Service design lead jobs in Chesterfield, derbyshire

For more than 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has helped the military community succeed beyond service – building careers, shaping futures, and living with purpose. Last year, we provided dedicated and specialist employment and justice support to over 23,000 people to create careers and long-term stability.

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Are you a passionate leader with a commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community? We’re looking for an experienced and driven individual to lead and shape our national employment support service, helping veterans and their families build meaningful and sustainable careers.

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This is a unique opportunity to lead a high-performing team, influence strategy, and make a real difference across the UK.

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Brief role description

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The Programme Manager plays a pivotal leadership role in delivering the Forces Employment Charity’s Ex-Forces Employment Charity Programme. This programme provides regionally-based, comprehensive employment support to all who have served in HM Armed Forces, ensuring personal and locally informed guidance for veterans seeking employment or career change.

Working closely with the Director of Veterans and Families Employment, the Programme Manager drives operational excellence, strengthens service consistency across the UK, and represents the charity’s employment offer in the devolved nations. They ensure that our national network of Advisors is supported, empowered, and aligned to strategic goals, enabling the very best outcomes for the veteran community.

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It’s essential that they have experience managing multi-site or national teams, alongside a strong understanding of employment support or careers guidance. They will be confident working with a range of stakeholders, able to use data to inform decisions, and an excellent communicator. Strong IT skills and a genuine commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community are also key.

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Ideally, they will bring experience from the veterans or employability sector, along with some understanding of devolved nation policy or frameworks such as safeguarding or vocational training.

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This role requires an Enhanced DBS check.

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Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Check our website.

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Eager to know more the role? Have a look at the Job Description.

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What’s in it for you? Check out our Benefits.

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Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by closing date Wednesday, 6 May 2026.

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Please note: Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying.

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We are committed to equal opportunities and improving the working lives of our staff by fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, including those with disabilities, can thrive, develop, and achieve their full potential. We actively encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.

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We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process.

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#LI-DNI

Location: Working remotely from home across the four nations of the UK, occasionally co-working spaces, with occasional travel

Start date: As soon as possible (Spring/Summer 2026)

Salary: £38,422 p.a. (FTE)

Benefits: 38 days (FTE) annual leave (including bank holidays) so that leave can be taken when you wish, not necessarily on the fixed bank holiday days / Christian calendar. Pension Scheme. Flexible working arrangements. Access to co-working budget

Hours of work: Full-time or part-time (1 FTE or 0.8 FTE) worked flexibly around business needs (28 to 35 hours per week)

Contract type: Permanent contract

Do you feel passionate about supporting a charity who are reshaping the systems that support children and young people across the UK?  Do you want to develop skills and get involved in a range of innovative social research and design initiatives? 

Dartington Service Design Lab is a national charity that harnesses experience, cutting edge evidence and design to tackle the challenges children and young people face today, securing thriving futures for tomorrow. As we move forward with our refreshed strategy, we are looking for a new Research and Design Officer to join our dynamic team.

The Research and Design Officer plays a crucial role in our work at Dartington. They work alongside experienced Leads, Senior Researchers and Designers, to support a varied portfolio of research and design projects.

As an organisation, we recognise that a diversity of backgrounds, identities and lived experiences is fundamental to shaping research and design that genuinely tackles inequalities. This is reflected in our anti-racism commitments and Anti-racism Action Framework, and in our broader ambition to be a workplace where people of all backgrounds can thrive and do their best work. We particularly welcome applications from members of Black, Asian and ethnically minoritised communities, who remain underrepresented in the social research and design sector. We also warmly encourage applications from disabled people, those from the LGBTQ+ community, people from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and anyone who brings experience of navigating the barriers that inequality creates. If you share our commitment to equity and inclusion, we want to hear from you. 

Key duties of the Research and Design Officer include data collection and analysis, covering both qualitative research and design engagements (workshops, interviews, and focus groups – with young people, practitioners and system leaders) and quantitative work (surveys, synthesis of secondary and administrative data).

The Research and Design Officer also plays a key role in synthesising learning and insights, into digestible, engaging reports and outputs for a varied mix of clients and partners.

As well as strong research skills, the candidate will also bring a strong approach to co-design, facilitation and visual design.

Research and Design Officers work across multiple concurrent projects and report directly to experienced Leads (who specialise in research, evaluation, service design, youth and community engagement, and systemic change).

The role demands a highly relational approach – working with a diverse range of clients, partners and working styles - flexing approaches as required.  It also requires an ability to effectively context-switch and manage a varied workload and set of priorities. It will suit a candidate that thrives with a varied workload, is able to effectively prioritise and communicate well.

This is a fantastic opportunity to learn, develop new skills and experiences, and be part of a passionate, curious and highly skilled team.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

Don’t meet every single requirement outlined in the Job Description? Studies have shown that women and racially minoritised groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single requirement. Here at Dartington we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for everyone. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience or qualifications don’t match the job description exactly, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might just be the right person to help us achieve our impact for children and young people.

The post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service certificate and pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

Do you seek to champion a culture where innovation, learning and cross-organisational collaboration become the norm? Connecting insight with action to reduce inequalities and strengthen community connection?

Involve believes that everyone, regardless of the challenges they face, should have the opportunity to thrive. Using both strategic influence and service leadership, as the Head of Adult Services you will lead the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of high-quality, evidence-driven adult adult services rooted in lived experience, community voice and meaningful partnership.

See the vacancies page on our website for full job and person specification. 

We are looking for a strategically minded and highly committed individual to lead our System Navigation Services.  This person will be responsible for developing exceptional services to help people seeking sanctuary navigate the systems they are forced to exist in and delivering these in solidarity with those seeking sanctuary.These System Navigation Services - The Sanctuary, The Drop-In, The Sheffield Project for Refugee Integration and Growth (SPRING), and our Volunteering Team - are exciting, joyful, and powerful city-wide services that are developed alongside the community of people seeking sanctuary.  They are both impressive in their current form and have so much potential for the right candidate to build and develop them further. 

Alongside this work, we also expect a successful candidate will also have a deep understanding of systemic change, understand our unique role in that work, and understand how their role contributes to systemic change. 

Ultimately, this is a position of leadership within a highly trusted and impactful organisation at the forefront of the movement for the rights of people seeking sanctuary.  We are truly excited about bringing on someone to join us on the journey we are all on together – towards a city that is safe and welcoming for those seeking sanctuary.  In a time when that vision seems to be receding from us, we believe this work is more important than ever.

About the role

Our exciting three year strategy sets out our ambitious goals to drive impact at scale for victim-survivors. We are now looking for an exceptional candidate to lead some of our financial services relationships and consultancy work and support SEA in its mission to raise awareness of economic abuse and transform responses to it within the financial services sector.

Working closely with colleagues across SEA, you will foster and maintain relationships across the financial services sector, seeking opportunities to generate income for the charity and supporting our Head of Financial Services to deliver lasting change and impact.

Together we can transform frontline financial services, in practice, product and process, and save lives.

About you

At SEA we put the lived experience of victim-survivors at the heart of all that we do, including our work with financial services firms. You will be a subject matter expert on customer vulnerability and financial services firms’ regulatory requirements, as well as having a thorough understanding of industry rules and good practice. You will combine this with experience of working with vulnerable customers, including victim-survivors and bring expertise on economic abuse to ensure this is embedded within financial services’ firms’ responses.

About SEA

We are the only UK charity dedicated to raising awareness of economic abuse and  transforming responses to it. We work to save lives and stop economic abuse forever.

Our vision is a world in which all women and girls achieve economic equality and can live their lives free of abuse and exploitation. Not only surviving but thriving.

Our mission is to raise awareness of economic abuse and transform responses to it.

To achieve this, we must ensure that the policies and practices of financial services firms, domestic abuse support services, public services and government reflect the needs of all victim-survivors of economic abuse.

We are  committed to centring victim-survivors in all that we do and broadening our understanding of the needs of survivors, particularly those who are marginalised within society. We work alongside the Experts by Experience - a group of victim-survivors whose voices and experiences shape our work.

Our primary focus is on influencing the women’s, public and financial services sectors, to create a model for improved support for victim-survivors of economic abuse, calling on government to facilitate these changes and work with them to improve their systems and practice.

What we offer

• 25 days annual leave plus Statutory Bank Holidays
• Home working (UK based)
• Flexible working 
• 5% Employer Pension Contribution 
• 5 Wellbeing Days
• Reflective practice
• Employee Assistance Programme 
• Enhanced sick pay, family leave and carer’s leave 
• The chance to be part of our highly professional, supportive team

To apply

Please apply via our website

Applications open from 9 April and close at 11.59pm on 7 May 2026. Interviews will take place virtually, week beginning 1 June.

Direct applications only – no agencies please.

Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA) is committed to developing an inclusive team which reflects the diversity of the communities we support. Our culture celebrates diverse voices, and we particularly encourage applications from Black and minoritised applicants and disabled applicants who are under-represented at SEA.

SEA is a Disability Confident Committed, and Kinship Friendly Employer.

Due to educational commitments and a strategic review of our services, our Founding Director is stepping back from leading the organisation. This creates an exciting opportunity for a Managing Director to join a women-led movement shaped by lived experience.

Working closely with the Founder, Board, and team, you will take the lead in implementing our strategy, turning vision into action, and ensuring our work is sustainable, impactful, and ready to grow. You will play a central role in securing financial stability, strengthening income streams, and building a resilient organisation for the future.

We are looking for a proactive and experienced leader who can strengthen systems, processes, and team culture, while supporting and developing a small, dedicated team. This role is not just about leadership, but about working alongside others - someone who is human, approachable, and a genuine team player.

You will value collaboration and co-production and feel comfortable working in a culture rooted in trust, flexibility, and compassion. You will bring the confidence to represent the organisation externally, alongside the humility to listen, learn, and grow with the team.

This UK-based, remote role sits within a small, friendly organisation committed to reflection, learning, and continual improvement. You will help shape how we evolve, ensuring we deliver safe, high-quality, trauma-informed, and gender-sensitive support for women affected by their own or someone else's gambling addiction.

We are seeking someone who aligns with our values, understands the realities women face in a male-dominated space, and can lead with humanity and humility.

The Managing Director will be accountable for:

• Strategic direction
• Financial sustainability
• Safeguarding and risk oversight
• Commissioner relationships
• Organisational culture and values

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead development and delivery of the 3-year strategic plan.
• Ensure organisational growth aligns with mission and peer-led ethos.
• Identify opportunities for funding, partnerships and influence.
• Ensure services evolve in line with women’s needs and policy context.

Governance & Risk Oversight

• Maintain oversight of safeguarding and clinical governance.
• Ensure robust risk management and compliance systems are in place.
• Report quarterly to the Board on performance, finance and risk.
• Ensure Delegated Authority Framework is implemented effectively.
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Financial Sustainability

• Accountable for organisational budget and reserves strategy.
• Oversee funding pipeline and income diversification.
• Negotiate and sign contracts within Board-approved limits.
• Ensure staffing model remains financially sustainable.

Leadership & Organisational Culture

• Lead and support staff team.
• Maintain trauma-informed, women-centred organisational culture.
• Ensure appropriate delegation and clear accountability.
• Protect staff wellbeing and prevent executive overload.

External Representation & Influence

• Represent the organisation with commissioners, funders and partners.
• Build relationships with VCSE organisations, OHID, NHSE, ICBs, Local Authorities and sector bodies.
• Position the organisation as a credible specialist provider.
• Support policy and influence activity at strategic level.

Board Relationship

• Work closely with the Chair
• Provide clear and transparent reporting.
• Support Board development and portfolio governance.
• Ensure Board receives timely information on risk and performance.

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Senior leadership experience within VCSE, health or social care.
• Experience in women-specific services.
• Experience managing budgets and financial sustainability including evidence of successful fundraising and income diversification.
• Experience working with statutory commissioners.
• Experience overseeing safeguarding in complex services.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in addiction, gambling harm or mental health sectors.
• Experience within CIC or charity governance structures.
• Experience influencing policy or commissioning frameworks.
• Understanding and appreciation of lived experience communities and peer support spaces

Essential Skills

• Strategic thinking and planning
• Financial acumen
• Strong governance understanding
• Stakeholder diplomacy
• Ability to delegate effectively
• Crisis management capability
• Clear written and verbal communication

We kindly ask applicants to avoid submitting AI generated responses to encourage a real sense of who you are. 
 

Our operational days are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. We operate flexibly but our regular team meetings are held on a Wednesday and this role is expected to be accessible for our staff within these days. 

Who we are

Every year, thousands of people in the UK face court alone. Often through no choice of their own, people must represent themselves at a moment that could have life-changing outcomes. This includes loss of access to children or homelessness. At the same time, people facing court alone may find themselves up against a party with legal representation. They are instantly at a disadvantage and overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges they are up against. We supported unrepresented litigants in the civil and family courts in England and Wales over 45,000 times last year.

We provide a safe space with volunteers who listen to each client’s individual story. Last year, over 1000 volunteers helped people to get their thoughts in order, problem-solve and decide next steps, source relevant and reliable legal information, explain complex procedures, complete court forms, and clearly present statements.

At a time when legal support is increasingly limited, we have a vision that no one should have to face court alone.

To make this vision a reality, we have a focused communications strategy to ensure the charity has the brand, reach and impact it needs to connect with unrepresented court users and engage supporters.

Who we're looking for

Ambitious, professional, committed and friendly. That describes us. If it also describes you and you have a passion for designing and iplementing volunteer training programmes, then we’re keen to hear from you.

We’re looking for a Triage Project Lead to join our team on a 6-month contract. You’ll be leading on a project to improve the way in which we triage our clients across our services, with a focus on supporting survivors of domestic abuse better, by enabling our volunteers to identify them earlier in the process and respond accordingly, incorporating a trauma-informed approach.

The role

The Triage Project Lead will be based in the service department, and you’ll be supported by the Head of Service Delivery. 

We’re open to applications from professionals with experience of designing and implementing effective traiging processes who are able to work remotely, and undertake some travel to our offices across England and Wales.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter about why you're the right person for the role via Charity Job.

Please note, that we have two roles advertised, both of which are short-term contracts and could be held by the same person, running the projects consecutively. You may wish to apply for both positions, and if that is the case please only complete one application, detailing clearly in the application that you are applying for both roles.

The Loop delivers high quality, accessible, evidence-based and evidence-making drug checking services and to disseminate harm reduction information to individuals, service providers and policy makers. This is for the purpose of creating a safer society where everyone can access accurate, timely, and relevant information to make more informed decisions about drugs.

The Communications Lead will ensure that we are able to extend the reach and understanding of harm reduction related to drugs and alcohol. This post will ensure The Loop expands its profile and presence, capacity and response, to maximise the opportunities to communicate harm reduction messages and information, raises the awareness, access and understanding of drug checking, and engages stakeholders and members of the public.

This will require the postholder to:

- Coordinate and increase the capacity of The Loop to effectively communicate related to our aims and purpose

- Develop and disseminate social media content, in collaboration with colleagues across The Loop

- Work with partners of The Loop including press and media to further the profile of The Loop for strategic benefit and greater reach to the public.

You will be motivated to assist in the development and delivery of The Loop and possess knowledge of drugs-related harm reduction approaches including messaging, with related or transferable experience in communications. You will contribute and be part of a passionate team of staff and volunteers determined to further introduce drug checking and related harm reduction interventions across the UK.

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Applications by CV and expression of interest, demonstrating your ability to meet the requirements of this role and your motivation in working for The Loop, deadline 20 April 2026.

2. Shortlisting on 21 April, with interviews held on or between 27-30 April 2026, online.

3. Appointment and commencement in post, May 2026.

Please note: the successful candidate will need satisfactory references and a DBS check. Pay review pending.

The Loop is an equal opportunities employer, and embraces and celebrates diversity in our organisation, communities we serve, and across society. We welcome applications from all.

Individual Giving Lead When You Wish Upon a Star | £30,000–£35,000 | Nottingham / Hybrid | Permanent 

Some roles are defined before you arrive. This one is defined by you. 

When You Wish Upon a Star grants life-changing wishes for children with terminal and life-threatening illnesses. Every wish is a memory that lasts a lifetime for a family facing the unimaginable. The cause is immediate, emotionally powerful and directly translatable into the kind of impact that makes supporters proud to be involved. 

We are looking for someone to develop and lead our individual giving function. You will shape the strategy, grow and steward our community of individual supporters, and define what this looks like for Wish. You will have the full backing of the CEO and board, direct access to senior leadership, and the freedom to bring your own thinking, creativity and ambition to a function that is yours to build.

If that sounds like the role you have been waiting for, we would love to hear from you.

What you will be doing 

You will identify, engage and grow a community of individual supporters who feel deeply connected to our mission, developing propositions and campaigns that are emotionally compelling and inspire long-term giving. You will represent Wish confidently, create the systems and supporter journeys that enable sustainable growth, and lay the foundations for an individual giving programme that grows in both income and impact. As income grows, so does the role. The expectation is that this person builds not just a strong base of individual supporters but, in time, a team around it. 

You will work closely with the Head of Income Generation and Board, with realistic targets in the early stages that give you the time and space to build meaningful relationships rather than focus on short-term gains. This is not a role where you will be left to figure it out alone. It is one where your ideas are valued, your judgement is trusted, and your ambition is actively supported. 

What you will bring 

Experience developing, growing or significantly influencing individual giving income streams, including regular giving and lottery programmes, and engaging supporters at scale to inspire long-term and higher-value giving. Experience of managing the end-to-end supporter journey through CRM systems, using insight and data to drive acquisition, retention and growth. 

A strong instinct for understanding what motivates people to give, and the ability to turn that insight into campaigns and experiences that feel personal, compelling and effective. Comfort with ownership, and the confidence to create momentum and build something from the ground up. 

What we offer 

We know what we are asking of you and we have built a package to reflect it. 

• £30,000–£35,000, reviewed as the function grows 

• 25 days holiday rising to 30 with service, plus 3 days at Christmas not taken from your allowance 

• 2 Wish Maker days each year to make your own wishes come true 

• 6 months full maternity pay 

• Full sick pay from day one 

• Flexible working with full trust over how you structure your hours 

• A culture built on genuine care for the people who work here 

How to apply 

We invite you to explore our recruitment pack for more information on the role and how to apply. 

Who we are

Every year, thousands of people in the UK face court alone. Often through no choice of their own, people must represent themselves at a moment that could have life-changing outcomes. This includes loss of access to children or homelessness. At the same time, people facing court alone may find themselves up against a party with legal representation. They are instantly at a disadvantage and overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges they are up against. We supported unrepresented litigants in the civil and family courts in England and Wales over 45,000 times last year.

We provide a safe space with volunteers who listen to each client’s individual story. Last year, over 1000 volunteers helped people to get their thoughts in order, problem-solve and decide next steps, source relevant and reliable legal information, explain complex procedures, complete court forms, and clearly present statements.

At a time when legal support is increasingly limited, we have a vision that no one should have to face court alone.

To make this vision a reality, we have a focused communications strategy to ensure the charity has the brand, reach and impact it needs to connect with unrepresented court users and engage supporters.

Who we're looking for

Ambitious, professional, committed and friendly. That describes us. If it also describes you and you have a passion for designing and iplementing volunteer training programmes, then we’re keen to hear from you.

We’re looking for a Training Project Lead to join our team on a 4-month contract. You’ll be leading on a project to improve our volunteer training programme, with a focus on supporting survivors of domestic abuse and incorporating a trauma-informed approach throughout the training package. 

The role

The Training Project Lead will be based in the service department, and you’ll be supported by the Head of Service Delivery. 

We’re open to applications from training professionals who are able to work remotely, and undertake some travel to our offices across England and Wales.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter about why you're the right person for the role via Charity Job.

Please note, that we have two roles advertised, both of which are short-term contracts and could be held by the same person, running the projects consecutively. You may wish to apply for both positions, and if that is the case please only complete one application, detailing clearly in the application that you are applying for both roles.

BSL version can be found in the attached document

About Deaf Unity
Deaf Unity is a deaf-led charity working to empower deaf people and champion their rights. We support deaf individuals to move successfully from education into employment and beyond.

We have an exciting opportunity for a proactive, creative and highly organised individual to join Deaf Unity at an important stage in our development. This role will lead on the growth of our training offer, helping to increase income while supporting our wider charitable aims.

About the role

This is a varied role where you will take the lead on coordinating, developing and promoting Deaf Unity’s training provision. Our training includes BSL courses, e-learning, and bespoke training for organisations.

You will manage the day-to-day delivery of training while also focusing on growth—building relationships, increasing bookings and expanding our e-learning offer to reach new audiences.

This is a key role in a small, growing charity, where income generated from training directly supports deaf school leavers, jobseekers and professionals. The work you do will have a clear and positive impact.

This role would suit an existing freelancer with experience in the BSL and/or training sector.

What you’ll be doing

Training coordination and delivery

• Managing enquiries from individuals and organisations and converting these into bookings
• Coordinating the delivery of BSL courses, training sessions and bespoke programmes
• Booking trainers, teachers and students, including exam bookings where required
• Acting as the main point of contact for learners, clients and freelance tutors
• Ensuring training is delivered smoothly and to a high standard
• Monitoring quality through feedback and evaluation

Growth and development

• Promoting Deaf Unity’s training offer and increasing sales across all courses
• Building relationships with organisations to secure bespoke training opportunities
• Expanding and developing our e-learning offer to reach wider audiences
• Designing and standardising training materials to improve quality and consistency
• Identifying new opportunities, audiences and partnerships
• Encouraging repeat business and long-term client relationships

Administration and systems

• Managing bookings, records and communication to ensure smooth delivery
• Handling quotes, invoicing and payment processes
• Maintaining tutor records and ensuring compliance requirements are met

Collaboration and improvement

• Working closely with the Services Coordinator to cross-promote training and service
• Monitoring income and contributing to sustainable pricing
• Continuously improving training based on feedback

About you

We are looking for someone who is organised, proactive and confident building relationships. You will be comfortable balancing delivery with growth and working independently.

You will:

• Have experience developing or coordinating training
• Be confident in outreach, sales and building partnerships
• Have strong organisational and administrative skills
• Be able to manage multiple priorities and take initiative
• Share our commitment to accessibility, inclusion and deaf empowerment

Knowledge of the deaf community and training or BSL provision is highly valued.

Essential:

• Strong organisational and multitasking skills with attention to detail
• Experience in business outreach and building partnerships
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently with strong self-motivation
• Proven experience promoting services and meeting targets
• Willingness to learn BSL if not already qualified (training provided)

Desirable:

• BSL Level 2 or above
• Experience delivering training or lesson planning
• Knowledge of the deaf community and accessibility best practice
• Experience using CRM systems and administrative tools
• Experience with Canva or e-learning platforms

Inclusion and accessibility

As a deaf-led organisation, we strongly encourage applications from deaf people. Lived experience is valued and welcomed.

We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process and working environment are fully accessible. This includes:

• Offering interviews in BSL
• Accepting applications in BSL video

Why join us

• Flexible freelance role with potential to grow in hours
• Opportunity to shape and develop services in a growing charity
• Work that directly impacts deaf people’s access to education, employment and support
• Collaborative, values-driven team environment

How to apply

-Please read the Job Description in full before applying

-Please submit your CV and a short supporting statement outlining your experience and interest in the role.

-We welcome applications in written or BSL video format.

Royal Voluntary Service has an opportunity available for a Head of Philanthropy & Partnerships to join our team, working from home. You will join us on full-time, permanent basis, and in return, you will receive a salary ranging from £50,434 per annum.

About the Head of Philanthropy & Partnerships role:

Royal Voluntary Service mobilises volunteers to support people in need and the NHS. Our volunteers work with healthcare teams and in communities providing practical help and emotional support when people are struggling to cope.
 
About the Head of Partnerships & Philanthropy role:

This is a newly created, senior leadership role responsible for building and scaling a high-value income stream across corporate partnerships, high-net-worth (HNW) individuals, and philanthropy at Royal Voluntary Service.
 
The role will lead the development and execution of a strategy to generate £1m+ in sustainable annual income, with a strong focus on new business acquisition, strategic relationship development, and long-term value creation. 

What Makes This Role Attractive

• Opportunity to build a function from scratch with CRO-level sponsorship 
• High visibility across leadership and Board 
• Ability to shape a modern, commercially-driven fundraising model 
• Direct impact on scaling income and social outcomes

Hours: 35 per week, Monday - Friday. 

Location: Homebased with occasional national travel

This is what we're looking for:

Experience

• Proven track record of delivering £1m+ income targets in: 
• Corporate partnerships 
• Philanthropy / major donor fundraising

Skills & Capability

• Highly commercial with a new business mindset 
• Exceptional relationship builder with gravitas at senior level 

Leadership Style

• Proactive, entrepreneurial, and outcomes-focused 
• Comfortable operating in a newly created role with ambiguity 

This is what you'll be doing:
 
Income Generation & Strategy

• Develop and deliver a clear partnerships & philanthropy strategy aligned to RVS growth objectives 
• Own and deliver against a £1m+ annual income target, with defined pipeline metrics 

Corporate Partnerships

• Design and secure strategic, multi-year corporate partnerships (5–6 figure+ value) 
• Target organisations aligned to RVS mission (CSR/ESG agendas, employee engagement, volunteering) 

This is all the other great stuff you'll be getting:

• A salary ranging from £50,434 per annum 
• 26 days’ holiday (pro rata) plus paid statutory Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Up to 2 days paid volunteer leave a year, through our employer supported volunteer scheme
• Ten weeks’ company sick pay following successful completion of probation
• A great pension scheme with 8% employer contributions
• 2 x Base Salary Death in Service Benefit, subject to qualification
• Enhanced Family Leave schemes
• An employee benefits package that gives access to an exclusive rewards website to get discounts and cashback online
• A 24-hour doctor line, financial support with dental/optical and other therapies
• A free and confidential employee assistance programme with up to six face-to-face counselling sessions included
• Opportunities to discuss flexible working
• Opportunities to develop new skills and progress your career
• The chance to make a positive, lasting impact that changes lives, communities, and society

If you feel have the skills and experience to become our Head of Partnerships & Philanthropy please click ‘apply’ today, we’d love to hear from you!

The closing date for this role is 1 May 2026. However, we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received. Please do not delay your application we often get a lot!
 
Join Royal Voluntary Service and together we can change lives, change communities and change society.

Job Title: Communications Manager
Location: Remote
Salary: £38,000 per annum
Reporting to: Head of Fundraising and Communications
Responsible for: Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: Full time, permanent

GFS is seeking a strategic, proactive and values-led Communications Manager to lead the delivery of our communications function and elevate our profile across audiences and platforms. The role will support the shaping and delivery of a communications strategy that amplifies our voice, showcases our impact, and builds trust and engagement with our community. You’ll work across all areas of the organisation to coordinate messaging, manage risk and lead communications activity that reflects our feminist values and purpose.

The Communications Manager will oversee digital content, media relations, marketing and digital fundraising campaigns, working in close collaboration with the CEO, Leadership team and wider team. You will line-manage the Marketing and Communications Coordinator, ensuring high-quality content, storytelling and messaging are delivered consistently across all channels.

Please see the attached documents for more information and details on how to apply. 

Timeline 

• Closing date for applications midnight on Sunday 26 April 2026 
• First stage interviews w/c 11 May 2026
• Second stage interviews TBC May 2026

How to apply

To apply for this role, please submit the following documents:

1. An anonymised CV Please remove your name and any other personal identifying details.
2. A personal statement Your personal statement should respond directly to the three application questions listed below. Please keep within the stated word limits.
3. The optional diversity monitoring form This is not seen by the hiring panel and is entirely voluntary.

Please send all documents by midnight on Sunday 26 April 2026 

Your personal statement should address the following three questions:

1. GFS is a feminist, values led organisation. Please tell us about a time you shaped or delivered a communications approach that reflected specific organisational values. What was your role, what actions did you take, and what impact did it have? 
   (300 words max) 
2. Describe a situation where you identified or managed a communications risk (e.g., media issue, sensitive messaging, reputational challenge). What steps did you take, who did you work with, and what was the outcome? 
   (300 words max) 
3. Tell us about a digital communications or fundraising campaign you developed or led. How did you use audience insight to shape it, what channels or methods did you use, and what results did it achieve? 
   (300 words max)

Purpose of the Role:

The Senior Research, Policy and Influencing Manager will play a pivotal role in driving Cerebra’s mission to influence national and local policy and practice. You will lead on the translation of research into actionable policy recommendations, develop strategic partnerships, advocate for systemic change and influence, persuade and engage with policy makers to improve outcomes for children with neurological conditions and their families. Alongside this you will work with the Research and Information team on Cerebra’s research contracts and the development and dissemination of information.

This is a senior role requiring strategic vision, strong analytical and communication skills, and an ability to build influence across government, academia, and the third sector.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

1. Policy and Influencing  

• Identify opportunities to influence national and local policy agendas, including legislation, guidance, and funding priorities related to childhood disability and neurological conditions.
• Develop accessible and compelling policy briefings, consultation responses, reports, speeches, and presentations for a range of stakeholders, including MPs, government officials, sector partners and the public.
• Monitor policy developments across the neuro-diverse landscape and lead on timely, evidence-led responses.
• Analyse data, trends and policy developments to produce insights and recommendations.
• Translate complex ideas into clear, persuasive communications that support positive change.
• Ensure our policy positions reflect the real experiences and insights of the neuro-diverse children and families we support.
• Develop and deliver Cerebra’s policy and influencing strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and research priorities.
• Develop and deliver influencing campaigns in partnership with Communications team.
• Work closely with the Communications Team by contributing to the drafting of responses to media enquiries on our policy and influencing work and act as the media contact if required.
• Liaise with the Legal Rights Team to assess the impact of current or proposed policies in terms of their actual or potential effects on children with neurological conditions at both national and local levels, and for their input into consultation responses.

2. Engagement and Relationship Building

• Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with decision-makers across government departments, policymakers, NHS bodies, local authorities, professional associations, and sector partners.
• Represent Cerebra at meetings and events, including engaging with MPs, civil servants, policy forums, advisory groups, and cross-sector coalitions and other key influencers, or brief the CEO or Directors if attending.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure our policy and influencing work is grounded in practice and informed by those delivering services.
• Work closely with the Communications Team to ensure consistent, impactful messaging.

3. Research and Information

• With one of our Lead Research Officers leading, you will oversee the tendering process and delivery of our research contracts.
• Working with our Information Development Officer to ensure that we maintain our PIF Tick accreditation for our information resources.
• Carry out high-quality research and analysis.
• Use findings from Cerebra-funded and external research to produce policy briefs, consultation responses, and evidence-based recommendations.
• Alongside our Lead Research Officers carry out horizon scanning to identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in child health, neurodiversity, and public service delivery.

4. Budgeting, monitoring and forecasting

• Working with the team and Director to set income and expenditure budgets for Corporate, Philanthropy, Legacy and Trust & Foundations to assist with any funding applications.
• Monitoring and reporting on income and expenditure and KPIs throughout the year.
• Providing quarterly income and expenditure re-forecasts.
• Ensuring all relevant information is recorded in line with charity, fundraising and data legislation and best practice.

5. Line Management

• Line management responsibilities for a small team, currently comprising of 3 staff.
• Be responsible for the day-to-day management of the team.
• Complete regular supervision and team meetings.
• Provide effective performance management to the team.
• Promote a positive and inclusive team culture aligned with Cerebra’s values.

6. General

• Monitor and evaluate the impact the areas of work that leading on.
• Support collaboration across the different Cerebra teams.
• Experience using Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems or similar digital tools for recording and tracking work.
• Uphold Cerebra’s Data Protection Policy and all relevant confidentiality and safeguarding policies.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the team and organisation.

Please see attached job description for person specification.