Social worker jobs in watford, hertfordshire

Making The Leap is an innovative societal change charity that aims to make a big difference. From direct delivery, to advocacy and leadership, we refuse to stay in our lane and believe passionately that those we exist to serve have the right to be anything they want to be. To say that this is an exciting time for the organisation would be an understatement, as our incredible funders, donors, partners and supporters have given us the chance to move to the next level, and have further influence and delivery nationally.

The shared soul of the organisation is to be passionate about helping young people from less-advantaged backgrounds; build up other charities and community groups and want to partner with them or support them; want to work with businesses and organisations to get things done; and care deeply about addressing racial inequity.

The organisation has a number of strands: core Making The Leap; the UK Social Mobility Awards; the Social Mobility Podcast and The Social Mobility List.

Camberwell but with frequent travel around London and occasion travel outside of London

Ref CYPSW-251

Closing date Monday 22 September 25 at 9am

Are you a proactive, collaborative and compassionate individual with proven experience working with children, young people, and vulnerable adults, delivering effective interventions that have resulted in positive outcomes?  Do you have the exceptional ability to build and maintain trusting relationships with young people and their parents/carers, particularly those who have had previous negative experiences with services?

If so, join St Giles as a Children & Young People Progression Support Worker (Southwark), where you will play a key role in supporting and motivating young people who are not yet ready to access paid work, many of whom may lack confidence, feel disengaged, or face personal barriers that prevent them from taking the next step. 

About St Giles Trust

An ambitious, well-established charity that helps people facing adversity to find jobs, homes and the right support they need.  Central to our ethos is our belief that people with first-hand experience of successfully overcoming issues such as an offending background, homelessness, addictions and gang involvement, hold the key to positive change in others.

About this key role

Our successful candidate will deliver tailored, young person-centred support to those who are not yet ready for education, training, or employment (ETE).  You will hold a caseload of up to 15 young people at one time, supporting at least 60 over the course of a year, and work collaboratively with allocated Caseworkers to develop and deliver practical, strengths-based plans that build confidence, motivation, and personal development.

You will identify and help young people access appropriate opportunities, including volunteering, insight days, traineeships, and early work experience and help them overcome barriers that impact their ability to engage with ETE — supporting them to take small, achievable steps towards long-term goals. We will also count on you to build and maintain strong working relationships with local ETE providers, employers, and community partners to source meaningful opportunities, plus ensure you keep accurate and timely records of all work in line with all safeguarding legislation, best practice, and St Giles policies and procedures.

What we are looking for

• Experience independently addressing safeguarding issues with children, young people, and adults at risk of violence or exploitation

• Skilled in conducting thorough risk assessments and identifying the needs of children and young people at risk of significant harm

• Proven ability to work effectively as part of a multi-agency team, collaborating to achieve positive outcomes for young people and their families/carers

• Comprehensive understanding of the complex issues facing young people, such as exploitation, victimisation, offending, gang involvement, unemployment, and trauma

• Awareness of local ETE providers, referral routes, and barriers young people face accessing opportunities

• Excellent interpersonal, relationship-building and communication skills, verbal and written

• A professional, collaborative and flexible approach to your work

Please note:  as an organisation that works with children and adults at risk we are committed to safeguarding, protecting and promoting the safety of our clients and successful applicants will be subject to an Enhanced Child Workforce with Child Barred list DBS.

In return, you can expect a competitive salary, generous leave allowance, staff pension, flexible working, a mentoring programme, an advice and counselling service, clinical therapist sessions, life insurance (4 x annual salary), duvet days, season ticket loan, employee perks programme, eye care voucher and much more.

We are an equity and inclusion confident employer. We welcome all applications, and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi- heritage) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.

St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Job Description for the vacancy.

We will be reviewing applications as they are received, and reserve the right to close this advert early if a suitable candidate is appointed. We therefore strongly encourage early applications to avoid any disappointment

Closing date: Monday 22 September 2025 at 9am

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis?

Are you calm, non-judgemental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

If you can embody our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness, and want to help others build resilience and manage their wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Community Outreach Worker (Community Support Service)
Reference: 298
Salary: £26,000 - £26,500 per annum, depending on skills and experience, inclusive of Outer London Weighting (OLW)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (5 Days)
Contract: 12 months Fixed Term
Reports to: Team Leader or Services Manager (CSS/DAS)
Main base(s): Watford Wellbeing Centre, providing outreach around Three Rivers.

Purpose of Post

The Community Outreach Worker (Community Support Service) provides people with complex needs who have mental health as a primary need. This includes people who may have drug and alcohol difficulties. Particularly when they are coming into repeat contact with Police, Tenancy Sustainment Services, Housing and Homelessness Services and Environmental Health Services.

About the service

Our Community Support Service is here to provide advice, information and holistic outreach support to people who are experiencing mental ill-health or need help with their mental wellbeing. We work alongside people to develop an individually tailored package of support that meets their needs, working with clients to find the solutions that are right for them. This service is flexible to help resolve real-life difficulties and improve client’s independence, quality of life and wellbeing.

The service will be delivered in Three Rivers, based at the Herts Mind Network Wellbeing Centre, providing outreach around Three Rivers.

The purpose of the Community Support Service Outreach Worker is to:

• To provide advice, information, onward referral and holistic support to clients with coexisting drug and alcohol difficulties and mental ill-health. These will be clients who are presenting to the Police, Anti-Social Behaviour, Tenancy Enforcement, Housing and Environmental Health Services within Three Rivers.
• To ensure that the safety and wellbeing of the client is monitored and reviewed regularly.
• To remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• Embed a person centred and solution focused approach in all aspects of the role.
• To raise greater awareness of complex needs and the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) amongst local service providers. Supporting them to gain confidence in working positively and consistently with people who have multiple needs.

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Eligibility for blue light card.
• Health cover (after 6 months employment) - compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.

Being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle is essential for this role.

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 3rd October 2025.
Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted on a rolling basis. Early submissions are encouraged.
Interviews to be held at Watford Well-being centre

Interested? 

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position. 

Equal Opportunities 
We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. We recognise and value the unique combination of skills, knowledge and perspective that employing people with a lived experience, at all levels across the organisation, brings. We create an environment where the sharing of experiences and vulnerabilities to support others and create positive change is welcomed and work towards breaking down the ‘them’ and ‘us’ culture. The organisation is committed to nurturing peer relationships that allow all staff to thrive.

No agencies please.

We are Hestia. We make a difference.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Young Adults Transition Peer Worker to play a pivotal role in our Haringey Volunteer Crisis Service in Haringey.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

In this role, they will build and maintain therapeutic, person-centred relationships with young adults (18–25) who are transitioning from CAMHS or accessing mental health services for the first time. They will support clients in developing recovery-focused goals, encouraging engagement in services, community life, and personal development, while also providing emotional and practical assistance during this transition. This includes accompanying clients to appointments, meetings, or community activities where additional support is needed. They will work collaboratively with carers, families, and professionals to ensure a holistic, integrated approach to care and sustained community inclusion. The role also involves facilitating access to local community resources and opportunities aligned with clients' interests and wellbeing goals, as well as identifying and helping to develop new partnerships and services that promote mental health and reduce inequalities. They will be responsible for maintaining accurate records of all interactions, support plans, assessments, and outcomes in line with data protection and service standards. Monitoring client wellbeing, addressing emerging risks, and escalating safeguarding or crisis concerns as necessary will also be key responsibilities. Additionally, they will participate in team meetings, supervision, and ongoing training to support professional development and continuous service improvement.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

The ideal candidate will have a GCSE-level education with an NVQ Level 3 or equivalent, and be willing to complete BEH Peer Worker Training and a Wellness at Work plan. A Health or Social Care qualification and ongoing training commitment are desirable. They will have lived experience of mental health challenges and secondary care use, along with supportive life experiences that inspire others. Experience in support roles, teamwork, and knowledge of recovery tools and principles is essential, as is an awareness of issues like stigma and discrimination. Desirable experience includes psychiatric hospital admission, mentoring, working in public or voluntary sectors, cross-organisational collaboration, and knowledge of local mental health services. Strong written, verbal, and non-verbal communication skills are required, along with basic IT proficiency; skills in Microsoft Office or additional languages are a plus. The candidate should be motivated, reliable, flexible, and resilient, with clear professional boundaries.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

We're looking for a detail-oriented, proactive and collaborative Service Manager to join our Learning Disability Service in Slough.

£40,000.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you're making a difference? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Our benefits include:

• Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
• Free DBS
• Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
• Fully paid induction programme and further training
• ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
• Online wellbeing resources
• A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
• Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

For a full job description, please visit our website.

The Service Manager will be responsible for the operations of one service in Berkshire (Slough) which supports one individual to live in his own home.

The individual is a sociable and engaging man with a warm sense of humour and a deep appreciation for nature, music, and familiar company. He lives with a diagnosis of moderate learning disability, autism spectrum disorder, psychotic illness, epilepsy, and type 2 diabetes, all of which require thoughtful and consistent support. The customer has been living successfully in his current placement for over ten years, where he benefits from the continuity of staff who know him well, understand his routines, and help him maintain a sense of safety and autonomy.

The role will provide line management for a team of seven Specialist Behaviour Support Workers, ensuring that compliance with organisational, legal regulations and those of the local authority are adhered to and the quality of support is of the highest standard possible, ensuring excellent quality of life for the customer and a good working environment for colleagues.

The service has received a CQC rating of Good. The current team size includes 5 FTEs (Specialist Behaviour Support Workers) plus 2 FTEs Waking Night Support Workers, ensuring comprehensive support coverage across all shifts.

The working pattern for this role is primarily Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, with occasional requirements for weekend and out-of-hours work to meet service needs.

The anticipated start date for this role is October.

The initial contract duration is 6 months, with potential to become a permanent role after this period.

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

• We focus on Excellence and innovation.
• We are Caring and Compassionate.
• We are Inclusive and Trusted.
• We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic, grassroots trade union and play a key role to UVW’s mission supporting low paid, precarious and migrant workers build power and solidarity in workplaces and communities through collective, legal and direct action. 

We are looking for a passionate, committed and experienced Caseworker to join our team and support our members through individual and collective representation, negotiations and advocacy. 
 

• Location: UVW office, 144 Cambridge Heath Road, London E1 5QJ 
• Contract: 12 months fixed-term 
• Days: 3 days per week 
• Salary: £31,200 per annum (pro rata) – flat wage for all staff 
• Benefits: Full sick pay from day one, 6 weeks annual leave, and the best parental leave in the country. 
• Hours: 10am–6pm (including 1 hour paid lunch) 
• Apply by: Thursday 19th September 2025 
• Start date: Monday 6th October 2025 

Key responsibilities: 

• Advising members on the merits of their case.
• Representing members in workplace hearings – grievance, disciplinary, appeal, capability, redundancy, welfare and others as they arise.
• Supporting members through the ACAS Early Conciliation process and negotiating settlements.
• Delivering employment law and union representation training 
• Identify organising opportunities and co-ordinating with the organising team.
• Engaging members in the union’s activities.
• Liaising with other organisations where necessary. 
• Managing and maintain the union’s case management systems. 

Essential skills.

• Personal interest in workers’ rights, trade unions and social justice.
• Strong computer and research skills.
• Strong case management skills.
• Basic knowledge of employment law. 
• Good strategic and creative thinking.
• Strong understanding of trade union principles. 
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, communication and time management skills. 
• Excellent administrative and organisational ability. 
• Commitment to UVW’s mission.

Desirable skills: 

• Proficiency in Spanish and Portuguese 
• Law degree and/or legal experience.
• Strong knowledge of employment law. 
• Proven experience in trade union casework and representation   

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Community Engagement Practitioner to play a pivotal role in our Enfield VCS in Enfield.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

In this role, the individual will work as part of a multidisciplinary NHS team—alongside clinicians, social workers, and community partners—to support adults with moderate to severe mental illness. They will hold a caseload of service users, acting as a key point of contact and contributing to care planning, progress monitoring, and discharge support, using the RiO clinical records system. Working collaboratively with service users, they will co-develop person-centred recovery plans that prioritise social goals and community integration. Building strong therapeutic relationships using trauma-informed and strength-based approaches, they will support individuals in achieving personal recovery goals. The role includes helping service users access local resources, attend appointments, and engage in wellbeing activities, peer support, and psychoeducational groups. The individual will promote recovery-focused, jargon-free communication, advocate for co-production and integrated care, and liaise with both statutory and voluntary sector organisations to support effective service navigation. They will attend clinical meetings and community events, representing both Hestia and the Community Mental Health Team, while maintaining accurate, timely documentation of all support activities and risk assessments. Safe and ethical practice is essential, including adherence to safeguarding protocols, health and safety procedures, and quality standards. Ongoing supervision, training, clinical oversight, and participation in annual appraisals will also form part of this role.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

The ideal candidate will have an NVQ Level 4 in Care (or equivalent) or at least two years' experience working in a mental health setting. They will demonstrate a strong understanding of mental health issues, recovery principles, and co-production, along with experience collaborating with professionals, services, and community partners. The candidate should have knowledge of care planning, risk assessment, recovery tools, and relevant legislation such as the Mental Health Act. Excellent communication, relationship-building, and group facilitation skills are essential, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in IT systems, including electronic case management tools, is required. The candidate must be resilient, adaptable, and able to maintain clear professional boundaries, with a strong commitment to person-centred, trauma-informed practice. Desirable qualities include lived experience of mental illness or use of secondary care services, peer support training, knowledge of local community resources, and skills in training, mentoring, report writing, presenting, or speaking additional languages.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

We're looking for a detail-oriented, proactive and collaborative Service Manager to join our Learning Disability Service in Slough.

£40,000.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you're making a difference? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Our benefits include:

• Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
• Free DBS
• Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
• Fully paid induction programme and further training
• ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
• Online wellbeing resources
• A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
• Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

The Service Manager will be responsible for the operations of one service in Berkshire (Slough) which supports one individual to live in his own home.

The individual is a sociable and engaging man with a warm sense of humour and a deep appreciation for nature, music, and familiar company. He lives with a diagnosis of moderate learning disability, autism spectrum disorder, psychotic illness, epilepsy, and type 2 diabetes, all of which require thoughtful and consistent support. The customer has been living successfully in his current placement for over ten years, where he benefits from the continuity of staff who know him well, understand his routines, and help him maintain a sense of safety and autonomy.

The role will provide line management for a team of seven Specialist Behaviour Support Workers, ensuring that compliance with organisational, legal regulations and those of the local authority are adhered to and the quality of support is of the highest standard possible, ensuring excellent quality of life for the customer and a good working environment for colleagues.

The service has received a CQC rating of Good. The current team size includes 5 FTEs (Specialist Behaviour Support Workers) plus 2 FTEs Waking Night Support Workers, ensuring comprehensive support coverage across all shifts.

The working pattern for this role is primarily Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, with occasional requirements for weekend and out-of-hours work to meet service needs.

The anticipated start date for this role is October.

Due to the nature of the service, this position is restricted to males only.

For a full job description, please visit our website.

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

• We focus on Excellence and innovation.
• We are Caring and Compassionate.
• We are Inclusive and Trusted.
• We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

SHAK (South Hampstead and Kilburn Community Partnership) is a resident led charity based on the Alexandra and Ainsworth estate in the Kilburn Ward of Camden, London, dedicated to supporting residents and young people living in an area of high deprivation. 

Our Mission is to work with local young people and adults to improve well-being, inclusion and life chances by nurturing talents, passions, skills and confidence. 

Our Vision is of a place where everyone can live, learn and grow together. 

We do this by identifying and meeting local needs with a range of opportunities in areas of lifelong learning, youth activities, community involvement, employment support, advice and guidance, volunteering, events etc. 

If successful you will be based at “The ARC Youth Club”, an estate based youth led centre with integrated music studio, kitchen, games and "chill-out" space. The ARC engages approximately 250 young people per year and plays a vital role in their welfare and development outside of school. In holidays we offer a full program of activities and free meals for young people who may otherwise miss out. 

You will deliver a range of activities e.g. cooking, arts & crafts, sports, trips, music, events etc. You will also offer support and guidance for local young people and enable them to develop life long skills while designing and running their own projects, forums etc. In school holidays you will be required to work an expected 28 hrs a week as we offer a full program of activities and free meals for young people 

At SHAK we are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where all our employees are encouraged to reach their full potential, and individual differences are valued and respected. We particularly welcome applications from those from black, Asian or ethnic minority backgrounds. 

Duties Include: 

Promoting and delivering activities for young people aged 9-19 yrs  (up to 25yrs for young people with SEND), 3 nights a week during term time, hours 3-8pm (Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday), and 4 days a week during school holidays, hours 11.30am-7pm (Tuesday-Friday). There also may be times when you are required to work outside of these hours 

Engaging with a range of young people from diverse backgrounds and with multiple needs 

Ensuring safeguarding standards are maintained and other policies and procedures are upheld 

Facilitate and support intergenerational projects  

Working in partnership with other organisations to meet local needs 

Acting as an effective part of youth team and wider SHAK team supporting community activities as needed 

Admin and reporting duties as required 

Skills & Experience 

• Minimum Level 3 youth work qualification or equivalent and significant, relevant experience of youth service delivery. 

• Experience of engaging girls in youth programmes successfully 

• Knowledge of youth policies, safeguarding procedures and legislation 

• Good communication, people skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team. 

• Ability to relate, support and engage with wide range of young people 

• Proficient with computers, social media and other modern technologies 

Personal Attributes 

• Highly motivated and driven by positive values and commitment to motivating others  

• Flexible and adaptable against a background of change 

• Resourceful- ability to work on own initiative and solve problems 

• Good punctuality, organisational and presentation skills 

• Creativity, resilience & commitment 

All recruitment is done in line with safe recruitment practices’ 

If successful an enhanced DBS check will be required. 

This post is covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010). 

The Youth Endowment Fund 

Head of Change – Children’s Services  

Reports to: Assistant Director for Change – Children’s Services, Neighbourhoods & the Youth Sector

Salary: £67,900

Contract: 2 year fixed-term – potential to extend. Open to 0.8FTE for the right candidate

Location: Central London, Hybrid*  

Closing date:12pm on Wednesday 24th September 2025

About the Youth Endowment Fund

We’re here to prevent children and young people becoming involved in violence. We do this by finding out what works and building a movement to put this knowledge into practice. 

Last year, 244 people in England and Wales tragically died after being assaulted with a knife. Of these, 32 were children. Every child captured in these numbers is an important member of our community and society has a duty to protect them. Even when violence doesn’t strike directly, we know that the fear of violence has a terrible effect on children’s lives.

The Youth Endowment Fund exists to try and permanently change things. To succeed, we must build an exceptional body of knowledge about violence affecting young people and how we reduce it. This knowledge has to be both rigorous and highly relevant to those making decisions about how to support vulnerable young people. We need to find out what works and what doesn’t through evidence synthesis, data analysis and qualitative research into children’s lives. We need to convert this into highly accessible content on what works, how delivery organisations need to change their practice and how the systems they operate in need to be reformed. We then need to work with the right people that can make change happen, across systems, policies and practice, to have a real impact on reducing violence affecting children’s lives.

Key Responsibilities 

We build demand and interest in evidence across the Children’s Services sector 

This will include: 

• Running events, speaking at conferences and curating webinars to bring evidence to life for practitioners 
• We have great relationships with the people who can make change happen.  

This will include:

• Developing great relationships with senior policy makers, sector leaders and experts, including representing YEF in external meetings and speaking at events.
• Managing a Strategic Advisory Board of leading experts across the children’s services sector and keep members onside and excited about our work.

We deliver our children’s services system recommendations. 

This will include:

• Helping to identify the right recommendations at a system level (such as changes in policy, regulation, inspection, funding, or guidance) that make it more likely highly vulnerable children get access to the right support at the right time. 
• Work out the best way to make our system recommendations happen (due for publication in December 2026) and then do it – persuading the key people to make changes that make a difference.
• Tracking progress carefully, being thoughtful and creative about when and how to change the plan.

We work out the most effective ways to connect people with the evidence, then make those things happen. 

This will include:

• Helping children’s services leaders change how they plan or provide services to better protect children from violence, based on the YEF Children’s Services Practice Guidance – due for publication in May 2026. 
• Creating a plan to get people to follow our guidance, using what we know about how they think and behave. 
• Creating practical tools and resources that help leaders put evidence into action 
• Continuously testing and improving our approach to get better results. 

As a senior member of staff in the organisation you also: 

• Build a culture where it is natural to perform well and support colleagues brilliantly.
• Contribute to setting the strategy, delivering results, and building and modelling the culture that we need to succeed.

About You

You are this sort of person: 

• You know how to make change happen. You combine analytical sharpness with emotional intelligence and real-world experience. You understand why people resist change – and how to move them through it. You’re curious about human behaviour and what drives decision-making. 

• You bring deep experience of the children’s services system. You’ve worked at a senior level in or with children’s services – potentially commissioning support for young people at risk of or involved in violence. You understand how Directors of Children’s Services and other senior leaders think and know how to navigate and influence within the system. 

• You communicate complex ideas clearly. Whether speaking or writing, you break down complicated concepts in ways that make sense to different audiences – without oversimplifying. You bring clarity where others bring jargon. 

• You get things done. You’re organised, delivery-focused, and produce high-quality work, even under pressure. You work independently and to a high standard. 

• You build trust and connect with people. From government ministers to social workers, CEOs to 15-year-olds – you know how to listen, build rapport, and make people feel heard. You’ve led meetings, made strong introductions, and bring people with you. 

• You think big and adapt fast. You’re a strategic thinker who can see the big picture without losing sight of the detail. You’re logical, creative, and open to challenge – always testing and refining your ideas.  

• You understand young people. You get what life can be like for vulnerable young people and you understand the systems and organisations around them. Ideally, you’ve seen this first-hand, whether professionally or personally. 

• You’re committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Not just in theory – but in how you work, who you listen to, and what you prioritise. 

You must have this sort of experience. 

• Delivering concrete change in practice or systems that improved children’s lives. You have significant experience in leading behaviour, practice or policy changes within a children’s services setting. You can show how these have been effective in delivering tangible change.  
• Leadership experience in the children’s services system. You’ve worked at a senior level in or with children’s services - especially local authority children's services, commissioning and/or children's social care policy, and you understand how to navigate and influence within these complex systems.

• Firsthand knowledge of the system that supports highly vulnerable children, particularly those at risk of or involved in violence. You understand the barriers these children face and what it takes to get them the right support.

While it’s not a criterion, we’re especially interested to hear from applicants who have lived experience of youth violence.   

It’s also important to us that the people we hire do not discriminate. We believe in being inclusive and giving everyone an equal chance to succeed. Applications are welcome from all regardless of age, sex, gender identity, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, race, sexual orientation, transgender status or social economic background.   

Hybrid Working Details 

The office is based in Central London. Those living in and around London are expected to be in the office for a minimum of 2 days per week. If you live outside of London and work remotely, you’ll be expected to work from the London office 2 days per month.     

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at the interview stage. 

To Apply

To apply, please send a CV, your answers to the three questions below and complete the monitoring form by clicking on "Apply for this" button by 12pm on Wednesday 24th September 2025.

When applying for this role, please ensure that your cover letter can answer, within a maximum of 1000 words, the following questions:   

Improving practice or systems 
1. Can you describe a time when you successfully supported children’s services leaders to improve practice or systems? Please include the scale and context of your experience. (maximum 500 words) 

 Developing strategy 
2. Please provide an example of a strategy you developed from scratch and implemented independently. What did you do, what was the impact, what did you learn? (maximum 500 words) 

 Personal and professional experiences in violence prevention 
3. What personal and professional experiences have shaped your understanding of the children’s services sector’s role in preventing violence? (maximum 500 words) 

Interview Process 

This will be a 2-stage interview process. The first stage interview will take place on 9 and 10 October 2025

The second stage interviews are currently scheduled for the week commencing 13 October 2025. 

PLEASE NOTE: We do not sponsor work permits and you will be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK. 

Benefits Include 

• £1,000 professional development budget annually 

• 28 days holiday plus Bank Holidays

• Employee Assistance Programme – 24hr phone line for free confidential support • Volunteering days - 4 half days per year

• Death in service - 4 times annual salary

• Flexible hours. Core office hours 10am – 4pm

• Financial support including travel and hardship loans

• Employer contributed pension of 5% 

Personal Data   

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.   

Having adopted a new and ambitious strategy, and embarked on a period of transformational change, Two Saints are now looking to ensure they are in the strongest position to deliver their vision in what are difficult times. This vision is ‘to be a safety net for people in tough times and the springboard to a brighter future.’ The organisation delivers a full range of services to clients across Hampshire, Dorset, Berkshire and the Isle of Wight, and the role of the Two Saints Board is to guide, direct and challenge the plans and strategic decisions relating to these services.

So we’re looking for people who can help Two Saints deliver their vision, with  a background and experience in either:

• Asset management, perhaps with experience of the net-zero agenda
• Supported housing services or social care

We’re interested in hearing from talented people who may be looking for their first governance role, and you may have had lived experience.

If you’re interested in what Two Saints do and feel you can make a contribution, we’d like to hear from you so take a look at the candidate pack here https://bit.ly/45U1yDX.

First Give inspires young people to make a difference to causes they care about. We work in partnership with secondary schools, providing a scheme of work that guides an entire year group of students to engage with local charities and causes, and then carry out social action (fundraising, raising awareness, campaigning, volunteering) in support of them.

At the end of each programme, a celebratory School Final is held, where groups representing each class deliver presentations about their projects - with one group winning a First Give grant of £1,000 for their chosen charity.

Our vision is of motivated and equipped young people using their skills to make the lives of others in their community better. Our values inform what we do at First Give. We are:

• Altruistic
• Inspiring
• Empowering
• Collaborative
• Professional

Programme Delivery Officer role

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic candidate to join our Programmes Team as a Programme Delivery Officer. PDOs are responsible for supporting and coordinating the delivery of First Give in up to 50 schools, ensuring smooth running of the programme, providing guidance and troubleshooting for the Lead Teachers.

The role is home-based, in Yorkshire, with regular travel to schools across the county and occasional forays to schools in the North-West. Several times a year travel will be required to London, where our office is based.

• Contract: 18-month FTC
• Salary: £26,840
• Location: Home-based, with travel as required
• Reporting to: Programme Manager

Key responsibilities

• Provide logistic and programme support to teachers delivering the First Give programme at their school, including but not limited to:
  • an introductory Programme Call with the Lead teacher;
  • delivering a briefing to class teachers;
  • troubleshooting via phone and email;
  • booking in First Give facilitated sessions
• Ensure all programmes are delivering all core elements of the First Give programme
• Update and monitor Salesforce to track programme delivery
• Liaise with freelance facilitators to ensure events at schools are effectively staffed
• Deliver Launch Assemblies, Workshops and First Give Finals in partner schools
• Collect data for monitoring (student surveys, teacher surveys, identifying potential stories of impact, writing programme reports)
• Ensure prompt delivery of any programme resources required by schools (including Coursebooks and other physical resources)
• Support in the collection and distribution of comms via social media, newsletters and other formats to raise awareness of First Give’s work
• Support with wider team projects as and when is necessary

This job description gives an outline of key duties and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. The post holder may be asked to take on other relevant responsibilities as reasonably requested by their line manager.

Safer recruitment

Safer recruitment and safeguarding is of paramount importance to us, as an organisation that works with and for young people. The successful candidate will be made a conditional offer subject to two references (one of which must be your most recent employer) and any offer of employment will be subject to a DBS check.

Person Specification

Essential

• Passionate about young people and their potential to drive social change
• Experience developing strong relationships with remote and external stakeholders
• Experience managing and supporting a large caseload of “client” relationships
• Experience delivering lessons, workshops or other sessions with young people
• Superb organisation and prioritisation skills
• Strong presentation and public speaking skills
• Strong facilitation and workshop skills
• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Excellent attention to detail
• Willingness to travel around Yorkshire and beyond as required, with a clean and current driving licence
• Proactive, independent worker able to work well alone and as part of a team

Desirable

• Experience of working in a remote, decentralised team
• Experience in a customer service role
• Experience of working in the secondary education sector/with teachers
• Experience of using Salesforce

Why work for First Give?

First Give provides many benefits and prides itself on how it treats its staff. Our benefits include:

• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, excluding bank holidays.
• Three additional days between Christmas and New Year given to staff gratis. An additional day off for your birthday in addition to your annual leave allowance.
• Access to Health Assured (health and wellbeing) Employee Assistance Programme.
• Generous training and professional development budget, with regular training offered through the Pears Foundation.
• As you will use your personal mobile for work, First Give provides a phone allowance to contribute towards your mobile costs.
• Team socials throughout the year.

The students we work with come from a diverse range of backgrounds, and so do we. We want to ensure that we are recruiting, retaining and promoting a diverse mix of colleagues. By fostering a diverse and inclusive culture, we will empower our teams to achieve our vision drawing on the broadest possible range of experiences. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates from minoritised groups currently underrepresented on our executive team, particularly black and minority ethnic and disabled candidates.

Application process 

Please fill out the Microsoft form by clicking the 'Redirect to recruiter' button. The form includes a statement of how you fulfil the specification above, and why you want this role at First Give. Please also fill out our equality & diversity monitoring form as signposted (this will not be linked to your application). 

• Application closes: Sunday 12th October 9pm
• Interviews: Tuesday 28th October
• Start date: January 2026

Job Title: Parent Carer Adviser (Families of Children/Young People with Disabilities within the Earls Court Area)
Location: Hybrid – Home based and community venues across the Earls Court area (with travel within Hammersmith and Fulham as required)
Salary: £28,000 – £30,000 FTE per annum (pro rata)
Hours: Part-time – 18 hours per week
Contract: Fixed term for 12 months (extension subject to funding)

About the Organisation

We are a long-established parent carer forum dedicated to supporting families of children and young people with disabilities. Founded over 25 years ago, we recently celebrated our 25th anniversary — a milestone that reflects our enduring commitment to advocacy, empowerment, coproduction, and peer support.

After many years under the umbrella of HF Mencap, we became an independent Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023. In April 2025, we were honoured with a Civic Award from Hammersmith & Fulham Council in recognition of our impact and dedication. Our small but dynamic team works passionately to support parents and carers in navigating the often-complex world of disability services. Through personalised advocacy, accessible information, and regular activities such as coffee mornings, training and information sessions, we create safe, welcoming spaces where families can connect, learn, and feel heard.

We play a central role in service development and co-production across our area, ensuring that the voices of parents and carers shape the services their children depend on. From influencing policy to supporting individual families, we are proud to be a trusted source of guidance, strength, and community.

Our work is overseen by the Steering Committee and governed by the Board of Directors, which ensures we remain responsive, inclusive, and rooted in the needs of the families we serve.

About the Role

Are you enthusiastic about empowering families and ensuring access to the right support? We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Parent Carer Adviser to support families of children and young people with disabilities in the Earls Court area

In this role you will:

• Provide 1-to-1 advice and advocacy and group sessions in community setting
• Deliver information sessions or workshops to help families navigate support services.
• Offer tailored signposting to local, educational, health and social care resources.
• Develop strong relationships with professionals at all levels and advocate effectively when challenges arise

You will work from home and run regular sessions in the Earls Court area, collaborating with families and community partners to reduce isolation, promote access to entitlements, and support informed decision-making.

We are Looking for someone who:

• Has experience providing advice or advocacy to individuals in a community or voluntary sector setting.
• Has a knowledge and understanding of at least two of the following areas:
  • Adult/children social care
  • Special Education Needs and the Children and Families Act
  • Health (including mental health services, Continuing Health Care)
  • Housing
  • Youth services
• Understands the challenges faced by families of children with disabilities/ SEND.
• Can build trust with diverse communities and communicate clearly and empathetically.
• Is confident delivering group sessions or workshops
• Can maintain accurate case records and work with safeguarding procedures.

What We Offer:

• A supportive, flexible working environment
• Regular supervision and training opportunities
• The chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Closing Date: 22nd September at 12 pm midday.
Interviews: 30th September/1st October
Start Date: Immediate start (subject to DBS checks and references)

Interested?

PLEASE PRESS THE 'HOW TO APPLY' BUTTON FOR MORE INFORMATION.

No agencies please.

Banana Link is a UK based NGO established in 1996. We have been advocating for a fair and sustainable banana industry for thirty years, based on environmental, social and economic sustainability. Our approach is underpinned by a firm commitment to defending workers’ rights, at the core of these rights is the right to a fair and decent income that affords a dignified life for men and women banana plantation workers. We work at a strategic level and through research, advocacy and dialogue with all actors along the chain to bring about change.

This role will support the management and delivery our current work stream on Living Wages in the African Banana Export Industry. Initial activities will be delivered in Ghana and Cameroon, in collaboration with our local and international trade union partners, local producing companies, and European retailers. Key project activities include: 

- Facilitation of capacity building activities on Living Wages and Decent Work in Cameroon and Ghana, with company staff and trade union representatives.
- Communication and dialogue between all project partners and other industry stakeholders towards fair remuneration and decent work in the banana industry. 
- Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on all project activities to funders Ghana, with company staff and trade union representatives.
- Communication and dialogue between all project partners and other industry stakeholders towards fair remuneration and decent work in the banana industry
- Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on all project activities to funders

The role will provide an important opportunity to work alongside Banana Link’s International Coordinator, and in collaboration with other key staff and partner organisations, on the important issues of Living Wages, Decent Work, Social Dialogue and Sustainability.