Volunteer youth support worker jobs

Would you like to make a lasting difference in the lives of children affected by domestic abuse? Join an award-winning trauma recovery service provider that is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children and families.

Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) is a lifeline for children healing from the trauma of domestic abuse and we’ve expanded our service into Oxfordshire.

We are looking for a Service Lead and a Support Worker to join our team on a fixed term contract to help guide children and families on their healing journey.

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Service Lead

Fixed term 12 months, full time – 37 hours per week, weekdays

Location: Oxford or Reading with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire.

Salary range: £35,502 to £43,389 per annum

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Support Worker

Fixed term 9 months, part time – 18.5 hours per week, weekdays.

Location: Oxford with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire area including Cherwell, West Oxfordshire and the wider Oxfordshire area.

Salary range: £13,254 - £16,199 pro-rata per annum (full time equivalent range £26,508 to £32,397 per annum) 

About the roles:

As a Service Lead you willplay a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· support our families through providing outreach support

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· lead a dedicated team of Support Workers

· ensure BB4K activities are planned, coordinated and deliver effectively and manage caseload across the team

As a Support Worker you willplay a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· complete assessments to understand the needs of families

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· support our families through providing outreach support

About you:

A successful Service Lead will have professional expertise in the field of domestic abuse and hold a qualification or professional experience in social care or childcare support work.

You’ll be experienced at managing a team with effective interpersonal skills to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders and colleagues. You’ll also have experience of working with vulnerable parents and/or children in a range of community settings and adept at delivering groupwork programmes.

A successful Support Worker will need a good understanding of domestic abuse and the impact on children and families (or an interest in working in this field), with experience of delivering groupwork programmes for vulnerable parents and/or children.

If 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.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with personal lived experience of domestic abuse or from underrepresented communities, who meet the essential role requirements.

For an informal discussion about the roles please see contact details for Luke Pepperell BB4K Manager on our website.

Closing date: Midday on Thursday 10 September 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:Family Support Worker, Family Key Worker, Children’s Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Key Worker, Recovery Worker, Assistant Support Worker, IDVA Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, ISVA Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, Family Support Team Leader, Family Key Worker Team Leader, Family Support Manager, Children’s Support Team Leader, Children’s Support Manager, Domestic Abuse Support Team Leader, Domestic Abuse Support Manager etc.

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.

Earliest Start Date: 2nd November 2026

Contract: 12 Months with Potential for Exentension

Job Title: Known internally as "Key Work Manager (Maternity Cover)"

Location: 30 Petworth Street, Battersea, SW11 4QW. The post will also involve working in the community so some local travel will be required.

Hours: 37.5 hours per week, including some evening & occasional weekend work

About the Role

As Key Work Manager you will lead on and oversee all Key Work activity at Carney’s Community. This includes undertaking key work yourself on a one to one basis with young people involved in the criminal justice system as well as managing a small team of key workers.

You will provide advice, practical support and befriending to a caseload of participants, aged 11-30, who are at risk of/involved in offending; to encourage and enable them to participate in Carney’s Community’s personal development opportunities and to access the wider services and support they may need in order to give them the best chances of being “the best they can be”. This will involve supporting young people to engage in positive and constructive activities, attend Youth Justice Service or Probation appointments and creating opportunities for their personal, social and emotional development

You will work alongside the employment support manager to plan and deliver the employment group, supporting participants that attend this group and leading specific employment programmes. As manager of the key work project you will oversee the small team of key workers, provide support, guidance and supervision. You will be involved in monitoring and reporting for the project, collecting feedback from participants. You will manage referrals to the project from other organisations including schools, social services, probation and the youth justice service.

About You:

You must have proven experience of working directly with young people in a youth work or key work setting, providing one to one support. You will have the ability to empathise and mediate for young people, a strong understanding of the local area, barriers facing young people, the interplay between material disadvantage, vulnerability and social exclusion and be highly skilled in diplomacy, professional distance, demonstrating empathy, boundaries and sound judgement. You will have experience managing other staff or volunteers.

About Carney’s Community

We support young people living in and around Wandsworth, targeting ages 11-30 facing extreme challenges including criminal justice system involvement or care experience. Carney’s works differently by providing long-term, consistent, unconditional support with empathy; a safe space and activities including boxing, bike workshops, employment support, studio sessions, mentoring and key work. Inspired by boxing legend Mick Carney, the charity was founded in his name after his passing in 2011, building on work led by our co-founders. We aim to create a “virtuous cycle”: while support is free of charge, we ask that when young people are ready, they channel the positivity they have received into others. As a result, many go on to volunteer, mentor, join our staff team or even set up their own community initiatives. Former participants make up the majority of our workforce. They provide the most authentic role models, people who genuinely understand the challenges our young people face and who show what is possible. For our young people we strive for equality and aim to: Improve Physical and Mental Health; Improve Education, Skills and Employability; Improve Community Engagement; Reduce Offending and Reoffending.

We’re an award-winning charity running local learning centres in the heart of the communities where the young
people we support live. Our centres provide a high-impact education programme which includes practical learning support, pastoral care, and motivational and confidence-building activities for young people aged 7-18. Our aim is to enable students from the least advantaged neighbourhoods to realise their ambitions and achieve their wonderful potential.

As the UK’s leading university access organisation, our staff team is helping over 60,000 young people each year at its 46 learning centres and extension projects across England and Scotland, and we plan to scale-up our provision to 50 centres over the coming years.

We are looking for graduates who will enjoy working each day with young people and who will thrive in a frontline, community-based, fast-paced and rewarding role. You will be taking up a permanent role as an Education Worker on IntoUniversity’s Graduate Scheme, helping to change the lives of young people.

We believe that our Graduate Scheme is one of the most exciting in the charity sector, an excellent career opportunity with exceptional training and hands-on experience, opportunities for promotion, and the chance to work with young people and colleagues who will challenge and inspire you.

The role at a glance

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Start date: As soon as possible

Application deadline : 9am Friday 11th September 2026

Interview day (online): Friday 18th September 2026

Please ensure you are available on these dates

Working hours
Mon and Thurs: 09:30-18:00
Tues, Weds, Fri: 09:00-17:30

(Some additional weekend & unsocial hours will be required)

Education Workers are based at one of our IntoUniversity learning centres and work directly with young people, schools and families on a daily basis. It is therefore not a hybrid role and is based full-time in our centres

Location

IntoUniversity Craigmillar

The role requires intermittent travel in your region (usually within the day). Periodic travel out of the area is also required e.g. to London, this may include occasional overnight stays. 

Salary

£29,050 per annum.

Annual leave
33 days (inc bank & public holidays) (pro rata for part-time staff) + 3 closure days (two in December and one in July) + additional length of service entitlement (one day per year of service, up to 5 days)

Join our Housing First team and make a lasting difference to people experiencing homelessness and multiple, complex needs. As a Housing First Worker, you will provide personalised, trauma-informed support to individuals in their own homes, helping them build independence and sustain long-term tenancies. You will develop person-centred support and safety plans, manage risk, work closely with partner agencies and build strong support networks around each resident. Using a compassionate, strengths-based approach, you will empower people to achieve their goals, connect with their communities and create lasting positive change.

Main Purpose Of Job:

The Housing First Worker is part of a small dynamic team delivering a personalised, trauma informed support service to people with complex needs facing multiple exclusions in line with Housing First principles to create long term sustainable tenancies by increasing independence and maximising connectivity with the local community.

Please use the link below to learn more about the principles of Housing First:

The Principles of Housing First | Homeless Link

Main Areas Of Responsibility:

• Deliver wrap-around intensive, trauma informed support to people with multiple and complex issues within their own independent tenancies.
• Maintain accurate up to date records of progress against individual support plans, safety plans and outcome information.
• Liaise with other agencies to facilitate access to support.
• Regularly review the person-centred support plan to update, record and monitor progress of caseload.
• Build and maintain networks with staff from other stakeholders building support around eacjh of our housing first residents.
• Adhere to good practice safeguarding procedures with a positive risk-taking approach to ensure the wellbeing of vulnerable people.
• Perform robust assessments of referrals for the service to ensure the service is provided to those that meet the eligibility criteria.
• Promote, and encourage peer involvement within the service.
• Complete dynamic risk assessments and maintain own safety by following lone working procedures.
• Comply with Homeless Oxfordshire’s policies and procedures.
• Contribute to a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are valued and staff are enabled to do their best.
• Contribute to the work of the broader team.

Safeguarding Statement:

Homeless Oxfordshire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all adults, children and young people who are at risk of harm and that come into contact with our services. We believe that all adults, children and young people have an equal right to protection from abuse, regardless of their age, race, religion, ability, gender, language, background or sexual identity and consider the wellbeing of the vulnerable adult, child or young person is paramount. As a result, we have a robust safeguarding policy to ensure everyone is treated fairly and a whistleblowing policy to enable people raise any concerns confidentially. We expect everyone (staff, trustees, associates, volunteers and anyone working on behalf of the Company) to share this commitment and read, understand and adhere to this policy and related procedures.

Equal Opportunities:

We employ people on the basis of their abilities. We strive to attract and develop talent that is representative of our residents and all sections of the society, and do not discriminate based on of age, faith, disability, race, gender, sexuality and socio-economic, regional or cultural background. If you are shortlisted and need us to make any adjustments to help you attend for interview, please let us know.

About Us:

We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!

What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate .

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

We’re looking for two Youth Workers (one Lead Youth Worker, and one Support Youth Worker) to plan, deliver and facilitate educational and social activities for separated children (up to 21 years old) in the context of an interactive youth club to be held weekly in partnership with Corner House Youth Project in Stockton-on Tees.

Although the Lead Youth Worker will prepare and deliver the materials, supported by the Support Youth Worker, they will also have the back-up of a Support Worker from Corner House and a social worker or personal advisor from Stockton-on-Tees Council.

Club Class is a long-standing project for The Separated Child Foundation, and Club Class in Stockton-on-Tees is a new location for us, launching as a 1-year pilot in October 2026.

We are looking for an experienced Regional Opperations Lead, to coordination all aspects of the StreetDoctors operations within the London Region and to ensure our programmes are fit for the future.

We are an award-winning national charity  which trains over 20,000 young people affected by street violence each year in emergency first-aid, through a team of 250 healthcare volunteers and youth workers. We empower young people with the skills to become part of the solution to violence by developing their skills and confidence to save lives and increasing their understanding of the medical and psychological consequences of violence.

As the StreetDoctors lead for the region, you will provide leadership in partnership development, volunteer management, the delivery of training and maintaining quality standards.
The key areas of focus include:

• To create, develop and maintain partnerships with a range of organisations including, funders, commissioners, community organisations, criminal justice organisations, education providers and youth organisations.
• To develop and manage engaged volunteers and youth workers and ensure their expectations are aligned to the organisation's objectives and provide the best volunteering experience possible.
• To deliver training and ensure the quantity and quality of projects meet the required targets and new opportunities are maximised.

At StreetDoctors we believe diversity supports innovation and creativity. We are committed to equality of opportunity, being inclusive, and being representative of the people we are here to support. We would therefore encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Young People Support Worker

We are seeking a compassionate and proactive Young People Support Worker to help young people overcome challenges and build greater independence.

Salary: £26,436 per year
Location: Warrington
Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: 6 September 2026

About the role

Join Depaul UK and become part of a supportive team working to create brighter futures for young people experiencing homelessness and other challenges.

As Young People Support Worker, you will provide practical and emotional support to young people who may have experienced homelessness, poor mental health, substance misuse or the care system. You will build positive relationships, develop tailored support plans and help young people develop the confidence, resilience and skills they need to move forward.

Key responsibilities include:

· Completing risk and needs assessments and developing outcome-focused support plans

· Providing one-to-one and group support to young people

· Supporting clients to access education, training, employment and volunteering opportunities

· Working with local agencies and statutory services to provide joined-up support

· Ensuring safeguarding, health and safety and emergency procedures are followed

· Encouraging young people to participate in decisions about their support and wider activities

· Preparing accommodation for new clients and supporting them to settle in

· Working collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers

· Participating in a rota that may include unsocial hours, weekends and lone working

About you

You will have experience of working with young people or people who have experienced homelessness, along with an understanding of some of the challenges they may face.

You will also have:

· An understanding of homelessness, mental health, substance misuse or the care system

· Knowledge of risk assessments and support planning

· A clear understanding of safeguarding requirements and procedures

· Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills

· The ability to build trusting relationships while maintaining professional boundaries

· A collaborative, flexible and reflective approach

· A commitment to equality, diversity, dignity and respect

About Depaul UK

Depaul UK works to end homelessness and change the lives of people affected by it. Established in 1989, the charity provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

You will join an inclusive and supportive organisation that believes in the potential of every person, with access to excellent training, ongoing support and opportunities to develop.

Benefits include 26 days' annual leave, rising with service, pension contributions of up to 7%, an Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access, a cash health plan, family-friendly policies, retail and lifestyle discounts and death-in-service benefit.

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment. Where required for the role, an appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be undertaken.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Support Worker, Young Person's Support Worker, Homelessness Support Worker, Housing Support Worker, Youth Support Worker, Key Worker, Project Worker, Residential Support Worker or Supported Housing Worker. #INDSCP

YOUTH WORKER  

OASIS NORTH BRISTOL

HOURS: FULL TIME

CONTRACT: 12 MONTH FIXED TERM CONTRACT (WITH VIEW TO EXTEND)

SALARY: £28,369 per annum

We have an exciting opportunity for a Youth Worker to join Oasis North Bristol. Our Youth Worker will work with young people and families across the community to develop positive activities which promote a sense of belonging.

We’re looking for an individual who has a passion for supporting young people and developing community led activities. The role will involve supporting young people and families in our local Oasis academies but also in the wider community, inspiring and enabling local people to be an active voice and developer in their local area.

The successful post holder must have:

· Good standard of basic education, including English and Maths Level 2

· Experience of youth work either as a volunteer or professionally

· Experience of managing and working with volunteers

· Ability to build long lasting, positive relationships with both young people and adults

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a growing national organisation, making a real difference to communities on a local level. As part of the package, Oasis offers:

· A pension scheme, currently offering 7% employer contribution

· A generous holiday allowance

· Working as part of a friendly, community-minded team of professionals

If you are interested in being part of this service, then please:

To apply, please send your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than two A4 pages) 

Please expand on your CV to tell us about relevant skills, experience and qualification you have, that relate to the job description and person specification.

Completed applications should be returned by 9am Tuesday 8th September 2026.

Interviews will take place Thursday 17th September 2026.

The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas. We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups. 

If you require assistance or adjustments to overcome potential barriers during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos.  We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1163889

Please note: Peabody is not a licensed UK sponsor and cannot offer visa sponsorship for this role

Make a Difference Every Day

We're looking for a Support Worker to join our Young People's Service, helping young people build the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to live independently.

You'll support young people who may be facing homelessness, disability, ill health, or social exclusion, empowering them to achieve their goals and create a positive future.

What You'll Be Doing

• Completing support plans, risk assessments, and regular reviews
• Helping young people develop everyday living skills such as budgeting, cooking, shopping, and managing a tenancy
• Supporting access to education, employment, training, and community services
• Working alongside external agencies to achieve positive outcomes
• Maintaining accurate records and safeguarding standards

What We're Looking For

• Experience supporting vulnerable people through work or volunteering
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• A caring, empathetic, and non-judgemental approach
• Confidence working independently, including lone working
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and case management systems

Why Join Peabody?

At Peabody, our values guide everything we do: Be Kind, Do the Right Thing, Love New Ideas, Celebrate Diversity, Keep Our Promises, and Pull Together.

What You'll Get

• 25 days annual leave
• Flexible benefits including healthcare, dental cover, and retail discounts
• Up to 10% pension contribution and 4x life assurance
• Learning and development opportunities, including funded apprenticeships
• Two paid volunteering days each year
• Family-friendly policies and a supportive team culture

Working Pattern

This is a full-time, onsite role. You'll work five days per week, including weekends and bank holidays, on a rota basis.

Shifts may include:

• Early mornings
• Evenings
• Sleep-in shifts

Flexibility is essential for this role.

Interview Information

We're reviewing applications and interviewing on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early.

In-person interviews will take place in Witham on 7th, 8th and 11th September 2026.

Important Information

• Enhanced DBS check required
• Successful candidates will be required to undertake regular sleep-in shifts
• Peabody is not a licensed UK sponsor and cannot offer visa sponsorship for this role

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Mental Health Care Service in Newham. No personal care or experience required, just the right values.

£30,784.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel valued? You'll feel at home here.

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

Our benefits include:

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

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

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead .

Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and creating a positive atmosphere
Carrying out holistic assessments of new customers which incorporate relevant statutory referral information
Conducting regular key work sessions that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
Create support plans for providing appropriate services based on on-going assessment and reflecting the services and resources available to enable customer to progress in their recovery
Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking
Provide support and access to relevant services to enable customers to continue their recovery and empower customers to self-manage their medication regimes through individual re-enablement programmes and informed decision making
Undertake support work in partnership with external stakeholders to compliment their interventions
Developing productive relationships with partner organisations to improve service outcomes
Demonstrate strong commitment to the functioning of the staff team and to support colleagues in providing a high level of service and safety to customers
Involving customers in the design, development and delivery of the service

About you:

Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour
Prefers working as part of a group or team
Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments
Is confident with high levels of self-esteem
Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication
Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude
Ability to cope positively with challenging and diverse behaviour

What you'll bring:

Essential:

NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent with some or equivalent sector work experience

Desirable:

A good understanding of mental health issues and how it affects people and experience of supporting customers to manage this and lead independent lives.

About us:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please see our website for full job description

Youth Impact Advert

x2 posts available

Permanent with funding until 31st March 2027

16 hours per week

£11,931.43 pro-rata

Location: Bedfordshire

Benefits include but not limited to:

-36 days' annual leave (pro rata for part time roles), inclusive of flexible bank holidays, increasing with length of service

-Enhanced maternity/paternity leave

-We match up to 8% pension

-Free counselling service

-Opportunities to develop and widen your skills

-2 days of paid volunteering time per annum to support another part of the organisation

About us:The Children's Society has been helping children and young people in this country for over 140 years. We deliver essential local services that provide safe, trusted support to children and young people during times of significant need.

Our Youth Impact domain creates impact for children and young people. With highly skilled and experienced staff working across England and Wales, we provide direct support to children, young people, parents and carers, as well as conduct research and influence Government to make changes. We also provide training for professionals. Our value driven team change the lives of children in this country for the better — and with your help and expertise, tomorrow we can support even more.

About the role:You'll play a key part in our Bedfordshire Youth Service, including working as part of a team in the youth centres, delivering activity based sessions, carrying out detached work in the community, providing support within schools alongside structured one-to-one support.

We're looking for a dedicated youth worker with direct experience of working with children and young people, either in a professional or voluntary capacity who is passionate about making a real impact in the lives of children and young people.

Key skills and experience:

The required skills and competencies for this role are:

-Direct experience of working with children and young people on a one-to-one basis and in group work settings, in either a professional or voluntary capacity.

-Ability to build positive relationships with children and young people whilst maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

-Strong understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable children and young people, including those with complex or additional needs.

-Commitment to the values and principles of youth work, with a strong focus on safeguarding, promoting welfare, and supporting positive outcomes for children and young people.

It would also be an advantage if you have any of the following skills and competencies:

-Experience of developing inclusive practice that promotes participation, equality, and belonging for all children and young people.

-Experience within a related field, such as Youth Work, Social Care, Family Support, Youth Justice, Education, Early Help, or a comparable role supporting children, young people, and families.

Closing date: Midnight on Tuesday 1st September 2026Interviews: Date to be confirmed

The Children's Society is committed to safeguarding and protection of the children and young people we work with. As such, our safer recruitment process includes a Basic or Enhanced DBS check, 5 years of references, and additional vetting checks relevant to the role. We have a comprehensive range of policies and procedures in place to promote safeguarding and safer working practices across all areas of our organisation.In support of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, shortlisting is carried out on an anonymised basis. Personal details are hidden from the shortlisting panel, and candidates are referenced by a candidate number only. As part of this process, we ask that your CV is anonymised before submission - this means removing personal information such as your name, contact details, age, and any other identifying details.

AI tools can support your application but only when used appropriately. You're welcome to use them to improve clarity, structure, and research. However, overuse or misuse (e.g. inventing experience or using AI during assessments) may lead to rejection at any stage. We want to hear the real you - authenticity matter

Rural Refugee Network (RRN) is a small local charity in East Hampshire, Havant and Portsmouth, working alongside refugees and people seeking asylum through the work of six board members, thirty operational volunteers, one part-time permanent employee and a small bank of project staff and contractors. The charity is widely recognised by stakeholders and the local community for sensitively and effectively addressing the many challenges people arriving in the UK face as they strive to resettle and thrive in our community.

RRN is seeking an experienced Head of Operations to lead its support for refugees and people seeking asylum. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a small charity through a period of significant change, with overall operational responsibility for the charity, including partnerships, funding, coordination of delivery, safeguarding and compliance. 

Working directly with a range of stakeholders and beneficiaries, the ideal candidate for this complex and high trust role will be self-reliant, adaptable, and able to engage and influence through excellent face-to-face and online communication skills. This is a genuinely flexible role, with significant autonomy over when and where work is undertaken. There will be regular opportunities for in-person team management and relationship-building, alongside substantial flexibility in how the wider working week is structured and where work is carried out. We are looking for someone who is confident working independently, manages their own time effectively and values the trust and responsibility that come with this level of autonomy.

A candidate who is energised by working flexibly and sensitively with a small team will thrive in this role, which offers the opportunity to make a direct and meaningful impact on people’s lives.

Experience in the refugee sector is desirable.

Deadline: 5pm Monday 21 September

To apply, please send your CV and a supporting statement of not more than 2 sides, explaining your motivation, reflecting on how you would approach being RRN’s only core employed leader, and demonstrating your fit against the specification below. Please use the email subject heading “Head of Operations Application”. Unfortunately, we are unable to respond to all applications.

Job Description

Title: Rural Refugee Network Head of Operations

Reports to:  Board of Trustees

Hours:  Part-time (0.5 FTE, negotiable). Permanent contract.

Salary range: £40,000 - £45,000 FTE depending on experience.

Benefits: 25 days plus bank holidays (pro rata to hours agreed). 3% employer pension contribution.

Location and expectations: Flexible hybrid working with frequent travel to projects, events and stakeholder meetings in Portsmouth, Havant, Petersfield and the wider Hampshire area. Occasional evening and weekend in-person working required.

Purpose: To lead the day-to-day operation, development and sustainability of Rural Refugee Network, working with trustees, volunteers, funders and partner organisations to ensure refugees and asylum seekers receive practical support and RRN maintains compliance and operational sustainability.

About the role:. 

In this small charity, the Head of Operations combines operational coordination, programme oversight, partnership development and income generation, with delivery shared across volunteers, trustees and contracted staff.The role offers a high degree of autonomy and flexibility, alongside the opportunity to shape how the organisation works and develops. It requires strong judgement in balancing opportunities, risks and priorities within limited capacity, and the confidence to work independently while bringing others with you.

RRN is volunteer-led, and the Head of Operations is the organisation’s only permanent employee, holding overall coordination and accountability for day-to-day operations. This is therefore a broad, high-trust role: rather than delivering everything directly, you will enable and coordinate others, working closely with trustees, volunteers and contractors who deliver significant elements of the activity you lead.

The role will suit someone who enjoys variety, autonomy and a flexible working pattern, and who is comfortable taking ownership while knowing when to collaborate, delegate or seek support.

Key responsibilities:

Leadership, coordination and partnerships

• Deliver agreed strategic objectives and support trustees in developing future priorities.

• Prepare quarterly Board reports.

• Coordinate relationships with statutory, voluntary and community partners.

• With the support of trustees, represent the charity in local forums, develop opportunities for collaboration and promote RRN in the local community.

Programme and volunteer coordination

• Provide oversight of funded and core programmes.

• Recruit, train and manage project staff (currently two youth workers) and contracted/sessional staff.

• Recruit, train, support and retain volunteers.

• Oversee referral pathways and access.

• Support volunteer-led communications activity including website, newsletters, social media, impact reports and case studies.

Income development and funding

• Write grant applications and manage reporting requirements (with volunteer/trustee input).

• Maintain and develop funding pipeline and actively develop new funding streams.

• Support relationship-building with donors and community supporters.

Finance and compliance 

• Monitor programme budgets, working with the Treasurer.

• Support trustees in governance, reporting and compliance responsibilities.

• Maintain organisational policies and procedures.

• Lead safeguarding practice and reporting, acting as Designated Safeguarding Lead and ensuring policies are implemented by staff, volunteers, and contractors.

• Maintain oversight of organisational risk, compliance with Charity Commission, data protection, employment requirements and insurance arrangements.

• Ensure appropriate administrative systems are in place and followed, including maintaining up-to-date records in the CRM, Lamplight.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential

• Substantial experience managing programmes or services in the charity/social impact sector, including line management, budgeting and financial oversight, and grant compliance/reporting.

• Strong partnership-building and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Experience leading and recruiting volunteer teams. 

• Deep understanding of safeguarding and compliance and recent experience leading safeguarding practice and decision-making. Up to date on requirements and best practice.

• Ability to work independently, exercising sound judgement about what trustees need to know and when, and to prioritise effectively within limited capacity and competing demands.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, IT proficiency.

Desirable

• Experience working with refugees, asylum seekers or other vulnerable groups.

• Understanding of immigration, integration or resettlement issues.

• Successful fundraising and bid-writing experience. 

• Experience of local authority commissioning or grant funding.

• Comfort and experience in IT, data and/or CRMs.

RRN is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. Appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check, including a check of the relevant barred list, two satisfactory references, including your most recent employer, and safer recruitment practice including verification of employment history and a right to work check. RRN is unable to sponsor work visas, so applicants must already have the right to work in the UK.

Senior Youth Worker
Are you passionate about helping young people thrive? YMCA St Helens is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Youth Worker to support the delivery of high-quality youth work programmes for young people aged 11-25. The role involves leading activities, supporting staff and volunteers, championing youth voice, and ensuring young people have access to safe, engaging and supportive opportunities.

Working closely with the Youth Services Development Manager, you will help coordinate youth provision across St Helens, lead projects, monitor impact, build partnerships and promote high standards of safeguarding and youth work practice.


We're looking for someone with:

• A degree-level Youth Work qualification or equivalent experience.
• Significant experience delivering youth work programmes.
• Experience supporting or supervising staff and volunteers.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding and youth participation.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• The ability to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends.

Why join YMCA St Helens?
Join a values-driven organisation that believes in creating opportunities for young people to connect, grow and flourish. You'll be part of a supportive team making a genuine difference across the borough.

YMCA St Helens is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Closing date 11-09-2026

Remote (Surrey and surrounding areas) | 18 – 24 hours

£27,500 pro rata | Flexible working | Real impact

Are you kind, caring and professional – the sort of person who listens deeply, holds space for others, and wants to make a real difference?

At Jigsaw South East, we support children and young people who are facing or coping with the death of a loved one. We’re looking for a compassionate and confident Grief Support Worker to join our small, dedicated team.

In this role, you’ll:

• Support families one-to-one and in groups, both pre- and post-bereavement
• Hold meaningful (and sometimes tough) conversations with warmth and sensitivity
• Help children feel less alone in their grief, and families feel more connected
• Contribute to our PIECES group programme, helpline, and referral process

This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to walk alongside people at one of the hardest points in their lives and offer light, steadiness and support.

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• A warm, person-centred approach
• Experience working with children and families
• Emotional resilience and a strong sense of purpose
• The ability to travel across Surrey and attend some evening/weekend sessions

We offer:

• Flexible working
• TOIL and supervision
• Ongoing training and personal growth
• A supportive, values-led team who genuinely care

If you believe in the power of kindness and want to help children feel seen, safe and supported, we’d love to hear from you.

View our recruitment pack for more information including a full job description and person specification: