Lived experience jobs

Service Manager 

Service: Change4Life Service, London

Salary: Starting at £40,669, rising to £44,933 FTE per annum, inclusive of the inner London weighting

Location: Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster, W10 (Hybrid, 2 days in the office)

Hours: 37 hours per week (full-time)

We offer flexible working arrangements - please see below for more details.

Contract: Permanent

Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities.

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

Change4Life takes a holistic and community-based approach, improving and promoting the physical and emotional health & wellbeing of children and their families with a lasting impact.

You will join a dynamic service that takes a preventative and whole systems approach to tackling childhood obesity and health inequalities at a time when supporting disadvantaged members of our society is more essential than ever.

As a Service Manager, you’ll be passionate about transforming the lives of children, young people and their families and leading a team to do the same. Sharing and embracing the Public Heath agenda, you will work with local authorities to promote national and local public health priorities including healthy eating, physical activity, oral health and emotional wellbeing. You will play a leading role in Change4Life’s mission to:

• Lead an innovative service with a holistic approach to promoting health and wellbeing

• Align with other services that promote similar messages

• Promote a whole systems approach to reduce health inequalities

• Be responsive and flexible to the changing needs of families and staff

We strive for continuous improvement and as a valued member of an innovative team you will actively contribute to service development. You’ll undertake staff training and evaluation to ensure children, young people and families are healthy in all settings, supporting them to thrive where they live, learn and play.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

· Service Delivery

· People Management

· Outcomes and Quality Management

· Business Management

· Business Development and Partnerships

· Co-production and Volunteering

· Undertake HR and complaint investigations

· Comply with Family Action’s Health and Safety Policy, and Data Protection Policy

· To work flexibly as may be required by the needs of the service.

· Commitment to equal opportunities, diversity and equality.

· Ability to align with and support Family Action’s mission and values.

· Appointments are subject to Family Action receiving a satisfactory disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Benefits:

· An annual paid leave entitlement of 30 working days plus bank holidays.

· Up to 6% matched-pension contributions. - flexible working arrangements and new starters have the right to make flexible working requests from day one of employment.

· Enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions.

· Eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers,

· Cycle to work scheme,

· Investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities.

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

·       Follow to link to our Careers Hub and click the “Apply Now” link to fill out our digital application form

· Closing Date: 13th July Closing date at 23:59

Interviews are scheduled to take place from 23rd July 2025, with slots throughout the working day and early/late slots available.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role, and will reimburse your travel cost if you attend an interview.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons.

Job Title: Floating Support Coordinator

Location: Luton based within the office with travel as required

Salary: £24,500 (Annual equivalent)

Shift Pattern: Fixed term contract ending June 2026, 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday, shift patterns including 08:00 - 16:00, 09:00 - 17:00 and 10:00 - 18:00. You may be required to be flexible around these hours depending on service requirements.

About the role

We're looking for a Floating Support Coordinator to join our team based in Luton. You will deliver community based support to individuals with mental health and wellbeing needs. You will work alongside various community and statutory services to help our participants to transition into independent living within two years. You will inspire and motivate our participants to achieve their personal goals, build independence, and reintegrate within the community. You will provide tailored personalised support to help our participants to live more fulfilling lives. You will deliver personalised support plans to engage them with opportunities available within the community, and help them to develop their social skills and independent living skills. 

About you

We are looking for someone who is truly passionate about supporting individuals who have challenges with their mental health and wellbeing. You will be dedicated to be proactive and use your initiative and creative ways to find solutions, and empower them to live more fulfilling lives. We look for people, people who have resilience, determination, and a genuine passion for wanting to help make a difference to people's individual lives. You will have:

• Experience of working with people who come from complex backgrounds and have a history of mental health and wellbeing needs
• An understanding of the support to put in place for people who have mental health and wellbeing needs
• An adaptable approach to your work, able to alter your way of working to suit different needs
• Ability and willingness to show flexibility of working patterns and way of working
• Ability to use, learn and adapt to IT at an intermediate level, including use of our systems and Microsoft
• Understanding of the housing and social needs of people with multiple and complex needs
• Alignment with our values of Ambition, Empowerment, Inclusivity, and Transparency

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• EDI Ambassador programme
• Be part of an organisation which believes good care and support improves lives.
• Join an organisation with a mission to empower people who are marginalised by building powerful partnerships and creative solutions that bridge gaps in provision and aid recovery, reablement and resettlement.

We value and celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives and experiences of all of our employees. We have a team of staff ambassadors who volunteer to actively support us in fortifying our organisational value of Inclusivity. They embrace this unique opportunity to deliver awareness, events, and developments to our organisation to support us in ensuring our value of Inclusivity is embedded throughout the organisation. 

SIG actively encourages applications from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, particularly lived experience; Naturally, we approach any emerging issues with empathy and sensitivity. 

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings, probation settings, and hospitals. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Liverpool. Our goal is to transform lives through empowering change. 
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us on the details below. 

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions. 

Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.

At the Medical Research Foundation, we believe in the power of medical research to improve health and transform lives. We fund high-quality, high-impact research in areas that are often overlooked or underfunded.

We're looking for a talented Research Communications Officer to join our growing team. If you have a knack for translating complex science into compelling stories along with a genuine passion for research, then our role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact.

From crafting powerful news stories and social media content to creating donor-facing research summaries and impact reports, you’ll shine a light on the scientists we support and the discoveries they are making. You’ll work closely with colleagues across the organisation - particularly our Research and Fundraising teams to develop content that is engaging, accessible, and scientifically sound.

You’re a confident science communicator, and you’re excited by the chance to explain complex research in simple and engaging ways. You thrive in a collaborative environment and care deeply about the role of medical research in improving human health.

We would like to hear from you if you can demonstrate:

• Education to degree level in a relevant scientific discipline.
• An ability to translate complex scientific information for a lay audience.
• Experience of supporting successful communication strategies across a range of channels, including traditional and digital media.
• Clear communication skills with the ability to communicate confidently on a range of issues and to a variety of audiences.
• Using your interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Effective planning and organising of your work along with the ability to respond flexibly and positively to unexpected changes or demands.
• Provide communication advice and recommendations to colleagues.

The salary for this position will be between £30,000.00 - £36,000.00 per annum depending on experience. This is a full-time post at 36 hours per week and will be offered on a permanent basis.

We value spending time working in-person to develop strong connections with each other and with our mission, so you will be based at our central London office for a minimum of three days a week (usually Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) with the option to work remotely for the remainder.

At the Medical Research Foundation, we believe that diversity drives creativity and innovation. We are dedicated to promoting equality of opportunity, fostering fairness and inclusion, and creating an environment where everyone feels that they belong.

We welcome applications from individuals from minoritised groups, including those from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and members of the LGBTQI+ community.

About role:

Step into a role where your work makes a powerful difference every single day. As a Project Worker for Complex Needs at our new Harrow Road Assessment Hub in Westminster, you'll be part of an inspiring team at the forefront of change - supporting people as they take their first steps away from rough sleeping. Westminster has some of the highest levels of rough sleeping in the UK, and this innovative service offers short-stay, intensive support for people who may not have a local connection but are in urgent need of stability, care and a chance to rebuild. It's fast-paced, human-centred, and deeply impactful.

This is more than just a job - it’s a launchpad for a career in frontline services where you’ll develop a rich mix of skills, from trauma-informed support to multi-agency collaboration. You’ll guide people through rapid assessment and into safe, appropriate accommodation - whether that’s reconnecting them to services in other areas or helping them settle into new housing and support networks. Every day, you'll help navigate real challenges - like immigration, healthcare access, or welfare systems - and you'll see the impact of your work unfold as people regain their footing and move forward.

At Single Homeless Project (SHP), we believe in growing talent from within. This role opens the door to continuous professional development and progression across our diverse services. If you're looking for a career that challenges you, grows you, and gives you purpose, this is your opportunity to start something meaningful.

About you:

• Experience of supporting vulnerable people, ideally those affected by homelessness or multiple disadvantage.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.
• Empathy, resilience, and a commitment to person-centred working.
• Ability to manage a fast-paced environment and prioritise effectively.
• Willingness to work flexibly, including early, late, and weekend shifts on a rota.

About us:

Single Homeless Project is a London-wide charity. Our vision is of a society where everyone has a place to call home and the chance to live a fulfilling life.

We help single Londoners by preventing homelessness, providing support and accommodation, promoting wellbeing, enhancing opportunity, and being a voice for change. From supporting people in crisis to helping people take the final steps towards independence and employment, we make a difference to 12,000 lives every year across all 32 boroughs.

We offer you more than a job; we offer you a chance to be part of a compassionate, driven team that's committed to making a real difference in people's lives. You'll have the opportunity to lead, co-create, and inspire change while enjoying a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

Join us in creating a brighter, more hopeful future for individuals in need. 

Important info:

Closing date: Sunday 29th June at midnight

Interview date: Wednesday 8th and Thursday 9th July Online via Microsoft Teams

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions.

About the role

Working in close collaboration with the Senior Mass Fundraising Lead, the role will manage and deliver a variety of community-led fundraising initiatives and dynamic challenge events that engage supporters and generate vital unrestricted funds for children affected by neuroblastoma.

The role focuses on building strong relationships with fundraisers, volunteers and ambassadors, providing guidance, support and motivation to help them surpass their fundraising goals. The Community and Challenge Events Fundraising Manager will both steward existing and reactive contacts, as well as be confident in securing new networks, including representing the charity in presentations and other public speaking opportunities.

This role comes at an exciting time of growth in the fundraising team, with new colleagues joining the charity and a team focused on growth of income over the coming years. This role is crucial in this plan and will take the existing community and events programme to new heights.

Who we are looking for

Person specification:

• Demonstrable experience working in challenge events and/or community fundraising
• A proven track record of being results-driven and working to and achieving fundraising targets
• Significant experience of developing and delivering fundraising plans
• Experience of supporter/donor stewardship activities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Good interpersonal skills with the ability to network and build new and existing relationships

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

Benefits of working with SKC include:

• Home-based and informal flexible working.
• 5% employer pension scheme contribution.
• 32 days holiday, including bank holidays, with the opportunity to buy additional leave.
• Access to 24/7 confidential helplines for counselling and legal and tax advice.
• Well-being check-ins with manager and optional Well-being Action Plan.
• Regular opportunities to meet in person as departments and the full team.
• Training opportunities – we care about our staff and volunteers, and encourage opportunities for professional development.
• A child-centred charity with a passionate and dedicated team.
• Regular staff survey for the opportunity to provide feedback experiences and make suggestions.

Location: Home-based within England with regular travel to London and elsewhere in the UK as required

Interviews: Friday 4 July 2025

As a safeguarding charity whose work and practice are underpinned by safeguarding principles to protect children and young people and enhance their welfare, we always work in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance, and best safeguarding practices. All our roles require a basic criminal record check.

Prison Facilitator - Bank Staff (Central Region)

Location: Central Region
Department: Prison delivery
Salary: £16.98 per hour
Hours: Various
Job Type: Part time
Contract Type: Bank

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy levels amongst people in prison?

Shannon Trust are delighted to be working with His Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) to provide peer-led learning programmes across a number of prisons. To ensure the continuation of our programmes during times of staff absence, we are now seeking to recruit a Prison Facilitator on a bank working basis to work across the Central region including HMP Birmingham, HMP Featherstone, HMP Nottingham and HMP Hewell, as required. Working closely with prisons and their staff, people in prison, Shannon Trust volunteers and mentors, this post will support with the delivery and development of our literacy and numeracy programme in the Central region, maximising opportunities for people in prison to learn to read.

Ideally you will have some experience of prison settings underpinned by the ability to build relationships quickly and personal qualities that include resilience, determination and a problem-solving approach. You will also have a willingness to travel, sometimes at short notice, to provide short or long term cover within the region including possible overnight stays.

This role will be prison-based. This is a bank role and so the number of days to be worked will vary and are not guaranteed. Employee benefits include a company contribution to pension scheme of up to 5%, 30 days holiday plus bank holidays, life insurance, discounts via Reward Gateway and an Employee Assistance Programme.  The biggest benefit though is our culture – our people really want to work for the organisation.

We welcome job applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and do not routinely ask for details of any criminal convictions. These roles do require prison security clearance, so we will need to ask for details of any relevant criminal convictions before an offer of employment is finalised. 

Closing date: 23rd June 2025

Interviews to be held week commencing 30th June.

Benefits: Standard Shannon Trust: Employee benefits include a company contribution to pension scheme of up to 5%, 30 days holiday plus bank holidays, life insurance, paid volunteering days, discounts via Reward Gateway and an Employee Assistance Programme.

REF-221779

Ref: SCP-252

Are you an influential, proactive and collaborative individual with a proven track record of working successfully with challenging people who have multiple and complex needs?  Do you have a commitment to the concept and effectiveness of peer approaches?

If so, St Giles is looking for a Senior Caseworker to join us and provide support and activities for adults with complex needs and severe and multiple disadvantages in order to enable participants to develop improved employability skills and progress into sustainable employment.

About St Giles Trust
An ambitious, well-established charity that helps people facing adversity to find jobs, homes and the right support they need.  Central to our ethos is our belief that people with first-hand experience of successfully overcoming issues such as an offending background, homelessness, addictions and gang involvement, hold the key to positive change in others.

About this key role

As our Senior Caseworker, you will work with participants to agree and regularly review an action plan and help them to carry out actions on their plan via delivering one-to-one and group motivational advice and guidance.  We will count on you to provide effective leadership, support and guidance to a team of Peer Advisors in the delivery of flexible services to individuals with complex needs to improve their employability skills and help them move into sustainable employment.

You will also be expected to organise the promotion of the project, coordinating the recruitment and engagement of participants and ensuring each participant has a comprehensive initial assessment of their employment and wider needs, plus develop excellent relationships with colleagues and local stakeholders and identify wider local services that can provide support to participants.

What we are looking for

• The ability to assess the needs of vulnerable clients and provide client-led support to address these needs in a variety of ways
• Thorough understanding of the principles of needs and risk assessment, and care co-ordination/planning, and the ability to coach others in these skills
• Proven record of supervising and supporting a team of volunteers to deliver positive outcomes for vulnerable people
• The ability to use monitoring systems to record all aspects of project activity
• Experience of maintaining accurate financial records and evidencing all spend
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

Please note: this role requires that successful candidates must undergo an Enhanced DBS check, on the basis that the post involves contact with vulnerable participants and colleagues.

In return, you can expect a competitive salary, generous leave allowance, staff pension, flexible working, a mentoring programme, an advice and counselling service, clinical therapist sessions, life insurance (4 x annual salary), duvet days, season ticket loan, employee perks programme, eye care voucher and much more.

We are an equity and inclusion confident employer. We welcome all applications, and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi- heritage) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.

St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Job Description for the vacancy.

To apply, you will be redirected to our website. If you have any queries, or require further support, please visit our website. 

Closing date: 29th June 2025 at 11pm         

Reporting to:   Communications & Marketing Manager

Contract: Permanent; Full time 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday. Some evening or weekend working will be required as part of this role. 

Location: Hybrid. Home working with minimum of 40% of contracted hours at our office in Welwyn Garden City. Candidates must be based in the UK and within reasonable commuting distance to our office in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire.

Job purpose

The Communications & Marketing Officer is a key role within our busy Communications Team. They will support the wider Willow team in delivering on plans to raise the charity’s profile and increase supporter engagement. The Communications Team supports the communications needs of all teams across the organisation.

Principal responsibilities and duties

• Contribute to, and help to evolve, Willow’s communications activity, including emails, website, marketing and social media
• Work with the Willow teams to plan and deliver a regular calendar of content, ensuring the communication and marketing needs of colleagues across the organisation are met
• Manage the promotion of fundraising campaigns and events
• Engage with press, supporters, beneficiaries, partners, volunteers and medical professionals to help establish Willow as a national brand
• Gather and create engaging content, including case studies, images and videos, to be used to raise awareness of Willow’s work locally and nationally
• Develop and manage working relationships with creative agencies, printers and freelancers to deliver high quality communications, on time and within budget
• Use analytics tools to report back on performance and identify learnings and opportunities
• Attend Willow and third-party events, providing communications support including social media posting, videography, photography and media management
• Work with the managers of Willow’s shops to deliver a program of communications projects and activities to engage new donors and customers
• Work with Communications Team colleagues to plan and deliver activity to support the Digital Comms Strategy, Ambassador & Influencer Strategy, Growth plan and key themes and projects
• Be an active member of the team and charity as a whole and undertake training and skills development and keep up to date with the changing requirements of the role and the external environment
• Undertake other duties that may be required as part of the role

Person Specification 

• Experience of working in a busy marketing/PR/communications team, ideally in a charity environment
• A responsive, confident self-starter who is enthusiastic and highly motivated
• Excellent planning, time-management and organisational skills with ability to stick to timetables for delivery of work and meet deadlines under pressure
• Able to express ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing, with an ability to adjust tone and content appropriately for different target audiences
• Strong copywriting and editing skills with the ability to turn complex information into compelling stories and content
• Ability to think creatively, offering new ideas, concepts and solutions
• Experience of developing multi-channel communications plans and taking a communications campaign forward through different digital and offline channels
• Design skills, particularly in creating and/or overseeing the design of visually appealing digital and non-digital content which adheres to brand guidelines
• Experience of using analytics and other tools to report on performance of campaigns
• Experience of media relations and evaluating media coverage and PR
• Experience of using social media as a professional communications tool
• Experience of producing and editing photo and video content
• Experience of using software including Microsoft, Canva or other design tools, Google Ads, analytics tools, email marketing platforms, website CMS systems (we use Wordpress) and charity databases (we use Raiser’s Edge)
• Organised and able to keep good records for data protection, confidentiality and financial purposes
• Knowledge of the digital charity landscape, including best practice for social media, web content creation and engagement strategies

Other

• Full driving licence required as regular travel across the county will be part of the role, in particular to our retail stores and events. Some national travel may be necessary on occasion.

General

We offer the following competitive benefits package:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working arrangements
• Life Assurance and Group Pension Fund
• Season ticket loan
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working policy
• Employee assistance programme

Main Purpose of the Role:

To lead the Support Team to provide emotional and practical support to families and individuals living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. It includes leading the support team to provide 1-2-1 and group support provided in person or virtually, and creating and growing support networks for the wider Duchenne community which includes Duchenne parents/caregivers; young people and adults living with Duchenne; extended family and friends; and professionals in environments such as schools, local authorities and clinics. 

Specific Tasks:

The focus areas and key deliverables of this role are as follows:

• Develop a clear process for identifying case loads and capacity for the Support Team.

• Identify opportunities, alongside the team, for cross team working - including residentials; family events; Science Educations workshops with regional meetups and education visits to schools and local authorities.

• Obtain, decipher and provide training to the Support Team on new updates relevant to Duchenne families, such as DLA, EHCP and more.

• Work closely with your team, to ensure that each family receives the best support possible, and that long-term support is provided.

• Lead on the development and delivery of monthly reporting of engagement and support contact, which will feed into the wider All Through Support journey. 

• To work with the Head of Operations and Events to contribute to Agenda topics and speakers from the community; assign roles for the conference to the Support Team.

• Establish a database for external stakeholders also supporting those living with Duchenne on a national basis, fed in to from the Support Team.

• To develop a triaging and caseload process for the Support Team, and how best to regularly monitor this.

• Be involved in the recruitment, selection, and induction of volunteers appropriate to your area of work.

• To maintain the contact database, keeping it up to date and accurate.

• Coordinate cover for the Support Team when there is sickness or leave.

NB This is not an exhaustive list, the role holder will be asked to carry out additional tasks as required for the Team’s successful service delivery. Such tasks will always be reasonable and broadly in line with current knowledge levels and skill sets.

Person Specification Criteria (essential, except those noted specifically as desirable) 

Education and Qualifications

• Experience leading a team (either through line management or mentoring)

Knowledge and Experience

• A proven track record of providing support to those in need in a professional setting. 

• Experience of safeguarding reporting.

• Experience of reporting on services and development of monitoring dashboards.

• Knowledge of current legislation around either accessibility, equal opportunities, Disability Living Allowance, or Education Health Care Plan.

• Knowledge of networks and signposting for those living with a life-limiting condition.

• An understanding of and commitment to Equal Opportunities and the ability to promote this in the day-to-day work of the post.

• Experience working in the health sector or at a patient-led charity. [Desirable]

• Experience of a CRM system. [Desirable]

Skills and Aptitude

• Passionate about improving the lives of young people, adults and their families living with Duchenne.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally.

• Excellent organisational and time management skills, ability to work as part of a team and work on own initiative and to deadlines.

• Ability to be assertive but also have empathy and the ability to be sensitive with the families and young adults we support.

• Interest in networking and continued learning about new areas of support for those living with Duchenne. 

At the heart of the 2027 programme is a paid, 12-month role within a leading foundation, trust, or social investment organisation. You’ll be employed full-time in a grant-making or related position with one of our dynamic host organisations across the UK. In this role, you’ll contribute directly to improving the communities your host serves while earning a salary of at least £25,000 (or £25,642 if based in London).

Alongside your placement, you’ll take part in an acclaimed development programme designed to build the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for a successful career in the funding sector. Through this, you’ll explore the challenges within grant-making and social investment, develop your leadership potential, and work alongside peers to imagine and create a more equitable and effective funding system. The programme supports you not only to thrive in your new role but also to grow into a future changemaker in the sector.

This unique blend of training, professional experience, and network-building will equip you to take the next step toward a decision-making role in a foundation, trust, or social investment organisation—helping to shape how resources are used to create lasting change in communities.

Why 2027 exists

Launched in 2017, 2027 was born out of a desire to shift power in the grant-making sector. It aims to bridge the gap between funders and the communities they serve—particularly by addressing the lack of people with lived experience of working-class communities in decision-making roles. 2027 helps change who is involved in making funding decisions and how those decisions are made.

The Job

In your placement, you could be:

• Managing parts of a grant portfolio
• Building relationships with community partners
• Making funding recommendations
• Preparing reports and updates for trustees
• Engaging with the funder’s broader organisation to inspire interest in community work
• Ensuring legal and compliance obligations are met
• Representing your host externally and bringing in outside learning

Each role will vary slightly depending on your host organisation. We’ll work with you to ensure a placement that aligns with your goals and development.

Who You’ll Work For
You’ll be matched with a respected host organisation—one of the UK’s leading foundations, trusts, or social investment organisations—based on your location preferences and interests. Previous hosts have included:

• BBC Children in Need
• National Lottery Community Fund
• Joseph Rowntree Foundation
• Sport England
• Better Society Capital
• City Bridge Trust
• NHS Charities Together

The Development Programme
As part of your role, you’ll participate in a comprehensive professional development programme led by sector experts. It includes:

• Residentials: Two in-person events for deep learning and peer connection.
• Masterclasses: Online, expert-led sessions exploring key sector topics.
• Peer Support Sessions: Monthly confidential spaces to reflect and share learning.
• Mentoring: Each Associate is paired with an experienced sector mentor.
• Self-Directed Learning: Curated content for reflection and growth between sessions.
• Peer Coaching: Training and monthly sessions to build coaching skills and mutual support.
• 360 Review + 1:1 Coaching: Holistic feedback and personalised coaching to support your development.
• 2027 Connect: A mix of events to connect with the wider 2027 community, including alumni, hosts, and mentors.

Career Progression
By the end of the programme, you’ll have built the experience, confidence, and insight to take on more senior or decision-making roles in the funding sector—playing a meaningful part in shaping how money is invested for social good.

Job description

• Job Title: 2027 Associate
• Salary: Minimum of £25,000 (£25,642 if based in London)
• Employer: One of our host foundations, trusts, or social investment organisations
• Location: Opportunities across England and Scotland (you’ll share your preferences)
• Hours: Typically 9am–5pm, with some flexibility
• Contract: 12-month fixed term, starting October 2025

*Foundations and trusts are grant-making charities that fund individuals, groups or organisations to run projects that benefit communities. Social investment organisations provide repayable finance to charities and enterprises working to create long-term social change.

Today, 12 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer. We’ll stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.  

• £38,072
• 35hrs a week - flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Temporary (up to 12 months)
• Hybrid working - home based and office based (Birmingham Children's Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham)
• Closing date: 22nd June 2025
• Interview date: 1st July 2025

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

We challenge the systems and policies that surround children and young people, we highlight gaps and campaign for change. Because we know what a better future could look like. And we know what we need to do to make that future a reality. We need to push harder, reach further and work smarter. And we need the right people on our team to help us get there. People like you.

About the role

We’re looking for a Social Worker to support children and young people diagnosed with cancer in our Birmingham Team. 

We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality support tailored to the needs of the children and young people and their families using a needs based assessment framework. The work we do is rewarding but also complex and demanding. You will be part of a close-knit Young Lives vs Cancer social work team, working with an established NHS multi-disciplinary team and services in the community.

This role is part home, part site-based. Your contractual base will be both Home and Birmingham Children's Hospital, with an occasional need to work at Queen Elizabeth Hospital and other hospitals in the surrounding area.

This post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

This role is also subject to a Social Worker Registration. 

What do I need? 

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• A recognised Social Worker qualification and current registration with Social Work England/ Scottish Social Services Council/Social Care Wales/Northern Ireland Social Care Council
• Experience working with children, young people and their families/carers in a social care setting.
• Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary environment, ideally in an NHS setting.
• Sound knowledge of child and young people development.
• An understanding of the impact of serious illness for children, young people and their families.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.

What will I gain?

 For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing days: four days a year to do what works for you – from catching up on training to going for a walk
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. CVs can be uploaded, but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the work history sections of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly and objectively.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

#ShowTheSalary

The Creighton Centre is a well-established local charity based in Hammersmith & Fulham, dedicated to supporting older, disabled, and vulnerable adults. Through a wide range of services, we aim to reduce social isolation and disadvantage by offering practical support, meaningful connections, and emotional wellbeing.

We are currently seeking a compassionate, proactive, and engaging Project Worker to join our Learning Disability Outreach (LDO) team.

You will work directly with adults who have learning disabilities, supporting them to lead more independent, connected, and fulfilling lives. The role involves a mix of 1:1 support, group work, advocacy, casework, and mentoring, as well as helping to deliver a timetable of social activities and workshops.

You will also play a key part in volunteer coordination, helping to ensure a warm and supportive environment for everyone involved.

Empathy, excellent communication skills, and a genuine interest in people are essential.

What We're Looking For

We’re looking for someone who has:

Experience working with people with learning disabilities or in a similar support or community-based setting

A flexible, team-oriented attitude

Confidence leading group activities and supporting individuals

An interest in community development and inclusive practice

A passion for gardening or the outdoors would be a welcome bonus, as the role may involve supporting participants in a small community garden.

To find out more or discuss your experience, please contact:

Joe Robins - Learning Disability Outreach Coordinator - 075878 18591