Volunteering support officer jobs

Job Title: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Contract/ Hours: 35hrs per week

Salary: £55,000

Leave entitlement: 25 days

About The People Hive

The People Hive is an ambitious local charity creating real opportunities for adults with a learning disability across Richmond and the surrounding areas. From our vibrant community hub in Twickenham, we deliver creative, social and developmental activities that help people connect, grow and thrive.

We also run a public gallery that showcases local artists, generates vital income and provides paid work experience for our clients. Our impact was recognised when we were shortlisted for the Richmond Community Heroes Awards 2025, and we are now exploring exciting opportunities for future growth and expansion.

The Role

This is a great opportunity to lead a respected, values-led charity at a pivotal moment in its journey. As Chief Executive Officer, you will set the strategic direction of The People Hive, lead a passionate team of staff and volunteers, and act as the public face of the organisation.

Working closely with the Board of Trustees and key partners, you will help shape the charity’s future, strengthen its sustainability and ensure it continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities.

How to Apply

We recognise that talented people may hesitate to apply if they don’t meet every listed requirement. If this role inspires you and you believe you could be a strong fit, we encourage you to apply. Your skills, experience and perspective may be exactly what we’re looking for.

Applications close on Friday February 27th 2026.

Events Officer
Working Hours: Min of 30 hrs up to 37 hours per week 
Salary: 28,050 to  31,000 per annum 
Contract: 12 months Good opportunity for role to become permanent in future.
Location: Hatfield Office/Hybrid - Candidates must have a full driving license and use of own vehicle for business purposes

Herts Young Homeless is an independent charity and has been supporting vulnerable people in Hertfordshire since 1998. We are professional, passionate, collaborative and supportive charity that provides guidance to everyone who is in need of support.

We are looking for dedicated and passionate Events Officer to join our team based in Hatfield!

How will you make a difference? 

Manage, develop and evaluate an engaging programme of events fundraising, and support the Community Fundraising Officer when delivering local events to raise a target income of £90k . Support groups and individuals organising fundraising events and activities on behalf of hyh. To support the development and delivery of the Communications Plan.

What can we offer you?

• A supportive and inclusive work environment
• 25 days annual leave per annum (in addition to Bank Holidays & Public Holidays)
• Holiday purchase scheme 
• People's Pension Plan contribution
• Group Life Insurance plan
• Opportunities for personal and career development
• Hybrid working - option to work from home to be agreed with line manager
• An additional annual leave day on your Birthday
• Monthly draws to win ‘lunch on your manager’ or ‘leave work early’
• Medicash – A healthcare cash plan offering cash back on a range of healthcare related treatments including optical, dental and complementary treatments.  Unlimited access to a 24/7 health and stress related helpline and discounted gym memberships. 

What will you be doing? 

Contribute to hyh’s overall Fundraising strategy as a member of the Fundraising Team
 

• Identify, develop and support existing and new community and events fundraising activities to increase and generate significant net income and supporter engagement
• Provide excellent donor care for all fundraising activities, to develop productive and lasting relationships with the community and convert them into loyal supporters
• Assist the Head of Fundraising & Communications  in the development and delivery of hyh’s Events and Communications Plans
• Update donor CRM databases and website

If you are open, big hearted, passionate, conscientious and take pride in doing a job well, then we would love to hear from you!

Please apply via the link on the vacancy found on our website submitting a cover letter  or a short video along with your CV . If you require any adjustments to support your application please let us know and we will be happy to help where we can.Closing Date 2nd March 2026.  Interviews to be held on Tuesday 17th March 2026.  Potential start by end of April 2026.

Equal Opportunities

We treat everyone with equal dignity and respect, and promote equal opportunity for all and challenge any behaviour or practice which discriminates against any person on the grounds of race, colour, sex, marital status, religion or belief, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or any other perceived difference.

hyh strives to be an equal opportunities and inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Our promise to you
Herts Young Homeless promises to act with the upmost integrity and respect when it comes to handling your data and will not share your details with any other client without 1) discussing the opportunity with you first and 2) without your verbal or written consent for us to do so.

Our vision

Better nature for all. A future where everyone can experience, enjoy, protect and restore the natural world.

How is Finance a part of this vision

- Every pound invested in TCV delivers at least ten pounds in social, environmental and health benefits.
- Green social prescribing returns two pounds and forty two pence for every pound invested.

The central finance team works in partnership with TCV departments providing impact driven and robust monitoring and reporting. As a charity we ensure we are sustainable and efficient with strong governance and financial resilience.

The role

This is an exciting new role to work closely with the Finance Director and finance team. We are looking for a finance manager who can provide robust financial controls and reporting to help ensure we maximise our impact and make every penny count.

You will
- Lead on the preparation of monthly management accounts.
- Ensure compliance with controls and charity finance regulations.
- Ensure accuracy and timely reconciliations, forecasts, restricted funds analysis and budgets.
- Assist with the annual audits and statutory accounts preparation.
- Prepare VAT and Gift aid claims.
- Support teams with grant reporting.

A key part of this role will be building strong relationships and engaging with budget holders to guide them through financial principles and controls and create impactful reporting solutions.

About you

We are looking for someone who will bring:
- A recognised finance qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) or relevant experience.
- Experience managing charity or non-profit finances.
- Strong financial analysis and reporting skills.
- Excellent communication and influencing ability, you can explain numbers in plain English.
- A genuine passion for making a difference through your work.

Why Join Us?
- Work for a cause that matters, every pound helps change lives.
- Join a supportive, ambitious, and friendly team.
- Enjoy flexible hybrid working and a culture that values balance and wellbeing.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Hybrid working with at least 2 days a week in Doncaster - Gresley House.
Hours negotiable: 28 - 35 hours per week.

To fulfil the role, you must be resident in the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

Join an amazing charity that makes a difference for the 110,000 adults and children in the UK with a muscle-wasting condition. This is a role where you can really make a difference.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups including people from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with lived experience of conditions we represent. We believe that diversity strengthens our work and helps us better support our beneficiaries.

The Community Fundraising Officer is an exciting role at MDUK, that will sit within the Fundraising Team. 

In Community Fundraising we are the team that builds relationships with our supporters, families, and event participants to fundraise so that MDUK can continue to find treatments and ultimately cures through research, and to drive improvements in care and quality of life. 

About You: 

You'll be an integral member of the Events and Community Fundraising Team.

You'll work closely with a team of field-based colleagues providing support, ensuring the growth of income and development of long-term relationships with supporters.

You'll need to travel within the region. 

You'll be required to meet with our supporters, the wider team and assist at events throughout the year (this may include some evenings and weekends)

Values and behaviours:

​

• A positive attitude and approach that reflect the charity’s values.
• Seek opportunities to contribute to the development of the charity.
• A commitment to and an understanding of disability issues, equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Always demonstrate role model behaviour.

About us:

Muscular Dystrophy UK is the charity bringing individuals, families and professionals together to fight muscle-wasting conditions. We bring together more than 60 rare and very rare progressive muscle-weakening and wasting conditions, affecting around 110,000 children and adults in the UK. 

We share expert advice and support to live well now; fund ground-breaking research to understand the different conditions better and lead us to new treatments; work with the NHS towards universal access to specialist health; and together, campaign for people’s rights, better understanding, accessibility, and access to treatments.

Benefits:

We appreciate the range of skills and experience our staff have to offer. In return for your enthusiasm and commitment we commit to actively developing and supporting you. We also offer a range of benefits including pension, life assurance, cycle scheme, health cash plan, financial wellbeing and an employee assistance programme.

Location: This role is home based within the West Midlands, Wales and South West region and travel will be required across this region with occasional travel to Head Office based London, SE1

Closing date: 27th February 2026 

Please download the job description to see full role responsibilities

Project Trust is an education charity with over fifty years’ experience in international volunteering for young people.  We organise challenging, long-term placements for 17–25-year-olds with partnership organisations in Africa, Asia and the Americas.

We annually select up to 200 young people from across the UK for sustainable teaching and youth development projects around the world.  Our Volunteers are provided with training and support before, during and after their international placements, and return home with broadened horizons and an impressive range of transferable skills, true Global Citizens.

We are looking for a talented and versatile Volunteer & Schools Engagement Coordinator to recruit and support Volunteers for our immersive and focused international placements.  This is an exciting role for a motivated self-starter with excellent communication skills to work with inspirational young people from across the UK, enabling them to achieve their dream of an international volunteering placement.

The successful candidate will be a highly organised individual with the ability to build and maintain relationships with schools and with young people.  We are looking for an inspiring public speaker who is able to engage with and motivate young people to support the recruitment, retention and fundraising efforts of our future Volunteers.

The role is home-based and will involve travel throughout England, including overnight stays, plus some travel to meetings elsewhere in the UK. There will be the occasional requirement to work evenings and weekends.

Main areas of responsibility include:

• Recruit Volunteer candidates through delivery of inspiring presentations within schools, youth organisations and careers fairs
• Develop relationships with partner organisations within the education and youth sectors
• Support and co-ordinate Returned Volunteers in the delivery of school talks
• Be a point of contact and support for young people at application, selection and throughout fundraising activities

Responsibilities & duties

• Recruit Volunteer candidates through the delivery of inspiring presentations in schools and youth organisations, in-person and online
• Engage and support fundraising Volunteers, offering practical advice, guidance and monitoring of fundraising progress
• Represent Project Trust at career and recruitment fairs
• Develop and maintain relationships with partnership organisations within the education and youth sectors
• Support and co-ordinate Returned Volunteers in the delivery of school talks
• Be a point of contact and support for young people throughout the application, selection and fundraising process
• Maintain accurate and up to date records on our CRM database
• Participate in the selection, training and debriefing of Volunteers

Qualifications & skills

Essential

• Commitment to Project Trust’s purpose, approach, ethos
• Excellent planning and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise workload and manage time effectively
• Proven ability to deliver presentations to a range of stakeholders, including young people, with an ability to motivate and inspire others
• Experience of working effectively with and developing young people in a variety of settings, eg schools, youth and community groups
• Ability to work autonomously on own initiative and as part of a remote, multi-disciplinary team
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, written and verbal, and ability to communicate with a range of audiences
• Excellent customer service skills, with a commitment to providing an outstanding service to Volunteers and third parties
• Excellent administrative skills, able to keep accurate and up to date records and produce reports
• Good judgement and decision-making skills with the ability to work under pressure
• Working knowledge of Microsoft packages and a variety of social media platforms
• Ability to travel within a designated region of the UK and to other parts of the UK as required
• Ability to work remotely from an appropriate home base
• Willingness to undertake work outside standard office hours
• A full clean driving licence and use of a vehicle

Desirable

• Experience of working and/or living in an international environment
• Qualification in working with young people, or demonstrable equivalent experience
• Knowledge and understanding of the voluntary and charitable sector
• Experience in marketing or sales
• Experience of running small projects
• Experience in using a CRM database

Conditions of Service

The appointment will be made subject to Project Trust’s detailed terms and conditions of employment. Candidates should be aware that:

• The post holder will be required to obtain an enhanced Disclosure Scotland check (PVG)
• Any offer of appointment will be made subject to the receipt of satisfactory references
• The post holder must have the right to work in the UK

If you are passionate about youth development and want to use your skills, knowledge and experience to change the world, apply now.

Cardiomyopathy UK is the only UK charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cardiomyopathy. We provide clinical information, emotional support, and work to influence policy and practice so that everyone affected by cardiomyopathy receives timely diagnosis, high-quality care, and support.

Our established Change Maker volunteer network brings together people with lived experience of cardiomyopathy who share their stories and the expertise it provides to advocate for meaningful policy and practice change. Change Makers contribute in a range of ways, from running awareness raising activities and supporting social media campaigns to engaging with MPs. Their work helps drive improvements in care pathways, raise public understanding of cardiomyopathy and provide valuable input into Cardiomyopathy UK’s policy development.

As the network enters its next phase, we are seeking a skilled and passionate Freelance Senior Advocacy Officer to help take it forward.

Role Purpose

The Freelance Senior Advocacy Officer will lead the growth and development of our Change Maker network, ensuring volunteers are supported, empowered, and equipped to influence change at local, regional, and national levels. In this role, you will work closely with the Policy Manager to design and implement a strategic plan for the network, and provide the training, tools and resources our volunteers need to advocate effectively. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in advocacy, campaigns or volunteer engagement, along with strong project management skills.

As a 0.4 FTE freelance role, responsibilities will be phased and prioritised over the course of the contract. 

Please see the job description and person specification for further details.

Icon, the Institute of Conservation, is looking for an experienced and collaborative Groups and Public Programmes Lead to help us empower our volunteer community and bring the value of heritage conservation to wider audiences.

Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, this new role will support Icon’s volunteer-led specialist Groups, helping deliver inspiring events, talks, training and activities that celebrate and share widely the importance of conservation.

You’ll develop and lead Icon’s public engagement programme – creating partnerships with charities, schools and community organisations, coordinating studio visits and workshops, and championing opportunities for conservators to connect with new audiences. You’ll also design and deliver volunteer training, support Group committees, and line‑manage our Groups & Public Programmes Administrator.

We’re looking for someone with experience delivering creative or cultural programmes, supporting volunteers, and managing partnerships. Strong communication, organisational skills and a passion for heritage are essential.

Icon is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Edward's Trust is seeking a values-led Chief Executive to build on recent stabilisation and lead the charity into its next phase of sustainable impact.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected bereavement charity supporting parents, children and young people across the West Midlands.

Edward's Trust provides specialist counselling and holistic wellbeing support to families experiencing profound and often complex grief. Our work is rooted in compassion, integrity and a deep respect for the individuality of every person we support.

We are now looking for a Chief Executive who can combine emotional intelligence with strategic clarity and hands-on leadership. Working closely with a committed Board and skilled staff team, the successful candidate will guide the organisation confidently through a challenging funding landscape while protecting the quality and integrity of our services.

This is a senior, visible role with real autonomy and influence. Key priorities include strengthening income resilience, leading income generation activity, nurturing partnerships, and embedding a shared strategic direction across the organisation. The role requires a leader who is comfortable holding complexity and uncertainty, and who understands the responsibility of working within emotionally demanding services.

We welcome applications from experienced leaders within the charity, health or social care sectors, as well as those ready to step into a Chief Executive role. Flexible and part-time working arrangements are welcomed, including 0.8 FTE.

Full details, including the role profile, priorities and how to apply are available in the recruitment pack.

At ELHAP, we provide adventure play to hundreds of children and young people with disabilities from across East London and Essex. 

We have an exciting opportunity to join our growing fundraising team as we look toward the charity's 50th anniversary in 2026.

The ELHAP Volunteer and Community Events Officer will play a pivotal role in enabling ELHAP to achieve its goals - helping us to reach more supporters and raise vital funds through volunteering partnerships and community fundraising events. You’ll be at the heart of building relationships, creating impact, and driving income that directly transforms the support available for children and young people with disabilities.

Reporting to the Fundraising Manager, the Volunteer and Community Events Officer will be the driving force behind volunteer recruitment, ensuring ELHAP has a thriving network of passionate, well-supported volunteers who feel valued and are making meaningful contributions to our mission. You'll manage the complete volunteer journey - from attraction and onboarding through to retention and recognition - creating rewarding experiences that keep volunteers engaged and motivated.

Alongside volunteer management, you'll take the lead in planning and executing fundraising events that bring our community together, raise vital funds, and celebrate ELHAP's work. You'll also support individuals, groups, schools, and businesses undertaking their own fundraising challenges on our behalf.

This is a hands-on role perfect for someone who thrives on building relationships, loves bringing people together, and can juggle multiple projects with creativity, energy, and excellent organisational skills. You'll work collaboratively across the team to ensure every volunteer interaction and event strengthens ELHAP's presence and impact in the community.

This is a highly rewarding position for a creative and dynamic individual to make a genuine difference to families of children and young people with disabilities from across East London and Essex. 

Ideally, you will bring the following to the role:

• Experience in event planning and delivery, ideally within a charity or community setting
• Experience in fundraising activities or supporting fundraising campaigns
• Experience of volunteer recruitment, management, or community engagement
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices in a youth or community setting.
• Exceptionally well organised with strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Warm, personable, and approachable and able to build strong relationships with volunteers, supporters, and community partners.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences
• Warm, personable, and approachable with a genuine passion for community engagement and volunteering
• Proactive, solution-focused approach with a "can-do" attitude and ability to work independently.
• Confident and adaptable, comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
• Collaborative team player committed to building positive working relationships and supporting colleagues
• High level of integrity and commitment to ELHAP's values and mission
  
   

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974; the successful applicants will be expected to undertake satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosures. ELHAP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

ELHAP Charity Registration No: 1077508. ELHAP is an equal opportunities employer.

We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Church Buildings Support Officer to help secure the long‑term, sustainable future of our historic church buildings—places of worship, community, culture, and heritage. In this vital role, you'll support congregations and community volunteers in caring for their buildings and championing their use for mission, ministry, and wider community benefit.

You will work across the Diocese to provide expert advice on building maintenance, heritage conservation, project management, funding, and community engagement—ensuring these unique buildings remain active, cared for, and sustainable for generations to come.

21 Hours per week to be worked over Monday to Friday, with some occasional evening and weekend meetings

Location

Hybrid – with regular travel to shops and centres within Nottinghamshire region. Post holders expected to be working flexibly across their community 4 days out of 5, within minimum 1 day per week from our Nottinghamshire Centre – and attend regular team meetings in an agreed location.

Due to the scope and nature of the role, you will need to live within, or in close proximity to, Nottinghamshire. You will be required to have a valid driving license and access to a car to enable you to travel freely across the area without reliance on public transport.

Salary: £27,000 per annum

Hours: 35 hours per week (with occasional weekend and evening work as and when the role requires)

Role Purpose: 

You will be responsible for Community, Events and local Corporate fundraising across the Nottinghamshire Region. You will deliver excellent stewardship to supporters and volunteers and develop relationships with key local contacts who can help to further Jerry Green Dog Rescue’s mission.

You will collaborate with colleagues across the wider charity to ensure you are offering the best possible supporter experience. You will attend local events with, and through, volunteers, work with colleague in our retail sites, and spot other opportunities to promote Jerry Green Dog rescue in your community and drive support for our work.

Key Relationships:

Internal Contacts

· Wider fundraising team

· Marketing team

· Retail team

· Operations team

External contacts

· Supporters

· Volunteers

Key Outputs & Tasks:

Community Fundraising

- Identify, engage and steward individual and group supporters, developing strategies to promote fundraising activities and grow income from your local area.

- Proactively pursue local business partnership opportunities, developing a pipeline of potential corporate support and making applications to secure support.

- Provide high quality stewardship of individual supporters, groups and businesses within the community, responding to enquiries in a timely way and ensuring relationships are developed and maintained at a high standard.

- Represent Jerry Green Dog Rescue as the first point of contact within the community for Nottinghamshire, promoting our mission, vision, and values alongside fundraising and volunteering opportunities.

- Ensure that the fundraising CRM is up-to-date and develop regular reporting mechanisms to inform the Volunteering and Community Fundraising Manager of outputs and results, and support understanding of local audiences.

- Act as a champion for fundraising compliance across the organisation, ensuring adherence to relevant legislative requirements.

Volunteering

- Work with the Volunteering and Community Fundraising Manager and Volunteering Assistant to recruit, induct and train volunteers to support fundraising and other relevant initiatives in the local community.

- Work collaboratively with the wider organisation to recognise and celebrate volunteers that support the charity.

Other duties

- Contribute content for marketing communications including; social media, newsletters, local media to support marketing objectives and increase our engagement with potential supporters.

- Keep up to date with sector trends and developments in community fundraising and volunteering.

- Work collaboratively and purposefully with your team and the wider department and organisations to build strong working relationships and to be an internal ambassador for Fundraising and Marketing.  

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

· A target-driven and tenacious professional with some experience in community or corporate fundraising, or a similar role with transferable skills in relationship building.

· Entrepreneurial, with a drive to seek out new opportunities to drive income generation and pursue them with a continual eye on hitting KPIs and targets.

· A positive approach to your work and supporting your colleagues to achieve shared objectives.

· Knowledgeable about your local community.

· Organised, with a keen eye for detail and a confidence in managing competing priorities effectively.

· A credible and clear communicator, with a love for building relationships with charity supporters.

· A willingness to travel across the Nottinghamshire region, and to attend face-to-face meetings with your team as required.  

How you’ll work in line with our Values:

Jerry Green Dog Rescue upholds the organisational Values of Kindness, Compassion, Honesty & Purposefulness in all our work.

Kindness – You will treat all your colleagues, supporters and volunteers with respect and kindness, and contribute to a supportive working environment.

Compassion – You will act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting our mission to rehome dogs in need. You will ensure that you work in a compassionate environment – for each other, and for our supporters.

Purposeful – You will work in line with your team operational plan to ensure a clear direction in your work, in alignment with the Fundraising and Organisational strategies.

· Honesty – You will manage expectations with your colleagues and supporters and communicate with them openly and honestly and ensure there is a culture of trust and openness within your direct team and your interactions with the wider organisation.

Key Performance Indicators:

·Community Fundraising income targets and KPIs

·Volunteering KPIs

Date Job Description Prepared:

December 2025

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the requirements of the role. It is not a contractual document and does not form part of any contract of employment. The duties and responsibilities outlined may be subject to change at any time to meet the needs of the organisation.

Location: MSSC NSC, 200B Lambeth Road, London, SE1 7JY (Hybrid Working)

Contract: Full-time permeant

Salary: £39,000 gross, per annum

Closing Date: 1 March 2026

Face to Face Interviews: Either 25 or 26 March 2026

Application: CV & Covering Letter

Are you a Safeguarding professional looking for a new opportunity and challenge?  We are currently looking for an exceptional Safeguarding Officer to join our expanding team.

The Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) is the leading maritime charity for youth development and lifelong learning. We are a vibrant and growing charity inspiring young people to achieve their potential through challenge and nautical adventure and also enabling seafarers and maritime professionals to realise their potential through learning and career development. Working with our employees, cadets, and volunteers, we have built a strong vision and five-year Future Ready strategy to meet the growing demand for what we provide, both for young people, seafarers and maritime professionals – and the thousands who aspire to be the sea cadets and marine professionals of the future. It is also about equipping them to achieve their potential and thrive in a rapidly changing world, while growing our charity to benefit even more people – including those from under-represented or marginalised groups.

About the role

We have an opportunity for a Safeguarding Officer to join our very busy team!

The organisation has a strong safeguarding ethos promoting the overall safety, safeguarding and welfare of all of our members. We are seeking individuals who have experience of the voluntary youth or community sector or other relevant professional field and have direct practice experience of working with children & young people in a safeguarding context.  You will have excellent knowledge of the principles and practices of Early Help along with experience and knowledge of statutory requirements, and best practice guidance, relating to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults at risk. 

Our safeguarding team operates centrally in London where we are responsible for providing support, advice and guidance to our volunteers relating on all safeguarding matters across the UK. Our safeguarding Officers act as our lead professionals in managing safeguarding casework in line with our policy, procedures and statutory duty.

We aim high and strive for excellence in our practices to safeguard children, young people and adults at risk.  We are continually evolving and seeking ways to improve and enhance our safeguarding practices as we move forward. 

Whilst this is a Monday- Friday full time position, a flexible approach to work and working patterns is a must, as is the ability to work effectively and respond appropriately in challenging circumstances. 

Requirements

• Support, guide and coach SCC volunteers to implement a local response to safeguarding concerns
• Effective and skilful management of an allocated caseload
• Lead professional – Allegation Management
• Action referrals to statutory agencies e.g. Local Authority Designated Officer, Police, Children’s Services, Social Care or equivalent across the UK (including DBS, PVGS)

For further information, please download the full Recruitment Pack.

For applications to be considered, it is essential that both a CV & Supporting Statement are submitted.  Supporting statements should detail how a candidate’s qualifications, skills and experience meet the requirements of the Job Description and Person specification.

Without this, we sadly will be unable to progress your application for this role.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave per annum increasing with length of service
• Hybrid working for many roles
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Private medical insurance
• Generous pension (employer contribution up to 10%)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Wellbeing portal and EAP with 121 counselling
• Employee development: We are investing in our employees' development and have an annual calendar of learning and development opportunities, designed to support employees to develop into their roles and stretch them to achieve their full potential.

Additional Information

MSSC positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. Equity, diversity, and inclusion really matters to us, so we can best serve our beneficiaries from every community. We work to ensure a fair and consistent recruitment process and aim to be a charity where diversity of experience, identity and skills are valued and welcomed. MSSC is an equal opportunities employer.

Safer Recruitment - We recognise our responsibilities to safeguard and protect the young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We do all we can to promote their health, safety and wellbeing, and we expect our staff to share this commitment and work in line with safeguarding policy, the MSSC’s values and ethos of inclusivity. We adhere to safer recruitment practices and therefore employment is subject to detailed pre-employment checks for successful candidates, including references and criminal disclosure checks and the completion of a disclosure questionnaire. 

All successful applicants are required to attend safeguarding training and undergo pre-employment checks including a criminal record check.

The vacancy

The Housing Officer role is 37.5 hours a week, working shifts between 8am and 8pm Monday-Friday which you will share with two other staff members on an 8-4, 10-6 or 12-8 rota pattern.

The role is based in Colchester.

Your time will be spent working with residents towards independent living by assisting them to claim and maintain benefits, move into work, education or volunteering, learn about successful budgeting, to eat healthily and keep themselves safe and healthy both physically and mentally. You will also interview prospective residents, carry out room checks, fire checks, assist with our food distribution scheme, collect payments and arrears, attend appointments with the young people as and when necessary, take an active role in resident engagement and support the management team.

Who we are and what we do

YMCA Essex has a 44 room, supported housing unit on Magdalen Street in Colchester. We house young people aged 16-25, supporting them towards independent living and a well rounded life. We encourage and support them into work, education or training and to be able to maintain a tenancy and look after themselves when they leave YMCA. Residents can live at the YMCA for a two-year period after which time we assist them in moving onto independent living.

You

Have an active care and concern for the community, work in an inclusive way, welcoming the diverse needs of our young residents. You are tolerant, understanding and non-judgemental. You have an interest in the needs of young people and a thirst to support them towards being the best they can possibly be.

You have experience of working in supported or general needs housing, wellbeing planning, risk assessments, working with young people and a great knowledge of welfare benefits, grants and other sources of income available. You have housing management, rent accounting and tenancy sustainment expertise as well as experience of dealing with anti-social behaviour and resident engagement.

Your IT skills are current with a good understanding of Microsoft packages and Sharepoint and you have an excellent level of education. You are experienced in working in and handling stressful situations. You are flexible and adaptable in regard to working hours and are able to take part in an on-call rota evening and weekend rota. You have a driving licence or can get to Magdalen Street at any time of day or night (if on call) within 30 minutes.

As a great communicator you are able to demonstrate an empathetic and person centred approach, problem solve on a daily basis, work with minimal supervision and with discretion and integrity whilst respecting confidentiality.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT A CARER ROLE. THERE IS NO PERSONAL CARE INVOLVED AND RESIDENTS ARE PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY ABLE. CARE WORK EXPERIENCE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED AS HOUSING EXPERIENCE.

YOU MUST HAVE RELEVANT EXPERIENCE TO BE CONSIDERED AND LIVE WITHIN 30 MINUTES TRAVEL OF COLCHESTER.

Chief Executive Officer (Part-time, 3 days/week)

Veterans With Dogs (VWD) is seeking a dynamic and compassionate Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead our charity into its next chapter. This rare and exciting opportunity offers the chance to guide a small, high-impact team at a pivotal stage in the charity’s growth.

Location: Exeter (hybrid with regular office presence required)
Salary: £45,000–£55,000 pro-rata (equivalent to £27,000 - £33,000 for 3 days/week) + 3% pension contribution
Contract: Initial 1 year role with opportunity to extend

Hours: 21 hours / 3 days per week

Holiday: 28 days per annum (FTE), plus bank holidays
Reports to: Chair of Trustees
Direct reports: 4

About Veterans With Dogs

Veterans With Dogs is a UK charity that transforms the lives of Armed Forces veterans living with mental health challenges. Through the provision of highly trained assistance dogs and trauma-informed support, we help restore purpose, independence, and dignity to those who have served.

Founded in 2012, our work addresses a vital gap for veterans living with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. Through our award-winning PALS™ (Partner Animal Life Skills) programme, we help veterans re-engage with life, with the support of a trusted companion by their side.

Following a period of governance transition and renewal, we are entering a new and exciting phase. We are strengthening leadership, systems, and strategy to ensure long-term sustainability and greater reach. As we begin this next chapter, we are seeking an experienced, values-driven CEO to lead us confidently into this next phase.

The Role

The CEO will provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and cultural leadership for Veterans With Dogs. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will oversee the delivery of the charity’s mission, ensure operational excellence, develop our long-term strategy, and foster a values-led and high-performing team.

This is a hands-on, multi-dimensional leadership role, ideal for a calm, pragmatic, and inspiring individual with experience of organisational stabilisation, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable growth. You will be a visible leader at our base in Exeter, while building strong relationships across the veteran, assistance dog, and wider charity sectors.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

· Lead the development and delivery of an interim plan and longer-term organisational strategy

· Translate strategic goals into clear operational priorities and plans

· Foster a compassionate, inclusive, and mission-aligned organisational culture

· Act as a credible and inspiring ambassador for Veterans With Dogs with stakeholders, funders, partners, and the public

• Guide the charity through stabilisation and values-led, sustainable growth

Governance & Compliance

· Ensure compliance with all relevant charity law, regulation, and best practice

· Work in partnership with the Board of Trustees, supporting effective governance and reporting

· Implement and embed improvements in HR, finance, safeguarding, IT, and operational systems

• Lead on organisational risk management, ensuring policies and procedures are in place and regularly reviewed

Operations & Programme Delivery

· Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure safe, ethical, and effective service delivery

· Ensure safeguarding standards are upheld for both veterans and dogs

· Drive continuous improvement in programme quality, delivery, and impact measurement

• Ensure operational systems and data processes are robust, compliant, and fit for purpose

People & Culture

· Lead, support, and nurture a small, dedicated staff team and wider network of volunteers

· Promote staff wellbeing, clear communication, and professional development

• Work with trustees to assess future staffing needs and build leadership capacity

Finance & Sustainability

· Work with trustees and advisors to ensure sound financial management and reporting

· Contribute to financial planning, budgeting, and development of a sustainable reserves policy

• Help diversify income streams, supporting fundraising efforts, corporate partnerships, and individual giving

Fundraising & External Relations

· Build and maintain relationships with funders, donors, corporate partners, and sector allies

· Collaborate with the fundraising trustee to develop new funding opportunities

· Represent the charity externally with credibility, transparency, and professionalism

• Strengthen partnerships with ADUK, ADI, Cobseo, and other key membership bodies

Person Specification

Essential

· Senior leadership experience within a charity, social enterprise, or values-led organisation

· Strong knowledge of charity governance, regulation, and trustee relationships

· Experience leading teams through organisational change or stabilisation

· Financial literacy with experience of budgeting, reporting, and planning

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across diverse stakeholders

• A calm, values-based, and ethical leadership approach

Desirable

· Experience in health, mental health, veterans’ services, or trauma-informed work

· Experience working with boards during periods of strategic or leadership transition

· Fundraising and/or income generation experience

· Understanding of safeguarding best practice (for people and/or animals)

• Lived experience of the military or charity sectors (not essential)

Our Commitment

Veterans With Dogs is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds and strive to create a supportive, respectful, and empowering workplace. We recognise the value of lived experience and are committed to continuous learning as an organisation.

How to Apply

Apply with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and suitability.

If you would like a confidential conversation before applying, we would be happy to speak with you.

Closing date to apply: Friday 13 March 2026

· First interviews (online): week commencing 16 March 2026

· Second interviews (in our Exeter office): week commencing 23 March 2026 TBC

NO RECRUITERS AT THIS STAGE PLEASE