Local development officer jobs

Summary

The Church of England has recently agreed a significant increase in funding to support God's mission and ministry across the country, supporting local parishes and growing many more new worshipping communities to serve the whole nation. The distributions will also help fund dioceses' plans to serve the nation in various areas such radically cutting the Church's carbon footprint and supporting parishes, cathedrals, and dioceses with using their buildings, to best missional effect whilst ensuring their protection, enhancement, conservation, and appropriate adaptation.

The Net Zero Carbon programme was established to help the Church of England to deliver its commitment to reaching Net Zero Carbon by 2030. It aims to aims to equip, resource and support all parts of the Church to reduce carbon emissions from the energy used in its buildings, schools and through work-related transport by 2030. The team manages the distribution of a grant portfolio worth £190 million across 2023-33, aimed at supporting and equipping dioceses, parishes and other parts of the Church to reach the milestones set out in the Routemap to Net Zero 2030.

This role will play a vital role in supporting the work of the Net Zero Carbon Programme's grant streams, supporting it in delivering a consistent and responsive service to grantees.

The purpose of this role is to provide a responsive service as operational officer for the grant schemes under the Churches Workstream in the Net Zero Carbon Programme:

• Currently the Demonstrator Churches Grant Fund and the Boiler Replacement Hardship Grant Fund,
• 26-28 Decarbonising Churches Grant Fund

The postholder will be the first point of contact on behalf of the grant giver for new applicants and existing grantees under the grant schemes, handling a busy caseload from pre-application contact through to completion. This will involve all aspects of grant service delivery including assessment, issuing of offers and rejections, monitoring, payments, quality assurance and evaluation within the governance and decision-making framework in place for the grant schemes. The postholder will work under the supervision of the Demonstrator Churches Grants Manager and the Decarbonising Churches Lead, who will provide overall guidance and strategic oversight for the relevant grant funds, and will work closely with the Grants Administrator on operational matters.

The role will report directly to the Net Zero Carbon Programme's Decarbonising Churches Lead.

• This is a fixed-term contract due to end December 2028.
• This is a hybrid role required to attend the office location, Church House London one day per week.

Application closing date is 25 January 2026

Interviews will be taking place on 06 February 2026

• A salary of £40,572 per annum, plus age-related pension contributions between 8-15% of salary. We will also match any pension contributions you make up to an additional 3% of your salary.

• 25 days annual leave (increasing to 30 days within 5 years) plus eight bank holidays and three additional days (pro-rated if working part-time).
• We welcome all flexible working arrangement requests. This is looked at in a case-by-case scenario and if this fits within the department's needs. We try to be as flexible as we can in your work pattern to support you with other commitments, and to give a good work-life balance.
• We offer many services and initiatives under our Family Friendly Programme, some of these include enhanced Maternity Leave initiative, Adoption Leave, Paternity Leave, & Shared Parental Leave. Structured induction programme and access to a range of development opportunities including apprenticeships.
• Automatic enrolment and access to Medicash (one of the UK's leading health cash plan providers), providing you with many services including reimbursements of routine dental treatment, optical, specialist consultations, and therapy treatments. Unlimited access to virtual GP & Private prescription service and health & Stress related helplines.
• Access to Occupational Health, and an Employee Assistance Programme 
• Access to the Department of Education Restaurant and Westminster Abbey with a plus-one guest.
• Apply for eligibility for an Eyecare voucher.
• Opportunity to join the Civil Service Sports & Social Club, and get involved in a range of staff networks, groups and societies.

• Strive for Excellence
• Show Compassion
• Respect others
• Collaborate
• Act with Integrity

What You'll Do:

- Leadership Excellence: Lead, inspire, and effectively manage a team of professionals to deliver exceptional mental health support and interventions.

- Innovation and Empowerment: Channel your passion into providing evidence-based interventions, elevating the mental health and emotional well-being of the people we serve, while opening doors to life's possibilities.

- Collaborative Leadership: As a key representative, you will engage in external meetings, fostering vital partnerships with local mental health services, including primary and secondary mental health services in Swindon.

Why Join Us:

· Impact Matters: Join a team where your work directly transforms lives and contributes to a healthier community.

· Personal Growth: We offer professional development opportunities that will enrich your career and help shape the future of mental health services in Swindon.

· Collaborative Culture: Work alongside like-minded individuals who share your passion for making a meaningful impact.

Together, we can build a brighter, healthier future for Swindon. Your leadership can make all the difference.

Key Responsibilities

· Co-lead and develop your team in partnership with the Service Manager in delivering recovery-focused, high-quality, safe and person-centred care, delivering great outcomes for people using services.

· Informing the future direction and development of the Swindon Wellbeing Services including working closely with Directors and Commissioners internally and externally of the organisation.

· Champion innovation and co-lead the implementation of enhancements to services, and support the implementation of change, best practice and continuous improvement.

· Establish effective working relationships with key referrers including the Primary Care Networks and Secondary Care Services in your locality, facilitating meaningful two-way dialogue with key stakeholders.

· Understand and build upon local assets and resources, to enable holistic and flexible place-based support structures that are responsive to local needs.

· Ensure all staff are supported and developed through on-the-job coaching, individual supervision, group supervision and appraisals, identifying and promptly addressing learning and development needs.

· Produce regular outcome reports demonstrating the effectiveness of the service and highlighting gaps in provision.

· To be involved with the recruitment of new staff including participating on the interview panel and leading on the inductions of new Swindon staff.

· To oversee the recruitment of volunteers, including participating on the interview panel and leading the induction.

· The role will include being on call based on a rota system to provide support to staff in services across Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind when required.

· To attend meetings in relation to the Sanford House building and meetings relating to contracts.

· To conduct risk assessments in relation to service areas, ensuring the services are using the Mental Health Triage Scale effectively and appropriately

· To investigate any incidents reported by staff or people accessing services and follow up with recorded outcomes following S&G Mind policies and procedures

· To explore complaints made to the Swindon SBC wellbeing contract and follow the relevant procedures and policies.

· To undertake investigations in line with relevant policies e.g., complaints policy, HR investigations.

· To ensure all staff are assessing risk and that risk is managed appropriately in line with the persons needs and the policies/procedures of the service.

· To ensure that all lone working arrangements are in place and always followed.

· To act as the Safeguarding Lead for adults and children within the Swindon Wellbeing Service

· To act as the Health & Safety Officer within the Swindon Wellbeing Service.

Engagement Officer

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the Engagement Team in Scotland. As this post will cover the Highlands of Scotland, ideally you will be based in that region.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with stroke survivors and their families to support them following a stroke.

Position: S11331 Engagement Officer

Location: Home-based, Highlands of Scotland. However, extensive travel will be required as part of this role (may include team meetings or other work-related meetings)

Hours: Part-time, 21 hours per week

Salary: Circa £17,300 per annum (FTE circa £28,800)

Contract: This is a fixed term contract for 2 years from date of appointment

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Tax-free childcare, Health Cash Plan, Working Pattern Agreement, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: Friday 9 January 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Interviews will be held face to face and are expected to take place in Inverness. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you email your application.

The Role

Reporting to the Engagement Lead for Scotland, you will raise awareness of stroke and the support offers, engage with key stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the needs of stroke survivors in rural communities across the Highlands to develop a model of approach that can be utilised to reach more stroke survivors and their families across rural Scotland.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Raising awareness of universal services and resources with stroke survivors and carers.
• Working with both primary and secondary care healthcare professionals, ensuring they know what resources and services are available to signpost patients to, including our Helpline, telephone befriending, online community and activities.
• Listening to a wide network of stakeholders, including charities, healthcare professionals and community networks, to raise the profile of stroke and create a report on identified local needs.
• Gaining a better understanding of the best way to reach and support people affected by stroke in remote and rural communities, informing work nationally.
• Identifying and recruiting stroke survivors/carers who are willing to share their lived experience and act as Connectors.
• Helping Connectors set up and run novel support services (e.g café groups, cooking classes) in their local community.

About You

You will have experience of:

• Working with and supporting a wide range of stakeholders
• Managing and developing volunteers and working with support groups
• Supporting networks, working in partnerships with other organisations including those in the voluntary sector, health and social care
• Working in advocacy, campaigning, community engagement and development
• Developing support using co-production with service users
• Collecting data and producing reports
• Knowledge of key policies including General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), safeguarding and health and safety
• Addressing health inequalities and championing diversity internally and externally
• Excellent IT skill and communication skills, including confident public speaking skills

This role requires extensive travel across the Highlands. Candidates must be able to demonstrate how they can meet this requirement of the role. Applicants must be based in the Scottish Highlands and have the right to work in the Scotland and must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

When you click to apply, you will be able to see the full responsibilities and person specification for further information on the role. Please submit your CV, (including details of your current address), and a supporting statement of no more than two pages, demonstrating how you meet the person specification and what you bring to the role in terms of your skills and experience.

Finding strength through support

The organisation is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. Providing tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

They are here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of supporters and donors that they can provide vital support. 

The Association is driven by an ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means they’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by an approach to solving inequity in stroke, the team are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across the charity.

The charity are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Association and are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how the organisation work.

A Disability Confident employer, the organisation is making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work.

You may also have experience in areas such as Engagement, Community Engagement, Volunteer Engagement, Advocate, Advocacy, Health, Social Care, Engagement Officer, Community Engagement Officer, Volunteer Engagement Officer. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

We are looking for a proactive and people-focused fundraiser to join our ambitious team as Community Fundraising and Partnerships Officer. This is a pivotal role where you will:

• Grow community income and build meaningful partnerships with local companies, schools, individual supporters and groups.
• Shape and deliver inspiring fundraising initiatives that engage the community and raise vital funds.
• Be the key link between Dash and our supporters, ensuring every donor, volunteer, and partner feels valued and connected to our mission.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make the role your own. While some community fundraising has taken place, there is huge potential to grow our income and partnerships given our location near major companies and active community groups. You will work closely with our CEO and Trusts & Foundations Lead and play a central role in securing the resources needed to continue our life-changing work.

4-5 days per week (flexible), hybrid location (home-based with regular travel to Maidenhead, Slough, and
Windsor, so ideally based within 1 hour of the area)
Term: Permanent or we will consider contract

This role is perfect for someone who wants to use their fundraising expertise to make a real and lasting difference to families in crisis.

Project Officer

• Are you passionate about empowering people with lived experience of mental health or addiction challenges?

• Do you want to play a vital role in shaping services across Hertfordshire and ensuring every voice is heard?

As a Project Officer at Viewpoint, you’ll help drive meaningful change by co-creating projects and supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, values-driven organisation where your work will directly influence service development, reduce inequalities, and improve wellbeing for people across the county.

Hours and salary
22 hours per week, WTE Salary £25,974

Predominantly based in Viewpoint's office
Weltech Business Centre, Ridgeway, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 2AA with expected travel around Hertfordshire.
Hybrid working can be discussed at interview. 
Access to your own vehicle is desirable.

Pension
Following a three-month period of employment, Viewpoint will contribute a sum equal to 5% of your annual salary to a pension provided that you contribute at least 3% of your annual salary to the pension scheme.

Annual leave
Will commence following six months probationary period and will rise to 25 days plus 8 Bank holidays.

Other benefits
Training, Development and Supervision

Length of contract
Subject to funding

Overview of the role

The Project Officer will work with the Viewpoint team, pool of lived experience facilitators and local communities to co-develop and deliver projects that forward mental health recovery in the wider community.

The postholder will enable the participation of people experiencing mental health and/or addiction challenges in all aspects of the planning, delivery, and monitoring of services delivered and to ensure they are provided with the relevant training, support and resources to participate effectively.

The post-holder will work with individuals from all communities to develop new and innovative ways to reach harder-to-reach people. For example, people from travelling communities and farming communities. This role will further the reach of Viewpoint as an organisation to involve diverse communities and ensure their voices are heard in internal and external projects.

The monitoring, evaluation and learning that the postholder collects will be essential for the development of the organisational strategy. The strategy is developed with Viewpoint’s team and pool of experienced facilitators so that our service delivery to those with mental health and substance use challenges can be continually improved.

Find the full job specification on our website.x

We are seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic and experienced safeguarding professional to work as Cathedral Safeguarding Officer.

The post-holder will work with the Canon Chancellor in his role as Chapter Safeguarding Lead (CSL) to raise and maintain awareness and understanding throughout the Cathedral community of the safeguarding needs of children and adults, and actively promote a culture to ensure that safeguarding is of paramount importance.

The post holder will work closely and collaboratively with the Diocesan Safeguarding Team and other Safeguarding bodies.

As part of their role, the Cathedral Safeguarding Officer (CSO) will work closely with the CSL, the Diocesan Safeguarding Team including the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP) and the Diocesan Safeguarding Executive Committee (SEC); all other relevant stakeholders including Chapter, Residentiary Canons, staff, the Senior Management Group, Cathedral Safeguarding Committee, King’s School Rochester, and all relevant external agencies, e.g., CofE National Safeguarding Team (NST), Police and Probation services, local authorities, Domestic Abuse Services.  A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is in place between the Cathedral and Diocese concerning shared working relationships and adherence to Diocesan Polices and use of the National Case Management System.

Rochester Cathedral is committed to a culture of safeguarding, especially for children, young people, and vulnerable adults. The Cathedral has adopted the Church of England policy statement ‘Promoting a Safer Church (2017)’; Safeguarding Learning and Development (2024) and the Safer Recruitment and People Management Guidance (2021). Every member of our team is recruited according to these policies and is required to complete safeguarding training.

The Cathedral has committed to achieve net zero carbon by 2030 in accordance with General Synod’s vote for the whole of the Church of England to achieve this status in recognition of the global climate emergency.  All employees are expected to contribute their efforts in achieving this goal.  The Cathedral currently holds the Silver Eco Church Award conferred by the Christian Charty, A Rocha UK.

About us

Rainforest Foundation UK (RFUK) is a values-driven organisation working with Indigenous Peoples and local communities to protect the world’s rainforests and uphold their human rights. Since 1989, RFUK has partnered with forest peoples and grassroots organisations to secure land rights, challenge destructive industries, and influence laws and policies that safeguard forests and the people who depend on them.

Our mission is clear: to combine human rights and environmental protection to tackle deforestation. From the Congo Basin to the Amazon, our work has helped communities protect millions of hectares of rainforest. With a growing team of passionate advocates for social and environmental justice, we are committed to scaling up our impact to confront the accelerating climate and biodiversity crises.

About the role

As Fundraising Officer, you’ll play a key role in supporting RFUK’s income generation and donor engagement strategies. Working closely with the Senior Fundraising Coordinator, you’ll contribute to a range of activities—from researching trusts and foundations, assisting with grant applications, and managing donor care, to supporting events like the London Marathon and helping implement our digital engagement strategy.

This is a part-time role (21 hours per week), fixed-term for 12 months with the possibility of extension. Based in London with hybrid working options, we offer flexibility, a supportive culture, and the chance to make a lasting difference.

About you

You’re an organised and proactive individual with demonstrable experience in fundraising, ideally within a charity or international development context. You have excellent communication skills, a strong eye for detail, and confidence in using CRM systems and digital tools to manage donor relationships. You thrive on collaboration, can juggle multiple tasks, and are committed to RFUK’s values of environmental and social justice.

If you’re passionate about protecting rainforests and supporting Indigenous communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Job description and benefits

Please download the full job description. We offer 30 days annual leave (pro rata), 4% pension contributions, Employee Assistance Programme, learning and development allowance, and four weeks of work-from-anywhere flexibility.

Location

Hybrid role based in our Bethnal Green office. The postholder would usually be required to work in the office a minimum of one day per week during their probation period. This can be reviewed with their Line Manager thereafter.

Application Process

To submit your application, kindly complete the online application form by Monday 12th January 2026, by 9AM. Please be aware that the form will be anonymised for review by the panel.

Please note that CVs will not be considered.

Regrettably, due to the large number of applications we usually receive, it is not possible to write to you should you not be shortlisted for an interview. If you have not heard from us within 10 days of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion. 

Interviews with shortlisted candidates will be held on 28th January 2026. Please let us know in your application if you are available to attend an online interview.

BIND UK is a specialist team offering expert advice and guidance to organisations that are determined to deliver practical, positive and permanent impact to the UK’s Food Waste Challenge. We believe change is created not by a handful of people doing sustainability perfectly, but by everyone doing a little something. Find out more about our values and purpose here. 

About Eat Smart 

Eat Smart is a successful primary school educational programme born in the NE of England designed to inspire children and schools to reduce food waste and build sustainable food systems. We deliver engaging resources and learning experiences that empower schools and pupils to have more ownership of their kitchens/dinner halls, improve student wellbeing, and have increased environmental awareness.

Since 2018 Eat Smart has enabled 70 schools in North East England to rescue their food waste by over 25%, equivalent to saving 6,000 meals worth £13,000 per school, per year, and our expansion to other areas of the UK has already begun. With an ever-growing data set and credibility for school food waste prevention, we have increasing potential to affect school food policy and deliver food waste prevention interventions on a national level. 

As we expand our delivery across the UK, we are seeking a dynamic and strategic Development Manager to lead the expansion via a franchise model, build partnerships, and oversee the operational excellence of our growing network.

This is a pivotal leadership role focused on scaling the Eat Smart model nationally. The postholder will drive growth by developing regional and national partnerships, securing funding streams, recruiting and onboarding delivery partners, and ensuring quality and impact across all Eat Smart schools and organisations. 

You will combine strong operational management with strategic business development — ensuring Eat Smart continues to grow sustainably, aligning with Bind’s aims and values. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Growth & Project Development 

• Co-develop and deliver a UK-wide expansion strategy for Eat Smart
• Develop and manage the franchise/licensing model for national delivery partners
• Lead on the recruitment, onboarding, and support of partner organisations to deliver the Eat Smart programme effectively 

Funding & Partnership Development 

• Identify, establish and nurture partnerships with national and local government agencies, policy makers, school bodies and funders
• Build strategic relationships with relevant education, environment and community organisations 
• Research relevant funding opportunities for delivery partners and Bind
• Support delivery partners with the submission of funding applications 

UK Network Management & Evaluation 

• Co-design/develop the Eat Smart monitoring and evaluation system to monitor KPIs and the environmental and social impact of Eat Smart across the UK
• Lead on the management of the monitoring and evaluation system, supporting delivery partners where necessary 
• Create local and national impact reports for Eat Smart and use insights to inform improvement and growth 
• Manage the support network of UK delivery partners, ensuring they are able to deliver the programme effectively 
• Assist delivery partners with meetings with Local Authorities and catering organisations 

Marketing & Communications 

• Co-design and lead on delivery of annual Eat Smart conferences
• Represent Eat Smart at events, conferences, and networking opportunities across the UK 
• Manage Eat Smart UK social media channels 
• Develop digital and print materials to support programme promotion and recruitment

Person Specification

Essential: 

• Align with Bind’s values. If you are this, we can teach you the rest!
• Understanding of third sector grant funding landscape and experience in successful bid writing 
• Strong project management and organisational skills 
• Experience in partnership and stakeholder recruitment and management
• Ability to lead, inspire, and develop teams of partners remotely
• Experience with monitoring, evaluation, and reporting frameworks
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for improving environmental and education outcomes. 
• Excellent written and verbal communicator and proficient in IT systems (shared documents, spreadsheets, Zoom/Teams/Meet, social media, website editing and emails) 

Desirable: 

• Interest in, and awareness of, food waste on a local and global level
• Experience in business development, franchise management, or operational leadership
• Experience working in education, environment or social impact sectors
• Knowledge of primary school systems 
• Experience of community engagement in the UK 
• Full driving license and access to own vehicle 

** A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure Check will be required for the post, but a clean DBS certificate is not essential for the role - we will review employees with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis. **

What We Offer 

• Opportunity to shape and lead the national growth of an amazing educational programme 
• A collaborative, mission-driven environment with real social and environmental impact 
• Flexible working arrangements and supportive leadership. Many of our Eat Smart staff choose to work term-time only 
• Remote working, with an office in Newcastle's Ouseburn Valley 
• Being part of a small and passionate team, who believe in a positive disruptive mission to change the food waste landscape across the UK. 

Key Information

• Deadline for all applications is Mon 12th January 2026 at 9am – applications received after this date will not be considered.
• In-person interviews will take place on 21st January 2026 in Newcastle.
• Based in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley but this role can be worked remotely/hybrid (some UK-wide travel required incl. a trip to Newcastle minimum monthly)
• Contract: 30-32 hours per week (with the option of increased hours during term-time and reduced hours in school holidays). 
• The start date will be end of February 2026, but start dates will be discussed at interview.
• We will contact all applicants as soon as possible to inform them of the status of their application.

Are you a good all-rounder in fundraising, including a background in Foundations and Trusts? Can you inspire and motivate donors and fundraisers?

If so, then join an ambitious organisation with a determination to transform the future for the 220,000 people in the UK living with axial spondyloarthritis.  

We are a small team, looking for a second Fundraising Officer to work alongside our existing Fundraising Officer to deliver activity across all our income streams, supported by a Fundraising Board. We’re aiming to grow income from individual giving, Trusts and Foundations, community and individual fundraising, trading and further build our community of legacy pledgers. 2026 is our 50th Anniversary, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our achievements and grow our income.

Our dedicated team at NASS is passionate about transforming lives for people with axial SpA. We truly value our people, who do meaningful work that directly impacts the lives of people living with axial SpA. You'll be supported to succeed and genuinely appreciated for your contributions. We pride ourselves on our collegiate spirit and willingness to support each other in all aspects of our work.  We operate a hybrid model of working, with some staff working remotely for most of the time, so applicants need to be comfortable with working in this way.

The Benefits

· Salary up to £30,000 - £32,000 p.a.

· Employer pension contribution of 10%

· 25 days annual leave plus 3 days leave between Christmas and New Year, plus Bank Holidays

· Time off in Lieu scheme

· Death in Service benefit to loved ones

If this sounds like you, then please get in touch. We would love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit: 

• Your CV
• A two-page cover letter explaining your interest in the role – the letter must describe how your skills and experience meet the person specification.

Application Deadline: 10 am on 6th January 2026.

Interviews:  15th January at our office in Hammersmith.

For further information, and to submit your application, contact Dale Webb

Commitment to equality, diversity & inclusion: NASS is proud to welcome everyone. We aim for a truly inclusive culture with talented, diverse teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We celebrate difference and individuality and encourage everyone to join us and be their whole selves always. We particularly encourage applications from individuals with lived experience of axial SpA and from underrepresented groups in the charity sector.

We’re an award-winning charity running local learning centres in the heart of the communities where the young people we support live. Our centres provide a high-impact education programme which includes practical learning support, pastoral care, and motivational and confidence-building activities for young people aged 7-18. Our aim is to enable students from the least advantaged neighbourhoods to realise their ambitions and achieve their wonderful potential.

As the UK’s leading university access organisation, our staff team is helping over 50,000 young people each year at its 44 learning centres and extension projects across England and Scotland, and we plan to scale-up our provision to 50 centres over the coming years.

We are looking for someone who will enjoy working each day with young people and who will thrive in a frontline, community-based, fast-paced and rewarding role. You will be taking up a fixed-term contract as an Education Worker at our
centre in Oxford.

Location: IntoUniversity Oxford South East
Contract: Full-time, fixed-term until April 2027
Applications close: 9am Tuesday 6th January 2026
Start date: January 2026

Salary

£28,250 per annum

What could my day look like?

The Education Worker role is a frontline, fast-paced and rewarding role where no two weeks will look the same. A typical day will have different activities, possibly spread between the IntoUniversity centre, partner schools and the offices of a corporate partner.

In the morning, you might be setting off with resources to run a workshop for sixth-form students in their secondary school. In the afternoon you may be setting up the classroom ahead of running Primary Academic Support for young people in your IntoUniversity centre. On other days, you may be travelling to a corporate partner to run a business simulation workshop for 15 year-olds or leading a group of final year primary school students on a campus visit for their graduation.

As an Education Worker, you’ll always be delivering the programme as part of your centre team, which means that any delivery is always a team effort. 

As Managing Director, you will provide strategic direction for the charity, employing a collaborative leadership style to ensure that the achievement of the charity’s vision and objectives is supported by an engaged and culturally healthy staff team.

You will ensure the projects are run in-line with our policies, legal requirements, and budgets, with an overarching understanding of the charity’s finances and fundraising.

You will also be a figurehead for the organisation, effectively networking, partnering and influencing across sectors.

Lastly, but most importantly, you will be passionate about the transformative power of connection across division, and how the projects we create serve this core purpose.

Director of Operations

Lead with Purpose. Shape the Future of Christian Care.

Pilgrims’ Friend Society has been providing Christian care to older people for over 200 years. Today, as the UK faces an unprecedented ageing population, we are growing to meet the challenge and we need an exceptional leader to help us deliver our vision of fulfilled living for older people.

We operate 12 care homes and 9 housing schemes across England, with ambitious plans to expand to 15 homes and beyond. Our mission is clear: to provide outstanding care rooted in Christian values, and to partner with local churches so that older people experience dignity, community, and the love of Christ.

About the Role

As Director of Operations, you will:

• Lead and oversee our portfolio of established care homes and housing schemes.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, quality of care, and financial sustainability.
• Drive operational excellence, innovation, and efficiency through systems and processes.
• Work closely with our Executive Team to deliver our Growth and Renewal Programme, including new builds and acquisitions.
• Inspire and develop a talented team of managers and operational leaders.

This is a senior leadership role with significant influence on the future of our organisation and the lives of hundreds of older people.

About You

• We are looking for a strategic, values-driven leader who brings:
• Significant experience in adult social care operations or a closely related sector.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory, Health & Safety, and compliance frameworks.
• Proven ability to deliver quality and financial targets at scale.
• A collaborative leadership style, with a commitment to developing people and culture.

A personal Christian faith and alignment with our basis of faith(a genuine occupational requirement under the Equality Act 2010).

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a growing organisation with a clear vision and calling.
• Influence how society values older people and supports churches in ministry.
• Work in a culture that prioritises prayer, faith, and excellence.
• Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and life assurance.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and motivated finance professional to bring expertise to an established local charity. This is a hands-on leadership role, reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with the senior management team and trustees.You will manage and support a small finance team. 

Investing in this specialist role is a crucial step for Valleys Kids. It will enable us to build upon recent work done to deliver better financial management across the organisation. Securing a sustainable future for the charity in the face of external funding pressures will be challenging but, only in this way, can we hope to maintain our significant successes in improving the well-being of local families and communities. 

This role is perfect for someone who is looking for a part time position, thrives on being part of a dynamic team yet can also work independently. You will need to be highly motivated, well organised, and comfortable in providing updates and reports to the senior management team and key external partners. 

Based at the Factory in Porth, but with working from home opportunities, you will need to have your own transport when travel between the various hubs is necessary.

The role requires a DBS check and the right to work in the UK.

Main Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership 

• Lead financial planning, budget setting, forecasting, and cashflow management. 

• Provide financial insights to support strategic decisions 

• Ensure compliance with Charity accounting standards and regulatory requirements (VAT, SORP, and Gift Aid) 

Operational Management 

• Lead and manage the finance team (2 direct reports) and report directly to the CEO/Trustees 

• Effective use of Xero and accurate maintenance of financial records. 

• Oversee day–to–day finance operations and maintain strong financial controls. 

What we are Looking for 

Essential 

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience. 

• Strong technical accounting skills, with proven experience in budgeting and forecasting. 

• Confident leader with excellent communication skills 

• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands on delivery, including team management 

• Proven experience in a senior finance position 

Desirable 

• An understanding of charity governance 

• Experience with Xero accounting software 

Additional benefits for our employees: 

• 25 days holiday a year plus bank holidays (pro rata) 

• Hybrid working options 

• Employer contributed pension scheme 

• An Employee Assistance Programme 

• Death in Service Benefit 

• Training development opportunities 

• Reimbursement of essential travel expenses at agreed rates 

• Training and development opportunities 

Equality and Diversity 

Valleys Kids are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Please let us know if you need to make any adjustments during the recruitment process and we will be happy to support you.

Chief Executive Officer

Salary: £49, 282 - £54,495 per annum

Location: Gorse Hill Studios, Trafford, Manchester (Some remote working will be considered)

Contract Type: Full time, permanent

About Gorse Hill Studios

Gorse Hill Studios is a dynamic and ambitious youth and community arts charity. At the heart of our organisation is a belief that all young people deserve to feel valued, supported and inspired. We work with young people to build confidence, creativity and community connections, ensuring they have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive.

We believe that creativity can transform lives, and we are committed to placing young people at the centre of everything we do. Their voices, ideas and experiences help shape our programmes, partnerships and strategic direction.

We are entering an exciting phase of growth and development. Our team currently includes 20 core staff and a wider network of volunteers and creative practitioners, delivering a diverse portfolio of youth arts sessions, community engagement projects, creative wellbeing initiatives and partnership-led activity with local schools and organisations. The CEO will play a pivotal role in leading this portfolio, strengthening our impact, championing youth voice and ensuring young people continue to shape our future direction as we move into the next chapter of our development.

About the Role

As CEO, you will provide strategic, compassionate and visionary leadership, ensuring Gorse Hill Studios delivers its mission to empower and inspire young people. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will hold overall responsibility for the organisation’s performance, culture, operations and long-term sustainability. This role calls for someone who demonstrates strong strategic insight with the ability to influence and inspire others, using emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership to build positive internal and external relationships.

A fundamental part of this role is your commitment to embedding young people’s voice in decision making. You will champion their perspectives, ensuring programme development, strategy and organisational culture reflect the needs and aspirations of the young people we serve.

You will also be an ambassador for the charity, building trusted relationships with young people, partners, funders and the wider community. This role requires a leader who is values led, resilient and passionate about supporting young people through the arts and creative engagement.

Roles and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Governance

• Lead on the development and delivery of the charity’s long-term strategy, with young people meaningfully involved
• Ensure compliance with all statutory, regulatory and governance requirements, including Charity Commission expectations and safeguarding duties
• Provide clear, timely reporting to the Board
• Support the Board to operate effectively

Financial Management and Income Generation

• Oversee budgeting, financial planning and responsible management of all funds
• Lead a diverse income generation strategy
• Identify sustainable opportunities for organisational growth

Operational Management and Programme Delivery

• Oversee day to day operations and ensure systems are effective
• Ensure programmes are high quality, inclusive and reflective of young people’s needs and feedback
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, or ensure robust safeguarding practices across the organisation

People Leadership and Culture

• Inspire, support and lead a dedicated staff and volunteer team
• Champion a positive, inclusive and collaborative working culture
• Oversee recruitment, wellbeing and performance management

External Relations and Advocacy

• Act as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for Gorse Hill Studios
• Build strong relationships with partners, funders and stakeholders
• Advocate for and with young people locally and nationally
• Represent the charity confidently at events and in the media

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Senior leadership experience in the charity, youth, arts or wider non-profit sector
• Strong financial management skills
• Proven success in fundraising or income generation
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices in youth settings
• Experience leading teams and developing positive organisational cultures
• Strategic leadership experience

Desirable

• Experience in the youth arts or creative community sector
• Understanding of the Trafford community landscape

Values and Commitment

We are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals who share these values and are passionate about empowering young people.

An enhanced DBS check will be required.

Application Details

To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter.

Closing date: 19 January

Interview date: 23 January at Gorse Hill Studios

Interviews will include a stakeholder panel and a formal interview.

REF-225 658