First job jobs

In Work Support Worker
Salary: £15 p/h
Place of work: Various London locations
Contract Period: Various hours as needed 

About the Organisation

Action on Disability (AoD), founded in 1979, is one of London’s leading Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs).  As we believe in the Social Model of Disability, our values and principles embrace inclusive and accessible ways of working, seeking co-production and co-design from our Disabled members and encouraging and respecting diversity.

AoD is a medium sized charity with a Board of Trustees, 24 staff, a strong pool of casual staff and volunteers, including many with lived experience of disability – all of whom are passionate about removing the barriers faced by Disabled people.

AoD provides four key services: Youth, Employment, Welfare Benefits, and Independent Living.

AoD’s Employment Service

The Action on Disability Employment Service is setting the agenda for disability employment across London with great results. We are at the forefront of setting up and delivering supported internships for Disabled young people. We provide an holistic service from management and employer engagement to hands-on, supervised support work across all sites.

Our Employment Service welcomes external referrals and offers support for Disabled people via our in-work support service.

We are looking to recruit several support workers to expand our pool.

The Post

The purpose of the job is to provide face to face support work and guidance to Disabled people within their workplaces. The post holder will provide the necessary support and encouragement to enable them to be successful, which will lead, eventually, to independence. The post holder will also work closely with, and take guidance from, their supervisor within AoD. They will work closely with the employer of the Disabled person to ensure the employer has the skills and confidence to manage and train their intern/employee.

Main duties and responsibilities

• To work face-to-face with individual Disabled people, under the guidance of their AoD Supervisor, in accordance with their personalised support plans
• To be fully cognitive of the workplace of the Disabled person to identify the requirements of key tasks
• To follow bespoke Support Plans plans which will enable the Disabled person to fulfil their role to meet the requirements of the employer
• To provide weekly feedback to their AoD Supervisor to ensure continued progression, identifying new areas in need of support, and advising on the amendment of support plans accordingly
• Together with their Supervisor, to plan, discuss and implement a timely reduction of support as and when the Disabled individual becomes familiar and competent with their role
• To negotiate note disability-related reasonable adjustments required for individuals and feedback to their AoD Supervisor
• To liaise with managers to discuss individual progress, respond to issues and implement next steps

Organisational responsibilities

• To work in accordance with Action on Disability’s Aims, Objectives and Values
• To comply with all organisational and departmental procedures
• To ensure safe, fair and responsible working practices, specifically AoD’s Health & Safety, Equal Opportunities, Safeguarding and Confidentiality policies
• To promote the work of AoD and the Social Model of Disability
• To keep accurate records and provide monitoring statistics and evaluation information as required for internal and external purposes
• To participate in, and actively contribute to, individual Supervision, training, team and organisational meetings
• To work flexibly, being prepared to perform other duties commensurate with the role, which may include new areas of operation
• Any other task as directed by AoD management

Person Specification

Successful applicants must be:

• Professional
• Positive
• Motivated
• Dependable
• Flexible
• Patient
• Empathetic

Essential

• Successful applicants must have:
• Experience of disability
• Experience of training, education or employment support delivery
• Maths and English to GCSE Grade C or equivalent
• Be willing and able to undertake any specific training required for the role
• An understanding of the needs of employers and ability to articulate the benefits of having a diverse workforce in businesses
• An understanding of the Social Model of Disability and its practical application
• Ability and willingness to learn and carry out a variety of employment tasks to support the Disabled person
• Evidenced experience of success in building strong and positive relationships with a variety of people and organisations
• Demonstrable problem-solving skills and experience
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a diverse population
• Good organisational skills with an ability to keep accurate records
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint and the internet
• Be willing and able to travel easily within London
• To be available for work at unsocial hours according to the demands of the work (occasionally)

Desirable

• Support Work qualification or equivalent is preferred but not mandatory
• An understanding of pan disability and employment

Deadline: Ongoing. We recruit for this role on a rolling basis with regular interview days.

If you would like to apply and find out more about this position, please click the apply button to be directed to our website. 

We welcome applicants from all walks of life.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from Disabled people and people with long term health and mental conditions. We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme in that we will guarantee an interview to all Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post. Please state in a cover letter if you wish us to consider you for this guaranteed interview scheme.

AoD is a Living Wage Foundation registered employer and all of our employees, casual workers and contractors are paid above the London Living Wage.

N.B: We are not able to offer sponsorship for this role.

No agencies please.

The role focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships with partner organisations, supporting firms throughout their participation in the Suicide Prevention Action Lab (SPAL) programme, and ensuring they remain motivated, accountable, and on track to deliver their commitments.

We’re bringing together six representatives from financial services firms to explore ways to improve support for customers experiencing suicidality. The Partnerships Officer will play a key role in supporting the delivery of the SPAL, working closely with participating firms to assist them in developing, testing, and implementing practical changes to help prevent suicidality. 

The Partnerships Officer will manage relationships with multiple firms simultaneously, each at a different stage in their journey to testing and embedding new and improved approaches to identifying and supporting customers experiencing or at risk of suicidality. Success in the role requires excellent organisation, persistence, and relationship management skills, alongside the ability to understand the challenges and competing demands faced by participating firms and to support them in maintaining momentum and delivering results.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their skills in partnership management, stakeholder engagement and influencing change within organisations. The role offers significant autonomy and responsibility, with opportunities to build expertise, lead stakeholder relationships, and contribute directly to the SPAL’s growth and impact.

While the role will predominantly focus on the SPAL, the postholder will also contribute to the continued development of the wider Action Labs research-to-impact offer.

Key tasks in the role will include:

• Acting as the primary day-to-day contact for participating firms, building strong and productive relationships throughout their involvement in the SPAL. Coordinating and supporting consultancy and coaching meetings with participating firms.
• Developing and maintaining a strong working knowledge of emerging Action Lab research insights. Applying research insights in discussions with firms, supporting them in translating evidence into new or improved tools, processes and communications.
• Supporting a portfolio of firm representatives simultaneously, ensuring each remains engaged, motivated and on track to deliver against agreed objectives and milestones.
• Developing a strong understanding of participating firms' priorities, pressures and operational realities, using this insight to provide effective support.
• Building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders beyond participating firms, and developing strong internal relationships, proactively sharing insights and intelligence from Action Labs to maximise our organisational impact.
• Identifying opportunities to raise the profile of the Action Lab research-to-impact model, including relevant conferences, speaking opportunities and awards.

Calcot, Reading 

£13.87 per hour (£15.26 at weekends)

Contract Type: Full Time (42 hours per week)

Working Pattern: Days, Weekends

Hours: Three consecutive days on with three consecutive days off, 6 weeks rolling rota

You must hold either The Care Certificate or a minimum of Level 2 NVQ in Health and Social Care.

Friends of the Elderly (FotE) is a not-for-profit charity dedicated to providing excellent care with a family feel, we have been supporting older people for over 120 years. The charity provides care home and day care services for older people, as well as grants for older people in financial difficulty.

About Friends Place, Calcot

Recently opened in July 2025, Friends Place, Calcot is more than just a care home - it is a vibrant, welcoming community designed to provide exceptional residential, dementia, and respite care.

Run by Friends of the Elderly, where we pride ourselves on delivering personalised, compassionate care in a state-of-the-art facility.

Located in the heart of Calcot, Reading, our home features:

· A cinema for residents to enjoy movie nights and entertainment.

· A stylish salon offering professional pampering.

· A peaceful tea room for reflection or a chat with friends.

· A vibrant bar for socialising and relaxation.

The modern facilities are designed to create a warm and homely environment where residents feel safe, valued, and supported.

We are recruiting for a Care Assistant to join the team.

Joining us as a Care Assistant, you will help our residents with various tasks including:

· Personal care.

· Companionship.

· Meal preparation.

· Mobility.

· Keeping care records up to date.

We would like our Care Assistant to join us with at least 6 months experience in a care home environment. Empathetic and respectful, self-motivated and flexible, you will be a team player who is always willing to go the extra mile, enabling our residents to lead fulfilled lives.

We would like you to have a real passion for care. Someone who sees this as an opportunity to build solid relationships with our residents, to allow them to live well in later life by putting them at the heart of all that you do.

This isn’t just a job; it’s about making a difference to older people’s lives every day.

Why Join Friends of the Elderly?

· Heritage of Care: Work with a trusted organisation backed by over a century of expertise.

· Non-Profit Mission: Be part of a charity that prioritises people, not profit. While we take a commercial approach to our work, we are not for profit and we are committed to our charitable values.

· State-of-the-Art Facilities: Lead a cutting-edge care home designed for comfort and community.

· Professional Development: Access training and career development opportunities.

Make Your Mark

This is a unique opportunity to shape the culture and success of a brand-new care home, leaving a lasting impact on residents’ lives and the community.

In return for your hard work and dedication, you can look forward to a wealth of benefits:

· Group Pension Plan, with a 6% contribution from us.

· Generous annual leave.

· Wellbeing support through various initiatives, including an employee assistance programme.

· Learning, development, and progression opportunities.

· Monthly prize draw, with 3 prizes to be won.

· Retail discount schemes to make your salary go further.

· Access to loans at affordable rates, saving directly from salary and advance pay already earned.

· Health cash plans for you and your family.

· Cycle to work scheme.

· Long service awards that increase with length of service.

· Refer a friend to work for us and receive a £200 bonus.

· Uniforms are provided

· Free DBS checks.

Safeguarding:

Keeping everyone safe is one of the charity’s core values and is central to everything we do at Friends of the Elderly. All staff follow our Safeguarding Policy & Procedures and, if they see or suspect abuse, we expect staff to report it straight away.

Criminal record checks:

As this role involves a regulated activity, successful applicants will undertake an enhanced DBS check, with barred lists check, and any offer of employment will be dependent on a satisfactory outcome.

Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar a person from working for us, this will depend on the circumstances and background of any record.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:

Friends of the Elderly strives to treat all staff equally and be a diverse and inclusive workplace, where everyone can be themselves and everyone accepts each other’s differences. A charity where everyone is equal but definitely not the same.

Our ambition is to ensure equality and celebrate diversity, all working together to create an inclusive workplace, which attracts and retains the best people. People that care and can make a difference.

We currently do not provide sponsorship but we welcome applications from those who have a right work in the UK.

Don’t delay in sending your application as we may need to close the vacancy early if we manage to appoint before the advertising closing date. We interview applicants as they apply.

Care Assistant (Nights) 

Calcot, Reading 

£15.26 per hour

Contract Type: Full Time (42 hours per week)

Working Pattern: Nights

Hours: 12 hour shifts, 8 pm to 8 am working on rolling rota of 3 consecutive days on and 3 consecutive days off

You must hold either The Care Certificate or a minimum of Level 2 NVQ in Health and Social Care.

Friends of the Elderly (FotE) is a not-for-profit charity dedicated to providing excellent care with a family feel, we have been supporting older people for over 120 years. The charity provides care home and day care services for older people, as well as grants for older people in financial difficulty.

About Friends Place, Calcot

Recently opened in July 2025, Friends Place, Calcot is more than just a care home - it is a vibrant, welcoming community designed to provide exceptional residential, dementia, and respite care.

Run by Friends of the Elderly, where we pride ourselves on delivering personalised, compassionate care in a state-of-the-art facility.

Located in the heart of Calcot, Reading, our home features:

· A cinema for residents to enjoy movie nights and entertainment.

· A stylish salon offering professional pampering.

· A peaceful tea room for reflection or a chat with friends.

· A vibrant bar for socialising and relaxation.

The modern facilities are designed to create a warm and homely environment where residents feel safe, valued, and supported.

We are recruiting for a Care Assistant to join the team.

Joining us as a Care Assistant, you will help our residents with various tasks including:

· Personal care.

· Companionship.

· Meal preparation.

· Mobility.

· Keeping care records up to date.

We would like our Care Assistant to join us with at least 6 months experience in a care home environment. Empathetic and respectful, self-motivated and flexible, you will be a team player who is always willing to go the extra mile, enabling our residents to lead fulfilled lives.

We would like you to have a real passion for care. Someone who sees this as an opportunity to build solid relationships with our residents, to allow them to live well in later life by putting them at the heart of all that you do.

This isn’t just a job; it’s about making a difference to older people’s lives every day.

Why Join Friends of the Elderly?

· Heritage of Care: Work with a trusted organisation backed by over a century of expertise.

· Non-Profit Mission: Be part of a charity that prioritises people, not profit. While we take a commercial approach to our work, we are not for profit and we are committed to our charitable values.

· State-of-the-Art Facilities: Lead a cutting-edge care home designed for comfort and community.

· Professional Development: Access training and career development opportunities.

Make Your Mark

This is a unique opportunity to shape the culture and success of a brand-new care home, leaving a lasting impact on residents’ lives and the community.

In return for your hard work and dedication, you can look forward to a wealth of benefits:

· Group Pension Plan, with a 6% contribution from us.

· Generous annual leave.

· Wellbeing support through various initiatives, including an employee assistance programme.

· Learning, development, and progression opportunities.

· Monthly prize draw, with 3 prizes to be won.

· Retail discount schemes to make your salary go further.

· Access to loans at affordable rates, saving directly from salary and advance pay already earned.

· Health cash plans for you and your family.

· Cycle to work scheme.

· Long service awards that increase with length of service.

· Refer a friend to work for us and receive a £200 bonus.

· Uniforms are provided

· Free DBS checks.

Safeguarding:

Keeping everyone safe is one of the charity’s core values and is central to everything we do at Friends of the Elderly. All staff follow our Safeguarding Policy & Procedures and, if they see or suspect abuse, we expect staff to report it straight away.

Criminal record checks:

As this role involves a regulated activity, successful applicants will undertake an enhanced DBS check, with barred lists check, and any offer of employment will be dependent on a satisfactory outcome.

Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar a person from working for us, this will depend on the circumstances and background of any record.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:

Friends of the Elderly strives to treat all staff equally and be a diverse and inclusive workplace, where everyone can be themselves and everyone accepts each other’s differences. A charity where everyone is equal but definitely not the same.

Our ambition is to ensure equality and celebrate diversity, all working together to create an inclusive workplace, which attracts and retains the best people. People that care and can make a difference.

We currently do not provide sponsorship but we welcome applications from those who have a right work in the UK.

Don’t delay in sending your application as we may need to close the vacancy early if we manage to appoint before the advertising closing date. We interview applicants as they apply.

Deputy Area Manager

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Deputy Area Manager

Homebased in Central or West Scotland with travel as necessary within the region

£45,651 per annum (increasing to £50,723 after 18 months) + £1,500 per annum Out of Hours Rota Allowance + £750 per annum Homeworking Allowance

35 hours | Mon–Fri | Permanent

Why Join TACT?

• Top 5 UK Charity to Work For (2024)
• 97% proud to work at TACT | 92% love working here
• Not-for-profit – every surplus reinvested into children, carers & staff
• Children’s voices shape every decision, system, and improvement we make at TACT.
• Flexible homeworking from day one
• Trauma-informed, values-led organisation

Benefits

• 31 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays
• Progression to salary target rate upon completion of 18 months of service.
• 45p per mile business mileage
• Stakeholder Pension (salary sacrifice)
• Family-friendly & flexible working policies
• Volunteer days

Wellbeing & Non-Salary Benefits

• Homeworking IT bundle + home office loan
• HelpHand EAP (24/7 GP, CBT, physio, mental health support)
• Over 35 hours a year of access to on line wellbeing events and team wellbeing days
• Menopause Policy + free clinician appointments
• Regular team wellbeing & connection events

Training & Career Development

• Excellent learning & development programme
• Opportunity to grow therapeutic & trauma-informed practice
• Supportive leadership and clear career progression pathways
• Involvement in innovative projects (e.g. TACT Connect, Health, Education)

The Role

You’ll work closely with foster carers and social work colleagues to deliver high-quality, trauma-informed support and improve outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities:

• Practice responsibility for areas of TACT Scotland, including managing Social Work staff, Students, Placement team, Admin Team and Children’s Support Workers.
• In conjunction with the Fostering Service Manager to ensure the recruitment, selection, supervision, performance reviews and PDP’s of supervisees (in conjunction with the Fostering Service Manager).
• Undertake HR related matters as required in liaison with TACT’s People Department (in conjunction with the Fostering Service Manager).
• Support the area management team in planning and managing appropriate social work, outreach, out of hours support and administrative arrangements.
• Assist the Fostering Service Manager in the management and leadership of the team, using a trauma-informed therapeutic approach.
• Supporting the co-ordination of out of hours rotas and a daily duty rota.
• Prepare and contribute to regular team and management meetings and development of  the service including business and practice planning.

What You’ll Need

• Relevant Social Work Qualification 
• Scottish Social Services Council     Registration
• Post qualifying experience which should include at least 2 years in family placement work or post qualifying experience in other childcare settings which must include statutory
• Experience in working with and on behalf of children, using a trauma-informed therapeutic approach
• A good working knowledge of relevant child-care and fostering legislation 
• A good working knowledge of child protection / safeguarding children procedures
• Ability to assess and support families and match their skills with childrenneeding placements.
• Ability to write clear reports and maintain clear case records.
• Enhanced PVG (processed by TACT)

Travel

• Homebased role
• Monthly face-to-face meetings in Scotland
• Additional travel for training, team and carer events

Key Dates

• Closing Date: Monday 19th July 2026 (midnight)
• Interviews: Wednesday 29th July 2026 (Microsoft Teams)

Safeguarding Commitment

Safeguarding is everyone’s business, and TACT believes that only the people with the right skills and values should work in social work.  As part of TACT’s commitment to safeguarding, we properly examine the skills, experience, qualifications, and values of potential staff in relation to our work with vulnerable young children.  We use rigorous and consistent recruitment approaches to help safeguard TACT’s young people.  All our staff are expected to work in line with TACT’s safeguarding policies. 

Apply early - we may close the role if we receive a high volume of applications.

Support Worker

We're looking for a passionate, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Mental Health Social Care Service in Tower Hamlets

£20,010.00 per annum, working 26 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
* Free DBS
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

The working pattern for this role is: - 2x 13 hour shifts per week, including weekends and bank holidays
Needs to be available for Friday team meetings

What you'll do:
* Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and creating a positive
* atmosphere
* Working proactively with other members of the team to handle the service caseload and
* administrative responsibilities
* Conducting key work sessions as required, that are innovative and engaging in order to
* achieve individual goals
* Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within
* an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
* Providing support with daily living activities, including practical assistance to support
* customers to independent living e.g. budgeting, cooking, establishing a night time routine
* Supporting customers to maintain a healthy environment and where appropriate assisting
* them to clean their accommodation and maintain good personal hygiene
* Assisting in the recording and reporting of customer incidents
* Managing customer referrals, completing assessments and obtaining and maintaining all
* relevant paperwork

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
* Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage
* customer involvement
* Approachable and open behaviour
* Prefers working as part of a group or team
* Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
* Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
* Flexible
* Open to feedback and self development
* Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments
* Is confident with high levels of self-esteem
* Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication
* Is essentially customer-focused
* Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude
* Ability to cope positively with challenging and diverse behaviours

What you'll bring:
Essential
* NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent with some or equivalent sector work experience

Desirable
* Experience working in a mental health setting or service.

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
* We focus on Excellence and innovation.
* We are Caring and Compassionate.
* We are Inclusive and Trusted.
* We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see our website for full Job Description

We're looking for a passionate, compassionate and resilient Waking Night Support Worker to join our Mental Health Social Care Service in Richmond.

£23,203.00 per annum, working 30 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
* Free DBS
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

Night Support Workers enable people with particular needs to manage their tenancies and live independent lives of their choosing in the community. Night Support Workers are responsible for ensuring continuity of a support service at night and for keeping customers and the building safe.

The working pattern for this role is: -
Week 1
M10, TOff, WOff, TOff, F10, S10, S0ff

Week 2
MOff, T10, W10, TOff, FOff, SOff, S10

What you'll do:
- Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and creating a positive atmosphere
- Working proactively with other members of the team to handle the service caseload and administrative responsibilities
- Conducting key work sessions as required, that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
- Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
- Providing support with daily living activities, including practical assistance to support customers to independent living e.g. budgeting, cooking, establishing a night time routine
- Supporting customers to maintain a healthy environment and where appropriate assisting them to clean their accommodation and maintain good personal hygiene
- Assisting in the recording and reporting of customer incidents
- Managing customer referrals, completing assessments and obtaining and maintaining all relevant paperwork Developing productive relationships with partner organisations to improve service outcomes
- Adhering to lone working protocols and maintaining high levels of awareness in relation to the health and safety of yourself and colleagues

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
- Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
- Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour
- Prefers working as part of a group or team
- Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
- Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organized
- Able to apply the right balance of care and support dependant on the needs of the customer

What you'll bring:
Essential
- NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent with little or some previous relevant sector work experience

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
* We focus on Excellence and innovation.
* We are Caring and Compassionate.
* We are Inclusive and Trusted.
* We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see our website for full Job description on our website

Pathway Manager

Be the difference for young people facing homelessness.

Location: North Tyneside

Salary: £40,132 per annum

Closing date: 26 July, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Pathway Manager

Ready to lead services that change lives?

We are looking for an experienced and inspiring Pathway Manager to lead our accommodation and outreach services for young people aged 16–25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. You'll lead high-performing teams, drive service excellence, and build strong partnerships to help young people move towards independence and brighter futures.

We're seeking a confident manager with experience leading support services, safeguarding vulnerable young people, managing risk, and delivering high-quality, compliant services. You'll be a skilled decision-maker, an effective people leader, and a collaborative professional who is passionate about achieving outstanding outcomes.

Join us where your leadership will make a real difference every day. In return, you'll receive comprehensive training, ongoing development, and the opportunity to help shape services that empower young people to reach their full potential.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hours a week), permanent role. In addition, the appointed candidate will work across North Tyneside.

Key deliverables:

• You will hold specific responsibilities for ensuring the health and safety of the environment for clients, staff, visitors and volunteers through regular risk assessment, health and safety checks and reporting in accordance with the Health and Safety Policy.

• You will liaise with Depaul’s internal departments including Finance, HR, Quality and Compliance, Fundraising, Communications and Business Development as necessary to ensure the smooth running of the service.

• You will deploy and supervise the work of the volunteers who add value to the work that we do

• You will have specific responsibilities to ensure budgets are set as directed by the Executive Director of Finance and Resources, and is managed throughout the year by working with the finance team, and using its systems and processes.

• You will ensure the highest standards of support to young people is provided and that housing management is effective, and you will work to KPI targets in these areas.

• You will manage excellent local relationships, including regular meetings with commissioners, stakeholders and delivery partners such as Prime contractor and other service providers for homelessness services.

• You will undertake further duties as commensurate to the role, in line with Depaul Policies and Procedures and as identified by your line manager.

What we are looking for from you (Person Specification)

When completing your application form please address all the points set out below:

• Significant management experience, including experiencing of supervising the work of teams and individuals.

• Experience of sound decision-making process on a wide range of complex situations where there is a requirement to consider a range of options/courses of action and risk management, including safeguarding children and young people.

• Experience of safe service delivery to young people at risk, both in accommodation based and in the community.

• Experience of Ofsted compliance

• Experience of using Risk Assessments and Support Planning.

• Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills

• Experience of operating safeguarding requirements and procedures

• Commitment to working in a manner, which promotes diversity and equality ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity and no one, suffers from discrimination.

• Commitment to promoting an environment, which has the highest regard for the Health and Safety of others.

• Personal and professional integrity

• High level understanding of professional boundaries and ability to maintain boundaries

• Effective collaborative working

• Ability to effectively reflect on own practices for ongoing learning and development

• Respect for the values and ethos of Depaul and its founding partners.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

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

Location: Blended between office and home (England and Wales). Time in office negotiable

Citizens Advice offers confidential advice online, over the phone, and in person, for free. Through our national network of charities, we give people the knowledge and the confidence they need to find their way forward – whoever they are, and whatever their problem.

Do you want to work for an organisation that makes a difference, every single day, to people from all walks of life? The people that turn to Citizens Advice need help overcoming an obstacle in their lives – from debt to evictions to trouble at work – and you can be key to them getting the support they need in the quickest, easiest, and most effective way.

Help strengthen the financial resilience of the Citizens Advice network.

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Network Finance Consultant to join our team. This pivotal role will focus on supporting the financial health and sustainability of our Local Citizens Advice (LCAs) through direct, forward-looking engagement with their COs and Trustee Boards.

In this role, you will work proactively to help LCAs understand and report their financial position to stakeholders, anticipate risk, avoid financial crises, and plan effectively for the future. You will be a trusted advisor—offering both core financial guidance and bespoke support tailored to the diverse needs of individual LCAs. Your work will contribute directly to the stability, quality, and long-term resilience of this charity network.

About the team

The Network Development & Assurance (ND&A) capability is dedicated to cultivating a purpose-driven, impactful, resilient, and sustainable network of member organisations. We work collaboratively with LCAs to improve outcomes for clients and communities, strengthening their ability to deliver high-quality, accessible services.

ND&A is made up of four specialist departments:

• Service Development
• Oversight and Compliance
• Business Development
• Network Finance

As part of the Network Finance team, you will play a central role in supporting the financial governance, sustainability, and strategic planning of local Citizens Advice organisations across England and Wales.

What you’ll do

• Build strong, proactive relationships with LCA COs and Boards to understand their financial landscape and support effective decision-making.
• Provide tailored financial advice, insight, and challenge to help LCAs build robust plans and avoid financial deterioration.
• Conduct financial health assessments, identify emerging risks, and support LCAs to develop appropriate responses.
• Offer both proactive and reactive support, including advice around crisis prevention and stabilisation where needed.
• Contribute to the development of tools, guidance, and resources that strengthen financial capability across the wider network.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across ND&A and the wider organisation to ensure a coordinated approach to network support and assurance.

What we’re looking for

• Strong experience in charity financial management, consultancy, and advisory roles.
• A proactive, relationship-focused approach with the ability to engage confidently with senior leaders and Boards.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and communicate financial risks and insights clearly.
• Experience supporting organisations through change, improvement, or financial challenge.
• The ability to tailor advice and support to meet diverse organisational needs.
• A commitment to the values and mission of Citizens Advice and to improving outcomes for the communities we serve.

Please apply with your CV and cover letter outlining how you meet the below essential criteria:

• Qualified professionally / academically in financial / management accounting (or equivalent experience).
• Extensive experience in charity financial management, consulting, or senior accounting roles, with a proven track record of advising organisations on financial health and strategy.
• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with senior stakeholders including executives and Board members.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data, identify trends, and provide actionable recommendations.

Central to pursuing our EDI mission is building diverse and inclusive teams in which everyone has a sense of belonging. We believe inclusion is a social justice issue - a principle that underpins our all EDI work. To that end, we particularly welcome applications from people we would like to see better represented in our organisation and sector - people of colour, LGBTQ+ people and disabled people. We follow the social model of disability. We will offer an interview to disabled candidates who indicate they wish their application to be considered under our Disability Confident Interview Commitment where they meet our selection criteria in their application. Some of our roles attract a high volume of applications and in some circumstances where it is not practicable or appropriate, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled candidates. We will provide reasonable adjustments as needed.

We’re a flexible employer, so this role may suit anyone who’d prefer a flexible arrangement to help their work/life balance, many of our colleagues spend most of their time working remotely. Whilst we prefer a blended approach between a local office, if one is near you, and home we’re open to being flexible on location, occasionally a role may require you to be based in a certain location if that's the case it will be detailed in the advert or job description. This can be discussed in more detail during your interview.

The National Citizens Advice operates from offices in England and Wales, with 4 regional offices based in Cardiff, London, Birmingham and Leeds, therefore all successful applicants must be based within England or Wales.

Please be aware that Citizens Advice is not a sponsoring organisation. Therefore the successful applicant must already possess the right to work in the UK or be able to secure the right to work in the UK independently.

We have been awarded the top charity in Third sectors' employer index, where it's recognised that Citizens Advice is an organization that not only prioritizes the people we serve but also values the wellbeing of its employees.

Citizens Advice seeks to redeploy internal staff who are at risk or under notice of redundancy and will prioritise them in the recruitment process where necessary. If you have been confirmed as at risk or under notice of redundancy please ensure you indicate this in the at-risk box in your application.

Please note, in the event of a high number of applications, we reserve the right to close the application early.

This vacancy closes at 23.59 on the closing date.

We're looking for a motivated, innovative and resilient Finance Business Partner to join our Finance team located at our Head Office in Islington

£60,000.00 per annum, working 35 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
* Free DBS (take this out if BSW advert)
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

What you'll do:
* Lead the production of the PPE, FA investments, grant and interest Look Ahead Care & Support (LACS) and Group consolidated notes.

* Lead the annual year end audit process for the subsidiaries including liaison with the external auditors.

* Prepare regulatory returns to the Regulator of Social Housing, including the annual FVA, annual grant returns and quarterly disposal returns.

* Prepare and submit quarterly VAT, CIS and ONS returns on behalf of Look Ahead & Look Ahead Developments Ltd.

* Lead on the gift-aid calculations and Tax Return preparation for Look Ahead's subsidiaries.

* Manage the fixed asset register, ensuring additions, disposals and depreciation and grants are correctly posted and reconciled.

* Maintain up to date Asset Liability Register.

* Act as a strategic finance business partner to the Property Services Directorate, providing financial insight - producing reports and analysis, and challenge across all capital projects, operational repairs and maintenance initiatives.

* Support budget holders in the effective planning, forecasting and monitoring of both capital and operations property services expenditure.

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
? Approachable and open behaviour
? Prefers working as part of a group or team
? Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
? Is assertive and will challenge others
? Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
? Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments

What you'll bring:

Essential:
? Proven experience of the preparation of Financial Statements for audit and the application of accounting standards.
? Proven experience of business partnering
? Experience of reviewing and analysing financial information and reporting on results.
? Proven experience in reconciliations.
? Good attention to detail with ability to prioritise and manage a varied workload to meet agreed deadlines.

Desirable:
? Experience of using Sun Financials/Unit 4
? Experience of accounting in the social housing sector.
? Management experience

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
* We focus on Excellence and innovation.
* We are Caring and Compassionate.
* We are Inclusive and Trusted.
* We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see our website for full Job description

We're looking for a passionate, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Homelessness Social Care Service in Brent. No personal care or experience is required, just the right values

£30,784.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
* Free DBS
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.
A Support Worker will help to enable vulnerable people with complex support needs to manage their licences and move towards greater independence within the community by providing a flexible and individually tailored support package.
This role will be based at for Pound Lane, which is a high complex needs 24-hour service with same shift pattern.

The working pattern for this role is: - 5 days a week, working over a seven day pattern, weekends included. Shift pattern 8am-4am and late shift 1.30pm-9.30pm

What you'll do:
* Undertake key-working responsibilities for a caseload assigned by the Team Leader / Manager
* Oversee the daily running of the service ensuring all health and safety responsibilities are met
* Raise safeguarding alerts and complete incident reports within specified timeframe
* Undertake initial and continuous assessment of needs and potential risks and agree levels of support and actions
* Create support/action plans for providing appropriate support based on the assessment and reflecting the services and resources available
* Support customers to undertake domestic tasks wherever possible, including practical assistance where they have not yet developed the skills, to ensure customers enjoy a high quality of living standards
* Support customers to move on from the service through their identified move on pathway liaising with our Resettlement Officer and Brent Housing team.

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
- Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
- Approachable and open behaviour
- Prefers working as part of a group or team
- Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
- Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
- Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments

What you'll bring:

Desirable:
- Up to NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent or experience in the social care/charity sector.

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
* We focus on Excellence and innovation.
* We are Caring and Compassionate.
* We are Inclusive and Trusted.
* We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see our website for full Job description

Deputy Accommodation Manager

This role is ideal for someone compassionate, proactive and motivated to drive positive change.

Location: North Tyneside

Salary: £32,606 per annum

Closing Date: 26 July, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Deputy Accommodation Manager

Ready to lead a service that helps young people build brighter futures? We are looking for an experienced and motivated Deputy Accommodation Manager to oversee our supported accommodation services for young people aged 16–25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. You'll lead a dedicated team, drive high-quality support, and create a safe, positive environment where young people can thrive.

You will be a skilled people manager with experience supporting vulnerable young people, strong safeguarding knowledge, and confidence in risk management, housing support and partnership working. You'll be a proactive problem-solver who leads by example and is committed to delivering outstanding outcomes.

Join us in this great journey and in return, you'll receive excellent training, ongoing professional development and the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hours a week), permanent role. In addition, the appointed candidate will work across North Tyneside.

Key deliverables:

• You will hold responsibilities for ensuring the health and safety of the environment for clients, staff, visitors and volunteers through regular risk assessment, health and safety checks and reporting in accordance with the Health and Safety Policy.

• You will liaise with internal departments including Finance, HR, Quality and Compliance, Fundraising, Communications and Business Development as necessary to ensure the smooth running of the service.

• You will have responsibilities to manage local project budgets.

• You will ensure the highest standards of support to young people is provided and that housing management is effective.

• You will help manage excellent local relationships, including regular meetings with commissioners, stakeholders and delivery partners.

• You will undertake further duties as commensurate to the role, in line with Policies and Procedures and as identified by your line manager.

What we are looking for from you (Person Specification)

When completing your application form please address all the points set out below.

• Management experience, including experience of supervising the work of teams and individuals.

• Experience of sound decision-making process on a wide range of complex situations where there is a requirement to consider a range of options/courses of action and risk management, including safeguarding children and young people.

• Experience of safe service delivery to young people at risk, both in accommodation based and in the community.

• Experience of Ofsted compliance - desirable

• Experience of using Risk Assessments and Support Planning.

• Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills

• Experience of operating safeguarding requirements and procedures

• Commitment to working in a manner, which promotes diversity and equality ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity and no one, suffers from discrimination.

• Commitment to promoting an environment, which has the highest regard for the Health and Safety of others.

• Personal and professional integrity

• High level understanding of professional boundaries and ability to maintain boundaries

• Effective collaborative working

• Ability to effectively reflect on own practices for ongoing learning and development

• Respect for the values and ethos of the charity and its founding partners.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

The charity is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About the Organisation

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 the charity was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, the charity provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

#INDSCP

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

We're looking for a passionate, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Learning Disabilities Social Care Service in Kent

£26,228.00 per annum, working 37.5 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
* Free DBS
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

The working pattern for this role is: - 7.30am-3pm, 2.30pm-10pm, 7.30am-10pm

What you'll do:
* Supporting the customer to undertake a full timetable of preferred activities including sport and leisure activities, attending community groups, visiting local amenities, and introducing them to new activities to expand their horizons and networks;
* Developing the customer's independent living skills and involving them in all aspects of maintaining and developing their home, including cooking, shopping, cleaning and decorating;
* Enabling the customer to keep up with the important people in their life and to meet new people with shared interests;
* Supporting the customer to communicate their wants and needs, and communicating with them in a person-centred way;
* Supporting the customer to manage their anxieties and frustrations, using Positive Behaviour Support and Autism-specific approaches;
* Collating a range of behavioural data and essential paperwork to be analysed within our local management structure;
* Driving the customer to activities using the customer's vehicle, in rotation with the wider team;
* Communicating with family members and a range of other key stakeholders including social work, psychology and commissioning teams;

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
- Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
- Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour
- Prefers working as part of a group or team
- Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
- Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
- Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments

What you'll bring:
Essential
? NVQ Level 2 or equivalent
? Minimum 2 years of experience working with customers with Autism/Challenging Behaviour/learning disabilities and supporting them in line with a PBS framework

Desirable
? Has some experience in Trauma Informed care
? Has some experience in working with people with Mental health
? Driving licence and a willingness to drive as part of support duties

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
* We focus on Excellence and innovation.
* We are Caring and Compassionate.
* We are Inclusive and Trusted.
* We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see our website for full Job Description

External Affairs and Strategy Specialist

Location:  Home Based, Expectation of travel
Working Hours: 37
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £38,960.00 - £48,960

Flexibility in terms of hours and possible part time hours to be considered.

Please note: The salary listed reflects the full earning potential for this role. Starting salaries depend on experience and progression within the band. 

About Waythrough 

Waythrough was formed in 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Together, we’ve created one of the largest mental health and social support charities in England. 

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through nearly 200 services – and it’s all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

Make a real difference in your community 

Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change. 

About the Role

As the External Affairs and Strategy Specialist, you will help shape Waythrough’s external influence, ensuring the organisation understands and responds to an increasingly complex political, policy and social environment. Working closely with senior leaders, you will support strategic decision-making, build key partnerships and drive campaigns and policy projects that create positive change for the people we support.

This is a home-based role with some travel required, including attendance at our joint All Party Parliamentary Group (five or six times per year), and service visits, team away days and wider meetings as required. . You will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, particularly the Communications team, to ensure our external voice is informed, impactful and rooted in lived experience.

Key Duties

• Monitor and interpret political, policy and sector developments, identifying emerging risks, opportunities and trends.
• Build strong relationships across Waythrough to identify subject matter experts and ensure external positions are informed by operational and lived experience.
• Lead and coordinate elements of national campaigns, maintaining momentum and working collaboratively with Communications colleagues to maximise impact.
• Brief senior leaders on external affairs issues and provide high-quality research, papers and recommendations to support organisational decision-making.
• Represent Waythrough at parliamentary groups, policy alliances, external forums and partnership meetings.
• Develop policy submissions, consultation responses, speeches, presentations and campaign materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with senior stakeholders, including parliamentarians, sector bodies and partner organisations.
• Ensure the voices of the people we support remain central to all advocacy, policy and campaign activity.

About You

You are a confident and proactive relationship builder who thrives in a complex and fast-moving environment. Working as part of a small team, and with support and coaching from the Director, you'll be comfortable seeking out expertise across the organisation, collaborating with a wide range of colleagues and influencing senior stakeholders.

You have excellent communication skills, a strong understanding of politics and policy, and the confidence to work closely with directors and executive leaders. You can balance multiple priorities while maintaining focus on what matters most, and you are motivated by ensuring that campaigns, policy positions and external messages are genuinely informed by the experiences and voices of the people we support. Above all, you'll bring initiative, curiosity and a willingness to get stuck in and make things happen.

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package:

• 27 days’ annual leave, rising to 32 after 1 year (plus bank holidays)

• Pension scheme with 4.5% employer contribution, matched up to 6.5%

• Life assurance (3× annual salary)

• Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly pay

• Birthday leave and the option to buy up to 5 extra days’ annual leave

• Professional fee reimbursement for relevant qualifications

• 24/7 online GP access and Employee Assistance Programme

• Recognition and long service awards via our Way to Go and Aspirations portals

• £500 Recommend a Friend bonus

• Cycle to Work scheme and Credit Union membership

• Discounts via Blue Light Card, Charity Discounts, Extras and Tickets for Good

• Free will writing service and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year.

Inclusion and accessibility 

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. 

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme  - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.