Key responsibilities:
1. Main Purpose of the Job
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To ensure the panel reflects AvMA’s values and that where possible the panel is managed in line with our strategic plan.
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To manage and oversee the operation of the specialist AvMA clinical negligence panel to include ensuring the qualifying requirements for panel applicants are relevant and up to date and reflect any important medical and legal developments.
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The assessment of panel applications and interviewing of Applicants. Convening meetings of the panel committee, drafting agendas for those meetings and identifying issues to be discussed.
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Identify ways for the AvMA panel application process to become more streamlined, efficient and supportive of lawyers making panel applications. To develop the process to ensure it is fit for purpose, relevant and continues to meet the needs of the public.
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Ensuring the AvMA database of panel membership and special interests is kept up to date. Giving informal advice to solicitors enquiring about panel membership requirements, liaising and meeting with firms as required.
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Travelling and attending key networking events, including AvMA’s three-day (2 overnight stays) annual conference and AvMA annual panel meeting (usually held end Nov, beginning December), engaging with potential AvMA panel applicants, promoting the benefits of accreditation and the junior scheme (Certificates Competence Scheme (CCS)), keeping up to date with medical and legal developments. Speaking at panel meetings and generally to promote the panel.
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Working with the conference department to identify relevant topics for panel meetings and conference events.
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To improve on the current re-accreditation process to make it more streamlined and user friendly for applicants.
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To ensure relevant data from panel applications is captured on the CRM. Regular analysis of panel data, findings shared with AvMA senior leadership team and more widely where appropriate.
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To pursue AvMA’s EDI strategy by considering ways in which the panel can be developed to ensure panel members are as ethnically diverse as possible.
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To liaise with AvMA’s conference department to advise on any training which may be required to strengthen AvMA panel members knowledge and information base.
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To work with the Director Medico Legal services in assessing applications for Certificate of Competence Scheme (CCS) for juniors. To update and work on the Certificates Competence Scheme including organising applicant feedback to ensure this scheme continues to be fit for purpose. To inform and work with panel applicant mentors in strengthening the scheme.
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To deliver on administrative requirements such as quarterly reports for trustees, working with AvMA’s Service Delivery Quality and Outreach Committee (SDQOC) as required to update on continued improvement of AvMA Panel Accreditation Scheme.
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Dealing with queries raised by AvMA Panel applicants and/or juniors who may have had their applications rejected.
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Ensuring AvMA panel template letters and documents are updated
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From time to time speaking publicly about requirements for AvMA panel membership, common pitfalls and how to overcome them as well as other matters relating to panel.
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To consider client complaints about panel members to determine whether the threshold for disciplinary action under AvMA’s Panel procedures is met.
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To manage disciplinary procedure for AvMA Panel members, identify and liaise with adjudicators, prepare documentation, set up the hearing.
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To manage appeals against rejection of an application for accreditation/reaccreditation, liaise with adjudicators.
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To keep on top of any government, regulatory or other policy changes which may affect the way in which patients can access justice, recover damages and seek redress for adverse clinical outcomes, as well as any improvements or impediments to lawyers undertaking this work.
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To develop and grow the AvMA panel accreditation and Certificates Competence scheme membership; to identify cost efficiencies and maximum engagement with AvMA accredited panel solicitors.
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Any other duties associated with the role.
2. Skills and Experience
Administration of the AvMA Panel
The bulk of the administration and management tasks do not require specialist skills; however, assistance is provided by the PA to the CEO when required.
AvMA has a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) driven computer system throughout the organisation, the introduction has been phased and the applicant should be confident enough with sufficient IT skills to onboard the new system. The CRM works with Microsoft Dynamics 365 a data driven software solution which is intended to manage, track and store information. AvMA considers IT to be an ongoing commitment and the new panel accreditation manager should be willing to consider ways in which AvMA can maximise the impact of the CRM to improve services and data collection on key issues identified from panel related activities.
Tasks such as updating and preparing new panel application documents and report forms will require medical and legal input, the panel application interview process will involve discussions about topical medico legal issues and for this reason the post would suit someone who has a legal background, ideally qualified as a solicitor or barrister, preferably with clinical negligence accreditation. A a medical background would be helpful.
Assessment of new applications, interviews and dealing with correspondence
The Panel Accreditation Manager is primarily responsible for the assessment of new panel accreditation applications.
The role of Panel Accreditation Manager would suit someone who has practised as a claimant clinical negligence lawyer who is looking to draw on their expertise and experience in a new role.The successful applicant should be confident in assessing former peers and colleagues in a fair and impartial way.
The nature of this work is such that the Panel Accreditation Manager can come into possession of sensitive information, discretion and respecting confidentiality are key qualities for this role.
Reaccreditations
Reaccreditation assessments are done internally by the Panel Accreditation Manager, occasionally assistance can be provided by members of the internal panel assessment team.
AvMA aims to make reaccreditations more straightforward for practitioners and the new appointee will be expected to liaise with the profession to understand where they consider the biggest hurdles to reaccreditation lie and to consider how these can be overcome without compromising standards.
AvMA receives a minimum of 15 applications for reaccreditation per annum, however numbers are usually considerably higher, up to 30 per annum.It is thought that the reaccreditation process could be designed to be more streamlined and user friendly for both the applicant and in house.
Other AvMA Panel assessments
In addition to assessing AvMA panel applications and reaccreditations the Panel Accreditation Manager will need to assess applications from accredited panel members who have changed firms.
Change of firm applications tend to be straightforward if the applicant has been on the panel for some time and is going to a firm where there is another AvMA panel member but the process is more in depth for those going to a firm which does not have another AvMA panel member. The Panel Application Manager needs to be confident that the new firm can meet the minimum standards and supervision requirements required of a first time panel application.
There are about 5 applications for changes of firm rising to a maximum of 10 per annum.
Interim Reviews
From time to time first time applicants may demonstrate that they largely meet the core criteria for AvMA Panel membership but there may be some areas that require improvement.In those cases, AvMA can award the applicant AvMA panel status subject to a review sometime later.The Panel Accreditation Manager is responsible for following up that review and examining progress made.The review is an opportunity to identify if the applicant has succeeded in strengthening the areas of weakness identified.If they have not, they risk losing their AvMA panel status entirely.
There are about 3 interim reviews per annum, currently not exceeding 6.
3. Other
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To support the Events Department’s quality initiatives and to suggest continuing improvements where needs arise.
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To undertake other duties commensurate with the post as may be required.
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Deputise for the Head of Events when necessary
Registered Charity 
21 - 50
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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About Care4Calais
Care4Calais (C4C) is a volunteer-based charity providing essential aid and support for refugees in northern France and the UK. We support through on-the-ground assistance, and advocate for a fair asylum system - including safe routes to the UK with refugee rights on arrival.
We work alongside people seeking safety to ensure access to daily essentials, and fill gaps where state support is not provided. We are here for everyone attempting to navigate the complexities of claiming asylum in the UK - providing access to justice, and practical, welcoming support. We also communicate to the public the need for action in support of refugees. Our vision is an inclusive society where people seeking safety have a safe home and a bright future free from inequality.
In northern France we operate year round from Calais, providing warm clothing, shoes, shelter, services, and assistance to refugees living in appalling conditions.
Across the UK we collect and distribute clothes and other essential items, and provide social support and interaction including language lessons, sport and music workshops. We also help with vital access to legal, medical and educational services. We are a community with the shared goals of creating a just asylum system, and a fair and welcoming society for all refugees.
Our work involves organising successful campaigns against racist UK government policies, such as the Rwanda plan and the use of barracks as accommodation for people seeking sanctuary.
All of Care4Calais' operations are supported by a small, dedicated staff team, who supervise large volunteer teams to provide critical support to asylum seekers and people on the move in both the UK and France.
About the role
The UK Operations team provides essential psychosocial support to people seeking safety through practical services; such as running distributions, delivering English classes and drop ins, as well as activities to promote wellbeing such as trips and sports activities.
The UK Field Operations Manager will be responsible for managing our operations in London, working as part of the UK Field Operations Team to support large teams of grassroots volunteers to provide essential support to people seeking safety.
You will need to onboard and motivate volunteers through continuous engagement and support to ensure that proper safety procedures for effective distributions and activities are in place, well communicated, and consistently applied. The performance of each region and team needs to be regularly assessed and action taken to build capacity and skills where needed. Successful Field Operations Managers will build networks with local charities, community groups and Local Authorities to help grow and develop the operations of the local Care4Calais volunteer teams. As an operation, continuous improvement through research, learning and development of practices and policies will be critical. The successful candidate for this role will be proactive and hardworking with the ability to problem-solve and prioritise effectively. The role would suit someone who is a self-starter, a strong team player and excels working in a varied role. Candidates will need strong organisational skills and must have the ability to make numerous important and compassionate decisions each day.
You will be expected to demonstrate excellent judgement, initiative, integrity, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate with a diverse group of people. You will be part of Care4Calais’ core team in the UK and will report directly to the Chief Operations Officer.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a highly committed team dedicated to improving the lives of those seeking safety.
Key Responsibilities
Your responsibilities will include, but will not be limited to:
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Providing core operations support for Care4Calais’ operations in the UK (specifically London), working to build capacity and support volunteers in their activities. This includes supporting with setting up and running clothing distributions, drop-in sessions, trips and activities as well as supporting volunteers offering guidance and information to individuals.
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Working alongside a small staff team to develop processes, procedures and documentation to support the effective running of Care4Calais’ humanitarian operations.
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Attending external meetings, building and maintaining relationships with partners and key stakeholders which allow Care4Calais’ operations to continue to run smoothly and effectively.
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Managing and supporting large teams of dedicated volunteers supporting people seeking safety.
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Being involved in ensuring that safeguarding procedures are followed in your teams.
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Volunteer onboarding and induction, and continuous volunteer management.
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Develop and deliver training to volunteers.
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Regular in-person visits to the volunteer teams you manage in London.
Person Specification
Essential Skills and Experience:
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Clear leadership ability, with the capability to act with initiative and drive;
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Proven project management skills;
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Strong commitment to the rights of people seeking safety;
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Commitment to Care4Calais' values and mission, including anti-racism;
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Hands on, operational, dynamic and enthusiastic;
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Team worker with good communication and people skills;
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Self-motivated and used to managing multiple priorities to meet deadlines;
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Able to build positive relationships with a range of stakeholders including those from displaced communities, Local Authorities and other charities;
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Ability to respond to the fast-changing and dynamic nature of the UK asylum system, always prioritising the needs and desires of the communities we support;
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
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Ability to work on Google Workspace and Office 365.
Desirable Skills and Experience:
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Experience leading and managing volunteer teams from varied backgrounds
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Experience working/volunteering supporting people seeking safety
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Experience in making grant applications/fundraising experience and managing budgets
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Proficiency in one or more of the languages spoken within asylum seeking communities, such as, but not limited to: Arabic, Farsi, Pashto, Dari, Kurdish Sorani, Tigrinya or Amharic.
Please note: While day-to-day this is a remote role, you will be expected to conduct semi-regular visits to the local volunteer teams in the areas you manage (London). You must therefore be willing to travel, and you will be supported in doing so.
Applications
Please provide a short cover letter/personal statement that explains why you are suitable for this role and why you want to work for Care4Calais, and answer the short application questions.
The successful applicant will be provided with the induction and training needed for them to succeed in the role.
Please note that we receive a high number of applications and are a small internal team. If you do not receive a response in the first round, it means you have not been selected.
We understand that AI can be a useful tool, however we ask that you do not use it for this application as we want your application to be personal to you.
Equality & Safeguarding
Care4Calais is an equal opportunities employer. We actively encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled candidates, and those with lived experience of the immigration system.
Care4Calais is committed to safeguarding, so our selection process includes rigorous background checks and assessments to ensure post holders demonstrate attitudes and values that align with our commitment to an organisational culture that promotes safeguarding.
Lived Experience Inclusion
We are an anti-racist organisation and a proud member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network (EBE), which aims to create a charitable sector led by individuals with lived experience of the asylum system. As part of our membership, we are dedicated to creating inclusive employment practices that recognise and accommodate the unique circumstances and strengths of people with lived experience. We actively move away from a one-size-fits-all approach, ensuring our recruitment processes are fair, supportive, and accessible.
We warmly encourage applicants with lived experience to make use of the guidance and resources available on the EBE website (ebeemployment.). In addition, applicants with lived experience are welcome to connect with the EBE support team for tailored assistance with completing the application form and, where available, one-to-one interview preparation.
Importantly, we recognise the significant cultural, linguistic, and experiential insights that individuals with lived experience of the UK asylum system bring to this role. As such, all applicants from this background who meet the essential criteria will be automatically shortlisted and invited to interview.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.