Housing and welfare benefits advisor jobs

DRIVE Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Location: Preston & Lancaster Community Services

Salary: £30,200.00PA FTE

Contract Type: Permanent

Please note, this is an on-site role only. Due to the nature of our Refuges and Outreach services, it is essential that our teams are present and accessible, enabling us to provide safe, responsive and high-quality support to those who need us most.

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. 

About Safenet

We provide domestic abuse services across the Northwest of England, including refuges for women and children, safe houses for men, community support, and extra support for those facing addiction, mental health, or other issues.

We understand the serious impact domestic abuse can have, especially on health and wellbeing, and provide support and guidance to help survivors live safely and securely.

Safenet is part of the Calico Group. Here’s what makes The Calico Group unique: each of our specialist companies collaborates and innovates together to have a greater impact than they could alone.

Our shared vision, flexible group structure, and expanding range of services help us adapt to the fast-changing environment and times in which we work.

“A future where everyone can live safe, happy and healthy lives free from abuse, violence and exploitation in their homes, streets and communities.”

About the role

An exciting oppurtunity has arisen within Safenet Lancashire Community Outreach team for a DRIVE Independent Domestic violence Advisor supporting High risk victims of domestic abuse in the community.

Using your experience of delivering support to victim of domestic abuse, you will provide high quality and pro-active front line service helping to keep survivors safe. You will be assessing risk, completing safety and support plans, and ensuring the service offer is accessible and inclusive to all.

We are looking for high calibre, passionate, caring individuals who are excellent team players and are committed to providing high quality, trauma informed services for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. 

For further details about the roles, please refer to the relevant role profile.

What we are looking for

We welcome applicants from a range of relevant backgrounds; direct refuge experience is not essential, but you do need to bring credibility, confidence and compassion from related fields.

You might come from:

• Substance misuse or addiction recovery services
• Trauma‑informed women’s services
• Mental health or psychologically informed environments (PIE)
• Housing or supported accommodation with complex needs

You will bring

We believe in recruiting for potential as well as experience. Our ideal candidate will have:

Essential:

• Twelve months experience of working with adults experiencing domestic abuse and violence.
• Have a good understanding of the impacts of the abuse on adults and children.
• Experience of working with adults in a crisis situation.
• Strong Communication skills.
• Experience of key working, completing risk assessments and safety plans, creating support plans, delivering support, in a person-centred and trauma informed approach.
• Proven experience of providing direct emotional, practical and welfare support to women, men and children.
• Ability to build effective relationships, liaising and with agencies and being an advocate.
• To have excellent time management and organisational skills working on own initiative and within a multi-disciplinary team environment.
• An in depth Understanding of safeguarding adults and children.

Essential Core Skills  

Health & Safety Awareness 

All our employees are required to work in a safe way, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and keep themselves, other colleagues and customers safe.  You will be expected to update your knowledge and skills on Health & Safety if successful in your application.  

Safeguarding 

We work with adults and children who may be ‘at risk’ and expect colleagues to work in a way which protects the people we support from harm.  Our colleagues are expected to identify people ‘at risk’ and confidently report any Safeguarding concerns as appropriate within the service. 

Digital 

Across our services, we use a range of technology and systems and expect colleagues to use them effectively and safely following cybersecurity and data protection principles (UK GDPR).  Full training on specific systems is provided but a willingness to learn and develop is essential. 

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) 

The Calico Group welcomes diversity and champions the rights of those in society who may be marginalised.  Our employees are expected to be inclusive, embracing those from different backgrounds to develop a fairer society. 

If you share our values and are ready to grow through continuous learning, development, and the support of a dedicated team, we want to hear from you! 

What’s in It for You?

At The Calico Group, we value our people and offer a supportive, inclusive culture alongside fantastic benefits:

• Bravo Benefits – Exclusive discounts at popular high street brands including many retailers and restaurants.
• Westfield Health – Our company funded cash plan, with access to a Doctor 24/7 – for you and your dependents.
• Mental Health Support – Access emotional and mental well-being services through Spectrum.
• Cycle to Work Scheme – Save on commuting costs while staying active.
• Pension Options – with employer pension contributions.
• Life Assurance – Peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
• Financial Advice – Expert guidance to help manage your finances.
• Recognition Awards – Celebrate your achievements with our recognition programs.
• Meaningful learning and development programmes with regular focus on your individual growth.
• Gym Membership Discounts – Stay fit with local gym access.
• One Calico Events – Connect and unwind at our employee social gatherings.
• Paid Professional Fees – We’ll cover the cost of professional subscriptions so you can continue growing your career.

And much more! We also offer enhanced holidays, sickness, maternity, and paternity options, ensuring you feel supported when you need it most.

How to Apply

Click Apply Now to complete your application online.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our team!

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

SafeNet is working towards Equal Opportunities for all and actively encourages applications from disabled, ethnic minority and LBGTQI+ women who are under-represented.  SafeNet is a Registered Charity No. 1091544 and a Company Limited by Guarantee No. 3860803. 

Inclusive Hiring at Calico 

We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process or would like to discuss accessibility, please let us know.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding 

The Calico Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our customers employees, and volunteers. Successful candidates will be subject to a DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) and appropriate pre-employment checks in line with our safeguarding policies. 

DRIVE Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA)

Location: Preston & Lancaster Community Services

Salary: £30,200.00PA FTE

Contract Type: Permanent

Please note, this is an on-site role only. Due to the nature of our Refuges and Outreach services, it is essential that our teams are present and accessible, enabling us to provide safe, responsive and high-quality support to those who need us most.

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. 

About Safenet

We provide domestic abuse services across the Northwest of England, including refuges for women and children, safe houses for men, community support, and extra support for those facing addiction, mental health, or other issues.

We understand the serious impact domestic abuse can have, especially on health and wellbeing, and provide support and guidance to help survivors live safely and securely.

Safenet is part of the Calico Group. Here’s what makes The Calico Group unique: each of our specialist companies collaborates and innovates together to have a greater impact than they could alone.

Our shared vision, flexible group structure, and expanding range of services help us adapt to the fast-changing environment and times in which we work.

“A future where everyone can live safe, happy and healthy lives free from abuse, violence and exploitation in their homes, streets and communities.”

About the role

An exciting oppurtunity has arisen within Safenet Lancashire Community Outreach team for a DRIVE Independent Domestic violence Advisor supporting High risk victims of domestic abuse in the community.

Using your experience of delivering support to victim of domestic abuse, you will provide high quality and pro-active front line service helping to keep survivors safe. You will be assessing risk, completing safety and support plans, and ensuring the service offer is accessible and inclusive to all.

We are looking for high calibre, passionate, caring individuals who are excellent team players and are committed to providing high quality, trauma informed services for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. 

For further details about the roles, please refer to the relevant role profile.

What we are looking for

We welcome applicants from a range of relevant backgrounds; direct refuge experience is not essential, but you do need to bring credibility, confidence and compassion from related fields.

You might come from:

• Substance misuse or addiction recovery services
• Trauma‑informed women’s services
• Mental health or psychologically informed environments (PIE)
• Housing or supported accommodation with complex needs

You will bring

We believe in recruiting for potential as well as experience. Our ideal candidate will have:

Essential:

• Twelve months experience of working with adults experiencing domestic abuse and violence.
• Have a good understanding of the impacts of the abuse on adults and children.
• Experience of working with adults in a crisis situation.
• Strong Communication skills.
• Experience of key working, completing risk assessments and safety plans, creating support plans, delivering support, in a person-centred and trauma informed approach.
• Proven experience of providing direct emotional, practical and welfare support to women, men and children.
• Ability to build effective relationships, liaising and with agencies and being an advocate.
• To have excellent time management and organisational skills working on own initiative and within a multi-disciplinary team environment.
• An in depth Understanding of safeguarding adults and children.

Essential Core Skills  

Health & Safety Awareness 

All our employees are required to work in a safe way, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and keep themselves, other colleagues and customers safe.  You will be expected to update your knowledge and skills on Health & Safety if successful in your application.  

Safeguarding 

We work with adults and children who may be ‘at risk’ and expect colleagues to work in a way which protects the people we support from harm.  Our colleagues are expected to identify people ‘at risk’ and confidently report any Safeguarding concerns as appropriate within the service. 

Digital 

Across our services, we use a range of technology and systems and expect colleagues to use them effectively and safely following cybersecurity and data protection principles (UK GDPR).  Full training on specific systems is provided but a willingness to learn and develop is essential. 

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) 

The Calico Group welcomes diversity and champions the rights of those in society who may be marginalised.  Our employees are expected to be inclusive, embracing those from different backgrounds to develop a fairer society. 

If you share our values and are ready to grow through continuous learning, development, and the support of a dedicated team, we want to hear from you! 

What’s in It for You?

At The Calico Group, we value our people and offer a supportive, inclusive culture alongside fantastic benefits:

• Bravo Benefits – Exclusive discounts at popular high street brands including many retailers and restaurants.
• Westfield Health – Our company funded cash plan, with access to a Doctor 24/7 – for you and your dependents.
• Mental Health Support – Access emotional and mental well-being services through Spectrum.
• Cycle to Work Scheme – Save on commuting costs while staying active.
• Pension Options – with employer pension contributions.
• Life Assurance – Peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
• Financial Advice – Expert guidance to help manage your finances.
• Recognition Awards – Celebrate your achievements with our recognition programs.
• Meaningful learning and development programmes with regular focus on your individual growth.
• Gym Membership Discounts – Stay fit with local gym access.
• One Calico Events – Connect and unwind at our employee social gatherings.
• Paid Professional Fees – We’ll cover the cost of professional subscriptions so you can continue growing your career.

And much more! We also offer enhanced holidays, sickness, maternity, and paternity options, ensuring you feel supported when you need it most.

How to Apply

Click Apply Now to complete your application online.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our team!

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

SafeNet is working towards Equal Opportunities for all and actively encourages applications from disabled, ethnic minority and LBGTQI+ women who are under-represented.  SafeNet is a Registered Charity No. 1091544 and a Company Limited by Guarantee No. 3860803. 

Inclusive Hiring at Calico 

We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process or would like to discuss accessibility, please let us know.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding 

The Calico Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our customers employees, and volunteers. Successful candidates will be subject to a DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) and appropriate pre-employment checks in line with our safeguarding policies. 

Finance Director

Hours of work 30 hrs / 4 days per week, permanent contract

Based Newhaven, with some hybrid working available after completing induction

Starting Salary £60K per annum pro rata

Are you an experienced senior level finance decision maker with broad cross sector knowledge, who demonstrates excellent communication skills, and wants to use your skills to support a community facing organisation? If so, we would welcome your interest and application!

You will be a qualified accountant, with an understanding of the complexities of working within the 3rd sector funding framework.  With responsibility for providing expert strategic financial advice and professional input right across the organisation, you will ensure the finances of the Charity run smoothly and efficiently.  You will consider the wider internal and external factors presented to you by our internal knowledge experts alongside the financial position in order to support the delivery of the services and enterprises, which fulfil the organisation’s mission and values.

You will also provide effective leadership and direction of the well-regarded finance team with a person-centred approach.

Providing sound financial, contract & risk management advice and ensuring compliance with legal, statutory and audit requirements, you will contribute to the strategic leadership of the charity as an active member of our Senior Management Team.

We are looking for people to join our team who have the qualities and skills we feel would most benefit our internal and external clients; professionalism, empathy, kindness and understanding. In return, we understand people want to work in a supportive environment with friendly colleagues. We offer a flexible, hybrid approach to delivery wherever possible, annual leave of 25 days per year pro rata plus bank holidays and sick pay from the start (increasing with service), additional sick pay per year for planned operations and recovery, a pension scheme, bereavement leave, and managers who are available to you… plus a day off for your birthday!

Interviews will be held in Newhaven.

Closing date: 5pm on Sunday 19th July 2026

1st stage interviews:  Wednesday 29th  July 2026 / 2nd stage interviews: w/c Monday 3rd August 2026

 For the job description and to apply, please visit the website

Completed application forms can be sent to HR

 You may think that you’re not a 100% match to what we’re looking for, but we recognise that some skills and experience may be transferable rather than an exact match. If you’re unsure about whether to apply, please do contact the HR team, and we would be happy to arrange an informal discussion with the CEO or current FD.

SCDA includes: Employability; Community Advice and Wellbeing; Community Development & Health

Registered Charity Number: 1094905

Company Limited by Guarantee: 3387617

Join the Cardinal Hume Centre and use your estates expertise to help create a safe, welcoming and well-managed environment for young people, children and families facing homelessness and poverty. This is a rare opportunity to lead both the long-term stewardship of a significant Central London site and the day-to-day delivery of facilities, compliance and improvement works that directly support life-changing services.

Working closely with the CEO, Head of HR and Operations and Board of Trustees, you will shape future plans for the Centre’s estate while ensuring the building remains safe, compliant, efficient and fit for purpose. If you are a strategic and practical estates professional who wants their work to make a tangible social impact, we would like to hear from you.

What you’ll do

· Lead long-term estate planning, capital works and building improvements – you’ll support our master planning for the site

· Oversee day-to-day maintenance, facilities management and contractor performance to keep the Centre running effectively

· Take organisational responsibility for health and safety, fire safety and statutory compliance

· Manage budgets, procurement and reporting, delivering value for money while supporting excellent services

· Support sustainability and environmental improvements that strengthen the Centre for the future

What we’re looking for

· A skilled estates, facilities or property professional with strong experience in building compliance, maintenance and project delivery

· A confident communicator who can work effectively with senior leaders, trustees, contractors and colleagues across the organisation

· Someone who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational oversight

· A values-led individual who is motivated by the opportunity to support a charity tackling youth and family homelessness

Help us tackle disadvantage and change lives

Salford Foundation is looking for an experienced, values-driven Head of Finance & Resources to join our Senior Management Team and play a key role in ensuring the organisation is financially sustainable, well governed and equipped to deliver lasting impact for local people.

This is a varied and hands-on leadership role combining strategic responsibility with operational delivery. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will lead our finance function while providing oversight of people, IT, facilities, data protection and organisational compliance.

You will be responsible for financial planning and reporting, budgeting, risk management and governance, while supporting colleagues across the organisation with the systems, processes and resources they need to succeed. You will also act as the Foundation's Data Protection Officer and lead officer to the Audit and Risk Committee.

About you

You will be a qualified accountant with strong financial management experience and the ability to communicate financial information clearly to a wide range of audiences. You will be comfortable operating both strategically and operationally, bringing a collaborative and solutions-focused approach to leadership.

You will have experience of supporting organisational decision-making, managing people and resources, and building effective relationships with colleagues, trustees and external partners.

Most importantly, you will share our commitment to tackling disadvantage, supporting communities and creating opportunities for people to thrive.

We offer

• Salary of £45,000 - £50,000 per annum
• Hybrid working
• Opportunity to influence the future direction of a respected local charity
• Supportive and values-led working environment
• The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people across Salford

Join us and help ensure Salford Foundation has the resources, systems and leadership needed to continue tackling disadvantage and changing lives.

A job and person specification is attached along with our company benefits.

Lead the operations, governance and compliance that enable Solving Kids' Cancer UK to deliver its mission and impact for children and families affected by neuroblastoma. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will play a critical role in ensuring the charity operates effectively, compliantly and sustainably.

This broad and varied leadership role spans governance, risk, HR, IT, data protection and organisational operations, supporting delivery of the charity's strategy through robust systems, policies and processes. Acting as Company Secretary, you will work closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees, providing advice on governance, regulatory requirements and best practice. As a member of the Leadership Team, you will oversee key operational functions, lead cross-organisational projects and deputise for the CEO where required.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a strategic, highly organised and values-driven leader with strong experience in charity operations, governance and compliance. You will have a track record of ensuring organisations are well run, compliant and effectively managed, with the ability to oversee multiple operational areas and support strong governance and decision-making at Board level.

You will be comfortable working across a broad remit, including governance, risk, HR, IT and data protection, and confident providing clear, practical advice to senior leaders and trustees.

Person specification

Key requirements include:

• Significant senior-level experience in operations, governance or compliance within a charity or similar environment. 
• Strong understanding of charity governance and regulation, with experience supporting boards and senior leadership. 
• Experience overseeing organisational functions such as HR, IT, data protection or risk. 
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-organisational work effectively. 
• Strong judgement, integrity and the ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion. 

See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK. 

This is an opportunity to make a significant contribution at the heart of a small, ambitious charity where strong operations are a vital enabler of impact for children and families.

Location: Home-based, within easy reach of London, with regular travel to the London office and occasional UK-wide travel.

First-stage interview: Thursday 6 August 

Second-stage interview: Thursday 13 August

About us

Carers UK is the leading national charity for unpaid carers. The Finance Manager is responsible for the management of the financial accounting functions of the organisation, for the preparation of statutory accounts, regular management reports, the preparation of all tax returns, supporting budget holders and assisting them fulfil their responsibilities, and for compliance with statutory requirements including compliance with tax laws and regulations.
 

About the role

The Finance Manager will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including the nation offices, supporting and advising, building excellence in standards within the finance office and injecting innovative solutions to the organisation’s financial strategy.
 

About you

We are looking for a proactive and visible finance professional who is able to engage and build relationships across the organisation as a pivotal member within a values led high performing organisation. You will be a qualified accountant with proven track record of financial management awareness and a solid understanding of charity audits and statutory accounts preparation. You will have the ability to work with staff across the organisation in supporting good financial governance and oversight of financial operational matters. You will have the ability to analyse financial information and present this in a suitable format for the audience. You will have good ability to meet deadlines, be IT literate with an emphasis on financial systems, spreadsheets, Quickbooks and Excel. You will be highly organised with excellent attention to detail and be able to work with minimum supervision.

The role will involve the management of the day-to-day financial activities, VAT, gift aid, payroll and the monthly, quarterly and annual reconciliations and statutory accounts preparation. The job holder will work closely with the Chief Operating Officer, Finance Officer and volunteers within the team. There will be a requirement to work closely with the income generating staff, budget holders, auditors, banks and credit card providers on a regular basis. The Finance Manager will be responsible for managing the Finance Officer and Finance volunteer. 
 

Diversity and inclusion

Carers UK is committed to becoming a diverse and truly inclusive organisation. We strive to create a workplace where our colleagues and volunteers can truly be themselves and feel like they belong and constantly seek to ensure all voices are heard.

To embrace this culture of diversity, our employee and volunteer recruitment should reflect our stakeholders and the society that we serve and support, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, physical abilities, disabilities or religious practices. We value individual diversity and are actively building diverse teams here at Carers UK and value our colleagues from a wide range of backgrounds.

As a membership charity for carers, we particularly seek employees and volunteers with a real understanding of the issues faced by carers. Reasonable adjustments can be made to the process and role dependent on the needs of the applicant.

At Carers UK, we want our application process to be as accessible as possible. If you need any adjustments to apply please email the recruitment team to discuss.

The closing date for applications is Friday 24 July 2026, 5pm.

Carers UK anonymises all applications prior to shortlisting.

Carers UK are actively interviewing as we receive applications. 

Carers UK reserves the right to appoint at any stage, should an outstanding candidate emerge.

Carers UK may carry out online and social media checks before a formal offer is made.