Lead worker jobs
JOB TITLE: Lead Youth Services Worker (Northern Ireland)
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director, Northern Ireland
HOURS OF WORK: 25 hours a week (flexible with some evenings)
LOCATION: Office based, with travel across Northern Ireland.
DURATION: Fixed Term – 5 Years
SALARY / GRADE: Grade 5 (£30,738 - £33,921 FTE)
KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
•Adopted Young People in Northern Ireland
• Director Northern Ireland & Northern Ireland staff
• Wider AUK youth staff
•Representative staff from educational establishments.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
To develop, implement and evaluate the Banter Project youth service in partnership with adopted young people in Northern Ireland. These young people range in age from 14-25 years and live throughout Northern Ireland. The role will primarily work with the project participants, but has additional relationships with community organisations, educational establishments and employers to ensure that all project goals and outcomes are efficiently and effectively met.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- To lead the development and delivery of all elements of the Banter Project adopted young people’s service within Northern Ireland in a fun, interactive, interesting and an ability appropriate manner.
- To support the project participants to play an active role in the design and implementation of a programme of monthly activities for adopted young people. Sustaining and developing a monthly social hub, supporting the development of basic life-skills, and preparation for opportunities in further education, training, employment.
- To support a Youth Advisory Group (YAG) in its role to enable adopted young people to steer the Banter Project while developing skills which promote independence, personal development, social and life skills, leadership, and community involvement.
- To organise and supervise the work of the Youth Services Support Worker to deliver the Banter Project.
- To provide opportunities to connect with, and signpost to, relevant services, particularly those who work with care experienced young people.
- To develop and implement robust monitoring and evaluation to review individual goals, track progress and impact, via data and analysis of outcomes to assess effectiveness and areas for improvement.
- To record service activity using the electronic data management systems to collate in preparation for reporting and learning opportunities.
- To gather output and outcome data from the Banter Project service in accordance with the quality assurance systems within AUK.
- Work with other staff members to deliver a high-quality project for our adopted young people and their adoptive parents. Work as part of a team to contribute to a positive work environment and shared goals.
- To attend internal and external training/meetings as appropriate, to remain connected with broader adoption issues, relevant policies, working practices, and network with other youth work providers in Northern Ireland.
- To engage in supervision and professional development.
Registered Charity
51 - 100
Adoption UK is the leading charity for adopted and care experienced people and adoptive families.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
About us
Crisis is the national charity for homeless people. We know that homelessness is not inevitable. We know that together we can end it.
Crisis Skylight Coventry deliver outreach services for people who are homeless, have been homeless in the last two years or, are at risk of becoming homeless. This is an exciting time in the development of the Skylight as the coverage of service delivery expands to reach even more homeless people in the city.
Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.
Crisis Skylight Brent offer direct services to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Alongside our frontline service offer, we develop and lead strategy and partnership projects to deliver positive change for homeless people in Brent.
Location: Crisis Skylight Brent. Homeworking can be considered for one day a week in line with Crisis’ Hybrid Working Policy.
Contract: 12 months Fixed Term Contract
About the role
As one of the Lead Worker you will play a role in supporting people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness by providing assessment, coaching advice and advocacy, whilst linking individuals into services that provide support.
The key to success will be your ability to make collaborative, consistent and psychologically informed relationships with services, colleagues, and partner organisations. You will have the ability to empower and upskill service users to be proactive in their accommodation search. You will provide support with practical aspects of their route out of homeless, including access to housing, benefits, and other relevant needs. You will Lead Work a caseload and provide effective case management in line with the Crisis Case Management Framework.
Skills, knowledge, and experience vital to succeeding in this role:
- Passionate about and dedicated to ending homelessness.
- Comprehensive understanding and experience of accessing housing via private rented sector, local authorities, housing associations, supported providers and others.
- Good knowledge of issues affecting homeless people, including housing, welfare issues, trauma, substance use, involvement in criminal justice services, and social isolation
- Proven track record of successfully using coaching, IAG or psychologically informed approaches with people who have experience homelessness.
- Skills and experience in partnership working and networking.
- Flexible and adaptable to change.
- Strong team player, able to use own initiative and reflect on your own practice.
- Previous experience in the voluntary or statutory sector with a focus on working alongside marginalised people or groups.
Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions in the application form, we encourage you to apply.
We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds.
Working at Crisis
Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.
Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.
As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:
- A competitive salary. Please note, our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage
- Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy
- Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
- 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
- Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)
Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career.
When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.
How do I apply?
Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.
Closing date: Sunday 11th January 2026 at 23:59
Interview process: Competency-based interview and interview task to Case Study sent to shortlisted candidates prior to the interview
Interview date and location: Week commencing 19th January, 2026. Crisis Skylight Brent, 1-2 Bank Buildings, High St, NW10 4LT
AI in Job Applications
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences
Accessibility
We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help.
Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
We have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Youth Development Worker to join our team. This role will lead and develop our youth work offer across the 4 villages area of North Bristol (Lawrence Weston, Shirehampton, Sea Mills and Avonmouth).
We’re looking for an individual who has a passion and flair for supporting young people, promoting a sense of inclusion and belonging. The right candidate will have experience of both targeted and open access provision and a desire to enable young people to promote their voice and views to shape the future of youth work in the area.
The successful post holder must have:
· Good standard of basic education, including English and Maths Level 2
· Level 3 or equivalent in youth work
· Experience of leading and developing youth programmes (both open access and targeted)
· Ability to build long lasting, positive relationships with both young people and adults
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a growing national organisation, making a real difference to communities on a local level. As part of the package, Oasis offers:
· A pension scheme, currently offering 7% employer contribution
· A generous holiday allowance
· Working as part of a friendly, community-minded team of professionals
If you are interested in being part of this service, then please:
To apply, please apply via Charity Jobs or see details on our website.
Please expand on your CV to tell us about relevant skills, experience and qualification you have, that relate to the job description and person specification.
Completed applications should be returned by 9am Monday 19th January 2026.
Interviews will take place week commencing 26th January 2026.
The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK. Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas. We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups.
If you require assistance or adjustments to overcome potential barriers during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.
Oasis supports Equal Opportunities. Registered Charity No. 1163889
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
We're Hiring: Play & Youth Work Lead | Doorstep Homeless Families Project
Location: North London
Salary: £28,000 - £31,000 per annum.
Hours: 28 Hours per week - 20 hours face to face and 8 hours for admin
Benefits:
- Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 5% of gross salary
- 30 days paid holiday
The hours onsite will be worked over Monday, Tuesday Thursday and Friday, with normal working hours falling between 9.30am ( the earliest start) and 8pm (the latest finish).
Job Introduction
At Doorstep, we open more than just doors — we open possibilities.
Every day, we stand alongside families experiencing homelessness, providing a safe, welcoming space within a large family hostel where children can play, learn, and simply be themselves.
We are looking for a passionate and creative Lead Play and Youth Worker to guide and inspire our work with children and young people aged 0–18. This is a special role — one that blends leadership, imagination, and empathy. You will manage a small, dedicated team, shaping and delivering play and youth activities that bring light, laughter, and a sense of belonging to children whose early experiences have often been marked by instability.
At Doorstep, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We work with families over years, not weeks — building trust, celebrating progress, and helping each young person discover their strengths. Our unique model of support is widely respected and deeply valued, and this role offers the chance to make a genuine, lasting difference in young lives.
If you are someone who believes in the power of play, creativity, and care to transform childhoods — we would love to hear from you.
About the Role
As Lead Play and Youth Worker at Doorstep, you’ll be at the heart of our mission — creating moments of joy, stability, and growth for children and young people who are living through uncertain times. No two days are the same. One moment you might be leading an energetic after-school club session; the next, you’re supporting teens to express themselves through art, music, or discussion.
You’ll manage and inspire a small, talented team of play and youth workers, ensuring that every activity we offer — whether it’s creative play, learning support, or outdoor adventure — reflects Doorstep’s core values of respect, belonging, and hope. You’ll plan and deliver programmes across all age groups (0–18 years), adapting to the needs and interests of children and young people as they grow.
Collaboration is central to this role. You’ll work closely with families, colleagues, and partner organisations to provide continuity and care, helping to make Doorstep a place where children feel seen, valued, and free to thrive.
This is not just a leadership role — it’s an opportunity to build something lasting. Your creativity, empathy, and commitment will help shape the next chapter of Doorstep’s play and youth work, ensuring that every child who walks through our doors is met with warmth, opportunity, and care.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Team Management
- Lead, supervise, and support a small team of play and youth workers and volunteers.
- Provide regular supervision, guidance, and professional development opportunities to team members.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative working environment that reflects Doorstep’s values.
Programme Planning and Delivery
- Design, plan, and deliver a varied programme of play, creative, and youth activities for children and young people aged 0–18 years.
- Ensure all activities are engaging, developmentally appropriate, and responsive to the needs and interests of participants.
- Encourage children and young people to express themselves, build confidence, and develop positive relationships.
- Plan and oversee trips, events, and holiday programmes, ensuring safety and inclusivity at all times.
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
- To fulfill the statutory responsibilities of Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Take responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people involved in Doorstep’s services.
- Ensure staff and volunteers follow safeguarding procedures and receive appropriate training.
- Respond appropriately to any concerns, working in partnership with relevant agencies where necessary.
Partnership and Family Engagement
- Build positive, trusting relationships with parents, carers, and families, encouraging their involvement in children’s play and learning.
- Work collaboratively with other professionals and partner organisations to enhance support for families.
- Represent Doorstep at relevant meetings, forums, and networks to share best practice and strengthen partnerships.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Administration
- Maintain accurate records of attendance, participation, and outcomes in line with organisational requirements.
- Contribute to monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes to demonstrate impact and inform future development.
- Support funding applications and project reports by providing relevant data and case studies.
General Duties
- Uphold Doorstep’s ethos, values, and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Contribute to the overall running and development of Doorstep as a small, specialist organisation.
- Undertake any other duties reasonably required to support the effective delivery of Doorstep’s mission.
About You
Experience and Knowledge
- Relevant qualification in playwork, youth work, early years, or a related field (Level 3 or above) or equivalent.
- Significant experience of planning, delivering, and evaluating play and youth activities for children and young people aged 0–18 years.
- Experience of supervising or managing staff and/or volunteers within a play, youth, or community setting.
- Strong understanding of child development and the role of play in supporting wellbeing, resilience, and growth.
- Sound knowledge of safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures.
- Experience of working with families facing disadvantage, housing instability, or other complex challenges.
- Understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and commitment to anti-discriminatory practice.
Skills and Abilities
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with children, young people, parents, and professionals.
- Creative and resourceful approach to planning activities that engage children of different ages and abilities.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain accurate records.
- Ability to lead, motivate, and support a small team to achieve shared goals.
- Confidence in managing behaviour in a positive, trauma-informed way.
- Competent IT skills for administration, reporting, and communication purposes.
Personal Qualities
- Warm, approachable, and empathetic, with a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for families experiencing homelessness.
- Reliable, flexible, and resilient in the face of challenging circumstances.
- Reflective, open to learning, and committed to professional development.
- Enthusiastic about play and youth work as powerful tools for change and belonging
How to Apply
Please apply with your CV and a covering letter stating why you would like the job and what you believe you can bring to it.
Closing date for applications is Friday 16th January 2026.
Interviews will take place week commencing 2nd February 2026.
Please send your CV and a covering letter stating why you would like the job and what you believe you can bring to it.
