Volunteer support manager jobs

About this role

The Children’s Book Project is a registered charity that directly tackles inequalities in well-being, self-esteem and educational outcomes in childhood by gifting beautiful, contemporary books to young people with very few books of their own. We have now gifted over two million pre-loved, carefully curated books to children across the UK via schools, foodbanks, prisons and women’s groups, ensuring the relevance and appeal of every book we gift.

Join us as Volunteer Manager and you’ll help transform childhoods through book ownership. In this vital role, you will recruit, inspire and coordinate a diverse team of volunteers across three regional hubs, each team charged with running impactful corporate volunteer events. Your energetic leadership will foster a vibrant community, ensuring effective recruitment, training, and retention. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are passionate about social impact, this is your opportunity to create a best in class volunteer experience and support our wider goals.

Our Volunteer Manager has a very clear remit: to ensure that each of our book sorting events in Birmingham, Leeds and London is fully staffed by motivated and well trained Team Leaders and Volunteer Coordinators and that our wider volunteering needs (occasional drivers, remote volunteers) are met and supported as required.

They will plan and implement an ongoing programme of recruitment and training that takes into account potential attrition and our expanding needs. They will develop and implement initiatives that show our gratitude for our volunteers. And they will play a key role within the charity helping to measure and convey externally the value we place on a high quality volunteering experience.

To read the full role outline please visit our website and submit your completed application form.

Note that CVs are not accepted. Applications accepted until 24th April.

Job Title: Volunteer Development Manager

Team: People and Culture

Location: Hybrid (split between home-working and either London, Cardiff or Edinburgh) or home-based contract.

Status: Permanent

*The salary on appointment will be set between £47,845 to a maximum of £54,369 depending on the candidate's skills and experience. If you are internal and on the same grade then the salary will be as reflected in our pay policy. This approach aims to ensure fair compensation for new hires while maintaining alignment with the structured pay scale for the role.

Context and purpose of role

Volunteers are vital to the success of the Ramblers and the delivery of our strategic goals. That’s why we’ve launched a bold new initiative to enhance volunteer experience. We’re creating a journey that is inclusive, engaging, and genuinely impactful. Our aim is for The Ramblers to be a place where every volunteer feels welcomed, valued, and supported every step of the way.

We believe volunteering should be more than giving time. It should be about finding purpose, building connections, and being part of something meaningful. We are committed to creating an environment where people from all backgrounds and walks of life feel inspired to join us, confident in contributing, and motivated to stay and grow.

As volunteering lead, the postholder will play a pivotal part in bringing that vision to life.

You will work closely with key stakeholders to enhance the volunteer experience at every stage of the volunteer lifecycle—from attraction and recruitment through to development and recognition.

You’ll design and deliver innovative approaches to enhance the experience of our current volunteers, along with planning and implementing new approaches to attracting volunteers for the future.

This role provides the opportunity to create something lasting: a volunteer experience where people don’t just give their time —they feel a genuine sense of belonging, while making a meaningful difference in the communities we serve.

The role will report directly to the Head of People Experience.

Key responsibilities

Volunteer Recruitment and Onboarding

· Develop and implement strategies to attract and recruit a diverse pool of volunteers.

· Design and deliver comprehensive orientation programs to introduce new volunteers to the organisation and their responsibilities.

Training and Development

· Create and facilitate ongoing training programs to enhance volunteer skills and knowledge.

· Provide resources and support to ensure volunteers are equipped to perform their roles effectively.

· Organise workshops, seminars, and training sessions to foster continuous learning.

Volunteer Management and Coordination

· Ensure accurate records of volunteer hours, roles, and performance are maintained.

· Create a safe and supportive environment, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and best practices around safeguarding.

· Develop and implement policies and procedures for volunteer management.

Volunteer Retention and Engagement

· Design and execute recognition programs to acknowledge and celebrate volunteer contributions.

· Organise events and activities to keep volunteers engaged and motivated.

· Regularly communicate with volunteers to provide updates, gather feedback, and address concerns.

Program Evaluation and Improvement

· Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the volunteer program.

· Conduct surveys and assessments to gather feedback from volunteers and identify areas for improvement.

· Implement changes and enhancements based on feedback and best practices.

Collaboration and Partnership Building

· Work closely with teams to identify volunteer needs and opportunities.

· Build and maintain relationships with external partners and community organisations to expand volunteer resources.

Technology and Data Management

· Utilise technology track and manage volunteer information.

· Maintain up-to-date records and generate reports on volunteer activities and program outcomes.

· Leverage communication tools and platforms to effectively engage with volunteers.

Other

· Undertake such other duties as may be reasonably required of the post

· Engage and proactively develop excellent working relationships

The person

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Knowledge

This section specifies the theoretical understanding or specific expertise needed for the role:

· Knowledge of the value volunteers add, and the impact they bring to organisations.

· Expert and up-to-date knowledge of the law relating to volunteering and volunteering best practice principles, and procedures, particularly around recruitment and retention.

· Demonstrable knowledge and experience of implementing best practice solutions to drive a volunteering involving ethos and culture.

- Knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policies, and best practices.

Skills

This section details the specific abilities and competencies required to perform the job effectively:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Interpersonal Skills: Strong relationship-building and influencing skills

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data and use insights to drive decision-making

• Problem-Solving Skills: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues

• Project Management Skills: Ability to plan and co-ordinate activity across multiple teams to deliver project goals

Experience

This section specifies the practical, hands-on experience required for the role:

• Experience of ensuring Volunteer and Volunteer Role Manager journeys are accessible and encourage diversity, equity and inclusion.

Personal Attributes

· Active Listener: Listens attentively to others and values their input

· Collaborative: Values and leverages diverse perspectives and skills within the team

· Adaptable: Able to adjust to new situations and challenges with ease

· Problem Solver: Proactively identifies issues and works towards effective solutions

· Analytical Thinker: Analyses information thoroughly and makes sound decisions.

· Detail-Oriented: Pays attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in work

· Mentoring: Willing to mentor and support the development of team members

· Innovative: Embraces new ideas and technologies to improve processes

· Ethical: Upholds ethical standards and integrity in all actions

· Visionary: Looks outwards to anticipate trends and identify opportunities to enhance volunteer experience

Values and Behaviours

Our values are the core principles that guide us daily in our work and our membership of the Ramblers. We all share the passion that walking is for everyone and by living our shared values we can ensure the Ramblers is an organisation to be proud of. Our values will earn trust for the Ramblers brand which will allow us to open up a world of walking opportunities for even more people.

Inclusive

We make everyone feel welcome and part of the Ramblers community. We make sure we all feel respected and accepted and know our contributions make a difference in achieving our mission.

Inspiring

We strive to inspire people through the way we act and the things we say. We channel our passion and ambition so others are moved to help us achieve our mission.

Empowering

We empower and encourage each other to make a positive contribution to our teams and the Ramblers. We do all we can to make sure everyone has the ability, and feels confident, to take action.

Responsible

We take responsibility for ourselves and those around us seriously, by always acting in a safe and supportive way. We care about the environment and make sure we do what we say we will do.

If you love connecting people with purpose, this is your chance to shape something extraordinary. Join Rockinghorse and lead a volunteer community that supports children and families when they need it most.

About Rockinghorse Children’s Charity

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity supports sick and disabled children across Sussex. We support babies, children and young people, along with their families, at The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and The Trevor Mann Baby Unit in Brighton and all of the specialist children’s wards and baby units throughout Sussex. 

We deliver and fund projects that enable doctors and nurses to do more. All of projects are led by the needs of children and young people and their families – the lifesaving medical equipment, the support for parents and families, the toys for children spending time in hospitals across Sussex, the environments and spaces that help children feel more at home when they are in hospital and additional staff to make sure children get the best possible care when they are unwell. 

Originally set up in 1967 by Dr Trevor Mann, we have been supporting children for more than 55 years, and in that time, we have supported nearly a million children and their families. As the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, including the Trevor Mann Baby Unit, we work with the NHS, charity partners and the Sussex community to ensure children can be children no matter now sick they are. 

We do not receive any government, statutory or local authority funding and so we rely on the generous support of individuals, community groups, companies and trusts: people like you, who care about children and want Sussex to be a safe place for children to grow up. 

About the Role

In 2025 we launched our five-year strategic plan, which prioritised our activities to enable us to support more babies, children and teenagers. As we enter the final year of this strategy the charity continues to expand and develop its projects and services children all over Sussex.

This role will support the Head of Finance & Operations and be responsible for organising and managing the charity’s volunteers and the volunteer programme, working across the charity to ensure we have the right individuals to support our work. You will be responsible for the management, recruitment, onboarding and retention of all short and long-term volunteers, to ensure we can continue to deliver life-saving projects for children and young people across Sussex.

You’ll bring excellent organisational skills, outstanding written and verbal communication skills, a can-do attitude, evidence of brilliant people management skills, and a passion and enthusiasm for supporting young people. You’ll be part of a successful team that values wellbeing and champions teamwork, where our vision for children and young people is shared, and success is celebrated.

Duties of the Role 

Support the charity to deliver brilliant projects and services that support children and their families:

· Work collaboratively across the charity team to recruit volunteers with the necessary skills, experience and commitment to support our project delivery, fundraising activities, events schedule and office work.

· Communicate regularly with our volunteer community, to highlight upcoming fundraising and challenge events and ensure there is sufficient and appropriate representation in place per event.

· Ensure that the charity has the right policies and procedures in place for the recruitment, onboarding, retention and management of volunteers.

· Lead on and co-ordinate the induction and training of volunteers to ensure they are fully onboarded and prepared for the charity and the role.

· Support volunteers to achieve their aspirations in terms of work experience, education, training or further volunteering during their time with us.

· Co-ordinate individual and/or group supervision and support for volunteers.

· Manage a volunteer database in line with relevant data protection legislation and ensure that all volunteers undergo appropriate due diligence during the recruitment process.

· Encourage and facilitate volunteers to share their experiences as case studies and reflections.

· Co-ordinate volunteer thank you initiatives, engagement activities and communications to ensure volunteers feel part of the charity and actively participate in our work.

· Create partnerships with new corporate and community partners to maintain a steady flow of volunteers into the charity.

· Develop effective working relationships with existing partners, helping to engage local teams in volunteering and fundraising opportunities.

· Oversee work experience placements throughout the year, ensuring a positive experience and maximising the return on investment for the team.

· Manage the offboarding process for all volunteers, ensuring a brilliant experience from start to finish.

· Support the Head of Marketing and Communications to create promotional, marketing and social media materials related to our volunteer programme.

· Modernise and automate processes on an ongoing basis to increase workflow efficiency.

· Lead on the evaluation of the volunteer programme and ensure we understand and value to impact volunteers bring to the charity.

· Report on the volunteer function as part of the management information and against set KPIs and targets. 

Support the charity more widely:

· Represent Rockinghorse at events and activities, building strong peer relationships and sharing best practice.

· Model excellent conduct and behaviours in line with the charity’s values and ethos.

· Carry out other such duties as may be required for the purposes of the charity, including working flexibly during evenings and weekends as required.

· Travel across Sussex as needed in order to attend events and meet with our supporters and volunteers.

Person Specification -

Essential experience, skills and knowledge for the role: 

1. Experience and understanding of the principles of volunteer management in a charity and/or not-for-profit.

2. Proven experience of recruiting and managing volunteers day to day.

3. An understanding of safeguarding and welfare management frameworks.

4. Able to work collaboratively and build productive relationships with colleagues, stakeholders and third-party partners.

5. Able to prioritise own workload effectively and comfortable with working autonomously.

6. Excellent time management skills with strong prioritisation and organisation skills.

7. Brilliant communication, interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities.

8. An understanding of data privacy theory and application.

9. Experience of using customer relationship management platforms (Rockinghorse uses e-Tapestry).

10. Commitment to Rockinghorse Children’s Charity’s mission, vision and values.

Desirable experience, skills and knowledge: 

1. Experience managing communications and marketing to support volunteer engagement.

2. Previous work experience with a non-profit, or charitable organisation.

Work skills you’ll need day to day: 

1. A can-do attitude.

2. Brilliant organisational skills.

3. Excellent people skills with an adaptable and flexible manner and approach.

4. Excellent written and verbal communication.

5. Ability to support and motivate others.

6. Ability to work on own initiative and as an active team member.

7. Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits of Working for Rockinghorse Children’s Charity: 

· 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata to part-time working pattern). 

· An additional day of annual leave on your birthday. 

· Additional Christmas closure days (pro-rata to part-time working pattern).

· Competitive pension scheme. 

· Employee and dependants’ health cash plan including access to an online GP and counselling. 

· Family leave including maternity, adoption, shared parental and paternity leave. 

· Ongoing opportunities for learning and professional development. 

· Quarterly reward and recognition days. 

· Opportunity for flexible, hybrid and part-time working. 

· Cycle to work scheme. 

· Access to Enterprise Car Club. 

Rockinghorse is committed to building an inclusive workplace, with equity for all, whilst embracing and championing inclusion and diversity. We welcome applications from all. 

_______________________________________________ 

Application Process 

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter outlining how you fulfil the ten essential elements of the person specification.

Your covering letter must address your experience, skills and knowledge against the “Essential” elements of the person specification. Applications without a covering letter will not be considered. If you also meet any of the “Desirable” criteria, please outline these too. 

If you need any support with the process or application, please get in touch. We can also talk through the role and answer any questions you may have informally.

All applicants will be shortlisted to proceed to interview based on their ability to demonstrate they have, or can gain, most of the essential criteria for the role – as demonstrated in the covering letter.

Estimated timeframes: 

· Application deadline midnight 10th May 2026.

· Shortlisting w/c 11th May 2026.

· Interviews will be Thursday 21st May 2026 in central Brighton.

Interviews will be with the Head of Finance & Operations and the Senior Projects Manager and will consist of a series of set questions (the same for each candidate) about your skills, experience and knowledge relating to the post (Essential, Desirable and Work skills).

The interview will also be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the role, the charity and the process of recruitment.

The role will be available from 1st June 2026 (depending on post holder’s availability).

ID: 1782 Operational Manager, Northeast

Service: Stockton on Tees Family Time, Stockton Family Outreach & Volunteer service and South Tees Perinatal service

Salary: Grade 4 Point 34-38: £42,562 – £46,703 FTE (£34,049.60 - £37,362.40 per annum, pro rata for 29.6 hours per week)

- Additionally, £480 home-based allowance FTE per annum

Location: Home based

Hours: Part-time (up to 29.6 hours per week)

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 lead the operational delivery of services across Stockton on Tees and South Tees (Recar & Middlesbrough) area.  The Operational Manager will provide strategic and operational management to our services in the Northeast and line management of 2 - 3 service managers.

Stockton services are delivered under our successful strategic partnership with Stockton Borough Council. This unique partnership was formed nearly 5 years ago with the aim of transforming service provision using a collaborative approach to service development and innovation. Our South Tees Perinatal service operates over Redcar and Middlesborough and are just entering a 3 year extension to our current contract.

Main Responsibilities:

· Provide leadership, management and supervision to operational services that provide Family Time sessions, Family Outreach support and Volunteering support, plus perinatal support to families.

· Ensure that services are delivered to a good quality standard in relation to practice and performance and that services can demonstrate their impact using evidence based outcomes tools.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

· Experience of providing effective management, leadership and safeguarding oversight of case work and group work based support services, which overall improve the lives of  service users.

· Experience of setting up and/or managing innovative projects.

· Strong interpersonal skills, with the confidence and ability to present and communicate information effectively both in person and using a range of mediums to internal and external stakeholders, including children and young people, parents and carers, and funders.

· Appointments are subject to Family Action receiving a satisfactory disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service –Enhanced

Benefits:

- an annual paid leave entitlement that commences at 25 working days, rising each April by one day, subject to a maximum of 30 working days plus bank holiday pro rata

- up to 6% matched-pension contributions

- flexible working arrangements and new starters have the right to make flexible working requests from day one of employment

- 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:

· Click the “Apply Now” link below and fill out our digital application form

· Closing Date: Sunday 10th May 2026 at 23:59

Interviews are scheduled to take place on: 20th May 2026

For direct queries or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the selection process or flexible working requests, please email: Claire Meek (email address available on advert document).

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.

All candidates with a disability are welcome to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and request priority consideration for an interview, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse reasonable travel costs if you are invited to attend an interview in person.

*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.

The role

The Engagement Manager leads the relational and safeguarding delivery of Lighthouse, ensuring the programme is experienced as a place of dignity, trust, and consistency for every participant. This role sits at the centre of the work - shaping how Lighthouse feels, how people are received, and how support is experienced in practice.

Lighthouse operates in a dynamic environment where participant needs, operational demands, and volunteer teams intersect daily. You will bring presence, judgement, and emotional intelligence to that space, maintaining strong relational consistency while responding thoughtfully and appropriately to what emerges in real time.

You will take ownership of participant engagement across the programme. This includes building trusted relationships, maintaining strong safeguarding practice, and supporting volunteers to engage in ways that are respectful, boundaried, and trauma-informed. Your role is to ensure Lighthouse is not only well run, but deeply human - a place where people feel seen, respected, and supported.

You will also play a central role in shaping how Lighthouse supports people beyond immediate engagement. By understanding participant journeys and needs, you will help strengthen pathways into stability, connection, and opportunity. This requires sound judgement, relational skill, and the ability to translate insight into practical support.

You will work closely with the Programme Manager to ensure Lighthouse remains both operationally strong and deeply responsive to the people it serves.

Key responsibilities

Participant engagement and presence

• Lead participant engagement across Lighthouse delivery
• Build consistent, trusted relationships with participants
• Maintain a visible, calm, and grounded presence during programme sessions
• Help ensure participants feel recognised, welcomed, and respected

Participant wellbeing and support

• Recognise emerging participant needs and respond appropriately
• Support participants to access information, services, and appropriate support
• Help maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive programme environment
• Ensure participant experience remains consistent and well held

Safeguarding leadership

• Lead safeguarding practice across the programme
• Coordinate safeguarding processes, documentation, and follow-up
• Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns and incidents
• Ensure safeguarding procedures and escalation pathways are consistently followed
• Exercise sound judgement in complex or sensitive situations

Volunteer support and guidance

• Support volunteers to engage confidently and appropriately with participants
• Provide guidance on boundaries, relational approaches, and safeguarding awareness
• Help create a volunteer culture that is consistent, compassionate, and well supported
• Ensure volunteers feel clear, confident, and supported in their roles

Partnerships, referrals, and pathways

• Build and maintain relationships with outreach teams, support services, and sector partners
• Coordinate referrals and connections to external services where appropriate
• Develop pathways into employment, training, and longer-term stability
• Liaise with employers and partner organisations connected to participant opportunities
• Strengthen the network of support available to participants beyond Lighthouse

Requirements

About you

This role requires someone who is grounded, perceptive, and confident taking responsibility within a complex, people-centred environment.

You will be able to build trust quickly while maintaining clear boundaries and professional consistency. You will bring a calm, thoughtful presence and be comfortable navigating emotionally complex situations with care and sound judgement.

You will likely bring:

• significant experience working alongside vulnerable or marginalised communities
• strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• knowledge of safeguarding practice and working with vulnerable adults
• confidence navigating complex or emotionally demanding situations
• the ability to remain calm, consistent, and thoughtful under pressure
• a deep commitment to dignity, respect, and trauma-informed practice

Working pattern

Lighthouse operates primarily between 8:00am and 8:00pm, with occasional evening events. Programme delivery is supported by a team of volunteers.

The two Managers coordinate their working schedules to ensure presence during key delivery periods across the programme week.

Working patterns are flexible and planned collaboratively to support delivery while maintaining sustainable workloads.

Lighthouse Management Structure

Lighthouse is delivered through a shared model, with two Managers working together to ensure the programme remains a safe, consistent, and dignified space for people experiencing homelessness.

Delivering this well requires both strong programme organisation and careful, trauma-informed engagement with participants.

The two Managers hold complementary responsibilities that ensure Lighthouse is both well-run and deeply responsive to the people it serves. While each role leads on specific areas of the programme, they work closely together to maintain consistent standards, clear communication, and a reliable experience for participants.

Joint responsibilities

Together the Managers ensure that Lighthouse operates with consistency, safety and care:

• Participants experience Lighthouse as a safe and welcoming space where they are treated with dignity and respect
• Delivery remains trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in Under One Sky’s values of presence, trust, and follow-through
• Lighthouse sessions are appropriately staffed, with volunteers and team members supported to deliver confidently and reliably
• Safeguarding is embedded into day-to-day delivery, with clear processes for responding to disclosures, incidents, risk, and vulnerability
• Participant needs, concerns, and wellbeing are recognised early and responded to appropriately
• Volunteers and staff are supported to hold clear boundaries while maintaining compassion and respect
• Communication and follow-through are strong so participants do not experience gaps, confusion, or inconsistent responses
• Lighthouse maintains a high standard of care, professionalism, and stability across the programme week

Culture and approach

The Managers help shape the tone of Lighthouse through calm, grounded leadership and consistent presence within the programme.

They help ensure the Lighthouse remains a place where participants feel:

• seen and respected
• safe and protected
• met with consistency rather than unpredictability
• supported without judgement
• able to access help with dignity

They create the conditions for volunteers and staff to provide meaningful support while ensuring Lighthouse remains structured, accountable, and deeply human.

We are launching something rare. Lighthouse is the clearest expression yet of what Under One Sky has been building towards for over a decade - a space rooted in care, consistency, and the belief that people can rebuild their lives when they are met with dignity and trust. At our core is something simple but powerful: a commitment to human connection.

We take our work seriously, because the stakes are high, but we try not to take ourselves too seriously. There is discipline in how we deliver, but also warmth, openness, and moments of joy that matter just as much.

Lighthouse represents a step change for us. It is the point where our ambition is fully realised - moving beyond outreach into a structured, sustained environment where people can stabilise, reconnect, and move forward. We want Lighthouse to be exceptional - not only for the people we serve, but something that sets a standard others look to and learn from. 

We are looking for two people who want to help shape and run this with us. This is not a role to simply manage a programme; it is an opportunity to co-create it. We are looking for people who combine initiative with reliability - individuals who are grounded, thoughtful, and willing to take ownership. People who care deeply about purpose, who value relationships, and who bring energy and discipline to their work. These roles are for people who want to build something meaningful and do it brilliantly.

About Under One Sky & The Lighthouse

Under One Sky works alongside people experiencing homelessness to provide practical support, human connection, and pathways toward greater stability. 

Lighthouse creates the conditions for people who have experienced homelessness to move beyond survival and begin rebuilding their lives. Over twelve weeks, small cohorts come together in a consistent, supportive space where confidence grows, relationships are rebuilt, and people reconnect with their sense of direction and possibility.

Through outreach, partnership working, and volunteer-led programmes, we aim to create spaces where people are treated with dignity, trust, and consistency.

The role

The Programme Manager leads the operational delivery of Lighthouse, ensuring the programme runs safely, reliably, and to a consistently high standard across the programme week. This role sits at the centre of the work - creating the conditions that allow Lighthouse to function with both structure and humanity.

Lighthouse operates in a dynamic environment where participant needs, operational demands, and volunteer teams intersect daily. You will bring clarity and calm to that complexity, maintaining strong systems and organisation while responding thoughtfully and decisively to what emerges in real time.

You will take ownership of the systems, planning, and operational coordination that underpin delivery. This includes overseeing key sessions, ensuring volunteers are well supported, and maintaining a physical space that is safe, welcoming, and well run. Your role is to make sure Lighthouse works - consistently, reliably, and with care.

You will also play a central role in shaping how Lighthouse develops over time. By observing how delivery works in practice, you will identify what can be strengthened and translate this into practical improvements. This requires sound judgement, attention to detail, and a commitment to doing things well.

You will work closely with the Engagement Manager to ensure Lighthouse remains both operationally strong and deeply responsive to the people it serves.

Key responsibilities

Operational leadership

• Lead the day-to-day operational delivery of the Lighthouse 
• Plan and coordinate the weekly programme schedule, ensuring delivery is reliable and consistent
• Ensure sessions are well staffed and supported by volunteers and team members
• Provide operational leadership during high-demand sessions
• Respond calmly and effectively to challenges if they arise

Programme systems and coordination

• Develop and maintain systems that support consistent high-quality delivery
• Coordinate logistics including spaces, equipment, supplies, and delivery resources
• Support budgeting, resource planning, and cost oversight
• Maintain clear and consistently applied operational processes 

Space and facilities management

• Ensure the Lighthouse space is safe, organised, and ready for delivery
• Oversee opening and closing procedures 
• Coordinate setup and breakdown of delivery areas, equipment, and supplies
• Maintain a welcoming, well-structured environment for participants, volunteers, and staff
• Liaise with venue partners or building managers where required

Volunteer coordination

• Coordinate volunteer scheduling and session rotas across the programme week
• Ensure sessions are appropriately supported by volunteers
• Maintain clear and timely communication with volunteers 

Programme monitoring

• Ensure delivery data is recorded accurately and consistently
• Maintain operational records to support reporting and learning
• Support monitoring of delivery against agreed objectives and metrics

Programme development and operational improvement

• Monitor how Lighthouse operates in practice and identify opportunities to strengthen delivery
• Translate learning from day-to-day delivery into practical adjustments to programme design, scheduling, and systems
• Work with the Engagement Manager and the Co-Leads to implement improvements
• Ensure changes are communicated clearly and embedded across volunteers and teams

Operational partnerships

• Coordinate practical relationships with venues, delivery partners, and collaborators
• Manage operational arrangements for Lighthouse sessions
• Ensure partnerships support reliable and well-organised programme delivery

Requirements

About you

This role requires someone who is organised, decisive, and comfortable taking responsibility in a complex delivery environment.

You will be able to maintain structure and clarity even when situations change quickly. You will bring a calm and practical approach to problem-solving and be confident supporting volunteers and teams during live programme delivery.

You will likely bring:

• significant experience coordinating programmes, projects, or complex operations

• the ability to manage multiple moving parts while maintaining attention to detail

• confidence making practical decisions in real time

• experience supporting teams or volunteers in delivery environments

• strong organisational discipline and systems thinking

• a commitment to dignity and respect when working alongside people experiencing homelessness

Working pattern

Lighthouse operates primarily between 8:00am and 8:00pm, with occasional evening events. Programme delivery is supported by a team of volunteers.

The two Managers coordinate their working schedules to ensure presence during key delivery periods across the programme week.

Working patterns are flexible and planned collaboratively to support delivery while maintaining sustainable workloads.

Lighthouse Management Structure

Lighthouse is delivered through a shared model, with two Managers working together to ensure the programme remains a safe, consistent, and dignified space for people experiencing homelessness.

Delivering this well requires both strong programme organisation and careful, trauma-informed engagement with participants.

The two Managers hold complementary responsibilities that ensure Lighthouse is both well-run and deeply responsive to the people it serves. While each role leads on specific areas of the programme, they work closely together to maintain consistent standards, clear communication, and a reliable experience for participants.

Joint responsibilities

Together the Managers ensure that Lighthouse operates with consistency, safety and care:

• Participants experience Lighthouse as a safe and welcoming space where they are treated with dignity and respect.

• Delivery remains trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in Under One Sky’s values of presence, trust, and follow-through.

• Lighthouse sessions are appropriately staffed, with volunteers and team members supported to deliver confidently and reliably.

• Safeguarding is embedded into day-to-day delivery, with clear processes for responding to disclosures, incidents, risk, and vulnerability.

• Participant needs, concerns, and wellbeing are recognised early and responded to appropriately.

• Volunteers and staff are supported to hold clear boundaries while maintaining compassion and respect.

• Communication and follow-through are strong so participants do not experience gaps, confusion, or inconsistent responses.

• Lighthouse maintains a high standard of care, professionalism, and stability across the programme week.

Culture and approach

The Managers help shape the tone of Lighthouse through calm, grounded leadership and consistent presence within the programme.

They help ensure Lighthouse remains a place where participants feel:

• seen and respected

• safe and protected

• met with consistency rather than unpredictability

• supported without judgement

• able to access help with dignity

They create the conditions for volunteers and staff to provide meaningful support while ensuring Lighthouse remains structured, accountable, and deeply human.

Join Our Team: Volunteering Leader

We’re excited to welcome a new Volunteering Leader at our North West location

Navigate your future and lock in your career as we keep our canals open and alive. 

Working Hours & Location 

This role follows a 37 hours, over a 7 day working pattern. The post holder will also be required to work an annualised hours system which includes working any 5 days out of 7 including statutory holidays. They will also be part of a 24-hour operational standby team responsible for providing emergency cover for the waterway. 

The Volunteering Leader will be based at Calveley, Tarporley Hub. Working along the Middlewich Branch, Llangollen and Shropshire Union Canals.

Role Overview 

This is an exciting opportunity, which offers a great variety of activities and tasks from day to day. You will be the public face of the Trust, working extremely closely with volunteers and with members of the public who visit and use our waterways. Your work will be a combination of day-to-day routine tasks and more exciting and involved project work. You will lead volunteers and the team to enable them to work safely and efficiently and help to foster a safe, secure and vibrant waterway network, where visitors are delighted with their experience. The role includes leading and attending events to publicise the work of the trust, promote our activities and recruit new volunteers. 

Key Responsibilities

• Working outside, undertake on-the-job organisation, control and leadership of volunteer groups, volunteer task days, volunteer lock keepers and our in-house team.
• Leading and attending events to publicise the work of the trust, promote our activities and recruit new volunteers.
• Delivering works planned to be conducted by our volunteer teams and our local team.
• Develop volunteering opportunities on our locks.
• Deliver training to volunteers in accordance with set standards
• Identify opportunities for volunteers and update records of work and time delivered
• Ensure all equipment (PPE, plant, materials etc.) are appropriate for the task, in good condition and are used correctly.
• Prepare appropriate safe systems of work, induct volunteers onsite and manage safe delivery.
• Support communication within the team including sharing relevant corporate messages and provide feedback from the volunteers to the Area Operations Manager in order to enhance the planning of works.
• Active involvement in the day-to-day tasks of the team and volunteers e.g. lock keeping, water control, vegetation management, small projects, planned maintenance and also actively assist the Area Operations Manager in the planning of tasks. Ensure that environmental and heritage issues are taken into consideration in all work that is undertaken.
• Delivering pre planned maintenance of structures and undertaking minor repairs as part of a small team.
• Recording works completed and celebrating volunteer contributions.

About you

We are looking for an organised, proactive, engaging volunteering leader to support the Area Operations Manager. You will provide guidance to a growing number of active volunteers and our in-house team that helps maintain, conserve and improve the environment and heritage of the waterway network for local communities and visitors to enjoy.

Skills & Qualifications

• Experience of working within relevant environment e.g. volunteering, environmental works, customer service operations or maintenance.
• Experience of leading a small team
• Great organisation and prioritising skills
• Effective and engaging communication skills
• Computer literate – with good knowledge of Microsoft Office package
• Full UK Driving licence essential
• You will need to be self-motivated, able to work flexible hours to meet volunteering and business needs and communicate well with customers, volunteers and staff at all levels.

Contact & Application 

 We encourage early applications as we may close the vacancy once we receive enough suitable candidates. 

What We Offer 

We offer an annual salary of £28,470. Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, increasing holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits. 

Job Title: MK Volunteer Services Managers x 2

Responsible to: Volunteer Manager

Location: Milton Keynes, occasional travel to Aylesbury

Salary: £25,000 - £30,000 (FTE) depending on experience

Hours: 21.6 hours x 2 (Flexible working)

Contract: Permanent Contract x 2

BucksVision is the leading charity supporting people affected by sight and hearing loss in Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes through a wide range of tailored services and support. We are proud of the wide range of services delivered by our small, dedicated team and fantastic volunteers.

If you thrive where you have clarity of purpose, produce your best work when working in a supportive, collaborative environment, and are motivated by seeing how your contribution makes a positive impact on the lives of people affected by sight loss, you could be just who we are looking for!

We currently have an exciting opportunity for two MK Volunteer Services Managers to join our team, working flexibly from our office in Milton Keynes and from home.

Why are these roles so critical to us?

The MK Volunteer Services Managers will play a pivotal role in recruiting and managing volunteers in Milton Keynes for our social clubs and our home visiting services. 

· One MK Volunteer Services Manager will support our existing social clubs, which provide a range of activities and services to people with vision impairment.

· One MK Volunteer Services Manager will support our home visiting services, which include reading, shopping and befriending services to ensure that local people with sight loss are not socially isolated and alone. 

Have no doubts, these are roles with significant impact.

Your Responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

Social Clubs & Events Role

· Supporting the delivery of existing social clubs, including organising activities and coordinating volunteer-led sessions.

· Supporting the planning and delivery of key events across the year (e.g. Volunteer Appreciation, AGM).

· Recruiting and managing volunteers involved in group-based activities.

· Providing administrative support to ensure activities and events are well organised and run smoothly.

Home Visiting Services Role

· Managing referrals and coordinating home visiting services, including reading, shopping and befriending support.

· Matching volunteers with clients appropriately, ensuring a positive and effective service.

· Supporting and maintaining relationships with volunteers and clients.

· Maintaining accurate records and supporting effective use of systems (including Beacon).

Shared Responsibilities (both roles)

· Supporting volunteer recruitment across Milton Keynes.

· Building positive relationships with volunteers, members and local partners.

· Contributing to the ongoing delivery and development of services.

You will spark our interest by being:

· A “People Person”: Having excellent interpersonal skills is crucial.  This is a role that relies on working closely with volunteers and local people with sight loss.

· Well-organised and able to prioritise effectively: You will be able to manage a varied workload, balancing competing demands and focusing on what matters most to ensure services run smoothly.

· Community minded: You will be driven by a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of vision impaired individuals in our community, ideally having worked with volunteers to deliver services.

· Connected to Milton Keynes: This role involves working with individuals  across the Milton Keynes area.  Ideally, you will live in Milton Keynes or nearby, with good local knowledge and connections across the community.

· A confident communicator: You will be comfortable building relationships with a wide range of people, including volunteers, members and partners, and able to handle sensitive or challenging conversations in a calm and professional way.

· Resilient and adaptable: You will be able to manage changing priorities and respond to challenges positively, maintaining a calm and solutions-focused approach

Required Experience

· Experience working or volunteering in the voluntary/community sector – ideally with an understanding of the current challenges in the sector.

· Experience in recruiting, coordinating, or supporting volunteers or growing a team, service or project through community engagement.

· Demonstrable success in building partnerships, networking or stakeholder engagement.

· Comfortable managing projects or local services with limited supervision, ideally in a community-based setting.

· Experience of managing a varied workload and prioritising effectively across multiple tasks.

· Prior experience working with or supporting people with sensory loss would be beneficial, but not essential.

If our purpose excites you, and you feel you have the skills required to excel in one of these roles, we would love to receive an application from you!

We understand that the requirements of job advertisements can, on occasions, appear a bit daunting. Please don’t be deterred from applying if you feel you don’t quite meet them all. Training and development will be provided to support your success.

Please apply with with a copy of your CV and a covering letter explaining why you feel you are a good match for the role. Please indicate in your application which role would be your preference (Social Clubs or Home Visiting Services).

Please note, applications received with no covering letter will not be considered.

The successful candidate must be freely eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to accommodate sponsorship.

BucksVision is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and building a diverse community. We welcome applications from eligible candidates regardless of any protected characteristics. 

No agencies, please.

We are looking for an experienced People Manager to work within a senior leadership role within HILS, responsible for the effective day-to-day delivery of HILS' People Strategy across teh organisation, and ensuring HILS' people practices support safe, ethical, service delivery in environments supporting vulnerable adults.

Reporting to the Director of People, the People Manager leads the People Team and acts as the primary operational adviser to leaders and managers on all people-related matters, ensuring consistent, legally compliant, and values-led people practices across all HILS locations.

The People Manager translates people strategy into operational delivery, provides authoritative leadership on employee relations and workforce matters, and ensures that people systems, processes, and behaviours actively support organisational performance, sustainability.

Age UK has an exciting opportunity to join their fantastic team in Heathfield, East Sussex!

We are recruiting for a Shop Manager to manage the day to day running of our Heathfield Store.

As Shop Manager, you will manage our brilliant team of staff and volunteers, providing effective leadership, training, and development.

Utilising your previous experience and excellent managerial skills, you will help maximise store sales and profits while ensuring our customers and donors receive an excellent shop experience.

This opportunity offers an excellent benefits package as well as the chance to work within a valued team, all working to raise funds for a charity that provides vital services and support to older people across the UK.

If you have a passion for retail and would like to use your skills within a charity that supports thousands of older people across the UK, then this may be the role for you!

Due to the nature of this role, you will be required to handle/lift bags of stock (up to 10kgs.)

Please note this opportunity will require the successful candidate to work 35 hours across a 7-day working week, including Saturdays and Sundays on a rota basis.

To ensure the smooth running of our stores, we will be conducting interviews throughout the advertising process. Early applications are advised.

You will have:

• Experience in a performance driven retail/customer centric environment
• Experience of managing people
• Ability to lift and carry bags of stock up to 10kg's
• Ability to build, retain and develop a team
• Strong drive to achieve results through others
• Ability to delegate, coach and listen
• Ability to manage time under conflicting priorities
• Ability to motivate self and others
• An open and adaptable approach to change and be able to support others through it
• Experience of communicating with a diverse workforce and customer base
• Ability to establish and maintain successful retail processes and merchandising
• IT literacy and numeracy skills

What we offer in return:

• Competitive salary, 25 days annual leave (pro rata for our part-time colleagues) + bank holidays + annual leave purchase scheme
• Wellbeing days - 2 paid days per year (pro rata for our part-time colleagues)
• Excellent pension scheme, life assurance, Bupa health cashback plan and EAP
• Car Benefit scheme, Cycle to Work scheme
• Home & Tech - apply to buy any Home & Tech items from 'Currys' & 'IKEA', up to £1000, and spread the cost over 12 months, interest free.
• Blue Light Card scheme
• You Did It Awards - recognition awards from £100-250.

Additional Information

To comply with UK legislation, we cannot accept applications from candidates under the age of 18 as the successful candidate will be required to work on their own in the shop without the aid of other staff.

Supporting statements and anonymisation

Please submit a Word version of your CV as it will be anonymised by our recruitment system when you apply for a role. Our system is unable to anonymise supporting statements and heavily formatted CVs. Please could you remove any personal information including your name before you upload to support our inclusive recruitment process. All equalities monitoring information is also anonymised and not shared with the hiring panel. Your name and address will only be known to us if invited for interview.

Equal opportunities & Disability Confident Scheme

Age UK is an Equal Opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital/civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity. We guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria under the Disability Confident Scheme. Please note that on occasion, due to high numbers of applications, Age UK reserves the right to limit the overall number of interviews offered, and therefore, it may not always be practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people that meet the minimum criteria for the job.

Is this the job for you? We know that men, of all backgrounds, and men and women from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are currently under-represented in our workforce, and we want to change this! So, we are particularly keen to hear from applicants from these groups.

Reasonable adjustments

Disabled job seekers can access reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. All requests for reasonable adjustments are considered on a case-by-case basis, in collaboration with the disabled job seeker to best meet their needs, by contacting the Recruitment Team. Disability disclosures will be kept confidential and only shared on a need-to-know basis to support the implementation of adjustments. Disclosures will not be used to inform hiring decisions.

Age UK is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children, from abuse and neglect. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert at any time.

​Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week​

Location: Home based with frequent travel to projects in Leeds, Sheffield, Hull and Bradford.​

Contract: Permanent​

Want to work with multiple award-winning charity, FoodCycle? As Regional Manager you will represent, manage and co-ordinate your allocated regional Projects. Our Projects are spaces where volunteers are empowered to run community meals using surplus food.​

You will manage local relationships with venues, community partners, supermarkets and volunteer recruitment channels to enable this to happen. As an excellent communicator, you will manage the volunteers at each Project ensuring they are trained, supported and on-message with FoodCycle strategy, ensuring that volunteers are confident enough to self-organise and make a success of their Projects.​

You will have experience of programme planning, delivery and development including community led/owned programmes. You will have experience of building relationships with a range of stakeholders and be passionate about food and cooking.​

There will be frequent travel to our projects in Yorkshire and The Humber, with some evening and weekend work needed to cover our projects. A full driving license and access to a vehicle for work purposes is essential for this rewarding role.​

Benefits: We offer 26.5 days holiday plus bank holidays, and additional holiday for length of service (pro-rata for part-time). Our healthcare package allows staff to claim money back on healthcare bills and includes access to telephone counselling and online GP appointments.​

How to apply:Please upload a CV of no more than two sides, and a covering note/letter of no more than two sides explaining why you are suitable for the role, via our vacancy website.​​

Deadline for your application:We will be shortlisting and interviewing for this post on an ongoing basis and the vacancy will close once we have found the successful candidate.  Please apply as soon as possible if interested, and no later than 11.59pm on Sunday 3rd May

Interview process: Shortlisted candidates will need to complete a 30 minute task prior to being invited to interview.​

Inclusivity: FoodCycle is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We are a Disability Confident Scheme member.​

Safeguarding: Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – FoodCycle is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare / wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk. This role will therefore require a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check.​

Please note that you will need to have existing Right to Work in the UK to apply for this role. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship.

About the Role

This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled line manager with experience in general welfare advice to join Sufra NW London. In this highly rewarding role, you will oversee the delivery of services that can measurably change lives by providing quality advice and support to those most in need. 

You will manage our team of advice staff and volunteers to deliver high quality advice, information and welfare support to guests on a range of topics including benefits, housing, debt and immigration issues. An additional focus will be on establishing clear pathways for referring guests to external services, and managing volunteers to triage, signpost and refer guests to other forms of welfare support.

The advice team consists of paid staff and support volunteers.  This year will be dedicated to consolidation of the service, ensuring that we are fulfilling our core mission to the highest standards.  We are also hoping to launch our immigration advice service, providing guests with a first point of contact for their immigration needs and smooth referral pathways to specialist advice.  Finally, our OpenARMs programme will be launching workshops for our refugee and asylum-seeker communities. 

You will work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, especially Head of Advice at Sufra to support the implementation of new initiatives, and the expansion of our information and advice services to enhance our efficiency and impact.

The post holder will be a highly articulate and proactive individual with good welfare advice knowledge, 3+ years delivery experience in managing a charity team, strong service management skills, as well as experience managing staff and volunteers. The ideal candidate will have up-to-date knowledge of the welfare system, immigration and safeguarding protocols. They must also have demonstrable experience using a case management system, adhering to advice standards and be able to manage a diverse workload and work under pressure. 

This is an immensely rewarding role working in a dynamic charity built on an ethos of sharing, hospitality and inclusivity. We are looking for an exceptionally committed individual who is willing to go the extra mile and has flexibility to work during evenings and weekends if necessary. As this is a frontline role, you will be required to work on site at least 2 days per week. 

We offer a wide range of employee benefits including:

Excellent annual leave entitlement 
Pension scheme
Employee Assistance Programme
Death in Service benefit 
Flexible working
Opportunities for training and professional development

Key Responsibilities

Advice Services

• Manage the advice service by overseeing and supporting volunteers and advice staff at our Community Wellbeing Service and Foodbank including setting objectives, managing performance and providing feedback during supervisions.
• Hold a small case load of advice guests, supporting them to achieve their aims
• Maintain a high quality service by ensuring that the advice team and volunteers are working to agreed standards and delivering against realistic grant agreements from funders.
• Use our case management software to report on cases and outcomes to support funding applications and remain compliant with funding needs.

Service Development

• Work with the Senior Leadership Team to develop, expand and improve Sufra’s information and advice services in alignment with our 2030 strategy.
• Carry out ongoing review of existing service delivery procedures.
• Undertake quality assurance including case checking and quality of advice audit.
• Identify the training needs of advice staff and volunteers through support, mentoring and supervisions.
• Ensure colleagues and relevant stakeholders are informed of changing legislation and social policy updates.
• Improve the case management systems to ensure it is fit for purpose.
• Work within the Advice Quality Standard (AQS) framework, ensuring that all policies and procedures are up to date for future assessments

Volunteer Management

• Develop, review and implement key policies and procedures to better equip Advice Volunteers to fulfil their role.
• Provide induction, support and supervision to enhance the quality standard of the service and contribute to the personal development of volunteers.
• Foster a positive working environment that maintains high morale and supports Advice Volunteer retention and regular participation.

Budgets, Monitoring & Evaluation

• Support the Senior Leadership Team in setting service budgets, updating policies, and monitoring spending in line with reporting and budgetary requirements.
• Ensure appropriate systems are maintained for recording statistics and outcomes.
• Provide regular and timely monitoring reports on service outputs, outcomes and expenditure.
• Collect regular feedback and conduct surveys from relevant stakeholders to inform ongoing improvements to the Advice Service.
• Contribute to strategic development by setting action plans in line with agreed Business Plans and keeping teams accountable to Action Plan goals.

Other

• Ensure the advice team are working in adherence to organisational policies and procedures.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties to support the operations of the charity. 

Age UK has an exciting opportunity to join their fantastic team in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire! (GL53 7LT).

We are recruiting for a Shop Manager to manage the day to day running of our Cheltenham Store.

As Shop Manager, you will manage our brilliant team of staff and volunteers, providing effective leadership, training, and development.

Utilising your previous experience and excellent managerial skills, you will help maximise store sales and profits while ensuring our customers and donors receive an excellent shop experience.

This opportunity offers an excellent benefits package as well as the chance to work within a valued team, all working to raise funds for a charity that provides vital services and support to older people across the UK.

If you have a passion for retail and would like to use your skills within a charity that supports thousands of older people across the UK, then this may be the role for you!

Due to the nature of this role, you will be required to handle/lift bags of stock (up to 10kgs.)

** PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A SIX MONTH FIXED TERM CONTRACT **

Please note this opportunity will require the successful candidate to work 35 hours across a 7-day working week, including Saturdays and Sundays on a rota basis.

To ensure the smooth running of our stores, we will be conducting interviews throughout the advertising process. Early applications are advised.

You will have:

• Experience in a performance driven retail/customer centric environment
• Experience of managing people
• Ability to lift and carry bags of stock up to 10kg's
• Ability to build, retain and develop a team
• Strong drive to achieve results through others
• Ability to delegate, coach and listen
• Ability to manage time under conflicting priorities
• Ability to motivate self and others
• An open and adaptable approach to change and be able to support others through it
• Experience of communicating with a diverse workforce and customer base
• Ability to establish and maintain successful retail processes and merchandising
• IT literacy and numeracy skills

What we offer in return:

• Competitive salary, 25 days annual leave (pro rata for our part-time colleagues) + bank holidays + annual leave purchase scheme
• Wellbeing days - 2 paid days per year (pro rata for our part-time colleagues)
• Excellent pension scheme, life assurance, Bupa health cashback plan and EAP
• Car Benefit scheme, Cycle to Work scheme
• Home & Tech - apply to buy any Home & Tech items from 'Currys' & 'IKEA', up to £1000, and spread the cost over 12 months, interest free.
• Blue Light Card scheme
• You Did It Awards - recognition awards from £100-250.

Additional Information

To comply with UK legislation, we cannot accept applications from candidates under the age of 18 as the successful candidate will be required to work on their own in the shop without the aid of other staff.

Supporting statements and anonymisation

Please submit a Word version of your CV as it will be anonymised by our recruitment system when you apply for a role. Our system is unable to anonymise supporting statements and heavily formatted CVs. Please could you remove any personal information including your name before you upload to support our inclusive recruitment process. All equalities monitoring information is also anonymised and not shared with the hiring panel. Your name and address will only be known to us if invited for interview.

Equal opportunities & Disability Confident Scheme

Age UK is an Equal Opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital/civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity. We guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria under the Disability Confident Scheme. Please note that on occasion, due to high numbers of applications, Age UK reserves the right to limit the overall number of interviews offered, and therefore, it may not always be practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people that meet the minimum criteria for the job.

Is this the job for you? We know that men, of all backgrounds, and men and women from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are currently under-represented in our workforce, and we want to change this! So, we are particularly keen to hear from applicants from these groups.

Reasonable adjustments

Disabled job seekers can access reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. All requests for reasonable adjustments are considered on a case-by-case basis, in collaboration with the disabled job seeker to best meet their needs, by contacting the Recruitment Team. Disability disclosures will be kept confidential and only shared on a need-to-know basis to support the implementation of adjustments. Disclosures will not be used to inform hiring decisions.

Age UK is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children, from abuse and neglect. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert at any time.

What is the main purpose of their role?

The Operations Manager sits within a team of six managers who are responsible for providing the strategic lead for all the activities of Suffolk Refugee Support. This is a senior operational role with responsibility for overseeing key programme areas including HR and facilities, volunteering, our ESOL provision and our International Women’s Group. The role will also oversee the development of SRS’s Client Partnership work, ensuring this is shaped through co-production with the clients we work with, supports strong external relationships, and is delivered through an effective, outcome-focused work plan. Working closely with staff, trustees, partners and clients, the postholder will contribute to the effective management and ongoing development of the organisation.

The role line manages a team of Officers and Coordinators responsible for specific programme areas, ensuring that the activities within their remit are effective, compliant and responsive, meeting both the charitable aims of SRS and the needs of the asylum seekers and refugees we support.

What will the job entail?

Among other responsibilties, you’ll be overseeing the function of the organisation and its strategic development by using knowledge of needs of clients, gaps in existing services and opportunities as they arise, working with the Management Team to agree funds required for services to be run and delivered, liaising with Trustees, developing and managing client focused activities, developing and managing operational areas of work and providing strategic and operational oversight to our Client Partnership work.

What you will need

• At least two years’ staff and project management experience in community, voluntary sector or social care settings; or other proven relevant management experience
• Experience of managing staff including delivery planning, performance monitoring, practising HR & disciplinary processes, and motivating positive work environments
• Experience of developing, managing and evaluating programmes to meet identified needs using imaginative ideas and making efficient use of restricted resources
• Experience of using/developing assessment tools to monitor service outputs and outcomes
• Knowledge of laws and policies applicable to Human Resources management
• Knowledge of safeguarding, data protection and equality good practice
• Strategic planning skills with the ability to work in conjunction with the Charity Manager and management team to agree plans of work for the whole organisation to maximise impact for clients
• Proficient in using all MS office applications and CRM or data management system, (experience with Charitylog or similar database platforms preferred)
• Conscientious, calm, and well-organised with the ability to keep the balance between short & long-term tasks/goals
• Proven ability to write concise and informative reports that are appropriate to the target audience, and which summarise a large amount of information
• A strong commitment to Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults
• Commitment to people in the asylum system and insight into their experiences
• Confident, friendly manner and the ability to put people at their ease
• Flexible approach and willingness to occasionally work outside the office in various settings and some evenings if needed (by agreement)

For the full list of essential criteria see the recruitment pack.

 About us

Suffolk Refugee Support aims to ensure that all asylum seekers and refugees in Suffolk are enabled to live integrated, fulfilled and contributing lives in their new communities. We provide a welcoming environment where clients can access help, advice, support and practical services in order to be healthy and safe and begin to rebuild their lives. We work with external agencies, community and voluntary sector organisations, health providers and others to enable our clients to access a range of support. We are based in Ipswich, but our services operate increasingly on location with refugees and asylum seekers housed in accommodation across Suffolk.