Pension specialists jobs in Bristol

Job Title: Associate Careers Advisers (Schools Team)

Location: Kent and Medway

Salary: Day rate of £152 (inclusive of holiday pay)

Hours: Zero Hours

Contract: Zero Hours

Reports to: Senior Careers Adviser

About CXK

CXK empowers people to succeed in employment, education and training. The charity strives for a fairer society where everyone can grow and realise their potential. “The CXK Way” embodies the following core values:

Ethical – We work with professionalism, honesty and integrity

Passionate – We reach out enthusiastically to all who need out support

Innovative – We inspire, enhance and improve

Collaborative – We engage, support and share with others

Young Peoples’ Careers Service

CXK is the lead provider of Personal Careers Guidance to young people in schools and specialist centres across Kent & Medway, where we provide independent Personal Careers Guidance, via our CXK Young Peoples’ Careers Service.

We provide this through a variety of creative and innovative approaches

The Team

We are a diverse and welcoming team of advisers, who use a wide variety of creative methods to deliver personalised, client centred, personal careers guidance, ranging from one-to-one sessions through to group guidance, parents and options evenings, as well as focused talks and assemblies. We have minimal admin and keep our clients’ experience central to what we do, providing an inclusive service with individualised action plans, including the use of visual career maps, career cards and white boards, alongside more traditional approaches where appropriate.

We follow the CDI code of ethics and best practice for Action Planning (which names and recognises CXKs innovative work in this area):

The team is led by Chris Targett RCDP, who alongside his work at CXK, is the current Chair of the Careers Writers Association and co-author of the recently released Career Development and Inclusive Practice book, published by Trotman Publishing in partnership with the CDI.

The team is small but impactful. Feedback from our young people, that tell us about what our students valued regards our services:

• Helping young people understand their next steps
• Helping young people understand the options and careers choices they have
• Helping young people to know where to access further help, information, or support

The Role

The Careers Advisers will cover one or more of the following regions: Medway, West Kent and Mid Kent to a broad range of school and college settings, delivering creative and inclusive Personal Careers Guidance, as well as assemblies and drop-in sessions as required. 

Each student and each learning environment will be unique, so the opportunity lends itself well to candidates who enjoy traveling and working in varied locations, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and educating people of all abilities.

You will routinely liaise with Careers Leaders and senior school/ college staff to arrange and deliver activities for students during the school day. Whilst most delivery will take place between 8:30am and 4pm, travel before and after these times will be required and occasional attendance at parents’ and options evenings will also be required, but you will be given time off in lieu where this is applicable.

Skills and Knowledge

At CXK we are proud to be a disability confident and equal opportunities employer. We actively promote diversity within our workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Minimum Criteria

• Level 6 qualification (or above) in Careers Guidance Qualification (or equivalent
• Knowledge of Post 16 and Post 18 education and training routes for young people with and without additional needs and disabilities
• In possession of a full, clean UK Drivers Licence with access to your own vehicle

Core Competencies

• Experience of delivering careers, education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) in schools / colleges and face-to-face with young people
• Events rebalanced via “time off in lieu”
• A willingness to deliver activities during school timetables; occasional evening
• Adept at juggling activities, travel and routine project admin; balancing school site work with homebased preparation
• Experience of Microsoft products and ability to use them effectively, including Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint
• A commitment to undertake all necessary training for the role

Employee Experience

A career with CXK is rewarding work enabling you to fulfil your potential. This eclectic and exciting role within the CXK Young Peoples’ Careers team, provides the opportunity for you to travel from home to various education settings, networking with teachers and careers educators across the Kent and Medway area. You will hone specialised skills and knowledge relating to Post 16 and 18 career pathways, including 6th Forms, colleges, study programmes, gap-years, entrepreneurship, university and apprenticeship routes whilst being a positive influence on young people’s lives.

CXK employee benefits include:

• CDI and professional register membership (RCDP) paid for by CXK
• Defined contribution pension scheme (matched by CXK up to 10% depending on length of service criteria)
• Flexible working
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• Training and development programmes and opportunities
• Mental and physical healthcare initiatives and more

Recruitment Timeline

Vacancy closing date: Ongoing

Application review date: Ongoing

Interviews dates: Ongoing

Useful Information

Should you wish to have an informal conversation before submitting your application, please contact recruitment @ cxk. org

Please note: Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide employment references before any offer of employment can be made.

All applications must be submitted online via our online portal.

Job Title: Careers Advisers (Schools Team)

Location: Kent and Medway

Salary: Term Time Only salary including annual leave is £27,802 - £30,097 (FTE £32,343 - £35,012)

Hours: Full-time or Part-time (minimum 22.2)

Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only

Reports to: Regional Manager

About CXK

CXK empowers people to succeed in employment, education and training. The charity strives for a fairer society where everyone can grow and realise their potential. “The CXK Way” embodies the following core values:

Ethical – We work with professionalism, honesty and integrity

Passionate – We reach out enthusiastically to all who need out support

Innovative – We inspire, enhance and improve

Collaborative – We engage, support and share with others

Young Peoples’ Careers Service

CXK is the lead provider of Personal Careers Guidance to young people in schools and specialist centres across Kent & Medway, where we provide independent Personal Careers Guidance, via our CXK Young Peoples’ Careers Service.

We provide this through a variety of creative and innovative approaches:  

The Team

We are a diverse and welcoming team of advisers, who use a wide variety of creative methods to deliver personalised, client centred, personal careers guidance, ranging from one-to-one sessions through to group guidance, parents and options evenings, as well as focused talks and assemblies. We have minimal admin and keep our clients’ experience central to what we do, providing an inclusive service with individualised action plans, including the use of visual career maps, career cards and white boards, alongside more traditional approaches where appropriate.

We follow the CDI code of ethics and best practice for Action Planning (which names and recognises CXKs innovative work in this area):

The team is led by Chris Targett RCDP, who alongside his work at CXK, is the current Chair of the Careers Writers Association and co-author of the recently released Career Development and Inclusive Practice book, published by Trotman Publishing in partnership with the CDI.

The team is small but impactful. Feedback from our young people, that tell us about what our students valued regards our services:

• Helping young people understand their next steps
• Helping young people understand the options and careers choices they have
• Helping young people to know where to access further help, information, or support

The Role

The Careers Advisers will cover one or more of the following regions: Medway, West Kent and Mid Kent to a broad range of school and college settings, delivering creative and inclusive Personal Careers Guidance, as well as assemblies and drop-in sessions as required. 

Each student and each learning environment will be unique, so the opportunity lends itself well to candidates who enjoy traveling and working in varied locations, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and educating people of all abilities.

You will routinely liaise with Careers Leaders and senior school/ college staff to arrange and deliver activities for students during the school day. Whilst most delivery will take place between 8:30am and 4pm, travel before and after these times will be required and occasional attendance at parents’ and options evenings will also be required, but you will be given time off in lieu where this is applicable.

We would require you to work five days-a-week, term time only, with a pro rata holiday entitlement. If you would prefer part-time only employment (minimum of three days a week), this can be negotiated.

Skills and Knowledge

At CXK we are proud to be a disability confident and equal opportunities employer. We actively promote diversity within our workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Minimum Criteria

• Level 6 qualification (or above) in Careers Guidance Qualification (or equivalent
• Knowledge of Post 16 and Post 18 education and training routes for young people with and without additional needs and disabilities
• In possession of a full, clean UK Drivers Licence with access to your own vehicle

Core Competencies

• Experience of delivering careers, education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG) in schools / colleges and face-to-face with young people
• Events rebalanced via “time off in lieu”
• A willingness to deliver activities during school timetables; occasional evening
• Adept at juggling activities, travel and routine project admin; balancing school site work with homebased preparation
• Experience of Microsoft products and ability to use them effectively, including Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint
• A commitment to undertake all necessary training for the role

Employee Experience

A career with CXK is rewarding work enabling you to fulfil your potential. This eclectic and exciting role within the CXK Young Peoples’ Careers team, provides the opportunity for you to travel from home to various education settings, networking with teachers and careers educators across the Kent and Medway area. You will hone specialised skills and knowledge relating to Post 16 and 18 career pathways, including 6th Forms, colleges, study programmes, gap-years, entrepreneurship, university and apprenticeship routes whilst being a positive influence on young people’s lives.

CXK employee benefits include:

• CDI and professional register membership (RCDP) paid for by CXK
• Defined contribution pension scheme (matched by CXK up to 10% depending on length of service criteria)
• Flexible working
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• Training and development programmes and opportunities
• Mental and physical healthcare initiatives and more

Recruitment Timeline

Vacancy closing date: Ongoing

Application review date: Ongoing

Interviews dates: Ongoing

Useful Information

Should you wish to have an informal conversation before submitting your application, please contact recruitment @ cxk . org

Please note: Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide employment references before any offer of employment can be made.

All applications must be submitted online via our online portal.

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

• Salary: £38,834
• 21 - 35 hours a week (Part time/full time hours available: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage)
• Up to 1 year fixed term contract (maternity cover)
• Hybrid working - home and hospital based – various possible locations available;
  • Bristol Childrens Hospital
  • Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital
  • Gloucestershire Royal Hospital
  • Derriford Hospital Plymouth
  • Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
  • Royal Cornwall Hospital

• Closing date: Sunday 26 April 2026
• Interview dates:  W/C 4 May 2026

Change lives in a life-changing career

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

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

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

About the role

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

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

This role is part home, part site-based. Your contractual base will be both Home and Hospital.

This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application, an enhanced criminal record check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually.

This role is also subject to a Social Work Registration, with Social Work England.

What do I need? 

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

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

What will I gain?

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

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

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

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

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

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice.

Accessibility

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

To arrange an informal chat, please contact Craig Pearce.

#ShowTheSalary

We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate Domestic Abuse Caseworker to support victims of crime.

The service provides support across the whole geography of Avon & Somerset. This role involves making initial contact with victims of domestic abuse and other crimes, providing support in a dynamic and ever-changing environment. The role is full-time and is hybrid between Bridewell Police Station in central Bristol and home working. A suitable and confidential workspace at home is therefore required.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer

At Victim Support, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent. Our competitive rewards and benefits package includes:

• Flexible Working Options: Including hybrid working.
• Generous Annual Leave: 28 days plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 33 days plus Bank Holidays, with options to buy or sell annual leave.
• Birthday Leave: An extra day off for your birthday.
• Pension Plan: 5% employer contribution.
• Enhanced Allowances: Enhanced sick pay, maternity, and paternity payments.
• Exclusive Discounts: High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment, and leisure discounts.
• Financial Wellbeing: Access to our financial wellbeing hub and salary-deducted finance.
• Wellbeing Support: Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.
• Inclusive Networks: Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes.
• Sustainable Travel: Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loans.
• Career Development: Ongoing training and support with opportunities for career progression.

About the Role

As a Domestic Abuse Caseworker you will provide high quality support to victims of domestic abuse and other crimes, leading on completing initial impact and risk assessments that are comprehensive and holistic. You will also contribute to providing cover for the local VS Helpline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Effectively managing a caseload of service users, delivering excellent services which support the commissioners and their service goals to victims. Undertake initial proactive contact with victims, explaining VS services and promoting the benefits of accessing support.
• Ensure each victim receives an individually appropriate tailored support and information service that fully meets their needs, keeping complex needs central to all processes and decisions. This will be delivered face to face, via telephone, video-chat, text and/or email based on the preferences of the client.
• Undertake risk and needs assessments to address the specific needs of the client in line with VS operating procedures. To follow relevant safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure an integrated approach to address any safeguarding concerns.
• Provide information and advocacy to enable service users to navigate and understand the criminal justice process and ensure their rights are upheld in accordance with the Victims Code of Practice.
• Identify barriers to individuals accessing our services and determine solutions. Work with multi-agency partners to which victims can be referred for ongoing and specialist support such as housing, social services and health provision.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case records, complying with data protection and all other legislation connected to your work.

About You:

You will need:

• An understanding of the impact of crime on victims such as anti-social behavior, domestic abuse, sexual violence and hate crime.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering services and working directly within a statutory, voluntary or multi agency setting(s).
• Ability to balance competing needs and priorities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A successful track record of building effective working relationships across internal and external stakeholders.

This role involves regular travel and due to the location, a driving license and access to a vehicle is considered an essential requirement. If you are unable to drive because of a disability, please indicate this in your application in your personal statement so we can explore the feasibility of alternative arrangements.

About Us:

Victim Support is an independent charity dedicated to supporting people affected by crime and traumatic incidents in England and Wales. We put them at the heart of our organisation and our support and campaigns are informed and shaped by them and their experiences.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

At Victim Support, we're proud to celebrate diversity and create a workplace where everyone feels they belong. We're committed to being an antiracist organisation, and we actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from Black and Asian and other minoritised communities.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and selection process.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date. If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

Title: Active Recovery Lead 

Employer:  The Southmead Project 

Accountable to: Head of Active Recovery

Place of Work: The Southmead Project, Southmead, Bristol. BS10 6AS

Hours: 3 to 4 days per week. Must include Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £33,505 p/a pro rata 

The Southmead Project:

The Southmead Project is an equal opportunities employer providing free counselling and support for survivors of abuse and addiction across Bristol and surrounding areas. We welcome adults aged 18 and above of any race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, class, ability, language, religion and cultural background. We respect and cherish the differences between people and affirm every person as an individual. Our recruitment is done in line with safer recruitment practices. 

We value our team very highly and pride ourselves on being a supportive employer. We provide the following benefits to encourage every staff member to have a supported, well-rounded and enriched working experience:

• Paid supervision for 1.5 hours per month, with an external clinical supervisor 

• Line management for 1 hour per month

• Training budget of £500 per year to spend on relevant training of that person’s choice 

• Optional private counselling for up to twelve sessions per year with an external counsellor of that person’s choice

• Employer pension contribution of 5%

The Active Recovery Project gives adult survivors of abuse the opportunity to take part in community-based activities. Members of Active Recovery can participate in a variety of group activities with others who share or understand their experience and develop peer relationships, resulting in increasing confidence and reduced isolation. The activities are based on ideas from our members and include water-based activities (such as rowing, canoeing, sailing and kayaking), surfing, trips to community spaces and creative sessions (such as arts and crafts). Activities take place every week. Each activity will last approximately 2.5 hours each. Members can attend the group sessions for up to 18 months. 

Job Purpose: 

We are looking for a warm and passionate leader to come and join the Active Recovery Service.

As an Active Recovery Lead, their job will be to develop and deliver the Active Recovery Project in Bristol and in Somerset. Using a trauma-informed approach, the Active Recovery Lead will create and provide a safe and supportive space for clients from The Sexual Violence Alliance organisations (The Southmead Project, SARSAS, Womankind and the Bridge Sarc) to participate in a variety of group activities, with others who share or understand their experience and develop peer relationships, resulting in increasing confidence and reduced isolation. 
 

Principal Tasks:

1. Run two Active Recovery groups a week, with , with the help of the Practitioner.

2. Provide initial trauma-informed assessment phone calls and/or meetings with potential members as part of the registration process for Active Recovery. This includes assessing need, risk and suitability for the service using a trauma-informed approach. 

3. Create safety plans and tailor activity sessions where appropriate after building relationships with members following the initial phone calls.

4. Plan trauma-informed sessions for members, including producing risk assessments for each activity, visiting activity locations and delivering relevant trauma training to activity providers. 

5. Oversee and lead on setting up, delivering and debriefing about activity sessions with members, volunteers and staff. Ensuring members are clear on each session's ground rules and safeguarding processes, using the Member’s Agreement.

6. Provide trauma-informed face-to-face support to members at sessions who may become overwhelmed or require help dealing with flashbacks and dissociation.

7. To support volunteers and staff with safeguarding queries and ensure safeguarding procedures are followed. To be the safeguarding lead at activity sessions, escalating any onward safeguarding referrals and queries to the Southmead Project Designated Safeguarding Lead.

8. Participate in and support the recruitment and induction training of volunteers.

9. Support and line manage a team of volunteers.

10. Develop and maintain an Active Recovery community through email, phone calls, texts and in person.

11. Develop and drive forward the project’s aim to have the members’ voices at the heart of the project.

12. Collaborate with developing outcome processes in line with the Southmead Project and its funders’ requirements.

13. Analyse data and feedback collected through outcomes processes to adapt and constantly improve the planning and delivery of the project sessions.

14. Contribute content for reports as required. 

15. Build and maintain positive relationships with partnership organisations for the project

16. Manage the day to day budget for the project sessions, keeping accurate records to report to the Head of Active Recovery and planning how the budget will be spent across sessions, within guidelines provided by the Head of Active Recovery.

17. Record data accurately and in a timely manner on Oasis.

18. Produce social media and website posts about the project, including producing and editing videos.

19. Attend monthly one-to-one line management meetings with the Head of Active Recovery. 

20. To attend monthly one-to-one clinical supervision with a Supervisor who is approved by the Southmead Project. Supervision is a requirement of this charity as an organisational member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy. 

21. To work within the framework, spirit and ethos of the Southmead Project’s Equal Opportunities Policy, and actively engage in promoting the policy within the charity and in all dealings with clients and other agencies.

22. Follow the Southmead Project policies, procedures and professional code of conduct as outlined in the Staff Handbook.

23. All members of staff, paid and unpaid, are required to undergo the   enhanced level of Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Person Specification

ESSENTIAL

• Full drivers licence and access to own transport.

• Professional qualification, such as a Diploma or degree in Counselling or in other relevant fields of work, such as; social work, psychology, mental health, education, support work or similar: or extensive experience in any of these fields.

• A sound understanding of the issues affecting members who have experienced trauma and abuse.

• Experience in managing projects. 

• Excellent administration and organisational skills, including experience of managing sensitive personal information.

• Experience of and confidence in using multiple computer and case management systems. 

• At least 2 years’ experience of delivering groups in the community, preferably activity based.

• At least 1 year’s experience of providing face-to-face support for survivors of abuse. 

• The ability to arrange group activities and liaise with other local organisations to help plan them. 

• The ability to plan sessions in detail to ensure that they are trauma-informed and having the experience and confidence to ‘hold’ groups when things do not go to plan.

• The ability to work flexibly within a team and support those within it. 

• Experience in managing volunteers. 

• Knowledge and awareness of how particular activities and social situations could improve people’s self-esteem, self-confidence, build friendships and reduce their isolation. 

• A sound understanding of safeguarding and experience of supporting others to act in accordance with safeguarding policies and within the best interests of the Active Recovery member or those at risk.

• Experience in managing a long-term budget.

• Knowledge of survivors’ voice work.

• To be able to attend monthly one-to-one line management meetings and monthly clinical supervision.

• To work within the framework, spirit and ethos of the Southmead Project’s Equal Opportunities Policy, and actively engage in promoting the policy within the charity and in all dealings with clients and other agencies.

DESIRABLE:

• Experience of building and maintaining positive partnerships in the community.

• Experience of running a community based project. 

• Experience of setting up processes for survivors’ voice work.

• Knowledge of making content for social media, including video recording and editing skills.

• Experience managing recruitment and training.

• Experience in chairing meetings and the ability to plan and review activities with a team.

• Experience designing outcomes processes and collecting outcomes data.

• Experience in writing reports, preferably funding reports in the charity sector.

 Please note that there must be at least 12 months between receiving support from the Southmead Project as a client/member and starting this role.

We are looking for a dynamic, values-led, strategic leader to drive our mission for migration justice and social work solidarity. The role entails oversight of the operations and strategy of the organisation, responsibility for financial management and fundraising, maintaining the health of the organisation and embedding anti-racist and anti-opressive values into every aspect of the organisation. 

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

Who we are

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

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

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

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

Who we're looking for

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

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

The role

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

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

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

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