Strategy manager jobs in pontyclun, rhondda cynon taff

About the role

This hands-on leadership role combines operational excellence with strong interpersonal skills. Reporting to the Director of Design and Technology, you'll manage a team of Project Managers whilst working closely with senior leadership to oversee project delivery, financial planning, organisational systems and growth.

You'll implement best practices for data management, risk management, and compliance in a collaborative way that supports our mission-driven work.

About us

Act Build Change is a transformative organising school that makes community organising and collective care methods accessible to everyone who wants to end injustice.

Since 2019, we've supported over 150 collectives and organisations across the UK and Ireland, working with those with disabilities, migrants and refugees, young people, carers, working class communities, LGBTQ+ collectives, those living in poverty and the intersections across those identities.

Our work includes delivering training and resources, supporting communities to navigate difference and change, and providing coaching for organisers and movement leaders.

Key responsibilities

Project management

Oversee project delivery across our organisation, ensuring quality and efficiency:

• Develop frameworks for project tracking and reporting.

• Manage and develop a team of project managers, providing resources and support.

• Monitor budgets and timelines across internal and external projects.

Financial management

Ensure financial sustainability and responsible resource management:

• Support financial planning and reporting with our board and senior leadership team.

• Oversee invoices, expenses and budget adherence.

• Assess financial risks and manage potential challenges.

Systems and processes

Build and maintain operational infrastructure that enables our effectiveness:

• Develop strategies, policies and procedures with our senior leadership team.

• Maintain and oversee our systems for efficient project tracking.

• Ensure agreed standards are met across our team and resolve operational issues.

Organisational growth

Drive strategic growth and development:

• Develop business strategies for growth across products, services and recruitment.

• Analyse our data to support strategic goals and tracking.

• Support our recruitment efforts and staff policy development.

What we’re looking for

Essential experience and skills

• Proven operations leadership experience, including managing teams and complex projects.

• Strong project management and delivery track record across multiple initiatives.

• Financial management expertise including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation.

• Experience with recruitment, performance management, and policy development.

• Experience with data management, reporting, and operational systems.

• Comfortable learning and adopting new technologies and processes quickly.

• Excellent communication skills, including ability to navigate difficult conversations professionally.

• High attention to detail and meticulous approach to operational standards.

• Ability to work remotely and manage diverse responsibilities with autonomy.

What we’d love to see

• Experience across different organisation types and sizes.

• Flexibility to work with different methodologies and systems.

• Risk management and compliance background.

• Comfortable representing the organisation to external stakeholders.

• Track record of implementing operational improvements and efficiencies.

Personal qualities

• You approach challenges with patience and understanding, able to communicate directly when needed whilst maintaining positive relationships.

• You're confident in your expertise but remain open to different perspectives and collaborative problem-solving.

• You take personal accountability seriously and help build a culture where others take ownership of their work.

• You enjoy working in a collaborative team environment and building positive relationships across the organisation.

• You're aligned with our mission and values and are motivated by creating positive social change.

What we offer

Salary and benefits

• £49,500-£62,000 salary, depending on experience.

• Permanent contract with option for 4 or 5 days per week (salary and benefits will be pro-rated).

• Over 30 days of leave, including 25 days of annual leave, one day off for your birthday, one week off in August for learning and rest, plus Christmas close.

• Pension scheme and enhanced parental leave and sick pay.

Working arrangements

• Fully remote working (must be within 4 hours of central London).

• Access to office space in London when needed.

• Co-working space expenses available for those based outside London.

• Occasional travel to London may be required (up to twice a month), with expenses covered.

• Team away days around the UK (up to four times a year), with expenses covered.

• Full equipment and tech support provided.

Growth and impact

• Direct contribution to building people's power and making positive social change.

• Collaborative, mission-driven work environment with impact across the UK.

• Professional development opportunities including training and events (assessed on an individual basis).

• Clear growth pathway in an expanding team.

How to apply

Please note: this role is for UK-based candidates who have the right to work in the UK.

What to send

• Your CV (max. two pages).

• A supporting statement answering the questions below (max. two pages).

• Both documents as PDFs attached to your email.

Questions to address

• Describe a time you led operational improvements in a complex organisation. What was your approach and what were the results?

• How would you approach building operational systems for an organisation that values collaboration and accessibility?

• What attracts you to this role at Act Build Change specifically?

Next steps

• Submit your application by Fri 11 Jul 2025.

• First round interviews will begin from the week of 28 Jul 2025.

• The role will start from Oct/Nov 2025.

We are a neurodiverse and intersectional team. We’re committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone of all backgrounds. If there is anything you need us to do to support you in the application process please let us know as soon as possible.

Barnabas International is a large family of Christian ministries and charities focused on

giving practical support to suffering, abandoned and persecuted Christians around the

world. The ministry was founded in 1993, and since then, it has funded projects in more

than 100 countries, providing hope and help to millions of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Some of our key projects include supplying food aid, medical supplies, educational and

vocational training, Bibles, micro-enterprise, disaster relief, help for victims of violence,

and support for pastors and church leaders. Barnabas Aid also provides advocacy for

religious freedom, especially for persecuted and suffering Christians.

Barnabas is primarily a Christian ministry and a charity. Employees are expected to

subscribe to the Vision, Mission, Value and Statement of Faith, and their work may be viewed

as being vocational. There is an occupational requirement for applicants to be practising

Christians, who are engaged in their local church, in order to be able to carry out our roles.

Overview of the Regional Coordinator role and the team

The Regional Coordinator plays a vital role in advancing the mission of Barnabas Aid by

building and nurturing relationships with churches, Christian organisations, and

individuals. The role aims to raise awareness, prayer, and financial support for the

persecuted church, fostering a network of engaged supporters and expanding the

organisation’s outreach.

Main duties and responsibilities

Strategy Implementation and Reporting:o Develop and execute regional outreach strategies aligned with organisational

goals.

o Monitor and evaluate engagement initiatives, providing regular updates and

reports.

o Maintain accurate records of engagements and donor activities using internal

systems.

Prayer Mobilisation:

o Host regular prayer meetings (virtual or in-person) for the region.

o Disseminate prayer resources and stay updated on current prayer requests.

o Attend daily organisational devotions in-person or online, unless this is not possible

due to an event or meeting.

Awareness Raising:

o Speak at churches, schools, conferences, and community events to share

Barnabas Aid’s mission.

o Collaborate with churches and Christian networks to organise awareness events

and campaigns.

o Distribute resources and materials to inform communities about the persecuted

church and suffering Christians.

o Network widely and to explore potential partnerships.

Income Generation and Donations:

o Cultivate relationships with potential supporters and donors.

o Plan and execute regional fundraising initiatives, including events and campaigns.

o Encourage financial and other resource donations, ensuring effective donor

stewardship.

Volunteer Development and Engagement:

o Recruit (when possible) train, and mentor volunteers to support outreach activities

providing resources and regular communication.

o Coordinate volunteer activities to align with regional and organisational strategies.

Community Engagement and Networking:

o Build and maintain strong relationships with church leaders, mission committees,

and Christian organisations.

o Collaborate with other Regional Coordinators to share best practices and

coordinate efforts.

o Attend conferences and networking events to expand Barnabas Aid’s reach and

influence.

Event and International Collaboration:o Contribute to planning and attend national conferences, festivals, and events.

o Participate in international trips to meet project partners, witness project impact, to

assist or lead in auditing a project and share insights with supporters and

colleagues.

Operational Flexibility:

o Manage a varied schedule, including evenings, weekends, and extensive travel.

o Ensure tasks are completed efficiently, including additional assignments as

needed.

Other duties:

The above is not an exhaustive list of duties. From time to time, the employee may be

asked or required to carry out other additional tasks, or duties, over and above their usual

day to day activities. Employees are expected to work collaboratively to support the

overall work of Barnabas Aid.

Essential:

o Practicing Christian who is engaged in his/her local church and is committed to

Barnabas Aid’s mission and values.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience: (You will demonstrate strong evidence in the following areas)

o Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

o Strong organisational, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities.

o Proficiency - Microsoft Office Pack including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and

Outlook.

o General Computer Proficiency - Understanding of file management, navigating

operating systems, and using productivity tools. (creating folders and managing

files in the cloud).

o Experienced in public speaking.

o Full driving licence

Desirable:

o Proven experience in community outreach, church engagement, or related fields.

o Familiarity with digital tools and social media platforms.

o Evidence of further education and an ability to engage diverse audiences.

o Previous church leadership experience is an advantage.

Person specification:

o Effective project management and organisational skills.

o Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence for relationship building.

o Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances.

o Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

o Team worker with ability to work alone

o Ability to self-manage with a commitment to time keeping.o Motivated, adaptable and empathetic with a one-team approach and a problem-

solving mindset.

Additional Information:

o This role requires a strong ability to independently manage your time and tasks

effectively.

o Collaborative engagement with other Regional Coordinators and organisational

teams.

o From time to time, additional training, including safeguarding training, may be

required.

o The offer of employment will be subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks

such as references, qualifications, DBS criminal records, and eligibility to work in the

UK.

Barnabas Aid provides our staff with a welcoming and inclusive workplace that enables

everyone to develop and to do their best work collectively and individually. Join us and you

About Brake
Brake is the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to supporting people affected by road crashes and advocating for safer streets. Since 1995, we have been helping victims and their families to navigate the devastating impact of road collisions through the National Road Victim Service—providing immediate, compassionate, and tailored support for those who have been bereaved or seriously injured. Our mission goes beyond recovery; we campaign tirelessly for legislative and societal changes to prevent future tragedies and make roads safer for everyone.

Join us as a Caseworker – Kent, Essex & East Region - To apply for this role, you MUST be a resident in the Kent or Essex area.

This year, Brake celebrates 30 years of life-changing work, and we’re looking for a committed and compassionate Caseworker to help us continue making an impact. If you are based in the Kent or Essex area and want to help people at their most vulnerable moments, this could be the role for you.

Every 20 minutes, someone is killed or seriously injured on UK roads. For families affected, the emotional and practical challenges are immense. As a Caseworker, you will provide direct, trauma-informed care to individuals and families suffering from the sudden bereavement or life-altering injury of a loved one. Working mostly remotely, with home visits to service users, you’ll offer vital emotional and practical support—including helping them access therapeutic resources, financial assistance, and guidance through the complexities of medical and legal processes.

This role is flexible, allowing you to structure your own working pattern within weekdays from 8am to 6pm. While travel is required, you’ll have control over your diary. The work is challenging but immensely rewarding, requiring resilience, empathy, and a dedication to making a real difference in people’s lives.

Key Responsibilities

· Providing direct support to road victims and their families in the Kent, Essex & East region, following Brake’s trauma-informed model of care.

· Managing a caseload of service users, ensuring their emotional, practical, and advocacy needs are met.

· Undertaking comprehensive needs assessments and creating individualised support plans

· Offering emotional and practical support—this can include helping families access therapeutic resources, financial aid, or even facilitating keepsakes to honour the memory of their loved ones

· Liaising with professionals, including police officers, Family Liaison Officers, mental health services, coroners, GPs, and other support organisations.

· Advocating for victims within medical, legal, and social services to ensure their voices are heard.

· Providing support through multiple channels, including in-person, remote calls, video chats, and messaging, depending on service user preferences.

· Completing safeguarding assessments and escalating concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead when needed.

· Maintaining accurate case records in compliance with data protection policies.

· Engaging in external clinical supervision to manage personal resilience and well-being.

· Participating in team meetings, training, and professional development to ensure the highest standard of service delivery.

What We Offer

· £15,600 per year (12 months fixed term with the possibility of extension depending on funding)

· Flexible working hours—working pattern can be shaped around your needs.

· Mostly remote work, with travel to service users’ homes or safe meeting places (mileage expenses reimbursed).

· Death in service benefit, to the value of 2 x salary.

· 36 days annual leave, including bank holidays and compulsory end of year shutdown (pro rata for part time working patterns).

· Employee assistance program, including counselling, legal and financial advice.

· External trauma consultant support to aid in caseworker resilience.

· Structured induction, training, and ongoing development including in trauma-informed support and risk management.

Who We’re Looking For

Essential Requirements:

· A full, clean UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.

· Resident in the Kent or Essex area.

· Experience in frontline support services, preferably involving sudden bereavement or heightened vulnerabilities.

· Strong advocacy and research skills to liaise with multiple organisations on behalf of service users.

· Competency in I.T skills to work remotely.

Desirable Experience:

· Comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in the criminal justice system and coronial process

Personal Qualities:

· Self-motivated and resilient—able to navigate emotionally challenging situations.

· Empathetic and compassionate, with a commitment to helping others.

· Adaptable and creative, able to tailor support methods to individual needs.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to collaborate with professionals and service users alike.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Brake is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity. We welcome your application whatever your background or situation. We particularly welcome applications from those who are part of the global majority, the LGBTQIA+ community or disabled. We are proud to be a disability confident employer. We don’t want you to ‘fit’ our culture, we want you to enrich it. So, if you have a passion for making a difference and share in our vision for a world where no one is killed on our roads, we would love to hear from you.

The successful candidate will be required to go through an enhanced DBS vetting process due to the sensitive nature of the service delivered.

Please note we do not accept applications from serious traffic offenders due to the nature of our work. Employees are subject to driver licence checks.

To apply

Submit your CV and a covering letter which clearly demonstrate you have what it takes to perform this challenging and rewarding role.

About Brake
Brake is the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to supporting people affected by road crashes and advocating for safer streets. Since 1995, we have been helping victims and their families to navigate the devastating impact of road collisions through the National Road Victim Service—providing immediate, compassionate, and tailored support for those who have been bereaved or seriously injured. Our mission goes beyond recovery; we campaign tirelessly for legislative and societal changes to prevent future tragedies and make roads safer for everyone.

Join us as a Caseworker – East Midlands Region - To apply for this role, you MUST be a resident in the East Midlands area.

This year, Brake celebrates 30 years of life-changing work, and we’re looking for a committed and compassionate Caseworker to help us continue making an impact. If you are based in the East Midlands region and want to help people at their most vulnerable moments, this could be the role for you.

Every 20 minutes, someone is killed or seriously injured on UK roads. For families affected, the emotional and practical challenges are immense. As a Caseworker, you will provide direct, trauma-informed care to individuals and families suffering from the sudden bereavement or life-altering injury of a loved one. Working mostly remotely, with home visits to service users, you’ll offer vital emotional and practical support—including helping them access therapeutic resources, financial assistance, and guidance through the complexities of medical and legal processes.

This role is flexible, allowing you to structure your own working pattern within weekdays from 8AM to 6PM. While travel is required, you’ll have control over your diary. The work is challenging but immensely rewarding, requiring resilience, empathy, and a dedication to making a real difference in people’s lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Providing direct support to road victims and their families in the East Midlands  region, following Brake’s trauma-informed model of care.
• Managing a caseload of service users, ensuring their emotional, practical, and advocacy needs are met.
• Undertaking comprehensive needs assessments and creating individualised support plans
• Offering emotional and practical support—this can include helping families access therapeutic resources, financial aid, or even facilitating keepsakes to honour the memory of their loved ones
• Liaising with professionals, including police officers, Family Liaison Officers, mental health services, coroners, GPs, and other support organisations.
• Advocating for victims within medical, legal, and social services to ensure their voices are heard.
• Providing support through multiple channels, including in-person, remote calls, video chats, and messaging, depending on service user preferences.
• Completing safeguarding assessments and escalating concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead when needed.
• Maintaining accurate case records in compliance with data protection policies.
• Engaging in external clinical supervision to manage personal resilience and well-being.
• Participating in team meetings, training, and professional development to ensure the highest standard of service delivery.

What We Offer

• £20,800 per year (fixed term contract, maternity cover until August 2026).
• Flexible working hours—working pattern can be shaped around your needs.
• Mostly remote work, with travel to service users’ homes or safe meeting places (mileage expenses reimbursed).
• Death in service benefit, to the value of 2 x salary.
• 36 days annual leave, including bank holidays and compulsory end of year shutdown (pro rata for part time working patterns).
• Employee assistance program, including counselling, legal and financial advice.
• External trauma consultant support to aid in caseworker resilience.
• Structured induction, training, and ongoing development including in trauma-informed support and risk management.

Who We’re Looking For

Essential Requirements:

• A full, clean UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.
• Resident in the East Midlands area.
• Experience in frontline support services, preferably involving sudden bereavement or heightened vulnerabilities.
• Strong advocacy and research skills to liaise with multiple organisations on behalf of service users.
• Competency in I.T skills to work remotely.

Desirable Experience:

· Comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in the criminal justice system and coronial process

Personal Qualities:

• Self-motivated and resilient—able to navigate emotionally challenging situations.
• Empathetic and compassionate, with a commitment to helping others.
• Adaptable and creative, able to tailor support methods to individual needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to collaborate with professionals and service users alike.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Brake is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity. We welcome your application whatever your background or situation. We particularly welcome applications from those who are part of the global majority, the LGBTQIA+ community or disabled. We are proud to be a disability confident employer. We don’t want you to ‘fit’ our culture, we want you to enrich it. So, if you have a passion for making a difference and share in our vision for a world where no one is killed on our roads, we would love to hear from you.

About us: 

At Back Up, we have big ambitions. We launch our bold new strategy in April 2025 and together we’ll be working hard to make sure everyone affected by spinal cord injury has access to the support they need. We have a unique portfolio of high-impact services, and we are the only spinal cord injury charity in the UK providing dedicated services to children and young people.

At Back Up, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. 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 or those with higher level spinal cord injuries. 

In 2024 Back Up won The Times and The Sunday Times Spotlight Award for Best place to work for disabled employees. Previously, Back Up was voted one of the top ten charities to work for (Third Sector Best Charities 2020). The enthusiastic, inclusive and supportive spirit of our very skilled staff ensure excellence in the services we deliver. 

About the role:

Do you have experience of working with disabled people? Are you a highly organised team player with an eye for detail and a passionfor making a difference?If so, Back Up could offer you an inspiring and fulfilling role making a significant difference to the lives of people with spinal cord injuries.About the role:All of our courses aim to increase confidence and independence in a supportive environment. They’re also led by people who have a spinal cord injury themselves–allowing participants to learn from others who have who have been there and can understand the issues and challenges.

As Courses Team Leader, you will be working closely with our Courses Coordinators and the wider team to oversee the ongoing development and delivery of this key part of Back Up’s services.You will be need to be creative, well organised and be a supportive line manager with supervisory experience. Most important though is your commitment to supporting those affected by spinal cord injury to thrive.

For full details please see our job description.

How to apply

Please apply by emailing recruitment @ backuptrust. org. uk by midnight on 10 July 2025.

• A CV with salary information for your most recent post and two referees, one of whom should be your present or most recent employer. We will contact them after interview. 

• A (maximum) two side A4 supporting statement, saying why you want the job and explaining how you fit the person specification. This statement is crucial; CVs alone will not be accepted. We will acknowledge receipt of your application, and then let you know if you are to be invited to interview.  

• A completed equal opportunities form. This form will be kept separate from your application, and not viewed by the recruiting manager. It is used to help us assess the diversity of our applicants to ensure our processes are fair to all. It is optional to fill in but it will help us improve and maintain high standards.  

• We will acknowledge receipt of your application, and then let you know if you are to be invited to interview.  Interviews will be held on 14 July 2025. Please let us know if you are unable to make that date.     

What will the process involve?

The process will involve at least one interview round which will be either in person or online. There will be a panel interviewing you and you may be asked to complete a task beforehand to present to the panel. If you need any support or adjustment to the recruitment process at any stage, do please ask and we’d be pleased to work with you to put these in place so that you can perform to the best of your abilities throughout the process and demonstrate your suitability for the role. Please email recruitment @ backuptrust. org. uk

Guaranteed Interview Scheme

As a ‘Disability Confident’ employer we are committed to the inclusion of disabled people as candidates and employees. We are proud that we get high numbers of disabled people applying for roles at Back Up. We will offer an interview to a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum criteria for the job.

Please let us know if you are eligible for the scheme: recruitment @ backuptrust. org. uk

Don’t meet every single requirement?

At Back Up we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every criteria in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles at Back Up.

Safe to Learn is a newly established network of teachers, parents, researchers, policymakers, young people and child safeguarding practitioners, working together to end antisemitism in UK schools. We co-produce evidence-based child safeguarding resources, tools and standards to address antisemitism and improve the school environment for all children, educators and support staff.

Safe to Learn is seeking an Outreach and Communications Specialist to build public awareness, policy engagement, and system-level change. Candidates with the following experience and commitment are encouraged to apply:

1. A demonstrable alignment with our mission and values.
2. A clear commitment to ending antisemitism and understanding of antisemitism, child rights and child safeguarding and their underlying principles.
3. Experience and understanding of the UK education sector.
4. A track-record of delivering high-impact advocacy and communications campaigns to achieve policy objectives. Preferably related to non-discrimination, equality, anti-racism or child rights.
5. Relationship management and network-building skills, including significant experience of engaging with policymakers.
6. Experience of website development and management as well as social media strategy and outreach.
7. Multimedia production skills such as copywriting, video editing and graphic design.
8. Conscientious and motivated, with a high-level of attention to detail.
9. Experience of developing high-quality resources and educational materials for children and educators.
10. A positive, flexible, participatory and consultative approach.
11. Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the ability to engage audiences at all levels.

The National Lottery Community Fund has an exciting opportunity to recruit a Communications Assistant to join the newly restructured communications and engagement function, supporting in the delivery of our strategy, It Starts With Community.

The role is part of our ambitious transformation as we implement a significant pivot in our communications approach – building on our support for grant-making to demonstrate the powerful impact communities have in strengthening society and improving lives.

As Communications Assistant, you will help colleagues across the department raise the profile of The National Lottery Community Fund ensuring our operation runs smoothly, providing effective planning and administrative support across the organisation.

You will provide support to the communications and engagement function by contributing to campaigns, assisting with budget and procurement processes, and managing content flow and communication touchpoints for customers and grant holders. 

This role sits within the Communications Strategy team, a UK-wide team designed to develop insight-driven plans for missions and developing portfolio key messages and campaigns. 

Key responsibilities:

• Cross-functional support for the Fund’s communications teams, including occasional executive assistant support to the department leadership team
• Provide organisational support to team members and other internal stakeholders as required
• Ensure stakeholder lists and other cross-functional assets are up to date, accurate and well-structured, including supporting with Stakeholder Relationship Management (SRM) as required
• Contribute to new campaigns and projects as required
• Assist in budget management and other financial matters, including procurement
• Effective management of the multiple communications touchpoints in the Fund’s customer journey cycle
• Accountable for managing the flow of content and information between the department and the rest of the Fund.

Location: Hybrid

We have a hybrid approach to working, work pattern and location will be agreed with the successful candidate. The role can be based at any of our UK offices, these are Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Exeter, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Newcastle and Newtown.

Interview Date: Tuesday 22nd July or Wednesday 23rd July (virtual)

On application, please align your supporting statement to the criteria below

Essential criteria

• Experience of general administration, diary, expenses and travel management and event organisation
• Excellent communication skills, oral and written
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 products
• Good attention to detail and time management
• Experience working with external partners, suppliers and customers, and colleagues across up to leadership level
• Comfortable working in a complex, multifunctional institution

Desirable criteria

• Background or understanding of VCSE sector
• An understanding of Welsh language legislation and the Welsh Language Standards

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion  

Communities in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. National Lottery funding is for everyone – therefore, we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and we work hard to ensure our funding reaches where it is needed.  

We also believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. That’s why The National Lottery Community Fund is committed to being an inclusive employer and a great place to work. We recognise and celebrate the fact that our people come from diverse backgrounds. We positively welcome applications from people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities or longstanding health conditions, people who are LGBTQ+, and people from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds, as well as people of all ages. 

As a Disability Confident Employer, we take a proactive approach in making reasonable adjustments, if needed, throughout the recruitment process and during employment. (This can be related to a physical and mental health condition.) 

About Kinship

We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to. 

Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.

About the role

We are seeking a technically capable, qualified accountant with strong knowledge of the Charities SORP to provide effective stewardship and oversight of the Finance function at Kinship. You will be responsible for financial controls, management accounting and ensuring the effective delivery of ‘business as usual’ financial management.

As well as producing monthly management accounts, you will be responsible for running the annual budget and the year-end processes, preparing for the yearly external audit and ensuring that the organisation complies with statutory obligations.

You will prepare papers for and attend the quarterly Finance Committee meetings and will liaise with a range of stakeholders including auditors, the bank and investment managers.  You will be the ‘go to’ business partner at the charity, supported by the Chief Operating Officer and Fractional Chief Financial Officer.

You will manage a team of two colleagues – a Senior Finance Officer and a Payroll Manager – providing them with guidance, coaching and support to enable them to perform effectively. You will also collaborate and work with Directors and senior managers across the organisation to inform them on performance against budget and conditions of funding, as well as supporting fundraising and commissioning bids. 

You will have excellent communication skills and will be able to organise conflicting priorities around the monthly management accounts cycle, while supporting the achievement of our strategic objectives. You will be flexible and adaptable in your approach to supporting transformational change in our processes and systems, as well as dealing with, and leading on, the day-to-day financial management. 

This is a broad and challenging role for a dynamic and systems-driven individual who wants to grow within the organisation, proactively problem solve and help colleagues to deliver on our mission.

Essential requirements include:

• Fully qualified ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent
• In-depth understanding of accounting principles, standards and the Charities SORP, and experience of applying these in a service delivery organisation
• Experience managing a Finance function in a charity with £1-10m annual turnover
• Experience of line management and developing a team using approaches that are empowering
• Experience of Business Central, or the ability to quickly learn a new accounting system
• Excellent Microsoft Excel skills with the ability to use Pivot Tables and other functions to analyse large data sets

What we’ll offer you 

Kinship offers 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time) as well as a generous pension scheme. We have an excellent wellbeing offer including the Employee Assistance Programme and clinical supervision. We will invest in your professional development with training and career development opportunities.

Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.  We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams.  We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us. 

This is a fantastic time to join a supportive and well-established team within an organisation with rapid growth ambitions. This role will be what you make it and we’re looking for someone to seize this opportunity!

How to apply

Please apply via Charity Job with your CV and a cover letter of no more than 2 pages for the attention of Joshua Marks. Please include your notice period and earliest availability to start in your cover letter.

• Application deadline:      8.00am on Monday 7 July 2025
• First interview:                 Online - Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 July
• Second interview:          In-person (Vauxhall, London) - Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 July [2 hours                                                     including Excel and presentation task]

Kinship reserves the right to close applications early on receipt of sufficient applications. Apply early!

Finance Business Partner - Personal Support

Are you an experienced Finance Business Partner looking for a role where you can make a real difference in the charity sector?

We have a fantastic and rewarding opportunity for two Finance professionals to join Mencap as Finance Business Partners (FBP) on permanent contracts. The roles will be supporting the operational division that provides care and support to adults with a learning disability across England, Cymru and Northern Ireland.

We are looking for people who are confident communicators with both finance colleagues and operational staff, adapting their style to their audience. People who are well organised, can prioritise their workload and have the ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail while working to tight deadlines will thrive in this role.

The successful candidates will use their commercial awareness and work with management teams to help deliver strong financial performance across the regions they support, providing timely and accurate financial information to a variety of stakeholders.

We will consider both full-time and part-time applications and there is flexibility around where the roles are based. We have large offices in London and Peterborough and smaller offices located throughout the UK. If there is no office available within a reasonable distance, the roles may be offered as home-based with some travel for team meetings.

At Mencap, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace and we intentionally plan for the success of our colleagues in everything we do. We welcome applications from everyone, so come as you are and join us. Together we are Mencap!

What will it take?

To be successful as a Finance Business Partner you will be expected to have:

· Excellent written and verbal communication with ability to convey financial information to non-finance colleagues and senior management.

· A desire to drive improvements in financial understanding & accountability to deliver a first class commercial and customer focused service.

· Strong collaboration skills including the confidence to challenge others.

· Ability to interpret a range of financial/operational information and reach quick judgements.

· Experience in financial analysis and reporting.

· Appropriate planning, organising and strategic business planning skills.

· An ACA, ACCA, CIMA qualification or hold a similar and relevant qualification.

The scope for this role is vast and we are looking for two ambitious and driven individuals to join us!

If you have the relevant skills and experiences we are looking for and this opportunity sounds like the perfect role for you, please apply with your up-to-date CV. Interviews are due to be held in w/c 21st July after the close date via Microsoft Teams.

Benefits

Here at Mencap, we offer an impressive range of benefits designed to support and reward our employees to ensure that our teams feel valued and appreciated.

Our benefits package offers 32 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata), along with a range of perks such as discounts at leading high-street retailers, access to health cash plans, interest-free loans, and many more exciting offerings.

About Mencap

Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

We're here to support people with a learning disability, their families and their carers. We fight for a kinder, fairer and more inclusive society for people with a learning disability to live in.

At Mencap, everyone works with people with a learning disability either providing support or advice, or alongside one another as colleagues.

Belonging at Mencap is for everyone, every day, everywhere.

· Everyone is expected to treat people well and make Mencap an inclusive organisation.

· Every day we grow and learn. It’s okay to make mistakes but we learn from them and make changes

· Everywhere people will feel respected, valued, and safe to be themselves.

We have Belonging network groups that meet online and are open to all colleagues. The groups include people who identify as Black and Asian, LGBTQIA+, disabled or with a long- term health condition, women, parents and carers, and their allies.

We want to encourage everyone to apply to work at Mencap and we offer a variety of different contract types and working patterns. We’re not looking for specific experience. It is your personality and values that will make you a great colleague. We will train and develop you to succeed in the role you’re applying for.

Barnabas International is a large family of Christian ministries and charities focused on

giving practical support to suffering, abandoned and persecuted Christians around the

world. The ministry was founded in 1993, and since then, it has funded projects in more

than 100 countries, providing hope and help to millions of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Some of our key projects include supplying food aid, medical supplies, educational and

vocational training, Bibles, micro-enterprise, disaster relief, help for victims of violence,

and support for pastors and church leaders. Barnabas Aid also provides advocacy for

religious freedom, especially for persecuted and suffering Christians.

Barnabas is primarily a Christian ministry and a charity. Employees are expected to

subscribe to the Vision, Mission, Value and Statement of Faith, and their work may be viewed

as being vocational. There is an occupational requirement for applicants to be practising

Christians, who are engaged in their local church, in order to be able to carry out our roles.

Overview of the Regional Coordinator role and the team

The Regional Coordinator plays a vital role in advancing the mission of Barnabas Aid by

building and nurturing relationships with churches, Christian organisations, and

individuals. The role aims to raise awareness, prayer, and financial support for the

persecuted church, fostering a network of engaged supporters and expanding the

organisation’s outreach.

Main duties and responsibilities

Strategy Implementation and Reporting:o Develop and execute regional outreach strategies aligned with organisational

goals.

o Monitor and evaluate engagement initiatives, providing regular updates and

reports.

o Maintain accurate records of engagements and donor activities using internal

systems.

Prayer Mobilisation:

o Host regular prayer meetings (virtual or in-person) for the region.

o Disseminate prayer resources and stay updated on current prayer requests.

o Attend daily organisational devotions in-person or online, unless this is not possible

due to an event or meeting.

Awareness Raising:

o Speak at churches, schools, conferences, and community events to share

Barnabas Aid’s mission.

o Collaborate with churches and Christian networks to organise awareness events

and campaigns.

o Distribute resources and materials to inform communities about the persecuted

church and suffering Christians.

o Network widely and to explore potential partnerships.

Income Generation and Donations:

o Cultivate relationships with potential supporters and donors.

o Plan and execute regional fundraising initiatives, including events and campaigns.

o Encourage financial and other resource donations, ensuring effective donor

stewardship.

Volunteer Development and Engagement:

o Recruit (when possible) train, and mentor volunteers to support outreach activities

providing resources and regular communication.

o Coordinate volunteer activities to align with regional and organisational strategies.

Community Engagement and Networking:

o Build and maintain strong relationships with church leaders, mission committees,

and Christian organisations.

o Collaborate with other Regional Coordinators to share best practices and

coordinate efforts.

o Attend conferences and networking events to expand Barnabas Aid’s reach and

influence.

Event and International Collaboration:o Contribute to planning and attend national conferences, festivals, and events.

o Participate in international trips to meet project partners, witness project impact, to

assist or lead in auditing a project and share insights with supporters and

colleagues.

Operational Flexibility:

o Manage a varied schedule, including evenings, weekends, and extensive travel.

o Ensure tasks are completed efficiently, including additional assignments as

needed.

Other duties:

The above is not an exhaustive list of duties. From time to time, the employee may be

asked or required to carry out other additional tasks, or duties, over and above their usual

day to day activities. Employees are expected to work collaboratively to support the

overall work of Barnabas Aid.

Essential:

o Practicing Christian who is engaged in his/her local church and is committed to

Barnabas Aid’s mission and values.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience: (You will demonstrate strong evidence in the following areas)

o Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

o Strong organisational, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities.

o Proficiency - Microsoft Office Pack including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and

Outlook.

o General Computer Proficiency - Understanding of file management, navigating

operating systems, and using productivity tools. (creating folders and managing

files in the cloud).

o Experienced in public speaking.

o Full driving licence

Desirable:

o Proven experience in community outreach, church engagement, or related fields.

o Familiarity with digital tools and social media platforms.

o Evidence of further education and an ability to engage diverse audiences.

o Previous church leadership experience is an advantage.

Person specification:

o Effective project management and organisational skills.

o Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence for relationship building.

o Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances.

o Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

o Team worker with ability to work alone

o Ability to self-manage with a commitment to time keeping.o Motivated, adaptable and empathetic with a one-team approach and a problem-

solving mindset.

Additional Information:

o This role requires a strong ability to independently manage your time and tasks

effectively.

o Collaborative engagement with other Regional Coordinators and organisational

teams.

o From time to time, additional training, including safeguarding training, may be

required.

o The offer of employment will be subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks

such as references, qualifications, DBS criminal records, and eligibility to work in the

UK.

Barnabas Aid provides our staff with a welcoming and inclusive workplace that enables

everyone to develop and to do their best work collectively and individually. Join us and you

Salary: £36,910 - £44,160 per annum, dependent on experience, plus excellent benefits package

Hours: 35 per week

Contract: Permanent

Based: Home based with some travel to services required (estimated to be 1-2 days per month)

Ref: 1566

Cranstoun is a social justice and harm reduction charity, working in the areas of substance use, domestic abuse, criminal justice, housing and young people. We deliver world-class services that rebuild lives. We’ve been making a difference since 1969 by combining our expertise with new, innovative approaches, and putting people at the heart of everything we do.

The Bid Writer will work in our Business Development Team, planning, developing and writing high quality bid submissions that convey the organisation’s mission, values and expertise to commissioners and funders.

You will be responsible for coordinating strong tender submissions, resulting in successful outcomes. You will help ensure Cranstoun retains all existing contracts and wins new business, in line with the organisation’s strategic plans and targets for growth.

Within this role, you will work collaboratively with a variety of internal stakeholders, using exceptional writing and interpersonal skills to capture and convey Cranstoun’s approach to delivering services across a variety of areas.

We are seeking a confident self-starter, with demonstrable experience of high quality writing and clear evidence of successful outcomes in a business development context (70% success rate). The successful candidate will welcome the opportunity to tackle challenges and adopt a solutions-focused approach.

Above all, you’ll be interested in becoming part of a diverse, energetic team, committed to delivering innovative, person-centred services that make a tangible difference to people’s lives.

This post is subject to a Standard DBS Disclosure.

To download an application pack, please visit the website via the apply button.

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept CVs.

Closing date: Sunday 3 August 2025.

Anticipated first interview date: w/c 11 August 2025.

Anticipated second interview date: w/c 18 August 2025.

We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Registered Charity No. 1061582.

Barnabas International is a large family of Christian ministries and charities focused on

giving practical support to suffering, abandoned and persecuted Christians around the

world. The ministry was founded in 1993, and since then, it has funded projects in more

than 100 countries, providing hope and help to millions of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Some of our key projects include supplying food aid, medical supplies, educational and

vocational training, Bibles, micro-enterprise, disaster relief, help for victims of violence,

and support for pastors and church leaders. Barnabas Aid also provides advocacy for

religious freedom, especially for persecuted and suffering Christians.

Barnabas is primarily a Christian ministry and a charity. Employees are expected to

subscribe to the Vision, Mission, Value and Statement of Faith, and their work may be viewed

as being vocational. There is an occupational requirement for applicants to be practising

Christians, who are engaged in their local church, in order to be able to carry out our roles.

Overview of the Regional Coordinator role and the team

The Regional Coordinator plays a vital role in advancing the mission of Barnabas Aid by

building and nurturing relationships with churches, Christian organisations, and

individuals. The role aims to raise awareness, prayer, and financial support for the

persecuted church, fostering a network of engaged supporters and expanding the

organisation’s outreach.

Main duties and responsibilities

Strategy Implementation and Reporting:o Develop and execute regional outreach strategies aligned with organisational

goals.

o Monitor and evaluate engagement initiatives, providing regular updates and

reports.

o Maintain accurate records of engagements and donor activities using internal

systems.

Prayer Mobilisation:

o Host regular prayer meetings (virtual or in-person) for the region.

o Disseminate prayer resources and stay updated on current prayer requests.

o Attend daily organisational devotions in-person or online, unless this is not possible

due to an event or meeting.

Awareness Raising:

o Speak at churches, schools, conferences, and community events to share

Barnabas Aid’s mission.

o Collaborate with churches and Christian networks to organise awareness events

and campaigns.

o Distribute resources and materials to inform communities about the persecuted

church and suffering Christians.

o Network widely and to explore potential partnerships.

Income Generation and Donations:

o Cultivate relationships with potential supporters and donors.

o Plan and execute regional fundraising initiatives, including events and campaigns.

o Encourage financial and other resource donations, ensuring effective donor

stewardship.

Volunteer Development and Engagement:

o Recruit (when possible) train, and mentor volunteers to support outreach activities

providing resources and regular communication.

o Coordinate volunteer activities to align with regional and organisational strategies.

Community Engagement and Networking:

o Build and maintain strong relationships with church leaders, mission committees,

and Christian organisations.

o Collaborate with other Regional Coordinators to share best practices and

coordinate efforts.

o Attend conferences and networking events to expand Barnabas Aid’s reach and

influence.

Event and International Collaboration:o Contribute to planning and attend national conferences, festivals, and events.

o Participate in international trips to meet project partners, witness project impact, to

assist or lead in auditing a project and share insights with supporters and

colleagues.

Operational Flexibility:

o Manage a varied schedule, including evenings, weekends, and extensive travel.

o Ensure tasks are completed efficiently, including additional assignments as

needed.

Other duties:

The above is not an exhaustive list of duties. From time to time, the employee may be

asked or required to carry out other additional tasks, or duties, over and above their usual

day to day activities. Employees are expected to work collaboratively to support the

overall work of Barnabas Aid.

Essential:

o Practicing Christian who is engaged in his/her local church and is committed to

Barnabas Aid’s mission and values.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience: (You will demonstrate strong evidence in the following areas)

o Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

o Strong organisational, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities.

o Proficiency - Microsoft Office Pack including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and

Outlook.

o General Computer Proficiency - Understanding of file management, navigating

operating systems, and using productivity tools. (creating folders and managing

files in the cloud).

o Experienced in public speaking.

o Full driving licence

Desirable:

o Proven experience in community outreach, church engagement, or related fields.

o Familiarity with digital tools and social media platforms.

o Evidence of further education and an ability to engage diverse audiences.

o Previous church leadership experience is an advantage.

Person specification:

o Effective project management and organisational skills.

o Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence for relationship building.

o Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances.

o Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

o Team worker with ability to work alone

o Ability to self-manage with a commitment to time keeping.o Motivated, adaptable and empathetic with a one-team approach and a problem-

solving mindset.

Additional Information:

o This role requires a strong ability to independently manage your time and tasks

effectively.

o Collaborative engagement with other Regional Coordinators and organisational

teams.

o From time to time, additional training, including safeguarding training, may be

required.

o The offer of employment will be subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks

such as references, qualifications, DBS criminal records, and eligibility to work in the

UK.

Barnabas Aid provides our staff with a welcoming and inclusive workplace that enables

everyone to develop and to do their best work collectively and individually. Join us and you

Commercial Marketing Manager - Maternity Cover
Reference: JUN20251816
Location: Flexible in UK
Contract: 12-month fixed term, maternity cover
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £39,205.00 - £41,856.00 Per Annum
Benefits: Holidays, Pension and Life Assurance

We are looking for a 12-month maternity cover Commercial Marketing Manager to join our team to lead the planning and delivery of the RSPB's commercial marketing activity. Reporting into the Head of Commercial, this role will focus on supporting our Commercial functions including our reserve Visitor Operations, eCommerce, Trade and Product Licensing.

Whether it is leading national campaigns to drive footfall to our key visitor sites, working with our visitor experience consultants to promote events on reserves, driving sales through our online shop or maximising the value of our licensed products, your expertise will help drive both income and engagement for the RSPB.

If you are working in a commercial marketing role and want to apply your skills to help save nature, we'd love to hear from you.

Key activities will include:

• Delivering the annual marketing strategy for Visitor Operations (including destination and reserves marketing for visitor experience and events, retail, food & beverage), Trade and Licensing to achieve financial and engagement outcomes.
• Developing an annual plan for commercial marketing, promotions and campaigns across the organisation.
• Leading the delivery of commercial marketing activity ensuring that this is aligned and embedded within the overall RSPB communications and marketing plan.
• Identifying innovation and testing opportunities to expand and improve commercial marketing campaigns that maximise return on investment.
• Providing reporting, analytics and insight on marketing performance to key stakeholders to inform decision making at both strategic and tactical levels.
• Responsible for setting and managing an annual budget for commercial marketing to ensure income objectives are achieved.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Experience of developing and delivering a marketing strategy and/or plan
• Experience of applying marketing principles and best practice into delivery
• Experience of working within a Visitor Experience, Trade or retail/eCommerce marketing role
• Ability to translate a corporate strategy and/or overarching marketing strategy into operational plans to deliver impact
• Experience of developing collaborative external and internal relationships with key stakeholders to secure positive outcomes for the RSPB and for nature.
• Excellent written and verbal skills to present, influence and represent the directorate and the organisation.
• Experience of managing a budget to meet income targets and deliver strong ROI.

The RSPB reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent on business needs at the end of the contract term.

Closing date: 23:59, Mon, 14th Jul 2025

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position on 24th July 2025.

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.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

No agencies please.

Head of Retail and FOOD Services

Department: Directorate of Development and External Affairs

Salary: Starting at £47,264, rising to £54,728 FTE per annum + £480 home-based allowance FTE per annum

Location: Homebased with weekly national travel 

Hours: 37 hours per week (full-time)

We offer flexible working arrangements - please see below for more details. 

Contract: Permanent

Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities. 

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today. 

This is an exciting opportunity to join our team as the Head of Retail and FOOD Services. This is a unique opportunity to lead and innovate in a role that combines strategic leadership, operational excellence, and community impact.

Main Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a multi-channel retail and food services strategy, including business planning, risk assessment, and performance management to increase net profit and service impact.
• Lead on budgeting, financial forecasting, and P&L management. Identify and develop new income-generating opportunities, including grants and tenders.
• Provide strategic leadership to geographically dispersed teams, ensuring effective recruitment, support and training of staff and volunteers.

Main Requirements 

• Educated to degree level or above in a relevant sector. 
• Demonstrable senior retail management knowledge and experience in managing complex projects, leading teams, and delivering measurable outcomes.
• Proven track record in income growth, financial planning, and managing budgets.

Benefits: 

• an annual paid leave entitlement of 30 working days plus bank holidays
• up to 6% matched-pension contributions
• enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions
• eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers
• cycle to work scheme
• investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

• Apply via the Family Action Careers Hub linked to this advert 

• Closing Date: 7th July at 23:59

Interviews are scheduled to take place from 16th-22nd July 2025.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process, and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role and will reimburse your travel cost if you attend an interview.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons.