Practice manager jobs in chelmsford, essex

We have an exciting opportunity for a Peer Support Volunteer Manager to join the Peer Support team in the National Homicide Service, working 18.75 hours a week on a fixed term basis until September 2026.

This role is home-based with regular travel required throughout England & Wales, actual hours can be discussed at interview.

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 believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

The role is home working, however the team collectively cover England and Wales, so the ability to travel with occasional overnight stays is vital.

As a Peer Support Volunteer Manager you will be:

• Responsible for development and management of a cohort of lived experience volunteers
• Triaging and Risk Assessing clients as they are referred into the service
• Facilitating Peer Support groups, both online and face-to-face
• Contributing to the training and recruitment of new volunteers

You will need:

• Experience, knowledge and understanding of trauma informed working in a client facing role, with knowledge of the impact of traumatic bereavement
• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding practice and legislation relating to equal opportunities and diversity, inclusivity, safeguarding and risk assessments.
• Willingness and flexibility to travel (including overnight stays) and to work evenings and weekends with notice
• A proven ability to confidently use various IT systems including Case Management, Microsoft Office, Zoom, Outlook and other online applications/platforms.

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

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.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

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 look forward to hearing from you.

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.

Interim Head of Finance & Operations

Career Ready is a social mobility charity that believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding future.

We were founded in 2002 by leading business figures with a mission: to boost social mobility by empowering young people and giving their talents a platform from which to flourish. Since then, we’ve grown in England and Scotland to support young people in areas of need.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced, qualified Finance professional to lead our Finance & Operations function.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer the Interim Head of Finance & Operations leads on and assumes day to day responsibility for providing high quality, strategic financial management for Career Ready.

You will lead on business operations to ensure the ongoing effective functioning of the charity and drive sustainable growth.

The Interim Head of Finance and Operations plays a key role in leading greater organisational efficiency and simplifying processes and will continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy.

You will play a critical role in driving the increased quality of Career Ready’s offer to our stakeholders in line with our strategy, vision and values.

Member of our SMT, comprising of the CEO, Director for Scotland, Director of Programme and Partnerships and Heads of functions.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave.

Main responsibilities and accountabilities

· Lead, direct and manage the finance and operations functions, overseeing two direct reports, ensuring they deliver a high-quality service to all internal and external stakeholders and are seen as adding value, in enabling Career Ready to achieve its vision and strategic objectives through its people. 

· Continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy, ensuring that activities happen at pace, are deadline-driven and achieve a high level of impact.

· Assume overall responsibility for the financial management of Career Ready, working with the SMT to ensure high quality and effective use of charitable funds.

· Input into and review the financial elements of funding applications and ensure that fund accounting processes align with funders’ requirements for project reporting.

· Produce financial reports for various stakeholders, as well as leading on financial modelling.

· Have oversight of all financial and accountancy matters including month end reports, management accounts, cash flow management, compliance, tax liability, presentation of management information and KPIs. Ensure that the CEO and Trustees are provided with accurate, timely information and analysis. 

· Oversee and coordinate the fully managed payroll services with the external bureau for all Career Ready employees and for some internship students (Jun to Aug during the Summer)

· Administration of the Staff Opt-In Pension Scheme, including onboarding new staff (Royal London)

· Act as a role model in our ‘one team’ culture. Lead in the development of efficient working practices across the charity, creating momentum and supporting motivation within the charity. 

· Lead risk management strategies and internal control procedures to minimise the risk of loss, or damage to, Career Ready’s assets. 

· Prepare and submit annual operational budgets and annual accounts to the CEO for review and approval.

· Draft and deliver papers for Trustees and Finance and Fundraising Committee (F&FC) meetings. 

· Attend Board and F&FC meetings to present papers and answer questions related to areas of expertise. 

· Provide day to day line management of the Senior Finance Officers and support their ongoing growth and development.

· Management of organisational governance and compliance activities, including policy management.

· Oversee and manage the organisation’s risk management register and process, with input from SMT.

· Oversee reviews and renewals of all insurance policies that affect the organisation.

· Lead on the compliance of statutory and charity regulatory reporting, giving guidance to colleagues where required.

· Ensure any changes to processes and procedures across the function are clearly documented.

Person Specification

Essential skills and experience

•  Belief and commitment to Career Ready’s mission and values
• Qualified (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/AAT) accountant with at least 5 years’ experience in financial management including budgeting, preferably in the charity sector.
• Significant experience in producing management and financial accounts
• Skilled in financial reporting and producing VAT returns
• Preparing for and ensuring a successful year-end audit, and demonstrable knowledge of UK Charities SORP and other reporting standards
• Experience in budgeting to support strategic decision making.
• Financial dexterity and strong analytical skills.
• Strong IT skills, including advanced MS Excel skills and extensive of using an accounting software, preferably Xero
• Excellent organisational and prioritising skills and ability to work independently and with autonomy
• Strong starter finisher with ability to lead and drive projects
• Knowledge of charity governance and compliance requirements
• Ability to build excellent relationships and have effective engagement with stakeholders
• Good communication skills and ability to communicate financial concepts to non-finance staff
• Attention to detail
• Ability to present financial information to various audiences
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and sensitivity of financial information
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to cope with competing demands to deadlines
• Honest and dependable

Desirable skills and experience

• Experience of leading a team, strong team building skills
• Line management experience
• Experience of using MS Planner or other project management tools
• Genuine interest in the work done by the Charity
• Experience of using a CRM (Salesforce)
• Degree in financial management or accounting

Full details are provided in the candidate pack

Salary and Benefits

Salary: £52,000 to £54,000 FTE (salary will be pro-rata for part time hours)

28-35 hours per week.  Career Ready is committed to supporting condensed/flexible working patterns.

Permanent and remote.  Travel to London required on an occasional basis

You will be rewarded with the following benefits:

· 6% contribution to personal pension plan, subject to 3% employee contribution.

· Annual leave: 27 days per annum plus bank/public holidays (pro rata for part time). The charity is also closed between Christmas and New Year. Career Ready also allows flexible use of some Bank & Public Holidays

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Access to both our Reward Gateway Portal and an Employee Assistance Programme.

· Flexible working

· Work from home allowance and paid travel expenses.

We regret that Career Ready is unable to offer visa sponsorship and candidates must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK. In accordance with our commitment to safeguarding, offers of employment are subject to completion of a DBS check. 

Timetable

Applications close at 9am on Monday 21 July 2025 

Please note that the closing date may be brought forward if we receive strong applications.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave, with a provisional start date of late September for a handover period.

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 - £15,509 (£25,849 pro-rata FTE)
• Hours - 21 Hours per week 
• Contract Type - Permanent 
• Location - Home-based, Hybrid/Flexible or Bristol office
• Closing date – Sunday 10th August
• W/C interview date – 18th August

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 Learning and Development Coordinator (known internally as People Development Coordinator) with either experience in learning and development and/or a strong interest in building a career in the field to join our People Development Team

You’ll support the team in the coordination of internal and externally commissioned learning and development activities, working closely within the team, your departmental colleagues, and internal subject experts on a wide range of subjects and topics that are core areas for our workforce. You will maintain and continually improve our course evaluation, record keeping, and administrative processes, and bring new ideas and solutions to improve efficiency and measure impact. By supporting the wider charity with corporate induction and activities that help the workforce to drive their own development, you will play a key role in ensuring our people are supported to be the best they can be and maximise their talents for the benefit of children and young people with cancer.

This is a part-time role (21 hours a week). This is a hybrid role which can be home-based, hybrid or office-based (Bristol), with some flexibility depending on the post holder.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

• Promoting the 70:20:10 model and providing the appropriate resources and signposting to enable our workforce to proactively drive their own development.
• To promote and support the use of new and existing learning and development tools and opportunities to enable people to develop themselves.   
• To work closely with the rest of the People Development team, People and Culture business partners and internal client base to coordinate and commission high-quality, value for money learning opportunities which further Young Lives vs Cancer’s ability to reach our strategic goals. 
• Create, maintain, and develop learning and eLearning resources in collaboration with appropriate subject matter experts across the charity. 
• Promote and provide up-to-date information and support about the People Development offer to the rest of the organisation, including the UK’s Growth and Skills Levy scheme.

What do I need? 

Diverse perspectives and unique skillsets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

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

• We are looking for someone with natural organisation and people skills who thrives in a collaborative environment, is adaptable, a great team player, and enjoys a challenge. 
• Experienced in administrative and coordination duties and working in a learning focussed environment 
• Good written and verbal communication skills 
• Strong time management and organisational skills, with great attention to detail 
• Ability to work under pressure and prioritise tasks and projects
• IT skills and being proactive about developing your own skills -  especially Office 365 and a good working knowledge of spreadsheets and databases are a must. A working knowledge of SharePoint is a plus. 

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, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

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

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

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

Accessibility

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

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome

Permanent with Funding until July 2026

Salary: £29,855.00 per annum

Hours: 35 hours per week

We are looking for an experienced positive Activities Worker. You will be confident in your work with young people and join our dynamic, ambitious team.

The Positive Activities worker is a new role within the Children's Society East, offering a range of activities that supports a healthy alternative to managing a risks and vulnerabilities that otherwise could lead to long term substance use (inclusive of alcohol and tobacco).

This role links with our Essex Young People's Drug and Alcohol Service (EYPDAS). EYPDAS work with young people aged up to 25 years old who require support for substance or alcohol use. We neither condone nor condemn use but support young people on a voluntary basis to create a care plan that suits their needs and motivations. EYPDAS sits within the established All Age Recovery Co-ordination Service (AARCS), which we deliver in partnership with Open Road, supporting young people, adults and families affected by substance misuse.

In order to be successful with this role, you will need to be able to demonstrate that you have extensive experience of: -

Delivering diversionary interventions with vulnerable young people (8-25) on both a one to one and group work capacity. As well as working to support the family network.

Co-producing care plans with young people that are young people led, focusing on both a relational & strength-based approach.

Extensive partnership working in a multi-agency environment to ensure that the needs and wishes of the young person are heard and acted upon.

You will work as part of a team and need to be able to work in a flexible way which includes flexing their day and work location as need indicates, including being based in the locality office in Chelmsford and working in the home environment to increase convenience and accessibility

You will need to demonstrate that you have:

-A relevant professional qualification working with vulnerable children and families is desired e.g., Diploma/degree in social work, counselling qualification, professional youth worker or related NVQ or degree. Or Substantial relevant experience of working with vulnerable young people facing significant challenges within this sector.

-Experience of working with vulnerable young people and families that are hard to reach and from diverse backgrounds on both a one-to-one basis and through group work interventions.

-Experience of supporting adolescents who are dealing with complex and sensitive issues through offering advice and advocacy.

-Experience of supporting young people through Participation and Youth Voice support.

-Experience of partnership and multi-agency working.

-Experience of working on one's own and within a team.

-Experience of using IT based case management systems.

The Children's Society runs over 100 local services that help thousands of young people who desperately need our support, and we campaign to get laws and policies changed to make children's lives happier and safer.

Every day we're changing the lives of children in this country for the better - and with your help, tomorrow we can be there for even more.

The Children's Society is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with. As such, all posts are subject to a safer recruitment process, including the disclosure of criminal records and vetting checks. We ensure that we have a range of policies and procedures in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practices across our services.

Therefore, candidates applying for work in our CYP Directorate will be required to complete an “Employment history_template” document prior to interview. The fully completed document should be loaded by the candidate at the point of uploading your CV.

The closing date for applications is midday on 23rd July 2025. If after 14 days we have received enough applications we can close this vacancy from the 7th July onwards.

Interviews will be held on 31st July 2025.

IN1

We have an exciting opportunity for experienced and skilled advocates to join the staff of a unique social enterprise. The core function of this role is to provide specialist advocacy to individuals who are navigating the NHS continuing healthcare assessment and complaints processes. With a long history in delivering skilled advocacy and training in NHS continuing healthcare, we want you to be part of a strong team committed to delivering excellence and achieving success in line with our commercial and social objectives.

You will be an excellent communicator and skilled advocate with a minimum of 2 years’ experience working within the field of NHS continuing healthcare or a similar role with a transferrable knowledgebase. A health, social care, advocacy or legal qualification is desirable but not essential. A proven ability to analyse complex matters, provide a clear and coherent rationale and deliver robust advocacy by presenting a persuasive, fact-based argument is essential.

The successful candidate will have excellent oral and written communication skills with an ability to engage effectively with a range of stakeholders in challenging circumstances. You will be able to establish a good rapport with clients in a professional and caring manner, upholding brand values.

In return, you can look forward to working with a highly-skilled and dynamic team and having influence over the future strategic direction of the company. We also offer a competitive salary with performance-related bonus and an excellent benefits package.

This role is primarily home-based with opportunities nationally. Ability to travel long distances to attend client meetings across England is essential.

MAIN DUTIES:

1. To provide advocacy and active case support in person or remotely to clients in England and Wales, throughout the NHS continuing healthcare assessment process.

   Please note: some assessments will be completed virtually via videoconference whereas others are completed in-person. Applicants will need to be comfortable with both working from home and also regular long-distance travel to assessment meetings across England and Wales (including overnight stays where necessary), often with only two or three days’ notice.

2. To analytically examine all relevant care records and assessments in preparation for continuing healthcare assessments and reviews, to prepare clients for their assessment and provide robust advocacy at assessment meetings based upon a sound understanding of the facts, and referencing evidence compiled from such records.
3. To provide advocacy and casework to clients who wish to make a formal complaint through the NHS complaints procedure about a continuing healthcare-related matter from a sound understanding of the facts, having prepared key arguments by researching relevant records.
4. To support the casework team from time to time in the preparation of submissions which will be presented to relevant Integrated Care Boards and NHS England panels.
5. To provide specialist information and advice to our clients tailored to their specific situation and needs regarding the interpretation of a primary health need from a thorough understanding of relevant criteria, assessment frameworks and legal tests which are based upon case-law. 
6. To keep informed of issues, policies, guidance and legislation affecting clients ensuring that the information provided is relevant, current, complete and accurate.
7. To respond to new referrals by making prompt initial contact with the client within the timescales specified by company policies.
8. Work closely and efficiently with health professionals from relevant Continuing Healthcare (CHC) teams with the aim of resolving client issues at the earliest possible opportunity so as to provide an efficient and cost-effective service, and to minimise stress for the client.
9. To develop and maintain working relationships with health and social care colleagues within the field of Continuing Healthcare in order to influence best practice.
10. To work with partner organisations and stakeholders to share knowledge, make appropriate referrals, maintain consistency and draw upon each other’s expertise, always striving to improve the quality of both services and provide a better customer experience.
11. To keep relevant and sufficiently detailed case records at each stage and as the case progresses; ensuring that all client information is kept up to date in line with Beacon’s systems and procedures, including data protection (GDPR) policies.  This applies to case files, database entries, authority forms, client correspondence, use of the project management system, filing and archiving.
12. To minimise business costs and maximise income for the company by meeting chargeable time targets, working efficiently, charging clients appropriately and in a timely manner.

13. To uphold the principles of paralegal casework as specified by the Institute of Paralegals, providing a good standard of client care by working with skill and competence thereby ensuring clients are able to place their trust in you.

14. To uphold organisational values, promoting Beacon’s social goals through each area of your work.

15. To manage your own caseload and work independently within the boundaries of Beacon policies and procedures.

16. To undergo a minimum of 12 hours of professional development each year.  To foster an atmosphere of continuous learning and development.

17. Attend line management, supervision and team meetings as appropriate, and to play a full part in the development and success of Beacon.

The above is not an exhaustive list of duties and you will be expected to perform different tasks as necessitated by your developing role and the overall objectives of the companies.

This post may be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Baring Service check or equivalent.

STAFF BENEFITS: Pension Scheme, Generous Annual Leave Entitlement, Death in Service Benefit 4x salary, Flexible Working, Health & Dental Care Plan, Professional Development Plan, Employee Rewards Scheme (Perkbox) and Performance-Related Bonus.

What is NHS Continuing Healthcare?

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is the name given to a package of care that some people need to receive due to disability, accident or illness. People who are eligible for CHC have the full cost of their care and residential accommodation funded by the NHS. This relieves families of sometimes astronomical care bills.

The criteria for determining who is eligible for CHC are highly complex and can be very difficult for the public to understand, and for professionals to apply consistently. The assessment process is lengthy and detailed. Likewise, the appeal process can be very daunting and perplexing.

 

About our organisation

Beacon was established in May 2014 for the purpose of providing independent and high-quality support to individuals and their families in England who need help navigating the NHS Continuing Healthcare process.

Beacon is a registered social enterprise and a proud member of Social Enterprise UK. We operate with a core set of ethical social objectives and values through which all of our work is delivered.

Social enterprises are businesses. Like any other business, they seek to make a profit and succeed commercially. But how they operate, who they employ, how they use their profits and where they work transforms lives and communities across the UK. At Beacon, we donate any surpluses to supporting charitable objectives that are in line with our aims.

Through expert advocacy, advice and training, Beacon enables people to be heard and to enact real and positive change in their lives. We help people to understand their rights and the realistic options available to them, equipping some of those most vulnerable in society with the knowledge and practical support to make meaningful and transformative decisions.

Our Values

At Beacon, we employ people who want to do things differently to other organisations working in this field. Five values sum up our culture and how we treat our clients and our staff:

1. Ethical

Commitment to our clients

We operate with honesty and integrity. We are transparent about our funding set-up and our fees, which we keep as low as we sensibly can. We never ‘hard sell’ our services, we keep you informed at every step, and we always give our honest opinion of your chances of success. As a social enterprise, we donate any profits to charity.

Commitment to our team

We operate with honesty and integrity, and always work hard to get the best results for our clients and the business. We work to high standards, and trust our people to respectfully speak out if we fall short.

1. Expert

Commitment to our clients

We pride ourselves on being recognised as leading independent experts in NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC). We apply our knowledge and experience to help every case and caller. We also strive to improve CHC for everyone, by training health and social care professionals.

Commitment to our team

We are the leading experts in our field. We encourage and value innovation and evolution in what we do, and how we do it. We are united in developing the business and its services.

1. Personal

Commitment to our clients

By listening carefully to you and the people who really know about your care needs, we can provide excellent advice and powerful advocacy tailored to your unique situation.

Commitment to our team

We get results by getting to know our clients. We do the same with our people, offering flexible working options to suit your circumstances, and taking time out to have fun as a team.

1. Compassionate

Commitment to our clients

We are mindful of the immense stress that our callers and clients can be under, at what is often a really tough time. We do our best to lift some of that burden by providing a quality service that you can trust, and by being compassionate and courteous at all times.

Commitment to our team

The nature of the work can be stressful and emotionally draining. We take care and time to look out for each other, and encourage healthy work habits.

1. Rewarding

Commitment to our team

We take the time to celebrate success and are inspired by one another’s achievements. We provide a generous and varied suite of benefits that can be enjoyed by our people and their families. 

We have an exciting opportunity for experienced and skilled caseworkers to join the staff of a unique social enterprise. The core function of this role is to provide comprehensive casework, advice and advocacy which assists and supports clients throughout the NHS continuing healthcare assessment, appeal and care planning process. With a long history in delivering skilled casework and training in NHS continuing healthcare, we want you to be part of a strong team committed to delivering excellence and achieving success in line with our commercial and social objectives.

You will be an excellent communicator and skilled caseworker with a minimum of 2 years’ experience working within the field of NHS continuing healthcare or a similar role with a transferrable skills. A health, social care, advocacy or legal qualification is desirable but not essential. Proven experience of the ability to understand, digest and disseminate complex information, and to prepare well-reasoned reports is essential.

The successful candidate will have excellent oral and written communication skills with an ability to engage effectively with a range of stakeholders in challenging circumstances. You will be able to establish a good rapport with clients in a professional and caring manner, upholding brand values.

In return, you can look forward to working with a highly-skilled and dynamic team and having influence over the future strategic direction of the company. We also offer a competitive salary with performance-related bonus and an excellent benefits package.

This role is primarily home-based with opportunities nationally. Ability to periodially travel long distances to attend client meetings across England from time to time is essential.

MAIN DUTIES:

1. To provide an independent and comprehensive casework, advisory and advocacy service to private and NHS-referred clients (typically health and social care service users or their representatives) in England and Wales throughout the entire NHS Continuing Healthcare assessment, appeal and care planning process from initial assessment stage through to complaints to the Ombudsman.
2. To provide specialist information and advice to our clients tailored to their specific situation and needs regarding the interpretation of a primary health need from a thorough understanding of relevant criteria, assessment frameworks and legal tests which are based upon case-law. 
3. Provide advocacy and active case support remotely and in person to clients in England and Wales, and their representatives throughout the appeal and complaint processes, and occassionally assessments. This will include periodic travel to assessments and appeal meetings across England and Wales (including overnight stays where necessary), as well as attending virtual meetings via videoconference.Please note: most meetings are now completed virtually via videoconference, however a small number of in-person meetings are still taking place. Applicants will need to be comfortable working from home for long periods as well as with periodic long-distance travel.
4. To keep informed of issues, policies, guidance and legislation affecting clients ensuring that the information provided is relevant, current, complete and accurate.
5. To analytically examine all relevant health and social care records and assessments, and to prepare detailed advisory letters and appeal statements based upon a sound understanding of the facts, and referencing evidence compiled from such records.
6. To assist clients in the preparation of submissions which will be presented on their behalf to relevant Integrated Care Boards and NHS England review and/or appeal panels.
7. To respond to new referrals by making prompt initial contact with the client within the timescales specified by company policies. To keep clients informed of progress at regular intervals.
8. Work closely and efficiently with health professionals from relevant Continuing Healthcare (CHC) teams with the aim of resolving client issues at the earliest possible opportunity so as to provide an efficient and cost-effective service, and to minimise stress for the client.
9. To develop and maintain working relationships with health and social care colleagues within the field of Continuing Healthcare in order to influence best practice.
10. To work with partner organisations and stakeholders to share knowledge, make appropriate referrals, maintain consistency and draw upon each other’s expertise, always striving to improve the quality of both services and provide a better customer experience.
11. To keep relevant and sufficiently detailed case records at each stage and as the case progresses; ensuring that all client information is kept up to date in line with Beacon’s systems and procedures, including data protection (GDPR) policies.  This applies to case files, database entries, authority forms, client correspondence, use of the project management system, filing and archiving.
12. To minimise business costs and maximise income for the company by meeting chargeable time targets, working efficiently, charging clients appropriately and in a timely manner.
13. To uphold the principles of paralegal casework as specified by the Institute of Paralegals, providing a good standard of client care by working with skill and competence thereby ensuring clients are able to place their trust in you.
14. To uphold organisational values, promoting Beacon’s social goals through each area of your work.
15. To manage your own caseload and work independently within the boundaries of Beacon policies and procedures.
16. To undergo a minimum of 12 hours of professional development each year.  To foster an atmosphere of continuous learning and development.
17. Attend line management, supervision and team meetings as appropriate, and to play a full part in the development and success of Beacon.

The above is not an exhaustive list of duties and you will be expected to perform different tasks as necessitated by your developing role and the overall objectives of the companies.

This post may be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Baring Service check or equivalent.

STAFF BENEFITS: Pension Scheme, Generous Annual Leave Entitlement, Death in Service Benefit 4x salary, Flexible Working, Health & Dental Care Plan, Professional Development Plan, Employee Rewards Scheme (Perkbox) and Performance-Related Bonus.

What is NHS Continuing Healthcare?

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is the name given to a package of care that some people need to receive due to disability, accident or illness. People who are eligible for CHC have the full cost of their care and residential accommodation funded by the NHS. This relieves families of sometimes astronomical care bills.

The criteria for determining who is eligible for CHC are highly complex and can be very difficult for the public to understand, and for professionals to apply consistently. The assessment process is lengthy and detailed. Likewise, the appeal process can be very daunting and perplexing.

 

About our organisation

Beacon was established in May 2014 for the purpose of providing independent and high-quality support to individuals and their families in England who need help navigating the NHS Continuing Healthcare process.

Beacon is a registered social enterprise and a proud member of Social Enterprise UK. We operate with a core set of ethical social objectives and values through which all of our work is delivered.

Social enterprises are businesses. Like any other business, they seek to make a profit and succeed commercially. But how they operate, who they employ, how they use their profits and where they work transforms lives and communities across the UK. At Beacon, we donate any surpluses to supporting charitable objectives that are in line with our aims.

Through expert advocacy, advice and training, Beacon enables people to be heard and to enact real and positive change in their lives. We help people to understand their rights and the realistic options available to them, equipping some of those most vulnerable in society with the knowledge and practical support to make meaningful and transformative decisions.

Our Values

At Beacon, we employ people who want to do things differently to other organisations working in this field. Five values sum up our culture and how we treat our clients and our staff:

1. Ethical

Commitment to our clients

We operate with honesty and integrity. We are transparent about our funding set-up and our fees, which we keep as low as we sensibly can. We never ‘hard sell’ our services, we keep you informed at every step, and we always give our honest opinion of your chances of success. As a social enterprise, we donate any profits to charity.

Commitment to our team

We operate with honesty and integrity, and always work hard to get the best results for our clients and the business. We work to high standards, and trust our people to respectfully speak out if we fall short.

1. Expert

Commitment to our clients

We pride ourselves on being recognised as leading independent experts in NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC). We apply our knowledge and experience to help every case and caller. We also strive to improve CHC for everyone, by training health and social care professionals.

Commitment to our team

We are the leading experts in our field. We encourage and value innovation and evolution in what we do, and how we do it. We are united in developing the business and its services.

1. Personal

Commitment to our clients

By listening carefully to you and the people who really know about your care needs, we can provide excellent advice and powerful advocacy tailored to your unique situation.

Commitment to our team

We get results by getting to know our clients. We do the same with our people, offering flexible working options to suit your circumstances, and taking time out to have fun as a team.

1. Compassionate

Commitment to our clients

We are mindful of the immense stress that our callers and clients can be under, at what is often a really tough time. We do our best to lift some of that burden by providing a quality service that you can trust, and by being compassionate and courteous at all times.

Commitment to our team

The nature of the work can be stressful and emotionally draining. We take care and time to look out for each other, and encourage healthy work habits.

1. Rewarding

Commitment to our team

We take the time to celebrate success and are inspired by one another’s achievements. We provide a generous and varied suite of benefits that can be enjoyed by our people and their families. 

The Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA) is the national charity for people affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom. 

We are looking for a Digital Communications Coordinator to cover maternity leave and to support our busy Communications team.

The Digital Communications Coordinator is a key role within CLAPA, responsible for implementing our digital communications strategy to engage and inspire the UK cleft community. This role moves beyond content creation to take ownership of CLAPA’s digital communications across social and email platforms, ensuring online communications are strategic and data-driven. Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, this role supports the planning, delivery, and monitoring of campaigns that inform, support, and connect the cleft community in the UK. 

This is a hands-on role suited to someone with a good understanding of digital communications and a passion for community engagement. The Coordinator will manage day-to-day digital content, respond to online enquiries, and support internal teams with their communications needs. They will also play an important part in maintaining CLAPA’s brand and voice across all channels, ensuring our communications are accessible, on-brand, and effective. 

NB - We reserve the right to close applications early if we receive a high volume of strong candidates. 

£16,587.33 Actual Salary + Lift Schools Wellbeing Cash Plan + Pension Scheme (LGPS) + Additional Lift School Benefits

Permanent, Full Time or Part Time

29.5 hours per week (8.50am - 3.30pm Flexible shifts available), 39 weeks per year

Immediate Start

 Make learning an adventure: Be a specialist Learning Support Assistant at Columbus!

Do you have a passion for helping children reach their full potential?

Columbus School and College is searching for enthusiastic and dedicated Specialist Learning Support Assistants to join our vibrant team. We're a special school where children and young people aged 3-19 with severe and profound learning difficulties embark on incredible learning journeys.

Imagine this:

• High-five moments: Witnessing the spark of understanding in a child's eyes.
• Creative collaboration: Working alongside a supportive team to design engaging learning experiences.
• Building bridges: Helping children overcome challenges and celebrate victories.

As a Specialist LSA, you will support pupils' learning, care, and development, helping them feel excited to come to school and proud of their progress.

At Columbus, you'll be more than just a learning support assistant, you'll be an:

• Exploration guide: You'll tailor learning activities to each child's unique needs and interests, igniting their curiosity.
• Champion: You'll provide one-on-one support, fostering a safe and nurturing environment where all children can thrive.
• Team player: You'll collaborate with passionate teachers and specialists to ensure every child receives the best possible education and care.

We offer:

• Flexible working options.
• Staff parking
• Exceptional professional development opportunities to nurture your skills.
• A supportive and collaborative community where you'll feel valued.
• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of exceptional children.

Ready to join the adventure?

Here's what to do next:

Discover more about our wonderful school! We warmly welcome school visits and encourage you to schedule a meeting.  To arrange a visit or tour, please contact us.

Don't wait! Applications close on : 3rd August 2025

Interviews will take place as we receive applications.

Who is Lift Schools?

We’re a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - in every classroom, every day. And we do this across each of our 57 schools.  As with our students, we want our team to be empowered to do their best work, supported by the best leadership they’ve ever had.

We acknowledge and appreciate the exceptional efforts of everyone here in making this an incredible organisation.

We offer you:

• Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career.
• Generous benefits: From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered.
• Lifestyle perks: Enjoy discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and even electric vehicle incentives.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response. All candidates are advised to refer to the job description and person specification before making an application.

Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is inline with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.

Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.