (depending on experience and qualification)

Contract: Fixed term contract until 31 March 2028

Closing Date: 20th May 2026

Interview Date: 28th May 2026

The Role

As a Forced Marriage and Honour Based Abuse Support and Outreach Worker you will provide person-centred, needs-led support, advocacy and safety planning to victims and survivors, ensuring they are safeguarded and supported to access appropriate services, including legal advice and assistance with evidence gathering.

You will support applications for Forced Marriage Protection Orders and other civil protection orders, and help individuals to report abuse and navigate the criminal justice process with ongoing emotional and practical support. You will work in partnership with statutory and voluntary agencies to coordinate effective responses and improve access to support pathways.

The role includes delivering and supporting group work, workshops and outreach activities that reduce isolation and build confidence, resilience and independence. You will also contribute to awareness-raising and training for young people, community members and professionals, as well as supporting the development of campaigns and engagement work. In addition, you will participate in a 24-hour helpline rota, assist with policy development, and ensure compliance with safeguarding, health and safety, and organisational procedures and regulatory requirements.

Specific areas of responsibility include:

• Advocacy and Casework
• Quality, Performance and Partnerships Management
• External Partners Work

You will be expected to cover on a rota basis out of hours and weekend on-call for emergencies.

About You

We are looking for someone who has excellent communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively when advocating for service users, raising awareness of FM & HBA and representing the charity.

You will bring with you the following key skills and experience:

• Experience of successful advocacy for women who are victims/survivors of FM and HBA, and particularly who may face additional risks and barriers
• Knowledge of the issues facing women, children and young people affected by FM and HBA
• Ability to prepare effective, relevant arguments (written and oral) and to influence effectively to a wide range of audiences
• Fluent in English and at least one main South Asian language
• Able to be work evenings occasionally when required
• Ability to work independently and within a team, to plan and manage a complex workload, meet deadlines, problem-solve and respond to unplanned demands
• High level of self-motivation and ability to think creatively with a ‘can-do’ attitude that can inspire others

Female applicants only. Our client is committed to equality of opportunity and encourage applications from all sectors of the community. In light of the nature of work, the candidate’s gender is considered to be an occupational requirement in accordance with Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010.

This post is subject to Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. A criminal record will not necessarily exclude you from this post but under the Act, we must have details. An Enhanced Disclosure will be sought in the event of a successful application for this post and therefore you will be required to give details of spent and unspent convictions disclosed above. The charity operates under the Revised Code of Practice for Disclosure and Barring Service.

You may also have experience in roles such as Advocacy, Advocate, Domestic Abuse Advocate, IDVA, Domestic Abuse Advocate, Domestic Abuse Advocacy, Domestic Abuse Outreach Worker, Domestic Abuse Case Worker, Domestic Abuse Case Worker and Outreach, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Junior IDVA. #INDNFP

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

Executive Head of Education
£85,000 per annum | Full-time (35 hours) | Hybrid - London (Clerkenwell)

Charity People is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) for a new Executive Head of Education, a pivotal executive-level appointment at a time of cultural reset and strategic transformation.
With over 20,000 members across 74 countries, IBMS is the leading professional body for biomedical science. Education sits at the heart of its charitable mission, and this role will be critical in shaping the future of professional standards, qualifications, and accreditation both in the UK and internationally.

The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, the Executive Head of Education will provide strategic leadership across the Institute's entire education portfolio, ensuring IBMS continues to be recognised as an authoritative standard setter and HCPC-approved education provider.
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role with responsibility for building trust, strengthening team culture, and leading a high-performing, multidisciplinary Education Department through change. The postholder will work closely with the CEO, Council, trustees, committees and external stakeholders, influencing at the highest levels and playing a central role in the organisation's executive leadership.

While IBMS is rooted in biomedical science, the organisation is intentionally open-minded about background. This appointment is about leadership, credibility and strategic education expertise rather than narrow technical specialism.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership of the Education Department, including quality assurance, accreditation, qualifications, examinations and digital learning.
• Lead organisational and cultural change, setting clear direction and rebuilding confidence and engagement within the team.
• Act as senior lead for HCPC-approved programmes, regulatory compliance, and UK and international degree accreditation.
• Advise the CEO, Council and committees on education strategy, regulation, policy and emerging sector developments.
• Work in close partnership with the Education & Professional Standards Committee to deliver strategy, standards and continuous improvement.
• Build strong relationships with academic institutions, regulators, professional bodies and other key stakeholders.
• Oversee education budgets and ensure robust governance, risk management and performance reporting.
• Represent IBMS externally as a credible and authoritative voice on education and professional standards.

Who We're Looking For
IBMS is keen to hear from two broad but equally welcome groups of candidates:
You may be a senior Biomedical Scientist with significant leadership experience, deep understanding of education, training and accreditation, and the confidence to operate at executive level.
Or you may be a senior education leader from a life science, healthcare, medical or health-related professional or membership organisation, royal college, regulator or education body, bringing transferable expertise, strong credibility and a sophisticated grasp of regulated professional education.

Essential Criteria

• Proven experience in senior leadership, with a strong track record of people management, cultural leadership and delivery through change.
• Significant experience of education, training, accreditation or quality assurance within a regulated or professional context.
• Credibility operating at executive and trustee level, with the ability to influence, advise and challenge constructively.
• Strong understanding of professional standards, regulation and governance in healthcare, life science or adjacent sectors.
• Experience of committee work and managing complex stakeholder environments.
• Strategic thinking combined with delivery focus, sound judgement and excellent communication skills.
• Experience of managing budgets and operating within organisational governance frameworks.

Desirable (but not essential)

• HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist.
• Direct experience of biomedical science, pathology or laboratory practice.
• Background in degree accreditation or higher education quality processes.

Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of professional education within a respected, values-led membership organisation whose work underpins patient care across the UK and beyond. You will join a committed executive team and have genuine influence over strategy, standards and culture during a critical period of change.

How to Apply
Recruitment is being managed exclusively by Charity People to ensure a fair, transparent and externally led process.
For a confidential conversation or to apply, please contact Charity People with a CV and supporting statement addressing the role's leadership focus and your relevant experience.

Interview Dates:
First stage: 5th June 2026
Final stage: 22nd June 2026

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working onsite / this role operates on a seven‑day rolling rota following a four‑on, four‑off shift pattern. Shifts will include evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

Horsham Y Centre provides 24-hour supported housing services offering medium levels of housing-related support for young people aged 16-25 with 50 bedspaces and shared communal facilities. We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and work towards aspirations so that they can move on to enjoy fully independent futures. We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs, relationship building and wellbeing. Situated in the middle of Horsham, the service has strong links with and contributes to the local community.

We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and work towards aspirations so that they can move on to enjoy fully independent futures.

We are looking for a Housing Night Worker to join our team at Horsham Y Centre. You will respond promptly to any reported incidents, accidents, or concerns, carrying out thorough checks and taking appropriate action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone on site. You will also take a proactive approach to preventing anti‑social behaviour, working closely with support staff to maintain a positive environment. In addition, you will carry out one‑to‑one interventions with young people who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or who require medical assistance, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate support.

What you will be doing - this is more than a night shift role - it’s an opportunity to make a real difference, working as part of a dedicated team committed to helping young people grow and develop.

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Safety and security

• Provide a friendly, professional presence and ensure the building remains safe, secure and welcoming at night.
• Support resident wellbeing by upholding health and safety procedures, house rules and tenancy requirements.
• Monitor risks and respond to incidents calmly and appropriately, recording and reporting to the relevant teams. 

Resident engagement

• Welcome residents and offer informal, responsive assistance to help them develop confidence, independence and life skills.
• Encourage residents to share their views and engage with available services and opportunities.
• Assist with evening groupwork sessions that promote learning, wellbeing and positive development.

Administration and housekeeping

• Complete essential admin tasks including data entry, case notes and record management.
• Carry out routine health and safety, compliance and room checks.
• Log maintenance issues to ensure the building remains safe and well maintained.

General

• Work collaboratively on a four‑on, four‑off rota, providing consistent, non‑judgemental support overnight.
• Maintain a calm, professional approach and handle challenging situations effectively.
• Take part in ongoing training and reflective practice to support psychologically informed care.

This role involves lone working, so you will need to be confident in decision‑making and in following procedures. However, before joining the rota, you will have the opportunity to get to know the team and services, take part in a full induction, complete the required training, and undertake shadow shifts to ensure you feel confident, supported, and well prepared.

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your skills and experiences may be more transferable than you think, and you could be exactly the person we are looking for.

About you - this is a dynamic role for someone passionate, empathetic and committed to young people’s development.

Experience and knowledge

• Experience in a customer‑facing role, staying calm and solutions‑focused during challenging situations.
• An understanding of the needs and experiences of young people and adults at risk.
• Awareness of trauma and the ability to work in a strengths‑based, compassionate way.
• Confidence in accurate record‑keeping, including incident logs and health and safety checks.
• Basic safeguarding knowledge and the ability to maintain professional boundaries (training provided).

Skills and abilities

• Clear verbal and written communication, with accurate handovers for day‑time colleagues.
• Strong interpersonal skills, able to build positive relationships.
• Comfortable lone‑working, using initiative, and working as part of a team.
• Competent IT skills, including Microsoft 365 and basic system navigation (training provided).
• Ability to de‑escalate situations and manage challenging behaviour calmly.
• You will bring an awareness of the challenges young people face and the ability to connect with them positively 

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 17 May 2026 at midnight. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity check.