Visiting support officer jobs

We’re looking for a part-time Trusts Fundraising Officer to contribute their skills, experience, and personality to add value to our Trusts team within the Fundraising department at Blesma, The Limbless Veterans.

This home-based role is now available due to the current post holder moving on to new pastures. The Trust team has had incredible success in recent years, which we are eager to sustain and grow. The successful candidate will provide support to the Trusts Fundraising Manager and work alongside a fellow part-time Trusts Fundraising Officer within this ambitious team.

The role is a varied one, focusing on all aspects of the funding cycle – from identifying opportunities and building relationships, to writing compelling applications and providing high level stewardship. The team works collaboratively across the Association to ensure Blesma’s programmes and services can continue to help limbless veterans and their families.

Blesma is unique as a membership Association as well as a charity. Our Members are the heart of all our work – therefore, the impact of our fundraising is clearly visible in the experiences of our inspirational limbless veterans.

If you’re interested, please read the attached Job Description and apply with your C.V. and a Covering Letter detailing why you’d be an ideal candidate for the role and how your experience and skills match those detailed in the Person Specification.

If you are uncertain about your suitability, apply anyway and let us decide! 

We may close the application down early if we receive a high volume of applications. 

Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?

At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.

Finance Director

The ideal candidate

We seek a finance leader driven by values, with extensive experience directing finance operations and delivering top-tier financial planning, reporting, and governance. This role requires strong technical accounting abilities, exceptional communication skills, and the talent to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.

You should be a collaborative, inclusive leader who excels at developing team members, managing risks, negotiating effectively, and guiding the organisation through periods of change. Most importantly, you must be committed to Action Together’s mission of social justice, equity, and community empowerment.

The role

The Finance Director will play a pivotal role in ensuring Action Together remains financially robust, sustainable, and compliant as a charity and employer. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will partner closely with the CEO and Board to shape a resilient business model, strengthen financial governance, and provide strategic direction that supports our mission and values.

You will lead and develop a high performing finance function, oversee annual budgeting and long‑term financial planning, and ensure high‑quality financial insight is available to the CEO, SLT and Board. The Finance Director has responsibility for the production of monthly accounts package, annual audit and statutory accounts, risk management, payroll assurance, investment strategy, and organisational compliance with Companies House, the Charity Commission, and all financial governance requirements.

You will play an integral role in supporting strong governance, working closely with the Treasurer and Board to provide clear, timely, and insightful financial performance updates, forecasts, and risk assessments.

You will also work with the Treasurer to shape investment strategy, strengthen financial controls, and uphold governance across all statutory, regulatory, and organisational requirements

Equality , Diversity and Inclusion

At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.

In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:

• A disabled person and/or
• A member of a community experiencing racial inequality

Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.

Right to work

We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK

Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.

Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?

At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.

Operations Director

The ideal candidate

We are looking for a values‑driven operational leader with significant experience in senior operations, systems, or transformation roles. You will bring strong technical capability in designing and embedding systems and processes, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to produce high‑quality management information for senior leaders and Boards.

You will be an influential communicator who can lead through change, build strong relationships across the organisation, and support others to work in consistent, effective, and collaborative ways. With a strong grasp of governance, risk, compliance, and organisational assurance, you will balance strategic vision with hands‑on delivery. Above all, you will share Action Together’s commitment to social justice, equity, and strengthening people, places, and partnerships

The role

The Operations Director will lead the development, optimisation, and continuous improvement of Action Together’s systems, processes, and organisational infrastructure. Working as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will co-design, develop, and maintain internal systems and processes that enhance operational delivery and organisational efficiency, ensuring they are fully embedded into day-to-day use with clear ownership, guidance, and effective performance monitoring.

You will oversee core central functions including HR, Communications and Impact, Data Protection and Information Management, and Health & Safety. You will play a key role in internal digital transformation, policy development, risk management, and organisational compliance. You will produce high‑quality management information that supports strategic decision‑making, work closely with Locality Directors to standardise and enhance delivery models. In addition, with reference to our constitution and Scheme of Delegation you will be responsible for supporting governance at Board meetings, and the AGM.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.

In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:

• A disabled person and/or
• A member of a community experiencing racial inequality

Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.

Right to work

We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK

Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.

WORKING WITH US

The founder and sponsor of the Harris Federation, Lord Harris of Peckham, opened our first school in 1990. We have, over the past thirty years, implemented ideas and initiatives that have transformed the opportunities of pupils from working class and disadvantaged backgrounds. Harris academies are widely recognised as a force for social mobility. We are immensely proud of the role that our alumni are now beginning to play in the world and of what we believe our current generation of pupils will go on to achieve.

We now have over 50 schools educating more than 40,000 young people across London and Essex, and employ over 5,000 staff across our academies and head office. With the majority of our academies located in areas of high socioeconomic disadvantage, a high-quality education is key to the futures of the pupils we serve.

As a provider of employment and education, we value the diversity of our staff and students, and all our staff are equally valued and respected. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment for our students and staff.

Our work will impact many generations to come, and our staff come from all backgrounds and walks of life, coming together to inspire young minds. We promote an inclusive culture that embraces the valuable and enriching contribution that all of our community make. We continue to be proactive in uplifting and supporting all voices at Harris.

To discover more about our culture, ethos and what it is like to work here, visit the page.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Join us in shaping opportunities and transforming futures across the Harris Federation.

We are seeking a motivated and relationship-driven Fundraising Officer to help strengthen and grow sustainable income across our network of academies, with a particular focus on Harris Westminster Sixth Form: one of the nation’s highest-performing sixth forms, founded in 2014 and built on the generosity and vision of committed donors.

In this pivotal role, you will help convert strong supporter interest into meaningful, long-term philanthropic partnerships. Working closely with the Head of Fundraising, you will play a key part in developing and delivering innovative fundraising initiatives that inspire engagement and maximise impact for our students.

MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

The central focus of your role will be fundraising from trusts and foundations and individual donors. This will include prospect research, developing compelling cases for support, preparing high-quality funding applications and reports as well as managing relationships with existing funders to ensure excellent stewardship and long-term partnership.

You will also play an active role in identifying and cultivating new individual supporters, helping to build a pipeline of prospective donors through research, engagement activity and thoughtful relationship management. Working collaboratively across teams, you will ensure fundraising activity is well coordinated, donor-centred and aligned with the wider ambitions of the Harris Federation.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We would like to hear from you if you have:

• A good undergraduate degree
• Experience of relationship building, which can be outside of a fundraising environment)

For a full job description and person specification, please download the Job Pack.

APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION

If you would like to discuss the opportunity further, or if you have any questions, please contact us via email to arrange a conversation.

Before applying please ensure you download the job pack from our careers website, this will help with completing your application. Please note that we only accept applications submitted online before the closing date.

When applying, you will have the option to import your CV or use a LinkedIn profile which will auto populate the online application. 

A reminder to check your junk mail for our email communications and add us to your safe senders list to ensure all future email communication is received.

OUR VISION & VALUES

Our vision, from the start, has been to provide the structure and services needed for our schools to amount to more than the sum of their parts, and to free-up our teachers and leaders to focus on one thing and one thing only: the outstanding education of all their pupils. Our young people and communities are at the heart of everything we do. Our core mission has always been to close the educational gap between young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers. Our ambition is one where every child in London, no matter their background, has equal access to high quality education, giving them the same opportunities and potential to succeed.

We know there are many challenges facing our young people and the communities we serve, and that’s why we need determined people like you to help us tackle those inequalities. Whilst each of our academies has their own unique cultures and values; as a whole Federation, we have four core values which are central to successfully achieving our vision: Excellence, Collaboration, Support, and Innovation. We are proud of our values because they guide us in how we work allowing us to achieve the best possible outcomes for our young people, communities, and colleagues.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Safeguarding Notice

The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.

Equal Opportunities

The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

Harris has a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level.

You will also have access to a variety of benefits, support programmes and initiatives including:

• Excellent opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression
• Annual performance and loyalty bonus
• Pension scheme (Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contribution
• 26 days' annual leave (inclusive of our Christmas Eve closure day) plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 2 years' service, or equivalent for staff on term time contracts
• Harris Wellbeing Cash Plan including cover for routine and specialist healthcare
• Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential advice
• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
• Wide range of shopping, leisure, and travel discounts
• 20% off at Tapi Carpets, exclusive to Harris employees
• Interest-free ICT and season ticket loans

For most non-teaching staff based at our Head Office in East Croydon, we also offer lifestyle friendly working arrangements including flexible start and end times, and hybrid working with two days from home and three days on site.

Join a charity rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission and play a central role in our senior leadership team.
This is a rare opportunity to use your finance and people leadership expertise to help shape the future of a well-established, values-driven organisation.

Shared Lives South West delivers long-term and short break care and support across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, enabling people to live fulfilling lives within family homes and communities. We are proud of the quality of our work and the positive, relational culture we have built as an organisation, and we are ambitious about what comes next.

As Deputy Chief Executive, you will join our senior leadership team in a pivotal organisation-wide role leading finance, people and core business functions. Working closely with the Chief Executive and Leadership Team, you will help strengthen financial stewardship, support a thriving and sustainable people culture, and ensure the organisation remains resilient, well-governed and effective.

This is a broad and influential leadership role offering both strategic responsibility and meaningful organisational impact. You will contribute to long-term planning and decision-making, provide leadership depth and continuity, and deputise for the Chief Executive when required.

We are looking for an experienced senior leader with strong organisational finance expertise and a good understanding of people leadership and workforce practice. You may come from the charity, public or wider values-led sector, and you will bring a collaborative, grounded leadership style alongside professional rigour.

For the right candidate, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant contribution to an already high-performing organisation while continuing to grow your own leadership portfolio in a supportive and purpose-driven environment.

For full details and to apply please see Applicant Pack attached. 

Other organisations may refer to roles like this as Deputy CEO, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Finance Director, Director of Finance and Operations, or Executive Director of Corporate Services.

Every day at PACT, we are building adoptive families and empowering women, children and parents to embrace a positive future. Our work changes lives and we are looking for someone who can help tell the stories behind that impact.

As Communications and Engagement Officer you’ll play a key role in sharing the voices and experiences that define who we are. You’ll help shape compelling content that brings our mission to life and connects people with the difference that PACT makes.

Join an outstanding adoption charity and award-winning trauma recovery service provider that is passionate about creating brighter futures for women, children and families from many different backgrounds.

Position: Communications and Engagement Officer

Location: Hybrid working arrangements, with at least one day per week in our Reading office   

Contract: Permanent full time – 37 hours per week, weekdays

Salary range: within the range of £25,735 to £31,453 per annum 

About the role:

Our Communications and Engagement team is responsible for engaging external audiences, supporters and beneficiaries in PACT’s work and fundraising challenges. 

As our Communications and Engagement Officer you will play a valuable role in shaping and sharing compelling content that brings PACT’s mission to life. You will:

· produce PACT communications and marketing materials that reflect our values and demonstrate our impact. This includes a programme of social media engagement, regular newsletters, press releases, internal communications, creating content for the website and capturing illuminating lived experiences for the variety of channels.

· ensure that all internal and external communications align to our brand

· raise awareness of the PACT brand and our services

· contribute to PACT’s fundraising targets with appeals and challenges

About you:

To be a successful Communications and Engagement Officer, you’ll have skills and experience in using:

· Social media for organisation and event promotion

· Analytic and insight tools to develop reach and engagement across digital platforms

· WordPress content management systems to create, edit and maintain webpages

· Mailchimp as an email marketing tool

· Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud apps, or similar graphic design platforms

· CRM programs, such as Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge

You’ll be able to identify considered opportunities to develop communications and engagement through initiative and innovation to maintain PACT’s position as a sector leader.

If you can demonstrate your creative skills to present information in a clear, engaging and accessible way with the above experience, and this sounds like you - please visit our website and apply today to join a collaborative and dedicated team who are part of something truly meaningful.

For an informal discussion about the role please visit our website for contact details for Sam Ward, Events and Engagement Manager.

For more information about PACT please visit our website.

Closing date: 9am, Wednesday 25 March 2026

Early applications are encouraged as we may review and appoint on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is secured.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Communications Assistant, Marketing Assistant, Communications and Engagement Assistant, Communications and Marketing Assistant, Communications Officer, Marketing Officer, Communications and Marketing Officer, Communications and Social Media Assistant, Communications and Social Media Officer

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.  

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS). The role description provides information on what our safer recruitment enquiries include and the level of DBS required to work in the role.  

All opportunities with PACT are based in the UK.

Vauxhall City Farm is looking for a dynamic Education Officer to support the delivery of our unique range of educational opportunities - from creative, curriculum-linked programmes rooted in animal care, gardening, wellbeing, and sustainability - to drop in community events throughout the year. You will play a vital role in supporting children, young people, and community groups, particularly those facing barriers to acheiving their potential, and be a vital part of the wider Vauxhall City Farm team. This is a rare opportunity to combine meaningful work with professional growth in one of London’s leading city farms. 

We're looking for someone with:

• Experience delivering educational activities/workshops for diverse audiences
• Commitment to education, conservation and the environment
• A practical and enthusiastic approach to learning outside of the classroom
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Excellent literacy, numeracy and IT skills
• Knowledge of safeguarding and health safety practices
• Comfortable working with and handling animals
• Willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check

The Social Media & Marketing Officer leads Emerging Futures’ social media presence and external-facing marketing activities, bringing our stories, values and mission to life across LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Working closely with the Communications team, our regional services, and the company’s Recovery Voice Network, you will create compelling, sensitive, and engaging digital content that reflects the lived experiences of people in recovery and the strengths of our services.

This role is hands-on and creative: capturing video content in services nationwide, producing high-quality Reels and short-form video, coordinating external freelancers, planning content calendars, and ensuring our online communities feel respected, supported and inspired.

We are open to making the role work for the right candidate, so while Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm is fine by us, we are also open to flexible working patterns and compressed hours to accommodate those with additional needs. We encourage anyone with great experience to apply.

Job description

Stella Maris is the official maritime charity of the Catholic Church.  We are looking for a Regional Port Chaplain for Immingham and the South Humber Ports to support seafarers, fishers and their families.

In this unique and rewarding role, you'll be the welcoming face of Stella Maris in your region, visiting ships, listening to crew members, and offering practical, pastoral and spiritual support to anyone in need, regardless of faith or background.

About the role

No two days are the same.  You might spend the morning visiting ships and listening to crew members' stories, help someone contact their family back home, support a seafarer in crisis, or offer a quiet moment of prayer on deck.

You'll also recruit and support a team of volunteers, work closely with other maritime charities and local partners, and build strong relationships with parishes, dioceses, and port authorities.  You'll be part of a nationwide network of Stella Maris chaplains, supported through regular meetings, retreats and professional development opportunities.

Key responsibilities

• Visit ships regularly to meet seafarers and fishers, responding to their pastoral, practical and spiritual needs.
• Provide practical help such as transport, communication access, and emergency or crisis support.
• Offer spiritual care to Catholic seafarers and facilitate the religious needs of those from other faiths.
• Recruit, train and support Stella Maris volunteers.
• Work collaboratively with other maritime charities.
• Maintain strong relationships with local parishes, the Diocese of Nottingham, and port stakeholders such as the Harbour Master, shipping agents and welfare committees.
• Support local fundraising and awareness initiatives alongside the charity's national team.

About you

You'll be someone who takes joy in helping others.  You don't need maritime experiences, what matters most is your empathy and ability to offer pastoral support in practical ways.

You may come from a background in chaplaincy, parish ministry, community work or social care.  You'll share our commitment to upholding the dignity of every seafarer and fisher.

We are seeking a Finance Officer with excellent numerical skills and attention to detail, and good inter-personal skills to join our friendly Finance Team at Yeldall Manor. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a passion for helping others to join a Christian organisation dedicated to supporting men in their journey of recovery from addiction to drugs or alcohol.

As Finance Officer, you will support and deputise for the Finance Manager in all aspects of the finance role including Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, bank and cash reconciliation and the processing of donations (please see the Job Description for more details). You will also support our residents in the management of their money and benefits and accompany them to relevant appointments. A driver’s licence is essential for this role.

You will have relevant accounting/bookkeeping qualifications e.g. AAT Technician Level and have experience of financial management, ideally in the not-for-profit sector. You will be a quick learner, able to manage multiple priorities and enjoy working as part of a small team that has a real impact upon people’s lives.

Yeldall Manor is a Christian organisation, and this role requires a committed Christian faith to meet the occupational requirements (in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010). We ask all staff to engage with and support our residents in their recovery journey, offering encouragement in both practical and spiritual matters.

This is a full-time, permanent position (40 hours per week) although 32 hours would be considered for the right person. You will work as part of a small, friendly team within the Finance & Fund-Raising office, located in a beautiful rural setting outside Reading. Free lunch is provided daily with staff and residents. Remote working is not applicable for this post.

If you're excited about this opportunity and feel you have the skills to help support the work we do, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV along with a cover letter explaining your suitability for the role as outlined in the job description. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Noelene Bradley at Yeldall Manor.

We look forward to hearing from you!

We are recruiting: Housing Officer & Support Worker. 

Location: Telford & Wrekin – onsite only 

Hours: 36, 32 & 18 hr posts available (Please indicate preference when applying) 

Salary: £13.60 p/h (reviewed in April) 

Contract: Permanent 

The role 

Stay is a Telford based charity that supports people experiencing homelessness by providing a range of supported accommodation and tailored support services. Its aim is to help individuals reach their potential and progress toward longer term housing solutions that promote positive wellbeing and healthy lifestyles. 

As a Housing Officer & Support Worker, you will play a vital role in delivering intensive housing management and personalised support to people from diverse backgrounds. Using strength based and Trauma Informed Practice, you will ensure each person receives the guidance they need. You will offer a warm welcome to new tenants as they begin their journey with Stay, ensuring they feel informed, safe, and comfortable in their new environment. Through choice led planning, you will support tenants to work toward their housing aspirations and achieve their personal goals. 

What you need 

A full, valid UK driving licence 

A vehicle insured for business use 

An enhanced DBS check (cost covered by Stay) 

What we offer you 

We offer a friendly, supportive, and flexible working environment where your contribution is valued. You’ll benefit from: 

✅ 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays (enhancements for length of service) 

✅ Birthday off following completion successful probationary period 

✅ Regular supervision and guidance 

✅ Access to our Employee Assistance Programme providing GP access and wellbeing support 

✅ Pension scheme 

✅ Eligible for a Blue Light Card discount scheme 

✅ Fully funded training and continuous development 

Young Carers Service Manager role

An opportunity is available to help make life better for carers 

Hours - 30 hours per week (including occasional evenings/weekends)

Salary: £36,000 FTE per annum (£28,800 actual)

This is an opportunity to lead a passionate, skilled team and shape services that genuinely change lives by supporting the Young Carers in our region.

Are you self-motivated, organised, empathetic, able to work collaboratively and autonomously, passionate about supporting young people, able to influence strategic development and able to think on your feet then you might want to consider joining a small team of like-minded people.

Our charity, Carers Support, works across Bristol and South Gloucestershire to support unpaid family carers who are supporting their loved ones at home.

We currently have a vacancy in our Young Carers Service Team to support the Chief Executive and Senior Management Team and lead the Young Carers Service. This is a senior role that requires managerial experience, an understanding of the youth sector, safeguarding, and the ability to work with different employed teams and volunteers.    

Main duties will include:

To:

· Be a member of the Senior Management team and actively participate in the overall strategic management and development of the organisation.

· Ensure that the strategic development of the young carer service is co-ordinated and services are delivered in line with funded contract and grant requirements, CSC's development plan and local and national strategies and priorities.

· Be responsible for the support, supervision, management and development of the Operational manager, Schools Development Officer and Engagement worker

· Be the Children and Young People’s Safeguarding lead, working in conjunction with the Adults Safeguarding lead and deputies.

· Ensure young carers voice leads service development internally and externally improving the identification and support for young carers across Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

· Ensure sustainability developing service plans and working with Fundraising manager to raise the funds to sustain services that meet young carers needs.

There’s lots more we could tell you, but why not apply and come and see for yourself.

Closing date for applications is 22nd March 2026 @ 12 noon with interviews on 8th April 2026.

Please visit our website for all the information you need  and details of how to apply.  All completed applications should be returned to our recruitment team.

If you would like to know more about this role, please email Joss Tagg, Young Carers Manager for further information.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer, and our workplace is free of barriers and fully accessible for people with disabilities. We are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults; from recruitment of staff through to supporting our team working with families and carers in crisis.

Registered Charity No: 1063226

Networks for Nature spans c60 square miles from the River Dee to the River Mersey, including Chester and Ellesmere Port. This is a collaborative partnership project working with Cheshire West and Chester Council, The Land Trust, Cheshire Wildlife Trust, Canal and River Trust, and Sustrans with the aim to drive nature recovery in a mixed-use landscape, creating diverse habitats for species to thrive now and for years to come. We will empower communities to have an active role in conservation action and stewardship and will focus on making nature more accessible to and inclusive for everyone to enable connection and improve wellbeing. To find out more about Networks for Nature visit Networks For Nature | Conservation at Chester Zoo.

As a Wildlife and Wellbeing Officer, you’ll work closely with the Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager and Networks for Nature project staff to engage and empower communities to make a real impact on conservation efforts and to improve access to nature. You will support with maintaining and establishing community relationships, supporting the development and delivery of a programme of wildlife and wellbeing activities and supporting in building the capacity of community groups, community leaders and other stakeholders within the Networks for Nature project area. You will deliver a broad range of activities, including Family Wildlife Clubs, Wildlife and Wellbeing Clubs, Community Action Days, activities linked to Green Social Prescribing (GSP), GSP workshops for healthcare professionals and activity stands within community settings. You will also actively promote and develop community network links.

Due to the working rota of 10 days in 14 and working every other weekend, there will be some cross-over between the activities delivered within this role and the Community Volunteer Officer role.

We’re looking for someone who can:
 

• Activity Planning & Delivery: Help plan and run a broad programme of wildlife and wellbeing activities to community groups, including Family Wildlife Clubs, Wildlife and Wellbeing Clubs, Conservation Action Days, activities linked to Green Social Prescribing (GSP), GSP workshops for healthcare professionals and activity stands at community events. Effectively adapting each activity to meet the needs of each group.

• Community Relationships: Develop and maintain relationships with community groups to support their continued participation in the project and commitment to creating habitats for UK Wildlife. Including administrative support, dealing with queries via email and telephone and attending meetings, consultations and networking events.

• Content Creation: Research and contribute to the development of resources and new engagement activities designed to support participation in the Networks for Nature project.

• Measuring Impact: Work closely with the Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager to support in the delivery of an evaluation programme for the Networks for Nature project, including collection and collation of data from project participants, initial analysis of results and presenting findings to key stakeholders.

• Safety & Risk Assessments: With support from the Wildlife and Wellbeing Assistant Manager, ensure that all activities are safe and appropriately risk assessed.

• Developing Expertise: Proactively develop own expertise as a conservation educator, focused on community engagement, UK wildlife and nature and wellbeing.

 

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

Well, where do we start? Here goes…

We’re a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketeers, visitor experience professionals, environmental policy influencers; the list goes on. Each and every one of us is on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world, and our planet a better place.

As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of nearly 500 permanent and 500 seasonal team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development. We have ambitious goals, and we want you to be with us for the long term on our exciting journey.

Our working environment could not be more different from a typical office – where else can you see critically endangered orangutans from your office window, or stroll among rare giraffes and tigers on your lunch break?

The Package
 

• Temporary contract until 30th September 2028

• 35 hours per week

• Salary £23,187.50

• The postholder will work 10 days over 14, working every other weekend and with two regular days off in the week

• 33 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days (pro rota)

• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family

• Cycle to work scheme

• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme

• Discounted gym membership

• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks

• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9% 

Our Requirements:
 

• An understanding & affinity to the organisation’s mission, vision & values, with a strong interest in the conservation of UK nature.

• Experience delivering educational and wellbeing focused activities with a range of different audiences across a variety of ages and needs, preferably within an environmental education or conservation focused organisation.

• Experience presenting to audiences.

• Experience developing quality resources for learning.

• Experience of delivering activities/training with a range of audiences.

• Sound working knowledge of computer software systems e.g. Microsoft Office Suite

• Excellent interpersonal skills

• Excellent communication and literacy skills including by phone, face to face and via email/online discussion boards

• Excellent time management, administration and planning skills.

• Experience of working in a busy office environment as part of a team & on own initiative

• Full driving licence
 

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:
 

• Knowledge and understanding of the health and wellbeing benefits of accessing nature and the models used to deliver these benefits.

• Experience working with audiences with special educational needs and/or mental health challenges and/or socio economically deprived.

• Experience working collaboratively with community partners.

• Experience monitoring and evaluating engagement activities in a community context.

Due to the nature of the organisation and the role, this post is subject to a DBS check.

About us

Join our team at the MPS Society, one of the leading rare genetic disease charities in the UK aiming to transform the lives of individuals and their families affected by MPS, Fabry and other related lysosomal diseases.  This is a rare opportunity to join our Support & Communities teams who provide direct support, practical guidance and other patient focused activities to over 1500 members and their families, UK-wide. 

Our Support Team raise awareness both within the MPS community and external agencies, offering information, advice, support, and advocacy in a range of areas including clinical management, health and social care, housing, education, transition, independent living, palliative care, and bereavement.  

Ideal candidate

As a Senior Support Officer, you will primarily be responsible for raising awareness and providing a high-quality support and advocacy service to our members and their families.   You will be a relationship builder who cares about the community we serve and ensures that the individual (or family) remains at the centre of support.  You will have experience in multi-agency working and an in-depth understanding of the needs of those with disabilities, their families and carers.  Demonstrable experience and knowledge of health and social care, education and relevant assessment processes are essential. 

As deputy safeguarding lead officer for both shildren and vulnerable adults you will take the lead in the absence of the safeguarding leads and be confident sharing your knowledge with new recruits through mentoring.

You will have excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to uphold best practice, challenge poor policy and inappropriate decisions.  Excellent IT skills and the ability to plan, prioritise and deliver to tight timescales are essential.  You will be self-motivated and highly organised, juggling many strands of work. 

As part of a small, dedicated team, you will have a positive attitude and a willingness to work collaboratively with your colleagues and external parties to raise awareness, advocate for our membership, as well as supporting the delivery and development of services for the MPS Society community.

Whilst a relevant qualification within health & social care, education or a related field is desirable, other knowledge and work experiences may be equally as valuable in this role. Prior knowledge of MPS and related conditions is not required however a special interest in neurology and working with individuals with neurological disabilities is advantageous.  In-depth support and training to develop expertise in MPS and related conditions, and the needs of those affected by these progressive, life-limiting conditions will be provided.   

What we can offer you

Join us and you will be working for a caring charity offering:

• A competitive salary
• Generous annual leave of 25 days plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part time hours)
• Extra leave between Christmas and the New Year
• Pension
• Life assurance (subject to the conditions of the scheme)
• Employee assistance programme offering support 24/7

Further information

The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the UK.

This is a full-time role (35 hrs per week) however part time hours, with a minimum of 28 hrs per week may be agreed for the right candidate.  Salary will be pro-rata for part-time.

The main duties, responsibilities and essential requirements of this role can be viewed on the attached job description.

This is an essential car user post. The applicant must hold a current UK driver’s licence, with no more than 6 points, have access to a car and be able and willing to drive UK wide as required.

This role is offered on a hybrid basis with a minimum of 2 days in our Amersham office each week. As part of the role, UK wide travel is necessary. This may on occasion include early morning and/or evening working and sometimes overnight stays.  You may also occasionally be required to attend evening or weekend conferences and events. We have policies in place to ensure that any unsociable hours worked are fairly compensated.

We encourage candidates to visit the MPS Society website to learn more about us and the community we serve.  Alternatively, if you would like an informal chat about the role or the work of the MPS Society, please contact Bethanie Pentecost.

Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS)

The MPS Society is a charity that provides a range of care, support and activities for children and adults at risk throughout the UK. This is provided through our dedicated support and advocacy service, telephone helpline, clinical research, online activities and forums, annual events, patient expert meetings, focus groups and conferences.  MPS staff, trustees and volunteers may be asked to be involved in the delivery of its regulated services and activities. 

This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.  Due to the sensitive nature of the duties undertaking, the post holder will be expected to undertake a DBS check as part of the recruitment process and for this to be reviewed on a regular basis. 

Next steps: 

Applications:  Please provide your CV and a supporting statement (maximum 750 words) outlining your understanding of how rare, complex and progressive conditions such as Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), including their neurological impacts, can affect individuals and families across the life course. In your response, please describe the experience, skills and approaches you have developed that would support you to carry out the Senior Support Officer role, including (where relevant) supporting people with complex needs, working across health, education and social care systems, and providing advice, advocacy or casework support.

Kindly note, applications received without a supporting statement will not be considered. 

Closing Date:   Whilst we have an initial closing date of 20th March, we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview and assessment.

1st interviews:  Initial virtual interviews will be held end March/early April.

2nd interviews: Final face-to-face interviews and assessments will be held on 16th & 17th April at MPS House, Amersham.