Peer Advocate Jobs

Our team in Camden has an exciting new opportunity for a Women Specialist Advocate to join the WiSER project, based in Camden. You will join us on a fixed term basis until the end of March 2025 (with the possibility of extension subject to ongoing funding.)

The WiSER Project is a partnership of specialist charities working together to provide support and advocacy for women whose experiences of violence and abuse intersect with multiple and severe disadvantage. We work with women who are frequently excluded from mainstream services and/or find it hard to engage with support, which increases their vulnerability and risk. Our assertive outreach approach enables women to access support, increase their self-esteem, and make safe choices.

About the Women Specialist Advocate role:

We are looking for an experienced, dynamic Specialist Advocate to join our advocacy and support team in Camden, with a specific remit to reach and support women facing multiple disadvantage. You will work intensively with a small caseload of women as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating extensively with external agencies.

You will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the intersection between severe and multiple disadvantage and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and have a strong understanding of how this can make it difficult for women to engage with support. You will have worked with people experiencing various aspects of severe and multiple disadvantage: homelessness, substance use, mental health issues, insecure immigration status, prostitution, offending history and children taken in to care. Most importantly, you will be committed to improving services and life chances for women affected by VAWG who are experiencing severe and multiple disadvantage.

Please note: This service is run by women for women and is therefore restricted to women applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

About you:

• An excellent understanding of the issues faced by women survivors of VAWG, including a knowledge of options for and rights of women experiencing all forms of VAWG.
• The ability to take a resilient and assertive approach to reaching out to and building trust and positive relationships with women who are experiencing multiple disadvantage, and who may present as reluctant to engage and/or may be presenting in crisis.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with a wide range of professionals (some of whom may have very different approaches to problem solving) through a multi-agency approach, and advocate to agencies on behalf of the Project and its service users.
• A demonstrable commitment to providing a non-judgemental, non-directive and empowering approach to supporting women.
• A high level of personal organisation with the ability to plan and prioritise your own work.

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 10,000 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: Wednesday 26th June 2024 (at Midnight)

Interviews to be held: Monday 7th July 2024

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

At Single Homeless Project, we welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to having a workforce that is made up of diverse individuals, skills, experiences and abilities.  Due to current under –representation at management level, we particularly encourage applications from individuals within our Black and Asian communities.

Single Homeless Project is actively committed to equal opportunities and the promotion of diversity and inclusion, in all of our services and workplaces.  We are also Disability Confident Committed and are IIP Silver accredited.

Full or part-time from 4 days a week

The Grants Officer will be a member of the Biomedical Grants and Policy Department. You will work with a Grants Manager to administer a portion of the Academy’s portfolio of grants schemes and activities.

You will act as a key point of contact for external liaison relating to the schemes. Working with the other Grants Officers and the rest of the Team, you will also help to develop and deliver events for Academy grant holders, as well as contribute to the Academy’s wider portfolio of work, and the delivery of our new strategy.

About the role – what you will be doing.

• Administer a portion of the Academy’s portfolio of grant schemes

1. Processing applications, determining eligibility, and coordinating peer review of eligible applications.
2. Convening and supporting the awarding panel, including preparation of committee papers, reports and financial information, as well as preparing feedback to applicants.
3. Managing the new grants once awarded, along with the Academy’s existing portfolio of grants.
4. Supporting the monitoring of awards and evaluation of grants schemes.
5. Analysing data and preparing papers, presentations and reports to demonstrate the impact of our schemes for internal and external use.
6. Maintaining accurate and up to date data on grants.
7. Researching and reporting on initiatives being undertaken by other UK funders.

• Liaise with stakeholders

1. Working with the Academy’s Fellowship, in their roles as peer reviewers, selection panel members and Chairs, honorary Officers and members of Council.
2. Acting as a key external point of contact for the Academy’s grants schemes, such as by providing advice to applicants, awardees, and host organisations.
3. Developing and maintaining working relationships with scheme funders.
4. Working with other Academy staff, particularly the rest of the Careers department and supporting the other Grants Officers in the delivery of their schemes, as required.

• Support the development and delivery of events for Academy grant holders, for example induction and scientific meetings for grant holders.​
• Contribute to the Academy’s wider portfolio of work, including drafting and providing data for papers for the Academy’s governing committees.
• Act as line-manager or project manager for one of the Academy’s interns, on a rotation basis and when the opportunity arises.
• Perform any other duties that might be reasonably expected, and which are commensurate with this level of post.

About you – what you will bring to the role

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
• A confident and friendly team player/collaborator (within and across teams)
• Interest in biomedical and health research
• Highly numerate
• Good IT skills, e.g., Microsoft suite and online databases
• Excellent organisational skills
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Previous relevant experience (desirable, but not essential)
• Ability to travel from time to time either in the UK or abroad, with occasional overnight stays

Benefits

• Salary progression framework
• Hybrid and agile working
• 29 days' annual leave including Christmas closure dates, plus bank holidays.
• Pension (the Academy contributes 7.5% of gross salary to a pension scheme, with an employee contribution of 3%).
• Life assurance
• Season ticket travel loan (interest free)
• Family friendly benefits - enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to qualifying period), coaching for parents returning to work
• Subscription to Headspace and Class pass
• Staff training to support your development including EDI training

For more information and to apply, please visit our careers page.

Closing date: 5.00pm on Thursday, 20 June 2024.

Interview date: w/c 1 July 2024.

INTRODUCTION TO GIRLS NOT BRIDES

Girls Not Brides is the only global organisation uniquely focused on creating and sustaining a worldwide movement to end child marriage and ensuring that this movement leads to tangible change for the girls at risk or affected by the practice. We are a network of over 1400 civil society organisations in over 100 countries working in partnership to end child marriage.

Our vision is a world without child marriage where girls and women enjoy equal status with boys and men and are able to achieve their full potential in all aspects of their lives. Our vision challenges deeply embedded social norms that harm the lives of girls, women and their communities.

INTRODUCTION TO THE ROLE

Girls Not Brides is looking for a Head of Research, Evidence and Learning to lead the secretariat’s work on research, evidence, data and learning to inform impactful action on ending child, early and forced marriage and unions (CEFMU). The successful candidate leads the Evidence and Learning Team and works closely with all teams to ensure Girls Not Brides is a go-to and trusted source for evidence and shared learning on what works to address CEFMU and support married girls, globally and in priority regions where we work. The role holder ensures the Girls Not Brides secretariat is a highly effective learning and knowledge hub on CEFMU, co-creating and sharing collective insights and evidence to strengthen our programme, advocacy and policy work driving impact across the movement.  

Working closely with Teams in Africa, Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), they provide strategic leadership to increase uptake of research, evidence and collective knowledge by member organisations to enable more effective evidence-based action to end child marriage at all levels. Moreover, the role ensures we continue to play a leading role in coordinating global, regional and national evidence generation through convening diverse stakeholders, identifying evidence gaps and catalyzing collective efforts to strengthen the evidence base on what works to end child marriage.

In close collaboration with the Director of Learning, Evidence and Impact, the Head of Research, Evidence and Learning plays a leadership role in ensuring the timely and quality implementation and delivery of two key areas of the Strategic Objective on Learning of Girls Not Brides’ Secretariat Strategy 2022-2025. The role holder will work closely with the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) and Impact team withing the same directorate but will not lead on the organisation’s MEAL work.

About You

We are looking for a passionate and inclusive leader with demonstrable experience in research, evidence and learning and supporting the uptake of evidence for programming, advocacy and policy influencing gender justice and social change issues. The ideal candidate will be an empowering and collaborative team leader, who is able to provide strategic leadership as well as be a good people manager. We are not looking for a MEAL specialist, but rather an individual who has experience and knowledge of translating research, data and evidence into impactful advocacy and programming.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leads Girls Not Brides work to leverage knowledge, learning and evidence for impactful action to address child early and forced marriage and unions (CEFMU) across the movement.

• In close collaboration with the Director for Learning, Evidence and Impact, plays a leadership role in ensuring the timely and quality implementation and delivery of two key areas of the Strategic Objective on Learning of Girls Not Brides’ Secretariat Strategy 2022-2025, namely: 1) “Highly effective learning and knowledge hub co-creating and sharing collective insights and evidence to drive impact”, 2) “Stronger coordination of global, regional, and national evidence generation which supports the movement’s efforts to accelerate change to end child marriage”.
• Using a collaborative approach, manages a effective Evidence and Learning Team, consisting of up to five individuals, including performance management, professional development and providing ongoing support to individuals.
• As a member of the Advisory Management Team, contributes to key internal strategic and decision-making spaces.
• Works closely with the Teams in Africa, Asia and LAC, as well as the Impact and Global Advocacy teams to deliver the organisation’s learning priorities and ambition.
• Leads the Learning Team’s strategy and work planning, budgeting, and tracking of progress against the organisation’s key performance indicators.
• Contributes to development of funding proposals as requested.
• Leads the Learning Team’s work on ensuring Girls Not Brides is a go-to and trusted source for evidence and shared learning on what works to end CEFMU and support married girls.

Leads Girls Not Brides’ work as a global knowledge and learning hub.

• Oversee the development and implementation of Girls Not Brides’ Knowledge and Learning Hub, that ensures the secretariat is a go-to place for learning and evidence on CEFMU.
• Working with the Learning Team, oversees knowledge management activities for Girls Not Brides ensuring the organisation has the latest learning, evidence and data on CEFMU and has up-to-date evidence-based key messages on CEFMU and relevant topics.
• Oversees the development of learning resources and opportunities on ending child marriage, including the development of thematic briefs, learning or research webinars, capacity enhancement sessions, peer learning sessions, etc.
• Works closely with Learning Team and teams in Africa, Asia and LAC to identify and respond to learning priorities of members organisations in the Global Partnership.
• In close collaboration with Heads of Africa, Asia and LAC Teams, oversees the development and implementation of Girls Not Brides learning offer with National/State Partnerships, coalitions and members.
• In close collaboration with Teams in Africa, Asia and LAC, ensures the Secretariat works effectively with member organisations to document, collate and share information and evidence on what works to end CEFMU, and supports effective action and results within the global Partnership and broader movement.
• Oversees the timely and effective dissemination of key evidence and learning to all audiences through different channels e.g. newsletter, webinar, etc.

Leads on the uptake of knowledge, learning and evidence by member organisations to increase the quality and impact of programming and evidence-based influencing.

Working closely with the Learning Team and colleagues in Africa, Asia and LAC teams:

• Supports the facilitation of knowledge exchange with and between member organisations, National and State Partnerships and coalitions and the broader movement.
• Ensures Girls Not Brides provides technical assistance on learning, data and evidence to selected National/State Partnerships and coalitions to inform and strengthen their collective advocacy and programming.
• Contributes to translate learning and knowledge into impactful advocacy and policy influencing initiatives and programmes.

Oversees Girls Not Brides’ role to promote a stronger coordination of evidence generation at all levels.

• Working closely with the Research Manager, oversees the work of the Child Marriage Research to Action Network (CRANK) to support stronger coordination of global, regional, and national evidence generation which supports the movement’s efforts to accelerate change to end child marriage.
• Contributes to reinforce strategic partnerships with key stakeholders and to position Girls Not Brides with key research actors in the field such as the UN, academics, think tanks, etc. for better coordination in the field and stronger strategic collaborations.
• Works closely with the Research Manager, to provide strategic direction and advice to Teams in Africa, Asia and LAC for a stronger coordination of evidence generation at regional and national level.
• Promotes and advocates for a more equitable knowledge system.

Wider responsibilities of Girls Not Brides team members

• Commit to the mission and vision of Girls Not Brides, putting them at the forefront of all planning, work and actions.
• Uphold the core values of Girls Not Brides in all areas of work and interactions with colleagues, member organisations, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Comply with Girls Not Brides policies and processes, with particular attention to safeguarding, the code of conduct and data protection.
• Ensure that internal databases and monitoring information are kept fully up to date.
• Commit to ongoing personal development and learning.
• Fulfil any other reasonable requests for the advancement of Girls Not Brides.

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

Essential experience 

• Post graduate degree in a relevant area, such as social science, development studies, international relations, human rights or gender, or relevant proven professional experience.
• Significant experience in learning, evidence and research and supporting the uptake of evidence to strengthen programming, advocacy and policy outcomes and influencing on gender justice and social change issues.
• Proven experience in developing and managing effective and impactful teams, including strong and inclusive people management, line management of individuals, performance management, fostering ongoing professional development, team planning and budgeting.
• Track record of embedding a learning culture at the organisational level 
• Demonstrable experience of designing and conducting quantitative and qualitative research and evaluations
• Knowledge and experience of gender transformative approaches and its application in research, programme and network spaces.
• Significant experience of working with a wide range of civil society organisations – from international NGOs to small grassroots organisations; knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing civil society organisations working to promote a child rights/gender equality agenda. 

Essential skills and knowledge 

• A good understanding of the CEFMU evidence base.
• Sound understanding of policy issues related to development, human rights, and work related to CEFMU.
• Proven leadership skills in supporting teams to deliver impact across key areas of work, as well as experience in operationalising of strategic priorities.
• Ability to gather and research information from a broad range of sources, interpret complex and technical information and analyse data.
• Skills in quality assurance for research
• Excellent communication, networking and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to collaborate with and inspire others. 
• Highly developed cultural awareness and ability to work well in an international environment with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. 
• Strong writing skills, with an ability to write in a variety of styles, for different audiences.
• Strong ability to present complex information in a succinct and compelling way. 
• Ability to deal with competing demands, multiple priorities, time constraints and unanticipated events. 
• Strong strategic planning and project management skills.
• A keen eye for accuracy and attention to detail
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office tools particularly Excel and PowerPoint 
• Fluent written and spoken English.
• Ability to build strong relationships while working remotely.

Essential values and attributes 

• Deep knowledge and experience of intersectional gender analysis and its application in programming, movement building, research and governance and a proven commitment to embody and advance gender equality.
• Skilled team worker with an inclusive and collaborative approach, in line with Girls Not Brides’ values. 

Desirable 

• Understanding of CEFMU from a feminist perspective and good links with key actors working to address CEFMU. 
• Experience in working as part of a management team contributing to organisational and strategic decision-making.
• A good understanding and/or experience in the Humanitarian Sector.
• Commitment and ability to apply feminist leadership principles.
• Knowledge of French, Portugues or Spanish, or other relevant languages are highly desirable. 

Safeguarding

Girls Not Brides is committed to safeguarding all children, young people and adults at risk with whom our staff and representatives work and interface. Any employment with Girls Not Brides may be subject to the satisfactory completion of a background check and a criminal records check, which can include but is not limited to: an overseas police record check, a Disclosure and Barring Service Check (for those based in the UK) or an International Criminal Record Check (if applicable).

Diversity at Girls Not Brides

Girls Not Brides is an equal opportunities employer. We embrace diversity, equal opportunity, and inclusion in a serious way. We are committed to building a staff body that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

How to apply

• The closing date for this role is 23:59 GMT on Sunday 23 June 2024.
•  Interviews will be held onsite week commencing 8 July 2024.

To apply, please click on the ‘Apply now’ button on the job page and submit your CV and a brief cover letter clearly demonstrating how you meet the criteria.

We regret that due to the large number of applications anticipated, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.  candidate

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge?

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard?

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.

We are looking for a new Advocate to join our team in Ayrshire. We are seeking applicants who have transferable skills, a willingness to learn and a desire to help those in need of support or already have a Level 2 Award in Independent Advocacy.

About us

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team covering Ayrshire You will be involved in one-to-one advocacy along with group work across the area; this could be in a clients’ home or other suitable community venue and be home based for telephone referrals and administrative tasks.  Therefore, access to your own transportation and a suitable home internet connection is essential. 

This is a full time role for 35 hours per week, applicants who do not hold the Level 2 Award in Independent Advocacy will start on £22,500 per annum.

About you

We actively encourage applications from those who are long term unemployed.

Desirably you will have some experience of working, providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education, training, benefits, employment, care and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard.  This can be through 1-2-1 advocacy or in a group setting.

Professional Development?

You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day. Advocates are expected to be willing to gain or to already hold, the Level 2 Award in Independent Advocacy with disciplines suitable for the role they work in.

Benefits:

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• 5% employer pension & 3% employee contribution
• Salary sacrifice pension scheme
• Separate Life Assurance Cover
• Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays etc
• Discounted Gym Membership; Employee Assistance programme
• Supportive working environment fostering a good work/life balance
• Support with continuous professional development

Equality and Diversity

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values, and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.

How to apply

To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form.

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications; noon on 23rd June however, VoiceAbility reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy before this date.

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

Hint: you can use work, personal and/or voluntary experiences and examples to tell us why you should be our next Advocate.

We look forward to hearing from you.

NB:

If you don't already hold the Independent Advocacy qualification, and you are successful in your application, it is a requirement that you complete this within 12 months of commencing the training.  VoiceAbility will fund this training.

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge?

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard?

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.

We are looking for a new Advocate to join our team in the East Riding of Yorkshire. We are seeking applicants who have transferable skills, a willingness to learn and a desire to help those in need of support.

About us

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team covering the East Riding of Yorkshire. Your role will require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes across the area to meet with clients and professionals and be home based for administration; therefore, access to your own transportation and a suitable home internet connection is essential. 

About you

Desirably you will have some experience of working in advocacy, or providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Professional Development?

You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day.

Benefits:

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays, pro-rata for part time employees
• 5% employer pension & 3% employee contribution
• Salary sacrifice pension scheme
• Separate Life Assurance Cover
• Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays etc
• Discounted Gym Membership; Employee Assistance programme
• Supportive working environment fostering a good work/life balance
• Support with continuous professional development

Equality and Diversity

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.

How to apply

To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form.

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications; midnight on 23rd June 2024, however, VoiceAbility reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy before this date.

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

Hint: you can use work, personal and/or voluntary experiences, and examples to tell us why you should be our next Advocate.

We look forward to hearing from you.

NB:

If you don't already hold the Independent Advocacy Qualification, and you are successful in your application, it is a requirement that you complete this within 12 months of commencing the training.  VoiceAbility will fund this training.

Job description

Are you passionate about patient and public engagement, effecting system change, and improving services? Are you confident to design and carry out research, and tell the story of the findings in briefings and reports?  Do you relish building relationships with external partners, and working together to bring about change? If so, we’d love to work with you to improve the experiences of people using health and social care services in Barnet.

As our Senior Research & Participation Officer, you will be working on an exciting new project to improve primary care access for residents. Your flair for planning and logistics will enable you to both gather evidence about the experiences of Barnet residents, and to collate existing data. You’ll also be comfortable producing accessible how-to guidance, to enable people experiencing health inequalities to access services.

The role will involve building effective relationships with stakeholders including GP Practice Managers, voluntary sector organisations and NHS Integrated Care Board partners. You will work with these stakeholders constructively and persuasively, to seed partnership initiatives and achieve positive change for Barnet residents.

In return for your commitment to the cause, you will become part of a friendly and supportive team, working within a focused but flexible culture, where diversity is valued and you can bring your whole self to work.   

Applicants must have lived experience of disability, which could include a mental health issue or other long term condition. 

Interviews with held online on the 2nd and 3rd of July.

About Healthwatch

The Health and Social Care Act 2012 required each local authority area to set up a Healthwatch organisation. Healthwatch gives people a powerful voice both locally and nationally. At a local level, Healthwatch Barnet works to help people get the best from their health and social care services, whether it's improving them today, or helping to shape them for tomorrow. Healthwatch Barnet is about local voices being able to influence the delivery and design of their services, not just for the people who use them, but anyone who might need to use them in future.

Healthwatch Barnet transferred to Inclusion Barnet on 1st April 2020. It is commissioned by the London Borough of Barnet to provide the following 6 key functions:

· Gather views and understand the experiences of patients and the public

· Make people’s views known

· Promote and support the involvement of people in the commissioning and provision of local care services and how they are scrutinised

· Recommend investigation or special review of services via Healthwatch England or directly to the Care Quality Commission (CQC)

· Provide advice and information (signposting) about access to services and support for making informed choices

· Making the views and experiences of local people known to Healthwatch England (and to other local Healthwatch organisations) and providing a steer to help it carry out its role as national champion

About Inclusion Barnet

Inclusion Barnet is a thriving peer-led charity based in North-West London. We believe in the power of experience, and this is demonstrated by all our services being led, developed, and delivered by people with lived experience of disability, including mental health issues and long-term conditions. We believe that learning to use our lived experience for social change is a skill. We have become experts in harnessing the lived experience of our staff, members, volunteers, and people who use our services to design and deliver higher quality, more person-centred services. We believe that this benefits both disabled people and society more widely. We also work to support other organisations to do the same. Our work is very much influenced by the Social Model of Disability. 

What You'll Do: 

• Collaboration and Efficiency: Work hand-in-hand with existing Mental Health Provision for people and their families, as well as other local agencies/organisations to effectively support people transitioning from services. 
   

• Innovation and Empowerment: Channel your passion into providing evidence-based interventions, becoming key in shaping this role as the service develops as well as providing support to the core Access Community Mental Health team. 
   

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. 

Job Description

The Head of Advocacy and Policy will be responsible for developing an excellent Advice Service and Retention Team to support and advise students effectively to enable excellent student experience and satisfaction.

This role will lead on the development of effective insights, representation and support initiatives/campaigns for students, across our three campuses at Greenwich, Avery Hill and Medway.

This role will enhance work with the diverse student population of the University of Greenwich and lead a dynamic team to ensure students have consistent and accessible services that contribute to positive student experience.

This role sits within the wider Membership Services department, together with other key areas consisting of; Activities, Sport, Academic Communities, Representation and Democracy, we provide a high-quality service for students, that they can shape, steer and be at the heart of.

This postholder will be part of the GSU Senior Leadership Team and will be expected to contribute to department and organisation wide strategic development.

The post holder will:

• Have expert knowledge in areas of in relation to Advice and Retention and policies and legislation relating to such activity
• Support and develop strong student-led communities and campaigns in areas of: Advice, wellbeing and retention so that members can thrive
• Provide line management support to staff so that the team have up to date, specialist advice skills, knowledge and understanding of University regulations, policies and procedures that may affect the work of the Advice service and oversee engagement across Greenwich’s 3 campuses
• Undertake casework and provide expert advice for the team on all aspects of Advice
• Lead on the project management of wellbeing/health promotion campaigns and initiatives throughout the year, as well as any external bids through bodies such as OfS
• Oversee the Retention and Wellbeing Project work, and other relevant projects with external partners
• Lead on insights work relating to retention, wellbeing and support
• Lead on responses to external consultation and enquiry responses, including but not limited to OfS, Department for Education, OIA and Universities UK
• Support elected officers to deliver on campaigning priorities
• Ensure the Advice service has the skills and is equipped to support the diverse needs of students at Greenwich and Kent at Medway.
• Provide regular insights and reports on the GSU Membership to inform our strategy and service provision
• Work with other Heads to develop relevant and modern Front of House services for each GSU campus ensuring ease of access and consistency for all members.

Key Areas

• Be an engaged and active member of the Senior Leadership team, contributing regularly and working collaboratively with peers
• Provide leadership, strategic direction and day to day operational management to the Advocacy and Policy: recruiting and inducting members of staff, motivating, supporting and developing team members to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge for their roles as well as manage performance
• Develop a proactive results driven culture within the team, ensuring agreed objectives and targets are delivered, whilst promoting a collaborative approach to working with internal departments
• Develop succession plans and identify training and development opportunities within the team
• Be accountable for the quality of outputs of the team
• Provide support to the Officer team helping and equipping them, particularly in their roles as representatives and providing pastoral support and guidance.
• Ensure the whole organisation is aware of and understands the work of the Advocacy and Policy Team and its contribution to our strategic objectives
• To maintain expert and up-to-date knowledge on sector policies and regulations relating to advice, retention and student success, providing relevant guidance to officers and staff as required.
• Develop and promote a culture of continuous improvement across the team to ensure we can adapt to changing students’ needs and priorities, as well as building on successes and preparing for the future.

Strategic Development

• Contribute to the strategic objectives of GSU, with a particular focus on advice, support and wellbeing in relation to the student experience
• Develop and oversee a new and innovative approach to proactive health and wellbeing campaigns that empower students to look after themselves and each other, as well as seeking support
• Lead on Access and Participation Plan Engagement, acting as the key contact on this area with the University.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with relevant senior UoG staff and departments including Student Academic Services, Faculties and our partners at Kent Unio
• Develop and oversee the Advice service to support advocacy initiatives at multiple levels within the University, ensuring both students and University stakeholders view GSU as a credible and reliable source of information on the needs of students.

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Develop and oversee a structured approach to gathering, analysing and reporting on data relating to engagement of students with our services and to student views on key issues relating to retention and success
• Develop and oversee processes of collecting quantitative and qualitative data from casework to analyse trends and inform feedback for the SU and university
• Ensure evaluation mechanism are embedded in the teams working practises and that findings are shared and used to implement learnings with the goal of improving services
• Support Officers by preparing information, statistics and trends about key services to be shared within the University committee cycle
• Be responsible for the implementation of service standards for the Advocacy and Policy Team and to monitor and report on adherence to these standards
• Prepare materials to apply for any relevant quality mark accreditations for the service.

Budget and Financial Management

• Manage a budget relating to Advocacy and Policy including any restricted funds.
• Be responsible for the teams resources, ensuring these are effectively allocated, managed and controlled
• Review and establish processes, systems, polices and where appropriate standard procedures to maximise efficiency ensure deadlines are met and a positive return on investment
• Review and provide narrative for scrutiny at monthly management meetings with the Finance Team

Stakeholder management

• Collaborate with GSU colleagues, particularly the Student Voice and Engagement Teams to ensure we have a consistent approach to how we work with and support students
• Work with students through our representative structures and forums to ensure we shape services students want and need, taking into consideration the varying campus priorities
• Maintain strong relationships with key university staff to develop, deliver and evaluate collaborative projects and interventions supporting advice and retention
• Attend meetings relating to Advocacy and Policy as well as associated areas at both GSU, the University and externally, included, but not limited to regional networks
• Identify opportunities to share best practice and represent the work of GSU and your team to the wider HE community, through conferences and publication.

Personal Specification

Essential Experience

• Line management experience
• Relevant experience working in the youth, education, students’ union or other membership or advisory organisation
• Experience of leading a multi-functional team
• Experience of mentoring coaching staff/elected officers
• Experience of developing operational policies and procedures
• Experience of budget management, project management, and operational management
• Experience of working with a range of stakeholders and partnership working or strategic networking

Essential Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work with and lead a high performing team
• Ability to troubleshoot difficult situations, and deal with them calmly, efficiently and effectively
• Ability to produce confident, clear written reports and be able to write succinct documents on complex areas
• IT skills at a level that supports membership CRM systems, Advice Pro and other platforms
• Excellent time management and organisational skills with the ability to manage others to reach deadlines, within agreed budgets and to a consistently high standard
• Ability to write strategies and be able to effectively communicate vision and mission
• Ability to stay focused and efficient in the face on changing priorities
• Track record of successfully developing and implementing projects and operational change
• Able to draft policies and procures with an eye for detail and accuracy

Essential Knowledge

• Awareness of current issues within the higher education sector
• Knowledge of relevant external bodies and organisations including Advice UK, NUS, Citizens Advice, OIA, Ofs, Student Minds
• Knowledge of relevant health and safety legislation
• Knowledge of Safeguarding, advice legislation, risk assessments and GDPR
• Knowledge of providing 121 support

Education/Training

• No one specific qualification is required, but evidence of recent continuing professional development in a professional area relevant to the post is required. For example: ILM, City &Guilds etc.

Personal Attributes and other requirements

• Able to travel within the Borough and Region.
• Able to work some evenings and weekends and stay overnight where necessary.
• Works well in a team with a flexible approach to work
• Be eligible for a DBS check if needed
• A commitment to the principles and practices of equality and diversity
• An ability to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.
• Commitment to the values and ethos of GSU.

Desirable other requirements

• Visionary, creative, and innovative strategist
• A positive, solution focused leader – able to make ‘tough’ decisions; determined and resilient in order to cope with the demands of the role
• Empowering, authentic leader with high levels of emotional intelligence

Male Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (MISVA)

WMRSASC has a vacancy for a Male Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (MISVA)

The successful candidate will have an understanding of the nature and impact of sexual violence and experience of working with victims. They will be required to work within a multi-agency setting to provide a pro-active service to survivors of sexual violence within and outside of the criminal justice system to:

Develop and deliver a non-therapeutic advocacy and support service to clients

Help clients to access appropriate therapeutic interventions and to develop their own support network

Where necessary provide emotional, practical and advocacy support through the Criminal Justice System

Monitor and keep the client informed of case progress if involved with the Criminal Justice Process

Provide information about the impacts of sexual violence and signpost to specialist support services

Maintain a caseload and accurate electronic records

Support client to access their rights

Contribute towards service development

Participate in individual clinical supervision, appraisal sessions and team meetings

The post holder will support adults and children and young people dependent upon service demands.

The post holder must have the ability to travel throughout West Mercia.

Please note your response needs to match the individual job you are applying for so please ensure you review the Job Description and ensure your response covers all aspects (qualifications, knowledge, skills and experience)

We reserve the right to close applications prior to the closing date should we receive enough applicants that meet the shortlisting criteria.

Location: Hereford with travel expected across the region

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

Salary: £29,439 PA

REF-214 613

Our vision is for a world where everyone experiencing a mental health issue receives support and respect. Join our passionate, dedicated team and make a difference today.

About the role

Peer support roles are specifically for people who have lived experience of mental health problems. Through sharing wisdom from their own experiences, peer support staff will inspire hope and belief that recovery is possible in others.

Working with the Wellbeing Assessors and Team Leads, you’ll provide Wellbeing support to patients within your Primary Care Network (PCN). This part of our Wellbeing Service provides one-to-one wellbeing support within the GP practices, working alongside the wider Primary Mental Health & Wellbeing service.

This is a part-time role where you’ll work 22.5 hours per week spread over three days to include Tuesdays and Thursdays.

About you

You’ll need to have personal, lived experience of a mental health issue, as well as experience of working with people with mental health needs, excellent communication skills and a strong understanding of the key difficulties and challenges faced by people on their recovery journey.

About us

We're Solent Mind! We’re part of a network of over 100 Local Minds who tailor trusted mental health services to our communities. We set our own strategies and partnerships and rely on the support of our brilliant local fundraisers.

We collaborate with Mind to make sure their pioneering campaigns, information and research make a difference in Hampshire. Together, we make better mental health possible both locally and nationally.

Benefits

Our Gold award for Workplace Wellbeing Index 2022/2023 and being a Mindful Employer reflects our commitment to our lively, friendly teams. We empower our people to have a voice, discover new opportunities and develop their careers. In addition to knowing you’re making a difference, you’ll also enjoy excellent benefits, including:

• Flexible working to promote a healthy work/life balance
• 25 days’ annual leave rising incrementally to 30 days per year (pro rata for part-time)
• Pension plan
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket and cycle-to-work scheme

If you’re ready to join the fight for mental health, visit our website to find out more and apply.  

Closing date: Tuesday 18 June 2024

Posts may be subject to a relevant DBS check.

Solent Mind welcomes applications from all the communities in which we work. Appointments are made on merit.

Registered Charity No: 1081116. Registered with Limited Liability in England and Wales No: 4004500.

Our vision is for a world where everyone experiencing a mental health issue receives support and respect. Join our passionate, dedicated team and make a difference today.

About the role

Peer support roles are specifically for people who have lived experience of mental health problems. Through sharing wisdom from their own experiences, peer support staff will inspire hope and belief that recovery is possible in others.

Working with the Wellbeing Assessors and Team Leads, you’ll provide Wellbeing support to patients within the Winchester Primary Care Network (PCN), comprising of Twyford, Stokewood, Bishops Waltham and Wickham Surgeries. This part of our Wellbeing Service provides one-to-one wellbeing support within the GP practices, working alongside the wider Primary Mental Health & Wellbeing service.

This is a part-time role where you’ll work 22.5 hours per week to include Thursdays.

About you

You’ll need to have personal, lived experience of a mental health issue, as well as experience of working with people with mental health needs, excellent communication skills and a strong understanding of the key difficulties and challenges faced by people on their recovery journey.

About us

We're Solent Mind! We’re part of a network of over 100 Local Minds who tailor trusted mental health services to our communities. We set our own strategies and partnerships and rely on the support of our brilliant local fundraisers.

We collaborate with Mind to make sure their pioneering campaigns, information and research make a difference in Hampshire. Together, we make better mental health possible both locally and nationally.

Benefits

Our Gold award for Workplace Wellbeing Index 2022/2023 and being a Mindful Employer reflects our commitment to our lively, friendly teams. We empower our people to have a voice, discover new opportunities and develop their careers. In addition to knowing you’re making a difference, you’ll also enjoy excellent benefits, including:

• Flexible working to promote a healthy work/life balance
• 25 days’ annual leave rising incrementally to 30 days per year (pro rata for part-time)
• Pension plan
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket and cycle-to-work scheme

If you’re ready to join the fight for mental health, visit our website to find out more and apply.  

Closing date: Tuesday 18 June 2024

Posts may be subject to a relevant DBS check.

Solent Mind welcomes applications from all the communities in which we work. Appointments are made on merit.

Registered Charity No: 1081116. Registered with Limited Liability in England and Wales No: 4004500.

The Assessment, Advocacy & Advice Lead will provide frontline services to people diagnosed with HIV in Lewisham, Southwark and Lambeth as part of the Bridges partnership and South West London and Wandsworth HIV Support project. These services include assessment, emotional support and advice and advocacy for issues such as housing, welfare benefits, debt, dealing with HIV stigma or HIV treatment adherence. The Lead will facilitate signposting and referral into other support services including counselling, peer support and immigration services.

Programme

As part of Bridges programme, South West London HIV Partnership and Wandsworth HIV Support project, these services support new and previously diagnosed service users as well as family members/or carers who live in the same household. The programme will support people living with HIV and improve their health and well-being through the provision of services, delivered both face-to-face and virtually where appropriate.

Inverness, IV3 5JU

Closing date: 23rd June 2024

The Salvation Army are partnering with the University of Stirling via the Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research to deliver a trial for the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). This unique and innovative social care trial will examine the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of a Peer Navigator/Peer Support Intervention for people experiencing homelessness and problems with substance use. We are now looking for a Peer Navigator (lived experience practitioner) within our Homelessness service to deliver a relationship-based intervention to those experiencing drug and alcohol problems and homelessness, providing both practical and emotional support.

Everyone is welcome at The Salvation Army, and we encourage people from all backgrounds to apply to become part of our skilled and effective workforce. As a faith-based charity we expect our people to work within our faith-based ethos and our values of integrity, accountability, compassion, passion, boldness, and respect.

Key Responsibilities: The role of Peer Navigator (Lived Experience Practitioner) is fundamental to The Salvation Army’s desire to help vulnerable clients achieve positive outcomes and as such you will be passionate, target driven, dynamic and demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of services for vulnerable clients in a competitive climate. You will also champion excellence in terms of ensuring our clients are central to our services and successful individual outcomes are achieved.

There is a requirement to work flexibly to meet the needs of participants/client, due to the nature of this particular role, including the outreach element. The usual pattern of work will be Monday-Friday with hours between 8am-6pm. However, some working outside these hours may be requested, depending on the needs of the people you will be supporting. Work life balance will be taken into consideration and individual needs can be discussed with line managers.

The successful candidate(s) will be able to demonstrate:

• Their own personal (not family related) experience of homelessness and/or problem alcohol/drug use.
• A passion for supporting vulnerable people, with strong previous experience of working successfully in a similar role, and good knowledge of drug and alcohol issues including harm reduction models.
• Genuine compassion and non-judgemental attitude for people in need with challenging lives.
• Knowledge of the main support needs of people experiencing homelessness and other forms of vulnerability, including problem substance use and challenges with the welfare benefit system.

Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK and PVG Disclosure check.

We recognise that many of the individuals applying for the Peer Navigator roles may have previous criminal convictions. Those in Safeguarding and HR within The Salvation Army will work closely with the study team/recruitment panels to ensure that individuals are provided with support throughout the process of undertaking the PVG and DBS disclosures. This is important because we recognise that the legislative disclosure processes can be personally and professionally challenging and we aim to be trauma informed in our recruitment processes.

Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part-time), a contributory pension scheme; season ticket loan and an employee assistance programme.

As a disability confident scheme employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy

Spectra are a lived experience organisation working with socially excluded and marginalised communities to support access to appropriate health, wellbeing services.

We offer evidence-based, inclusive, accessible, knowledgeable and quality services which are non-judgemental and delivered by lived experience peers. 

Spectra are looking for an experienced Therapeutic Services Manager and Clinical Lead to lead, develop, coordinate, and represent Spectra’s counselling services internally and externally at Senior Management level. You will ensure delivery of consistent, high-quality counselling across all of Spectra’s teams (Young People, Sexual health, Trans and Non-binary (TNB) people), supporting and empowering our service users, whilst ensuring clinical work is carried out in accordance with ethical guidelines and Spectra’s protocols.  You will also conduct some clinical assessments and provide some weekly 1-to-1 counselling/group therapy sessions.

You will be confident working with diverse and intersectional groups who face social exclusion and inequalities around access to appropriate health care, wellbeing and holistic support. You will be able unequivocally to respect, support, promote and work within LGBTQ+ and other diverse communities.

£42,000 - £45,000 FTE per annum according to experience, pro rata for 4 days per week (£33,600 to £36,000). Hybrid working (office in Ladbroke Grove) with 25 days holiday and bank holidays (pro rata), plus a pension scheme.