Social care development jobs

Service Manager

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Job Title: Service Manager 

Location: Romford. Please note that unfortunately, this service does not have step free access.

Salary: £40,100

Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00. You may also be required to work weekends, evenings, and bank holidays as per service requirements. You will also take part in our out of hours on call rota for managers.

About the Role

We're looking for a compassionate and driven Service Manager to join our residential service based in Havering. This role supports residents in temporary housing who are facing challenges with substance use. As a Service Manager, you’ll lead a dedicated team, making sure we deliver high quality support, performance and improvements across our service whilst representing values of the organisation. You'll play a hands on role in supporting individuals facing addiction, homelessness, and complex needs guiding them towards stability, independence, and brighter futures.

The service focuses on providing a 24 hour, 25 bed accommodation service to residents who are deemed to be high risk. They support those who are experiencing homelessness. All admissions are jointly agreed, and placements reviewed at a weekly Complex Needs Panel chaired by the local authority. Residents are agreed on the basis that they are: 

The role includes:

• Overseeing support related to substance misuse, ensuring effective interventions and pathways for service users
• Line Management and Leadership, supporting your team providing advice, guidance and support throughout their employment lifecycle
• Support the Service Manager in leading the day to day operational delivery of the service
• Risk Management ownership, ensuring processes and policies are followed
• Property and Housing Management, ensuring the accommodation meets our requirements, and repairs and maintenance are regularly reported and completed
• Financial Management, including petty cash and budget management
• Contract management and Internal auditing, admin, and general other duties as required

About You

We are seeking a passionate, driven and motivated colleague to lead this service in a trauma informed and inclusive way. Someone who is knowledgeable in the needs of our residents, particularly substance misuse and can support the team in delivering excellence. You will be driven with passion for what we do, and be able to work flexibly to meet service needs, providing new ideas and opportunities to develop the service further to continue to achieve excellence!

• Understanding and/or practical knowledge of the social and societal marginalisation that can be attached to people with substance abuse issues, addiction, exploitation, homelessness and within the criminal justice system
• Previous leadership experience
• Experience of working with confidently and ability to provide advice, lead a team on all aspects of the service such as resident related enquiries which can include housing, substance abuse support, signposting
• Ability to motivate and empower a team to achieve service KPI's through direct leadership
• Willingness and ability to work flexibly to meet service needs
• IT Proficiency, including Microsoft Office, and the ability to navigate and learn new case management systems and other types of organisational software

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

What we Offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Employer Pension Contribution
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Access to discounted tickets for music events, shows, sports and more
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• EDI Ambassador programme

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings, probation settings, and hospitals. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Liverpool. Our goal is to transform lives through empowering change. 

We believe good care and support improves lives with the vision to create healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities. Join us on our mission to empower independence through trauma-informed solutions and dynamic partnerships that keep people out of prison, out of hospital, and off the streets.
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

Additional Information

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

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

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

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

Do you want to make a real difference in children and young people's lives? If so, then we would like you to join our dedicated team of social workers and help empower children to thrive. We believe in quality over quantity, ensuring manageable caseloads so you can truly focus on the people you support. Regular supervision, peer support, and emotional wellbeing resources are all part of how we care for our team. We have an exciting opportunity for someone to join our small friendly team, who are well linked in with the wider Barnardo's organisation across the UK.

Fostering Service, covering Wales. We offer flexible working options, and a strong support network, and ongoing professional development to ensure you feel valued and supported in your career. 

The suitably applicant will be enthusiastic, creative and passionate about supporting children and young people who are cared for by their foster families. You will be able to work therapeutically with people who have experienced trauma and loss in their lives. You will work in a way that acknowledges and validates their experiences and work with hope that their future may be different. You will also have opportunities to design and deliver training to a team of committed foster parents and peers. You will have strong assessment skills in order to complete Form F's and annual reviews.

Ready to take the next step in your social work career? If the answer yes, then we very much look forward to you joining the team.

When completing your application please refer to your skills knowledge and experience in relation to the Person Specification and Job Description. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Pay & Reward Framework

We know that our colleagues go above and beyond in delivering our vital work, driven by their passion and commitment to Barnardo's values.  We also know that we can only realise our ambitions and achieve better outcomes for more children, thanks to the talent, hard work and creativity of our people. 

For all these reasons, we are committed to a new approach to pay and reward, to ensure it is fair, attractive and progressive, which was rolled out in April 2023. This is a positive change for the charity, and a part of our People & Culture Strategy. It will assist us in supporting colleagues to belong, thrive and grow in their colleague journey at Barnardo's and in time will offer clear routes of progression for colleagues in both their career and their pay. 

Whilst the full pay band and salary range is advertised, our approach to starting salaries is to appoint between the minimum to mid-point of the pay band – this ensures that pay steps are available to reward our colleagues annually based on their contribution to excellence and alignment to our values and behaviours.  More details on Barnardo's pay framework can be found upon application. 

Introduction
Digital Care Hub CIC (DCH) is the leading digital support organisation for adult social care providers in England. We provide practical guidance, resources, and leadership to help care services adopt and implement digital technologies safely, efficiently, and in line with regulatory expectations. As digital transformation accelerates across health and care, Digital Care Hub plays a crucial role in shaping a future where technology enhances, rather than replaces, human-centred care. As part of our continued development, we are expanding our regional delivery model to ensure greater alignment, visibility, and consistency across our support offers. The Regional Strategic Manager will play a key leadership role in this model.

About the role
The Regional Strategic Manager will act as the main point of coordination and leadership for our work across all 9 regions, ensuring local support is high quality, consistent, and strategically aligned with national goals.

You will work closely with our Local Support Organisations (LSOs), local authorities, Integrated Care Systems (ICSs), system partners and care associations to build strong regional networks, ensure insight flows between local and national levels, and embed DCH and Better Security, Better Care (BSBC) priorities.

Reporting to the Programme Director, you will be part of the national delivery team but focused on regional strategy, delivery oversight, and stakeholder engagement.

Key responsibilities
• Provide strategic oversight of all regional delivery activity, ensuring alignment with the national programme objectives.
• Act as the main point of contact for LSOs in the region, supporting them to meet their grant requirements and develop high-impact local delivery plans.
• Coordinate and facilitate regional & cross-regional networks, communities of practice, and events.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key regional stakeholders including local authorities, ICSs, ADASS branches, and care associations.
• Lead regional reporting and insight gathering, ensuring local intelligence informs national strategy and vice versa.
• Support consistency and quality of LSO delivery across the region, sharing best practice and facilitating joint working.
• Represent DCH and BSBC at national and regional meetings, boards, and strategic forums.
• Feed into the development of regional strategies, funding bids, and improvement plans.
• Work closely with the national team to ensure strong integration of regional activity within wider programme delivery. 

About you
Skills and experience
• Proven experience in a strategic or delivery leadership role within health, care, or the public sector.
• Strong understanding of adult social care and/or digital transformation within the care system.
• Demonstrated ability to manage relationships with senior stakeholders and build collaborative networks.
• Experience supporting or overseeing delivery partners or commissioned services.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a wider team.
• Confident in using data and local insight to drive planning and improvement.
• Excellent communication skills, including verbal presentation and written reporting.
• Highly organised and adaptable, comfortable working in a fast-paced and evolving context.
• Understanding of regional policy structures, local government, or ICS and ICB governance is desirable. 

Purpose of the Role

To ensure consistent and high-quality delivery of all operational and participant support aspects for external programmes, including our new Accelerator offer. This role is responsible for coordinating people, processes, logistics, and partner inputs across different delivery models (online and in-person) so that programmes run smoothly, participants are well-supported, and reporting is accurate. The Coordinator acts as the hub for collaboration, administration, and progress tracking—enabling Programme Leads to focus on strategy and outcomes. The role drives continuous improvement and adapts delivery in response to participant and partner feedback

At Family Friends, we believe that everyone deserves support when life gets tough. We’re looking for a Family Connector - someone warm, compassionate, and organised to walk alongside families facing challenging times.

This is a flexible, part-time role where you’ll be the first point of contact for families referred into our service. You’ll help them feel heard and supported, connect them to our brilliant volunteer befrienders, and make sure they find the right help at the right time.

You’ll work in the community - through clinics, home visits, group sessions and schools, building trust and offering practical, thoughtful support. You’ll also collaborate with local partners and help strengthen our volunteer-led approach.

If you’re someone who ‘gets it’, who can hold space for others and juggle the moving parts of community life, we’d love to hear from you.

Senior Social Worker

Reports to: Service Manager (Social Work)

Responsible for: Yorkshire and North East personal welfare team

Location: Office based in Pontefract with regular travel

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: £40,787 per annum

Our client is a national charity whose mission is to improve the lives of individuals and communities facing disadvantage due to the impact of the coal mining industry.

They are currently recruiting for a Senior Social Worker to be based in their office in Pontefract to lead the service delivery within the Yorkshire and North East region, managing a team of office based and home-based Social Work Assistants providing advice and support to former Miners and their dependents.

Role Purpose

Responsibility for the professional leadership and management of service delivery within the regional personal welfare team. The role also involves promoting the service locally and developing partnerships with other agencies for the benefit of the client group.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the personal welfare team for the Yorkshire and North East region to provide a high quality, professional, outcomes focused service for former Miners and their dependents.
• Ensure the effective management of casework across the team including case allocation and management.
• Manage a small caseload of clients, when necessary, with a variety of needs, by carrying out high quality assessments and providing a range of appropriate interventions in response to assessed needs of the clients e.g. welfare benefits advice, advocacy, emotional support and practical advice.
• Drive service performance and improvement, monitoring efficiency and effectiveness and taking action to address performance or practice issues should they arise.
• Support the team through supervision, appraisal, case reviews and observations.
• Act as safeguarding lead for the region, advising and supporting team members to take appropriate action, ensuring adherence to the organisations safeguarding policy.
• Manage the delivery of a range of interventions predominantly through a home visiting service, including welfare benefits advice, support with mobility, social isolation and financial issues etc.
• Keep updated with relevant legislation and good practice and share such information across the team and wider organisation.
• Develop and maintain good working relationships with other professionals and partner agencies to ensure integrated, holistic and multidisciplinary approach.
• Represent the organisation at events and meetings as required and co-ordinate publicity and marketing of services in the region in co-operation with head office to promote and advertise the service.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Degree in social work or equivalent social work qualification and current professional registration.
• Experience of leading / managing a team in a social care setting with the ability to manage and effectively prioritise caseloads, work with integrity and professionalism and work under pressure.
• Experience of community based social care services with experience of delivery with older people and / or disability services.
• Experience of implementing systems and processes and facilitating change.
• Experience of contributing to the development and updating of policies and practice in line with legislative changes and good practice.
• Good working knowledge of welfare benefits system.
• Knowledge and understanding of the values and principles underpinning working with vulnerable adults and their Carers within the community setting.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and good practice, particularly in relation to older people, mental health and disability.
• A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Flexibility to travel across a wide geographic area with occasional overnight stays.

Desirable:

• Experience of social work practice teaching and/or practice teacher status or working towards.
• Knowledge and understanding of the issues facing former mineworkers and mining communities.

This role will require a satisfactory DBS check.

Tameside Neurodiversity Hub

Senior Navigator Role

Are you passionate about neurodivergent children and young people and their families having the right support, at the earliest point?  We are proud to be developing and delivering the Tameside Neurodiversity Hub and are seeking a highly skilled and experienced practitioner to be the senior navigator.

To be successful, you will need to have the following:

• Significant experience in supporting children with neurodiversity.
• The ability to ensure the 'voice' of the child and family is central, enabling lived experience to create change.
• Excellent team working skills. You will work as part of a service that covers the whole of Greater Manchester.
• The ability to collaborate with and confidently present information to a range of people including the delivery of workshops.
• Excellent communication skills, enabling communication with children, young people, families and professionals.
• Robust safeguarding knowledge and good recording skills.
• A car available for work with business insurance.

There are lots of opportunities to develop your skill set, knowledge and career progression going forward. 

This service is dynamic, no two days are the same, we work flexibly to meet the needs of the children and families so whilst there is a Monday to Friday working pattern you will be working some evenings and if required occasional weekends. In return you will manage your hours so may benefit from later starts or earlier finishes.

Barnardo's has a generic job description/person specification. When completing your application please provide examples in your application in the context of the advert and additional information sheet as to how you meet the requirements of the role.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

This is a National Role, Home Based/Hybrid. Travel will be required across England. 

Full time, permanent (part time/condensed hours would be considered). 

This newly created role will lead on exploring new markets, creating strategic connections and identifying opportunities – working to increase the reach of Phoenix Futures. You will champion innovation and demonstrate the measurable impact of our services on people’s lives.

Phoenix Futures and The Role

The Phoenix Futures Group has more than 50 years’ experience delivering pioneering psychosocial treatment services. We believe in being the best, which means constantly learning, innovating, and collaborating with partners who share our vision.

As Head of Strategy and Partnerships, you will be a visible leader across health and social care settings, building influential networks and unlocking new opportunities. This senior leadership role will work cross-functionally to expand our reach across the UK, ensuring our services reach more people who need them.

You will design and deliver strategic growth plans, working closely with operational experts to identify emerging needs, secure new funding streams, and adapt our solutions to new contexts. Your success will be measured by increased reach, new partnerships, and sustainable growth.

About You

Reporting directly to the Director of Strategic Initiatives, you will:

• Be a growth-focused leader with a proven track record of opening new markets and driving expansion.
• Have experience in strategic implementation and scaling services across the UK.
• Demonstrate extensive experience in building networks and creating collaborative partnerships within health and social care.
• Understand psychosocial treatment models and how they can be adapted to diverse needs and settings.
• Be skilled at interpreting research and data to communicate impact and value in compelling ways.

A detailed job description (role profile) and person specification can be found attached.

Benefits

• A salary of £56,500 + 8.5% PRP
• Committed to providing a Real Living Wage for you, through accreditation with the Living Wage Foundation 
• 25 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing each year to a maximum of 30 days) 
• Benefits including season ticket loan, pension scheme and life assurance 
• Support through occupational sick pay, eye-care vouchers and regular wellbeing talks and activities 
• Continuous training and career development via PXL our dedicated learning management system  
• Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance programme including telephone and online access 
• A rewarding role with the opportunity to help us support people on their journey to recovery and change their lives for the better. 
• We’ll ensure you get all the support you need to thrive and succeed in your role and find your place amongst our incredible and collaborative team. 

We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and believe it is important to include people with lived experience to ensure the needs of the people we support are represented. We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is free to be themselves and we ensure equity of opportunity. 

Playskill is a Hertfordshire based charity supporting pre-school children with physical disabilities & delays and their families. Across two sites in Watford and Hemel Hempstead, our work helps to build family resilience in the pivotal early years of a child’s life. Our specialist early intervention work delivering multi-disciplinary therapeutic play sessions, parent training/modelling, family social respite events and family support provides holistic family centred work aiming to build foundational skills for life

The Family Support Lead will coordinate our Family Support service across all locations providing holistic support to families of children with a physical disability/delay living in Hertfordshire, always keeping close adherence to best Safeguarding practice and procedures.

The role involves working with the Head of Family Service and Operations and Head of Development to develop the Support Worker team to deliver high quality family support. This may mean supporting families in group settings, family centres or in the home and holding caseloads with a holistic view in how to best meet need. Working closely with local stakeholders (including but not limited to schools, family hubs, social care, health and other voluntary sector organisations), the wider Playskill team and families, this role will deliver family-centred practice, ensuring positive outcomes for families.

We are looking for someone who has an understanding of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and the challenges to navigate education, welfare and health systems. They will need to understand the needs of families and be able to work collaboratively.

The role will be responsible for the integration of our Support Worker team and family support services, ensuring best practice and identifying training needs as they arise.

You must be well organised and able to demonstrate the ability to develop strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. As a self-starter, you will be able to use your own initiative, can problem solve and prioritise, with good planning and organisational skills. You will be expected to manage your weekly diary ensuring you are offering timely, quality support across our sites and within the community. You will be expected to have a positive, resilient attitude, be able to work under pressure, meet deadlines and be flexible and adaptable.

All employees will be expected to make a commitment to Playskill’s core values of Respect, Compassion, Collaboration, Whole Family and Support.

What we can offer you

• Wellbeing support

• Supportive colleagues

• Pension

Diversity statement: 

Playskill is an equal opportunities employer and has a high number of team with caring responsibilities and is keen to encourage applicants from a diverse number of backgrounds.

Safeguarding statement:

Playskill is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of all children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment. Playskill has a full safeguarding policy and expects all staff to undergo safeguarding training.   

Closing Date:  5pm, Wednesday 17th December 2025

Interview date: Tuesday 6th January 2026

Interview location: Hemel Hempstead

Reg Charity no 1198233 (formerly 1122745). Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.in

Youth Project Worker

Transform the lives of  young people with learning disabilities and autism who are avoiding school . Use creativity, advocacy and relationship-building to help them articulate their needs, re-enter education and rebuild social connections.

You'll work with 35 young people with learning disabilities and autism in Coventry each year , helping them to:

• Articulate their needs and wishes through creative one-to-one advocacy and support
• Re-enter education in a way that works for them as complex individuals
• Re-build social skills and connections to protect their wellbeing and enrich their lives

These young people may be learning-disabled or autistic, in special or mainstream education, or not in education, employment or training (NEET). They include school avoiders, those on reduced timetables, and young people with unmet mental health needs. Without support, their outcomes are often bleak - but you can change that.

What You'll Do

You'll meet young people where they feel most comfortable - at times that suit them, using WhatsApp, Zoom, or face-to-face. Together, you'll:

• Create multimedia person-centred 'back to learning and community' plans using video, voice recording, photographs, artwork or graphics
• Build their confidence through weekly one-to-one sessions, with gradual group engagement on their terms
• Advocate for their views and support them to develop self-advocacy skills
• Connect them with meaningful opportunities across the city
• Work collaboratively with parents, schools, and other professionals
• Complete risk assessments, travel plans and project monitoring

A fun and creative touch is essential - you'll co-design all activities with young people, focusing on what matters to them.

About You

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience in youth work, particularly one-to-one or small group personal and social development
• Has worked with teenagers experiencing mental health difficulties, special educational needs and disabilities
• Is creative and confident with multiple media platforms and social media
• Can help young people think broadly and creatively about their choices
• Works collaboratively with families, colleagues, and external professionals
• Has a deep listening ability - picking up on young people's signals, cues and feelings
• Is nurturing, non-judgmental and sees past first impressions
• Has tenacity and resilience with the ability to walk in young people's shoes
• Believes disabled young people should lead fulfilling lives as equal citizens

You'll need to be brilliant with young people, adaptable, and bring a flair for doing things differently. You'll have responsibility and autonomy, with the support of a strong team behind you.

Desirable: Qualifications in youth work, psychology or child and youth care; knowledge of person-centred and trauma-informed approaches.

About Grapevine

Grapevine is an award-winning charity bringing people who are marginalised into the centre of their communities. We're nationally acclaimed for our person-centred, strengths-based approach built on 30 years of curiosity and innovation.

Why work for us?

• Flexible working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• 8% non-contributory pension (we pay the full amount!)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Supportive culture focused on uncovering your potential
• Real impact - your work directly changes lives
• Continuous learning through reflective practice and peer learning
• Freedom with support - shape your projects but never feel alone

We're committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming people from all backgrounds. We actively work to create a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued and able to be themselves.

The Impact

Since 2021, Next Steps has been achieving outstanding outcomes:

• 74% of young people felt more confident about school and the future
• 100% were able to do things that matter to them in a way they like
• 62% showed improved scores across every baseline area
• 34% increased school attendance within 4 months

Now it's your turn to be part of this success story.

About Carers Bucks

At Carers Bucks we are committed to making a lasting and positive difference in the lives of unpaid carers across Buckinghamshire - from children as young as five, to adults supporting loved ones, through physical or mental illness, frailty, disability or addiction. We understand that caring can impact a person’s health, wellbeing and future opportunities and we are here to change that. 

Our vision is that every unpaid carer in Buckinghamshire feels recognised, respected and supported in their role – so they can access the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them – regardless of age, circumstance and cultural or socio-economic background.

Our team is at the heart of everything we do. We foster a positive, supportive working culture where wellbeing matters, and professional development is encouraged and celebrated. 

Our values reflect our core principles and culture. They guide how we engage with service users and how we work as a team. We are:

Kind                We understand the challenges carers face. With real compassion and empathy we are able to build confidence and resilience in both carers and colleagues. 

Inclusive        We adapt our services to meet the diverse needs of all carers, making sure they feel seen, supported and empowered in their role. 

Collaborative   We work together – with carers, partners and one another – to listen, learn and improve outcomes. 

Innovative      We are curious to find better ways to support carers. We are open to new ideas and committed to improving what we do. 

Reliable          We are informed, trustworthy and confidential. We do what we say we will - every time. 

As a trusted local charity with over 20 years’ experience, we are continually evolving to meet carer’s needs and improve access to support.  

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Team Leader for our Young Carers and Young Adult Carers team. You will play a key role in shaping and guiding the service, managing a dedicated team and overseeing day to day delivery while working with the Head of Services to deliver our strategy. Essential to the role is ensuring the service is inclusive, responsive and shaped by the voices of the young people we support. This is a hands-on, people-focused role, combining team management, safeguarding oversight, caseload guidance and partnership working. 
 

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Coordination and Planning

• Coordinate the day-to-day delivery of the Young Carer Service in line with agreed workplans and available resources.
• Support the Head of Services in implementing strategic priorities and translating them into clear team actions.
• Plan and organise delivery schedules, ensuring one to one work, groups, clubs and school sessions are appropriately staffed and resourced.
• Manage delegated budgets and approve individual expenses in line with organisational procedures.
• Contribute to service planning and improvement by sharing insights from young carers, families and frontline delivery.

2. Service Delivery and Quality

• Oversee the daily flow of referrals, assessments and casework, ensuring timely allocation and consistent quality standards. Provide guidance to the team with their individual caseloads. 
• Coordinate and monitor the delivery of group sessions, clubs and school-based activities to ensure they are safe, engaging and age-appropriate.
• Ensure there is adequate staff and volunteer cover to enable the schedule of sessions and activities.
• Maintain up-to-date and accurate information for families, schools and professionals, including content for the website and promotional materials.
• Support effective volunteer participation in groups, events and activities, working with the Volunteer Manager to ensure volunteers are appropriately trained, supervised and valued.

3. People and Team Development

• Provide day-to-day supervision, guidance and coaching to staff, ensuring they are supported, motivated and clear about priorities.
• Support the Head of Services with team meetings, supervision and annual appraisals.
• Ensure all team members are trained and equipped to the required standard, identifying learning needs and coordinating relevant development opportunities.
• Foster a positive, inclusive and supportive working environment, addressing interpersonal issues promptly and constructively. 

4. Safeguarding and Inclusion

• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), receiving, responding to and recording safeguarding concerns and escalating to the DSL (Head of Services) in a timely manner.
• Ensure robust safeguarding practices are embedded across all delivery settings, including schools and community venues.
• Champion equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring activities are accessible, inclusive and representative of Buckinghamshire’s diverse communities.

5. Partnerships and Representation

• Maintain day-to-day relationships with schools, youth organisations, community groups and VCSE partners to coordinate delivery and share information.
• Represent Carers Bucks at local forums, events and school-based meetings as agreed with the Head of Services.
• Promote awareness of young carers and young adult carers and the support available through Carers Bucks, sharing information and good practice with partner organisations.
• Provide feedback from schools, young and young adult carers and community partners to inform service improvement and planning.

6. Performance, Data and Reporting

• Record and monitor service data accurately, ensuring compliance with GDPR and organisational procedures.
• Track team performance against agreed objectives and highlight areas requiring support or improvement.
• Analyse data and feedback to identify trends and contribute to quarterly and annual reports.
• Provide case studies and operational insights to evidence impact and support funding and reporting requirements.

About you

Qualifications and Experience

• Experience of supervising or leading a team.
• Background in youth work, education, social care or the voluntary sector.
• Experience of working directly with young people and/or unpaid carers.
• Experience of partnership working with schools, community organisations or health and social care professionals.
• Experience of handling safeguarding concerns and maintaining appropriate records.
• Experience of report writing, record keeping and using client databases or CRM systems.

Knowledge and Understanding

• Strong understanding of young people’s development.
• Robust knowledge of safeguarding principles for both children and adults.
• Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion, and how to embed these in practice.
• Awareness of the issues affecting young carers and their support needs.
• Awareness of local services and support available for young people and families in Buckinghamshire.
• Understanding of how compassion, collaboration and reliability build trust and improve outcomes for carers. 

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, adaptable across audiences.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and manage a varied workload.
• Ability to support, motivate and develop a small team through encouragement and shared learning.
• Confident in analysing information and using data to support service improvement. 
• Competent IT user with experience of standard office packages and electronic record systems.

Personal Attributes

• Empathic, approachable and emotionally intelligent, with genuine respect for others.
• Inclusive and open-minded, valuing different perspectives and experiences.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with a positive and flexible approach.
• Calm under pressure, able to use initiative and make sound judgements.
• Team-oriented and collaborative, sharing information and celebrating success with others.
• Commitment to the values and ethos of Carers Bucks.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work across Buckinghamshire.

Why join us?
We have recently published our one-year strategy, guiding us through the next phase of our development -  ensuring our services are embedded with partners in the community and strengthening the way we work both with our adult team and with volunteers.

By becoming part of our team, you will:

• Play a key role in shaping our future: You will help shape and guide the Young Carer and Young Adult Carer Service, working with the Head of Services, and based on the needs of young people.
• Make a lasting impact: Your work will directly support unpaid Young Carers and Young Adult Carers, helping to reduce isolation, promote wellbeing and improve access to support.
• Be part of a supportive, passionate team: You will collaborate with dedicated colleagues who are committed to making a difference and supporting one another.
• Access opportunities for growth: We will support your professional development with training, learning opportunities, and the chance to shape a growing area of work.
• Enjoy flexibility and balance: We offer flexible working arrangements.

If you are seeking a role where your contributions are recognised, your work drives real impact and you can help shape something meaningful, we would love to connect with you.

Employee Benefits Include:

·       25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (increases with length of service)

·       3x Christmas Closure Days

·       Up to 5 days paid Carers Leave

·       Regular training and development opportunities

Equal Opportunities

We want our services to be representative of the community we serve. We are proud of the diversity within Buckinghamshire and particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups.

How to apply
Please submit a CV and covering letter via our online portal.  Successful candidates may be invited to a first interview before the closing date.
 

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. If you require any adjustments to the interview process or would like to discuss your access needs in advance, please let us know by emailing us (email address available on our online portal) - we will do our best to accommodate you.

Are you passionate about neurodivergent children and young people and their families having the right support, at the earliest point?  We are proud to be developing and delivering the Tameside Neurodiversity Hub and are seeking a skilled and experienced practitioner to be the navigator.

To be successful, you will need to have the following:

• Experience in supporting children with neurodiversity.
• The ability to ensure the 'voice' of the child and family is central, enabling lived experience to create change.
• Excellent team working skills. You will work as part of a service that covers the whole of Greater Manchester.
• The ability to collaborate with and confidently present information to a range of people including the delivery of workshops.
• Excellent communication skills, enabling communication with children, young people, families and professionals.
• Robust safeguarding knowledge and good recording skills.
• A car available for work with business insurance.

There are lots of opportunities to develop your skill set, knowledge and career progression going forward. 

This service is dynamic, no two days are the same, we work flexibly to meet the needs of the children and families so whilst there is a Monday to Friday working pattern you will be working some evenings and if required occasional weekends. In return you will manage your hours so may benefit from later starts or earlier finishes.

Barnardo's has a generic job description/person specification. When completing your application please provide examples in your application in the context of the advert and additional information sheet as to how you meet the requirements of the role.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Job Title: Town of Social Action Engagement Lead - #iWill Movement    

Ref:                            V562

Location: Homebased with regular travel to different locations/ events across the county, especially Ipswich and occasionally elsewhere in the UK.  

Contract Type: Temporary until end of March 26 with possibility of extension

Hours: 20 – 25 hours per week (Flexible working hours will be required to accommodate evening sessions and in-person meetings in Ipswich with partners and young people.)  

Salary: FTE equivalent based on 35 hours per week  - £25,625  (Pro-rata for 25 hours per week £18,296 and for pro rata 20 h.p.w £14,632)

DBS/PVG: Enhanced DBS required

Line Manager: Delivery Leader

Closing date: 10/12/25

Anticipated start date: asap

Volunteering Matters  

Who we are
At Volunteering Matters, we believe people have the power to create change. Whether through volunteering by helping others and giving time, or through social action such as speaking up, campaigning, or leading change, everyone can make a difference. We bring people together to build stronger communities across England, Scotland and Wales, making sure everyone has the chance to get involved and create real change.

Creating stronger communities through the power of volunteering

Volunteering Matters is a nationwide charity that exists to create stronger communities through the power of volunteering. We work with local partners to develop impactful programmes that support individuals and communities across the UK.

Since 1962, we’ve used our influence to champion volunteering as a powerful tool to build a thriving, resilient society. Our projects are co-created with the people and communities we work alongside: an approach that encourages our participants to become future volunteers and leaders, not just beneficiaries.

We understand the pressures of day-to-day life and create flexible, inclusive opportunities for people at all stages of life. And beyond delivering projects on the ground, we use our voice to shape policy and practice – ensuring volunteering stays recognised, supported and sustainable for generations to come. 

What we do
We help people of all ages and backgrounds get involved in volunteering and social action. We focus on making sure that everyone, no matter their situation, has the chance to take part. We work with local people.

 How we do this

We support people to share their time and skills to help others and tackle big challenges in their communities.

· We remove barriers to volunteering and social action, making it easier for people who don’t always get the chance to take part.

· We listen to and amplify voices that aren’t always heard, helping volunteers and communities influence change.

· We help volunteers beyond their first experience, offering training, support, and pathways to new opportunities.

· We connect businesses with communities, creating meaningful employee volunteering projects.

· We show the impact of volunteering and social action, proving how it changes lives for the better.

 Our promise to volunteers

We are always looking for new ways for volunteers to make a difference. We bring people together across generations and backgrounds to learn from each other and create change. At the same time, we make sure that all our volunteers are trained, supported, and valued, so they feel confident in what they do.

It’s a brilliant time to join us. We’re evolving, growing our impact, and shaping a future where everyone can take part and feel they belong. 

About the role

We’re seeking a dynamic individual with experience in youth and community development, facilitation, partnerships, and communications to lead #iwill social action in Ipswich. As the Town Social Action Engagement Lead, you’ll coordinate local #iwill activities across the town, working closely with Volunteering Matters and key partners to drive place-based change. This temporary role (until March 2026, with possible extension) focuses on embedding #iwill as a trusted brand, supporting a Community of Practice, and delivering youth-led initiatives that amplify young voices and foster collaboration across Ipswich and Suffolk. 

Our Values & Way of Working

In all that we are guided by our values: Empowering, Inclusive, Compassionate, Positive & Straightforward. 

Diversity & Inclusion

Volunteering Matters welcomes all applicants and are keen to ensure our team reflects the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We encourage applications from disabled, LGBT and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, along with candidates with any protected characteristics and from disadvantaged groups.

Disability Confident & Reasonable Adjustments

We guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role. Please provide evidence in your application, which demonstrates that you meet the level of competence required in the Job Description under skill and experience. To be considered for a guaranteed interview or to discuss any reasonable adjustments during the process, please state this in your cover letter. 

Benefits

Our employee benefits reflect our culture which is built on an approach of full flexibility with accountability, and designed to let you make your most positive contribution; we offer:

· Flexible Working by Default (re hours & place of work) 

· Unlimited Annual Leave 

· Employee Pension scheme 

· Life Assurance 

· Cycle to Work Scheme 

· Season Ticket Loan 

· Employee Assistance Programme 

· Enhanced sick and family leave.

· Lifestyle Discount Scheme

We are also open to discussing job share applications.

GDPR Statement

If you apply for a role with us, we will retain your contact details including your name, address, email address and phone number to help us manage your application for up to six months.  We will not use your personal data for any other purpose or share it with any third party. You can contact us at any point to update your personal information or ask us to delete it from our records.

Policy on AI-Generated Applications 

Applications are accepted on trust, and we expect all submissions to reflect the applicant’s own words, experiences, and motivations. While tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may support the application process, applications should not be generated wholly by AI. 

To Apply

Please send an updated, complete CV and cover letter via the Charity Job Apply button above. In your application clearly state which role you are applying for. In the cover letter please demonstrate how you would fulfil the role requirements, what previous relevant achievements you have (both in life and at work), what skills & experience you can offer, and what you believe you can contribute to Volunteering Matters.

We welcome applications from everyone, but please note that if we receive an extremely large number of responses, we may close this advert early to fully consider applications. We encourage you to apply promptly so you don’t miss the opportunity to join our community.

Right to Work in the UK
Please note that while we hold a license to sponsor employees on a skilled worker visa, the number of applications we can make each year is very limited. Unfortunately, this role does not meet the criteria for sponsorship, therefore, you must already have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position.

If you have any questions about current vacancies, the recruitment process, or need support, our team is here to help.

Reports To: Head of Frontline Services

Hours: 12 hours per week (flexible but should include attendance at fortnightly Monday morning team meetings in Harrow). There may be opportunity to expand hours if desired.

Location: [Hybrid: Harrow team meetings /West London Community – which could span Hounslow, Hammersmith, Harrow, Barnet, Ealing, Brent/Online/Telephone] 

Our head office is currently in Croxley, Watford and team meetings may move to this location. You need to be able to travel to this location as part of the role.

Salary - £34,320 pro rata

The Violence Intervention Project (V.I.P) is a young Charity (founded in 2017), pioneering new approaches to working with young people (YP) involved in serious youth violence (SYV). Through a combination of practical and therapeutically informed practice, we support YP, their families and communities to live safer lives. Today, The V.I.P. supports more than 50 YP and families across the London Boroughs of RBKC, H&F, Ealing, Hounslow and Hillingdon. As an organisation with a therapeutic ethos at the heart of our practice, we prioritise the care and wellbeing of our employees. As a result, we have an incredible team and strong employee engagement backed by clinical supervision, a Board of Trustees and a Leadership Team who support and promote personal care and professional development. It’s because of our unique working culture that we’re able to meet the serious challenges and demands of our work.

At the V.I.P we aim to be a thought leader in our sector. To date we’ve established strong ties with the Anna Freud Centre along with funding from the Mayor of London’s Violence Reduction Unit. All our operations are framed within a public health approach and built on the fundamental belief that shame is a catalyst for violence; to which relationships are the antidote.

Our innovation, passion and principles have translated into a strong reputation and sustained expansion across West London. Our practice model, Urban Therapy, meets young people where they are — in cafes, parks, and community spaces. We also deliver early intervention programmes in schools and lead The Shame Initiative, our national training and consultancy offer for frontline practitioners.

All our posts are subject to an Enhanced DBS disclosure as well as a full employment history and two employment references. We are committed to equal opportunities in employment and service delivery and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Job Purpose: The Family Outreach worker plays a vital role in supporting the families of clients to enhance their stability, wellbeing, and access to essential services. In this role, the Family Outreach worker will provide personalised assistance to families, strengthen connections with external partners and community resources, and collaborate with the team to ensure comprehensive and cohesive support. Additionally, they will establish structured communication and availability protocols to manage expectations and promote sustainable assistance for families.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and Implement Family Support Plans § Caseload Management: Maintain a focused caseload of 4–5 families at a time, ensuring each receives consistent, high-quality support § Care Plan Development: Co-design and implement personalised support plans with families, focused on clear, achievable goals, addressing unique needs such as housing support, access to services, and emotional and practical assistance. § Outcome Tracking: Regularly assess and monitor family progress, aiming for high satisfaction and meaningful, positive outcomes. § Ensure all work complies with safeguarding and confidentiality policies and promptly escalate any concerns regarding the welfare of children or vulnerable adults.

2. Build and Strengthen External Partnerships and Professional Networks § Networking and Outreach: Dedicate time each month to building relationships with key external partners, such as housing providers, domestic violence services, cultural support groups, and other community organisations. § Professional Network Integration: Actively collaborate with members of each family’s professional network (e.g. healthcare providers, educators, social services) to ensure aligned and effective support. § Partnership Development: Identify service gaps and cultivate partnerships with external agencies to broaden the range of resources available for families, especially during crises or complex situations. § Crisis and Complex Needs Support: Utilize professional connections to extend the support network available to families, enhancing their access to comprehensive care.

3. Foster Team Collaboration and Communication § Team Meetings and Case Discussions: Participate in regular team discussions to align family support strategies and incorporate team insights into care plans. § Documentation and Information Sharing: Maintain detailed documentation on family interactions, progress, and needs to facilitate informed team coordination. § Collaborative Problem Solving: Leverage the collective expertise of the team to address complex family needs and ensure proactive, cohesive support.

4. Develop Clear Communication and Availability Protocols § Service Model Communication: Communicate service guidelines, availability expectations, and emergency protocols to families to promote mutual understanding and prevent miscommunication. § Feedback-Driven Adjustments: Regularly gather and assess feedback from families to adjust communication protocols and improve service effectiveness.

5. Ongoing Monitoring, Review, and Professional Development § Role and Service Review: Schedule regular check-ins with management to assess role effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. § Feedback Collection and Analysis: Collect feedback from families and professional network contacts to maintain high-quality service standards and align with organisational objectives. § Professional Growth: Engage in professional development opportunities to continually refine and align your approach with the organisation’s mission, vision, and evolving community needs. Key Requirements: § Experience in Family Support or Community Outreach: Proven background in social work, family support, or community engagement, with an ability to manage complex family cases. § Strong Communication and Network-Building Skills: Effective communicator able to engage with families, team members, external partners, and professional networks, ensuring cohesive, high-quality support. § Empathy and Professionalism: Commitment to providing respectful, empathetic support to families, balanced with clear professional boundaries. § Organisational Skills: Ability to manage multiple cases, maintain thorough documentation, and adhere to Urban Therapy protocols to ensure high-quality, consistent service.

Key skills and qualities: · Flexibility and adaptability · Trust building · Advocacy skills · Crisis Intervention skills · Resilience · Active Listening · Solution Focused · Ethical practitioner

Urban Therapy is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

This role may evolve as community needs develop; the Family Outreach Worker will contribute to shaping the service model over time.