349 Volunteering support officer jobs

We are looking for two motivated & empathetic individuals to join the team at Victim Support based at Compass House, Ashford as Initial Support Agents (known internally as Triage & Early Intervention Officers). This position is offered on a permanent basis.

Are you looking for a new challenge that will be rewarding and make a real difference to people's lives? Do you enjoy talking to people, providing empathy & support, and helping to find solutions to problems?

If this sound like you, then we'd love to hear from you...

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Generous Annual Leave: 28 days plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 33 days plus Bank Holidays, with options to buy or sell annual leave.
• Birthday Leave: An extra day off for your birthday.
• Pension Plan: 5% employer contribution.
• Enhanced Allowances: Enhanced sick pay, maternity, and paternity payments.
• Exclusive Discounts: High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment, and leisure discounts.
• Financial Wellbeing: Access to our financial wellbeing hub and salary-deducted finance.
• Wellbeing Support: Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.
• Inclusive Networks: Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes.
• Sustainable Travel: Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loans.
• Career Development: Ongoing training and support with opportunities for career progression.

About the role:

You will be talking to people on the telephone from a variety of different backgrounds, all with different experiences. No two days are the same & you will need to use your communication skills and resilient nature to help those dealing with trauma and the effects of crime, who may have gone through a life-changing experience. Previous experience is not required as you will receive robust training prior to working directly with clients. You will also receive ongoing support to ensure that you can provide victims with quick responses to meet their needs and help them cope and recover.

These roles are based in our Victim Care Unit in Ashford. You will be working shifts Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm or 12pm and 8pm. Shifts are designated on a rota basis and scheduled well in advance so you can plan ahead. You will be working within a supportive team that is part of a large independent charity which offers the opportunity to develop skills to enhance your ongoing personal development.

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support is an independent charity dedicated to supporting people affected by crime and traumatic incidents in England and Wales. We put them at the heart of our organisation and our support and campaigns are informed and shaped by them and their experiences.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

At Victim Support, we're proud to celebrate diversity and create a workplace where everyone feels they belong. We're committed to being an antiracist organisation, and we actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from Black and Asian and other minoritised communities.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet all essential criteria for a job where it is practicable to do so. We are also happy to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and selection process.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date. If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

About This Job

You will form part of a small satellite team of Safeguarding Case Support Officers (SCSOs). Overseen by a Senior Caseworker Manager, you will assess and decide on safeguarding allegations and concerns within the Army Cadets across Scotland and Northern Ireland. You must be an appropriately qualified and experienced safeguarding professional, capable of conducting child safeguarding investigations and adept at collaborating with multiple agencies.  

Essential Skills

· Diploma or Degree in a relevant subject area.

· Evidence of continuing personal and professional development

· Front-line safeguarding interventions and/ or risk assessment of perpetrators of abuse.

· Sound knowledge of safeguarding interventions.

· Understand legislative requirements for safeguarding young people.

· Please refer to the attached Job Description for further information.

Our charity

ACCT UK is a national youth charity dedicated to improving the life chances of young people. The Combined Cadet Force Association (CCFA) is a charity dedicated to the promotion of the ideals and activities of the Combined Cadet Force in schools. Together we want to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence and be inspired through their cadet experience.

We want to develop the youth leadership and training abilities of adult volunteers whilst also helping young people to access cadet activities through fundraising, grant-making, developing new resources and direct support.

We strongly believe that everyone benefits when you help young people to develop their character and values through activities that stretch and mature them. We also know that when young people engage with others at a range of levels in their communities it builds confidence and improves empathy for other’s lives.

Who we are

By joining the charities, you will help us to reach more young people and make a greater difference and we look forward to working with you. We actively promote and encourage you to explore ideas that improve all aspects of the charity’s work in pursuit of its charitable aims.

The charities are proud of our diverse teams, with people on different working patterns, from different backgrounds and at different life-stages. Our experience has taught us that having people with different perspectives and different lived experiences leads to better outcomes for our beneficiaries. If you are wondering if our organisation is for someone like you, the answer is yes! Please apply and explain how you, your experience, your talent and your potential are the right fit for this role.

What we can offer you

In addition to your salary, we offer all staff:

· Flexible working arrangements (you agree a working pattern with your line manager).

· The ability to work both from home and from our London office.

· Personal Accident Insurance, including loss of earnings cover and death benefit.

· 15 days of sick pay in any 12-month period (after 12 months employment - pro-rata for part time staff).

· A contributory pension scheme (you contribute at least 5% and we will contribute 10%).

· Good leave allowances (which are offered pro-rata for part time staff):

o 20 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.

o Additional privilege leave, on set days each year, such as between Christmas and New Year.

o An additional five days of volunteering leave.

· Support for qualifications and personal development.

· Employee Assistance Programme.

· Season ticket loan.

· Railcard (if you are eligible).

· A caring and supportive team environment.

How to apply

Please send a CV and Cover letter that details how you meet the requirements of the job description by 2359hrs by Sunday 11th October 2026.

Interviews will be held shortly after the closing date, in person/virtually TBC – we will let you know if you have progressed.

While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.

Please note that as a charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people, we require staff to make a declaration about any relevant convictions, undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check. In addition, we will follow up with references.

Please be advised that this position may close earlier than the stated deadline if a sufficient number of high-quality applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, we strongly recommend submitting it as soon as possible. Candidates will be notified of the next stage in the recruitment process if they are shortlisted.

Are you passionate about empowering young people to break down barriers, gain independence, and achieve their career goals?

Volunteer Centre Kensington & Chelsea (VCKC) is looking for a dedicated Stepping Stones: XP Officer to join our team. In this delivery-focused role, you will provide person-centered, strengths-based support to young people aged 16–25 who identify as having Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND).

You will manage a small, targeted caseload, guiding participants through their journey from building initial confidence to securing inclusive volunteering placements, work experience, and paid employment.

Key Responsibilities

• 1-to-1 Caseload Support: Co-design realistic action plans, identify reasonable adjustments, and deliver tailored employment and volunteering readiness support.

• Brokerage & Employer Engagement: Build strong relationships with local employers and volunteer-involving organisations to source safe, accessible placements.

• Practical Guidance: Assist participants with CV writing, application forms, and work-readiness skills tailored to their unique needs.

• Placement Monitoring: Provide light-touch, SEND-informed support to both participants and hosts to ensure placements are successful and sustainable.

• Network & Resource Mobilisation: Connect clients with external support services, training opportunities, and grants for work clothing or tools.

What We Are Looking For

• Relevant Experience: Proven track record of supporting young people (aged 16–25) or adults facing barriers to work, particularly those with SEND.

• Strengths-Based Approach: Ability to deliver empowering, direct 1-to-1 support that builds confidence and self-advocacy.

• Relationship Building: Experience working alongside employers and community organisations to champion inclusive practice.

• Organisational Skills: High-level administrative abilities to manage time, maintain accurate client data, and handle record-keeping effectively within a part-time role.

• Values-Driven: Strong commitment to safeguarding, equality, inclusion, and the values of VCKC.

(Note: Appointment is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check).

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing how your experience meets the criteria outlined in the person specification.

Arthritis Action is the UK charity giving hands-on, practical help to improve the quality of life of people affected by arthritis. We offer an integrated self-management approach, which looks at both the physical and mental health impact of living with arthritis. We support people living with musculoskeletal conditions through healthy eating advice, mental health resources, pain management techniques, Online Groups, employment support, and exercise advice and resources. 

We are looking for an experienced Volunteering Manager, based in the Midlands, to lead the development of an exciting new volunteering programme, helping us build a diverse, inclusive and engaged volunteer community that brings our strategy to life.

The Role

Home-Based in the Midlands with monthly travel to the London office (EC1V) 

The Volunteering Manager will lead the development, delivery and continuous improvement of volunteering within Arthritis Action. This is a new role responsible for ensuring that more people affected by arthritis across the country receive high-quality, evidence-based support and have meaningful opportunities to connect, participate and influence our work.

The postholder will oversee our volunteering activity, in turn enabling volunteers to extend our reach, strengthen communities and increase our impact across the region. The postholder will work closely with the Head of Services and Engagement to develop the relevant polices and strategies whilst also thinking about recruitment, onboarding, training and retention. 

Key Responsibilities

Volunteering Development 

• Develop a strong understanding of the volunteer journey, using insight, feedback and data to identify opportunities to improve engagement, satisfaction, retention and outcomes.

• Develop approaches to ensure volunteers can increase engagement amongst diverse and underserved communities. 

• Implement effective monitoring and evaluation processes to demonstrate impact. 

• Work with colleagues to identify opportunities to link volunteering and donor journeys.

• Establish effective onboarding, recruitment, training and retention processes. 

• Update existing volunteering policies and strategy documents to bring them in line with practice for 2026 and beyond. 

• Work alongside the CEO to support and develop our new Clinical Advisory Panel.

Engagement Building

• Develop and implement an engagement approach that strengthens relationships with existing and potential volunteers.

• Create meaningful opportunities for people with lived experience to volunteer with Arthritis Action.

• Work collaboratively with Communications and Fundraising colleagues to maximise awareness and impact. 

• Build relationships with community partners and relevant external organisations to build the volunteering network. 

Volunteering Strategy and Development

• Develop Arthritis Action’s volunteer strategy with support from the Head of Services and Engagement, creating a sustainable model that supports organisational priorities. 

• With support from the Head of Services and Engagement, establish appropriate volunteer policies, processes, safeguarding arrangements and systems. 

• Work alongside staff to create volunteer led services.

Line Management

• Act as the first point of contact for volunteers. 

• Responsibility for volunteers supporting the charity.

Data, Insight and Impact

• Use data, feedback and evaluation to understand the effectiveness and impact of our volunteering programme, identify opportunities for improvement, and enhance the experience and contribution of our volunteers.

• Report meaningful KPIs for volunteering and engagement, using the CRM.

Person Specification

 Essential

 Experience

• Experience of developing and establishing volunteering and volunteer led services within a charity, healthcare or related environment.
• Experience of developing and improving volunteering based on evidence, insight and user needs.
• Experience of engaging diverse communities, members, service users or people with lived experiences through volunteer led services and volunteering.
• Experience of developing partnerships and collaborative approaches.

Skills and Knowledge

•  Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to write in Plain English.
•  Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
•  Strong understanding of inclusion, accessibility and reducing health inequalities.
• Ability to use insight, data and evaluation to improve impact.

Attributes

•  An understanding of, and commitment to, Arthritis Action’s vision, mission, equal opportunities and diversity.
• A self-starter able to work on own initiative where required.
• Values-driven, collaborative and inclusive professional.
• Empathetic and committed to ensuring people’s voices shape services.
• Able and willing to travel within the Midlands.

Desirable

• Experience of supporting people with long-term conditions.
• Experience using CRM systems and digital platforms to improve engagement.

How to apply

Applications should be in the form of a CV with a covering letter explaining your interest in and suitability for the role. Please provide both email and telephone contact information for yourself.Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

Applications should be received by 11:59pm on Thursday 17th September 2026 at the latest.

First-round interviews will take place by Zoom on Tuesday 22nd September 2026. Second-round interviews will take place in the London office on Monday 28th September 2026.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert ahead of the deadline should we receive a sufficient number of applications.

Arthritis Action is an equal opportunities employer. We treat employees and job applicants in the same way regardless of age, disability, marital status, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, religion or belief

Youth Volunteering Officer

35 hours per week, temporary contract until December 2028.

We are Chester Zoo

We're not just an award-winning visitor attraction that's home to 30,000 incredible animals within 128 acres of stunning gardens. We're a major conservation charity committed to preventing extinction and restoring nature, both locally and globally.

As the world faces an extinction crisis, we're making a significant contribution to conservation when it's needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.

The Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Youth Volunteering Officer to join our Volunteering Team within the Conservation Education and Engagement Directorate.

As a Youth Volunteering Officer, you will work closely with the Volunteer Manager and the Networks for Nature project staff to deliver an inclusive volunteering programme for young people aged 14-25. The role focuses on creating meaningful opportunities that connect young people with conservation and social action, whilst supporting their personal development and wellbeing.

The Youth Volunteering Officer will recruit, train and mentor young volunteers, ensuring high-quality experiences that are inclusive, safe and impactful. The Youth Volunteering Officer will also recruit, train and support adult Youth Champion Volunteers who will be empower and support the youth volunteers to participate and engage in the volunteer programme.

As Youth Volunteer Officer, you will co-ordinate a supported programme for young people that will include practical conservation, visitor engagement and the Conservation Changemakers programme, designing and delivering their own projects while recognising and evidencing the skills they gain.

The role will also support the delivery of our wider youth programmes including our Environmental Leadership courses, and Youth Network events supporting pathways for young people to access training, events, and volunteer experiences.

We're looking for someone who can:

Programme Delivery

With guidance from the Volunteer Manager, coordinate and deliver youth volunteering opportunities for young people aged 14-25, including practical conservation activities, visitor engagement opportunities and social action projects. Support young people to develop skills, confidence and experience through meaningful volunteering.

Volunteer Recruitment and Support

Recruit, induct, train and support youth volunteers, ensuring they receive a positive and rewarding volunteering experience. Support young people to access pathways into conservation, community action and the wider youth programme. Recruit, train and support Youth Champion Volunteers who play a key role in encouraging and facilitating youth participation within the programme.

Inclusive Participation

Work proactively to reduce barriers to participation and provide tailored support for young people from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, neurodiversity, mental health challenges or socio-economic disadvantage.

Youth-led Projects and Co-production

Coordinate and facilitate youth-led conservation and community action projects through the Conservation Changemakers programme. Enable young people to generate ideas, plan activities, take ownership of projects and evidence their learning and achievements.

Events, Training and Activities Planning and Delivery

With support from the Volunteer Manager, deliver volunteer events, training sessions, workshops and networking opportunities for youth volunteers, working with colleagues and partners to provide engaging and high-quality experiences. Support the delivery of youth programme events, including Environmental Leadership courses.

Participant Engagement Monitoring

Monitor participation through surveys, feedback mechanisms and regular check-ins. Collate engagement and outcome data, contributing to project evaluation and reporting for internal stakeholders and funders.

Daily Volunteer Engagement

Manage day-to-day communication with youth volunteers and Youth Champion Volunteers, including responding to enquiries, processing applications, maintaining records, organising rotas and training bookings, and providing ongoing support.

Safeguarding, Safety and Risk Assessments

Work with the Volunteer Manager to ensure all youth volunteering activities operate within safeguarding policies and procedures. Assist with risk assessments and ensure that appropriate welfare, wellbeing and safety measures are embedded throughout all activities.

Partnership Working

Work with the Volunteer Manager to develop effective working relationships with schools, colleges, youth organisations, community groups and relevant internal departments to increase participation, reduce barriers to engagement and strengthen programme delivery.

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

Well, where do we start? Here goes…

We’re a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketeers, visitor experience professionals, environmental policy influencers; the list goes on. Each and every one of us is on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world, and our planet a better place.
As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of over 600 permanent and 500 temporary team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development. We have ambitious goals, and we want you to be with us for the long term on our exciting journey.

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

The Package

• Fixed term contract until December 2028

• 35 hours per week

• Salary £24,062.50 per annum (pro rata based on 35 hours per week)

• The postholder will work 5 days out of 7 including a regular weekend day

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

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

• Cycle to work scheme

• Healthcare plan

• Discounted gym membership

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

• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions

Our Requirements

• An understanding of and commitment to Chester Zoo's mission, vision and values.

• Experience of working with young people.

• Experience of coordinating, supporting or working with volunteers.

• Experience of delivering training, workshops or activities with a range of audiences.

• Knowledge of inclusive practice and supporting young people with diverse needs.

• Strong organisational, administrative and planning skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

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

• Ability to build positive relationships with young people, colleagues and partner organisations.

• Sound working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and digital communication tools.

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

• Full UK driving licence.

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Knowledge of youth work/ youth engagement which could be demonstrated by a relevant qualification in youth work, education, community development, related field or relevant experience

• Experience of delivering conservation, environmental or outdoor learning activities.

• Experience of supporting young people facing barriers to participation.

• Working knowledge of volunteer management systems.

• Knowledge of safeguarding legislation and best practice.

• Experience of monitoring and evaluating volunteering activities

Additional Information

• Due to the nature of the role, this post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

• The closing date for applications is 27/09/2026.

Networks for Nature is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Volunteer Coordinator in our Volunteers team at St Joseph’s Hospice. We are looking for someone who has experience in administration, supporting the public and working in a charity environment. The Volunteer Coordinator role will involve onboarding all new volunteers from recruitment to completion, providing a comprehensive and high-quality administrative support service to teams and volunteers across the hospice.

About you

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to relate to people from a wide variety of backgrounds.
• Excellent IT skills such as Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, databases & internet.
• PR and presentation skills, e.g. ability to present Dept. at Induction training and meetings.
• Understanding and appreciation of the reasons why people volunteer.

Where you’ll work

St Joseph’s Hospice was founded in 1905 by the Religious Sisters of Charity and built on a rich Catholic heritage. Today, we are an Investors in Diversity-awarded charity, providing expert, compassionate care to people of all backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs across East and North London.

Our specialist palliative care services—delivered at home, in our in-patient unit, and through out-patient clinics—are grounded in respect for human dignity and guided by compassion, justice, and a deep commitment to quality. Our values guide us in everything that we do. We work to ensure that everyone receives the support they need, with kindness, understanding, and respect by delivering individualised, responsive and holistic support to patients and their families.

Why work for us?

• 27 days holiday plus public holidays, increasing up to 33 days with service
• Subsidised café and early access to retail sale events
• Season ticket loan
• Continuation of NHS Pension Scheme or an excellent salary-exchange pension scheme.
• Santander cycles discount and cycle to work scheme
• Health Cash Plan and access to the EAP services

Join St Joseph’s team and find out more!

For further information and to apply, please visit our dedicated recruitment page via the Apply button.

Closing date: 22nd September 2026.

Interview date: w/c 28th September / 5th October 2026.

We are an equal opportunities and a disability confident employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

We are expanding our Business Support Team and have up to 1.5 full-time equivalent Business Support Officer capacity available.

We welcome applications from candidates seeking full-time, part-time, or job-share arrangements. We may offer the available hours to two or more successful candidates, depending on applicants’ preferred working patterns and the organisation's needs.

Our offices are open from 9.00 am to 5.00pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and from 9.00am to 9.00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Working patterns will be agreed with the successful candidate, but some planned evening work on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays will form part of the role.

When applying, please tell us:

· how many hours you would ideally like to work;

· which days and times you are available;

· whether you can work planned evenings on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays;

We will consider individual preferences alongside the overall needs of the Business Support Team.

What we are looking for

Are you organised, approachable and confident managing a varied workload?

We are looking for Business Support Officers to help keep our charity’s essential day-to-day systems and services running effectively.

As a Business Support Officer, you will be part of the team at the heart of the organisation. You will help coordinate our administrative, reception, finance, HR, and governance support, ensuring colleagues, volunteers, families, and visitors receive an efficient, welcoming, and professional service.

Working with the Business Operations Manager, your responsibilities will include:

· coordinating day-to-day office and business support;

· responding to telephone, email and in-person enquiries;

· supporting and coordinating reception volunteers;

· managing room bookings and supporting community use of the building;

· processing invoices, expenses and other financial administration;

· maintaining employee, volunteer and compliance records;

· coordinating recruitment, interview and induction administration;

· supporting Board and committee administration;

· maintaining databases and supporting organisational reporting; and

· helping improve administrative systems and processes.

About you

You will have experience of working in a busy office or administrative environment and be able to organise your work effectively while responding to changing priorities. You will also bring:

· experience of coordinating administrative or business support activities;

· knowledge or experience of finance and HR administration;

· experience of supervising or supporting staff or volunteers;

· strong communication and customer-service skills;

· excellent attention to detail and accurate record-keeping;

· confidence using Microsoft 365, databases and office systems;

· an understanding of confidentiality and GDPR; and

· the ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

A Level 3 qualification in business administration, office management or a related area would be welcomed. We will also consider applicants with equivalent practical experience.

Previous experience in a charity, public-sector, or community organisation would be helpful, but not essential.

Most importantly, you will be positive, calm and approachable, with a commitment to excellent service and continuous improvement.

What we offer

We want our people to feel valued, supported and able to do their best work. As part of our team, you will receive:

· Generous annual leave – statutory minimum holiday entitlement, including bank holidays, plus an additional 5 days’ paid annual leave each year. For someone working five days per week, this is 33 days’ paid leave per year, including bank holidays, pro rata for part-time employees.

· Workplace pension – eligible employees will be enrolled into our NEST workplace pension scheme.

· Employee Assistance Programme – access to the Wisdom Employee Assistance Programme, providing confidential support for your health and wellbeing.

· Support and development – regular supervision alongside opportunities for learning and development.

· An inclusive and supportive workplace – where different perspectives, experiences and ways of thinking are welcomed and valued.

You’ll also have the opportunity to be part of an organisation working to make a meaningful difference to the people and communities we support.

Closing date: 21st September 2026 at 9:00 am

Interview date: w/c 28th September 2026

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.

This role is subject to a basic DBS check and satisfactory references.

DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEERING

Director of Volunteering at Mercy Ships UK, providing strategic leadership to recruit, engage and mobilise volunteers for its two hospital ships.

Mercy Ships is an inspiring Christian charity delivering free, life-changing surgery to people in Africa with limited access to healthcare. Through its two hospital ships, it brings hope, healing and specialist training to local healthcare professionals. Since 1978, Mercy Ships has worked in more than 55 countries, performing over 122,000 surgical procedures and training more than 55,500 healthcare workers. 

Mercy Ships UK is now embarking on an ambitious growth journey, aiming to double volunteer placements over the next five years. We are looking for an exceptional leader to join Mercy Ships UK as Director of Volunteering. This is a brand-new role created at an exciting time in the charity's growth.

Reporting to the Executive Director and serving on the Executive Leadership Team, you will lead the development of an ambitious long-term volunteering and workforce strategy, inspiring and mobilising medical, maritime and other specialist volunteers to serve on board Mercy Ships' current and future hospital ships. Through your leadership, thousands more volunteers will be equipped to bring hope, healing and life-changing care to communities across Africa.

In this role, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Develop and deliver a multi-year volunteering strategy that builds sustainable pipelines of medical, maritime and specialist volunteers
• Lead the full volunteer journey, from attraction and recruitment through to preparation, engagement, retention and alumni involvement
• Build strategic partnerships with NHS organisations, Royal Colleges, universities, churches, Christian networks and professional bodies
• Provide strategic advice to the Executive Director, Executive Leadership Team and Trustees on volunteering trends, workforce risks and growth opportunities
• Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing volunteering function, setting clear priorities, standards and measures of success
• Act as a senior ambassador for Mercy Ships UK, representing its Christian mission with credibility and influence across the sector

Why work for Mercy Ships UK?

• 25 days' annual leave plus UK bank holidays, increasing by one day for each completed year of service, to a maximum of 30 days
• Employer pension contribution of up to 7%
• Annual personal learning and development budget
• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support
• Location: 12 Meadway Court, Stevenage, SG1 2EF (hybrid working available)
• Free on-site parking
• A brand-new, pivotal leadership role at an exciting stage of growth

This role is eligible for an Enhanced DBS check. Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment, safeguarding and background checks.

For further details please have a look at the candidate pack.

For an informal chat to ask any questions, please contact Nick Thomas, Senior Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Please apply through the Charisma Charity Recruitment website with your CV and supporting statement.

Key dates

• Closing date: Monday 14th September 2026
• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by close of play on: Wednesday 16th September 2026
• First interviews with Mercy Ships: W/C 28th September 2026
• Final interviews with Mercy Ships: W/C 5th October 2026

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

*In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, Part 1, Schedule 9, it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.

Salary: £28,160 per annum (FTE)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 22.5 hours per week

Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire (On-site)

Join Our Team

Are you an organised, professional, and compassionate administrator looking to make a real difference in your community?

At Harrogate Homeless Project, we provide people experiencing homelessness with a safe place to stay and the support they need to rebuild their lives. Our values of Hope, Empowerment and Teamwork guide everything we do, and we’re looking for an Administration Officer who shares our commitment to supporting vulnerable people.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated charity and play a vital role in ensuring our services run efficiently, helping our frontline teams focus on delivering life-changing support.

About the Role

As our Administration Officer, you will provide efficient and reliable administrative and secretarial support across our offices, hostel, and support services. You will be the first point of contact for email enquiries and will help ensure our systems, records, and office procedures operate smoothly and effectively.

This varied role would suit someone who enjoys working in a busy environment, can manage competing priorities, and takes pride in maintaining excellent administrative standards.

Key Responsibilities

Office Administration

• Act as the first point of contact for email enquiries, directing communications appropriately.
• Manage incoming and outgoing post, deliveries, and general correspondence.
• Coordinate office supplies and stationery orders.
• Liaise with IT providers and other service contractors as required.
• Help maintain a welcoming and efficient office environment.

Data and Records Management

• Maintain accurate digital and paper filing systems in line with GDPR requirements.
• Support the upkeep of client databases and HR records.
• Assist with data entry, routine statistics, and management reports.
• Support fundraising administration, including maintaining donation records.

Meeting and Event Support

• Coordinate internal and external meetings.
• Prepare agendas, book venues, organise equipment, and take meeting notes where required.
• Assist with administrative support for fundraising and community awareness events.

Compliance and Executive Support

• Provide secretarial support to the Chief Executive.
• Assist with health and safety record keeping.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold safeguarding procedures and organisational policies at all times.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is highly organised, approachable, and able to work effectively as part of a supportive team.

Why Work for Harrogate Homeless Project?

By joining HHP, you’ll become part of a passionate and dedicated team making a tangible difference to the lives of people experiencing homelessness. Every day brings new opportunities to contribute to meaningful change within our community.

If you’re an organised administrator with a passion for helping others, we’d love to hear from you.

Benefits Include

• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays) plus birthday leave.
• Healthcare package.
• Travel benefits.
• Workplace pension scheme.
• The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of women experiencing homelessness.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter to Richard Cooper or call for an informal conversation about the role.

Closing Date: 4 October 2026

We will assess applications as they are received and interview suitable candidates on a rolling basis. Therefore, we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is appointed. Early applications are encouraged.

Harrogate Homeless Project is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Head of Engagement is a strategically significant and high-impact role within the Philanthropy team, responsible for leading and developing Impetus’ engagement programme across both volunteering and pro bono support.

At Impetus, volunteering refers to opportunities for employees of our donor firms to engage directly with the young people supported by our portfolio partners, helping to inspire, motivate and broaden horizons through meaningful interactions.

Pro bono support is a core element of our capacity-building approach and a key way in which we strengthen the organisations we back. It involves skilled volunteers and partners contributing professional expertise to address strategic challenges and opportunities within our charity portfolio, helping to build capability, resilience and long-term impact.

The Head of Engagement will shape the strategic direction and lead the delivery of a high-quality programme of volunteering and skilled pro bono support, creating meaningful outcomes for portfolio partners while delivering engaging and rewarding experiences for supporters. The postholder will ensure that engagement opportunities align with Impetus’ investment priorities and organisational objectives, respond to donor interests, and maximise impact for the young people and charities we serve.

The role combines strategic leadership, relationship management, programme innovation and operational oversight. Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment, and engaging regularly with Public Affairs and senior leaders, the Head of Engagement will build, steward and deepen relationships with a wide network of corporate partners, major donors, and highly skilled volunteers.

The postholder will also lead and develop the Engagement team, comprising the Engagement Manager and Engagement Officer, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture that enables exceptional delivery, continuous improvement and professional growth.

As a key member of the Philanthropy leadership team, the Head of Engagement will play a central role in expanding and strengthening Impetus' supporter network, developing innovative opportunities for supporters to contribute their time and expertise, and ensuring our volunteering and pro bono programmes continue to evolve in response to the changing needs of young people, charities and partners.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow a critical area of Impetus’ work, harnessing the expertise, networks and commitment of supporters to help more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed in school, work and life.

Key responsibilities

Strategy and Leadership 

• Develop and deliver the engagement strategy and operational plan for the pro bono and volunteering functions
• Set and monitor KPIs, targets and budgets for engagement activity in line with organisational frameworks, securing approval from senior leadership where appropriate
• Lead the continued growth and development of volunteering and pro bono activity in alignment with organisational strategy and portfolio partner needs
• Work collaboratively with senior colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment to align engagement opportunities with organisational priorities
• Lead prospecting for the pro bono function, understanding the needs of our Investment Team and portfolio partners, identifying gaps in supporter skills and expertise and onboarding new organisations and specialisms 
• As the organisational lead for volunteering and pro bono engagement, advise senior leadership on engagement trends, sharing insights, learning and volunteering best practice internally and externally
• Lead, develop and coach the Engagement Team, creating a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture and ensuring clear objectives, development opportunities and succession planning 
• Provide guidance, support and oversight of delivery to the Engagement Team, line managing the Engagement Manager and supporting the development of the Engagement Officer

Volunteering programme 

• Lead the strategic development and continuous improvement of a high-quality volunteering programme, ensuring it delivers value for portfolio partners, corporate and donor partners and young people.
• Oversee programme quality and effectiveness across all volunteering activities.
• Build capability and strong relationships with portfolio organisations to support the design and delivery of high-quality volunteering opportunities
• Monitor participation, impact and quality across the volunteering programme, using data and feedback to drive improvements.
• Work closely with account managers in the Philanthropy and Partnerships team to drive and steward donor engagement.
• Develop new models of volunteering in collaboration with the Engagement Team, including governance and trustee pathways, skills-based workshops and intensive challenge clinics.

Pro Bono programme 

• Lead the development of the organisation’s pro bono programme and oversee the delivery of activities, ensuring high-quality support for portfolio partners.
• Set annual pro bono targets (including project value, number of projects, and supporter engagement) and lead the team to deliver on these
• Oversee the maintenance of a strong pipeline of projects from portfolio partners and supporters that meet the needs of portfolio partners.
• Source and cultivate new pro bono supporters, including companies and highly skilled individual professionals.
• Oversee and contribute to business development activity including prospect research, outreach, relationship building and partnership development.
• Steward existing strategic supporter relationships and create compelling supporter journeys that communicate impact and strengthen long-term engagement.
• Work closely with the Investment Team to identify, scope and prioritise pro bono projects, and work with the team to improve quality and impact in project delivery. 
• Ensure an effective team approach to project identification, prioritisation and matching across the programme.
• For select high-priority projects, directly match portfolio partner needs with appropriate supporters, ensuring an effective and high-quality project experience, with support from the Engagement Manager.
• Support select high-priority project kick-off meetings and maintain oversight of project delivery, stakeholder management and follow-up processes.
• Ensure appropriate evaluation processes are in place to capture project impact, supporter feedback and learning.
• Own quality assurance, review programme outcomes and impact data to drive continuous improvement
• Collaborate with the Events team to design and run relevant supporter engagement events.

Relationship Management and Donor Engagement 

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with both new and existing corporate partners, major donors, volunteers, pro bono supporters and charity / sector stakeholders.
• Lead strategic account management of donors and supporters.
• Act as a key Account Manager for strategic engagement partnerships, notably the most high-value Pro Bono relationships.
• Work closely with account managers and senior stakeholders to maximise supporter engagement and long-term partnership opportunities.
• Contribute to the creation of compelling communications and marketing materials that demonstrate the value and impact of engagement activity.
• Represent Impetus externally at meetings, events and networking opportunities building effective and inclusive partnerships.

Operations, Systems and Reporting 

• Oversee the effective administration and operational delivery of the engagement function.
• Ensure accurate data management and reporting through Salesforce and related systems by the Engagement team.
• Maintain oversight of engagement pipelines, financial tracking and programme reporting.
• Lead quarterly reviews and reporting processes through the analysis and presentation of engagement data.
• Develop and improve systems, processes and operational efficiency across the engagement function.
• Ensure all activities comply with organisational policies, procedures and best practice.

Cross-Organisational Working

• Form part of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Leads group to lead and drive performance against fundraising targets and strategy.
• Collaborate closely with the Investment Team to identify opportunities for volunteering and pro bono support, especially driving innovation for both programmes.
• Build strong internal relationships to ensure engagement activity is coordinated and effectively communicated across teams.
• Attend and support Impetus events where required.
• Represent the Philanthropy team on internal projects, working groups and committees.
• Support wider team priorities and contribute to a collaborative and inclusive working culture.

Person specification

Essential

• Excellent relationship management skills with experience across a range of sectors, and track record working productively with senior stakeholders in corporate and charity organisations, including internally.
• Strong business development skills, with experience identifying and developing new relationships, partnerships, and engagement opportunities.
• Experience translating strategic priorities into operational plans, objectives and delivery.
• Strong project and programme management skills, including managing multiple priorities, budgets, timelines and stakeholders.
• Experience and understanding of how to design and implement inclusive, accessible and engaging experiences for a range of audiences, including young people and corporate supporters.
• Experience managing line reports or leading teams including coaching, supporting and enabling others to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Strong analytical and organisational skills.
• Ability to identify opportunities, solve complex problems and contribute innovative and creative ideas.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences internally and externally through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• A collaborative and flexible working style with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Impetus.
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Experience working in, or closely with, the charity, youth, education or employment sectors.

Desirable

• In depth understanding of the corporate donor and philanthropy landscape.
• Experience in corporate fundraising or donor engagement, in particular with the financial services and investment sectors.
• Significant experience overseeing either a large corporate volunteering programme or a pro bono programme (e.g. 50+ projects).
• Experience working with Salesforce.
• Expertise in evaluation or impact measurement.
• In-depth understanding of the education and/or youth employment sectors in the UK.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 28th September 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Work with us and help make a difference!

Full Time | Permanent Contract
Salary: £28,804 per annum

Are you creative, enthusiastic and passionate about helping people build confidence, improve wellbeing and reconnect with their community?

Harrogate Homeless Project is seeking an Activities Coordinator to lead and develop an engaging programme of activities for people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference by creating meaningful experiences that reduce social isolation, improve mental health and support individuals on their journey towards independent living.

As Activities Coordinator, you will design, coordinate and deliver a varied timetable of recreational, educational and wellbeing activities, working alongside clients, colleagues, volunteers and community partners to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where people can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and deliver a diverse programme of activities including arts and crafts, music, cooking, gardening, fitness, wellbeing and life-skills workshops.
• Develop weekly and monthly activity schedules that meet the varied interests and support needs of clients.
• Adapt activities to suit different abilities, confidence levels and individual circumstances.
• Create a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment that encourages participation and social connection.
• Build positive and trusting relationships with clients who may have experienced homelessness, rough sleeping or complex trauma.
• Motivate and support individuals to try new experiences and engage with activities that promote wellbeing and personal development.
• Work closely with the Client Services Team and external partners to ensure activities complement clients’ support plans.
• Recruit, support and coordinate volunteers who assist with activity delivery.
• Develop partnerships with local organisations, guest speakers and community groups to expand opportunities available to clients.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and monitor the impact and success of the activities programme.
• Ensure all activities comply with health and safety requirements and undertake risk assessments where appropriate.

What we are looking for…

We are looking for someone who is passionate about supporting people facing disadvantage and who can inspire others through creativity, encouragement and positive engagement.

Requirements and Benefits

Reporting to: Client Services Manager
Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Hours: Full Time
Contract: Permanent

Benefits include:

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays) plus birthday leave.
• Healthcare package.
• Travel benefits.
• Workplace pension scheme.

About us

Harrogate Homeless Project provides people experiencing homelessness with a safe place to stay and the support they need to build confidence and move towards independent living.

We work with partners to give people facing disadvantage hope of a different future and empower people to change their lives.

Harrogate Homeless Project is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter to Iain McLeod or call for an informal conversation about the role.

Closing Date: 4 October 2026

We will assess applications as they are received and interview suitable candidates on a rolling basis. Therefore, we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is appointed. Early applications are encouraged.

An exciting opportunity!

This is a rare and genuinely exciting opportunity to lead the UK's only dedicated charity supporting children, adults and families affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related lysosomal storage disorders. Following the current Chief Executive's planned move to become Managing Director of Rare Disease Research Partners (RDRP) in January 2027, the incoming CEO will take the helm of an organisation with over forty years of history, a trusted national reputation and a growing role on the international rare disease stage. The successful candidate will shape the strategic vision for more than 1,800 families, oversee the close partnership between the Society and its research subsidiary RDRP, and champion the patient and family ethos that sits at the heart of the organisation's work. It is an opportunity to combine ambitious strategic leadership with deeply meaningful, human impact, working alongside a committed Board, Senior Leadership Team and wider community of clinicians, researchers and pharmaceutical partners.

As our next Chief Executive, you will

• Define and deliver the MPS Society’s strategic vision.
• Provide confident oversight of governance, finance, compliance and reporting.
• Effectively manage the operational alignment between the MPS Society and RDRP.
• Always keep the members and family voice at the heart of strategy, service design and decision-making.
• Build and maintain senior-level relationships with statutory bodies, government agencies, pharmaceutical partners, clinical expert centres and other key stakeholders to support the Society’s objectives, influence policy and practice, and protect its professional reputation.
• Act as a visible and credible public voice to raise awareness, improve visibility, support, treatment access and outcomes for people affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related conditions.
• Collaborate with other rare disease bodies, patient organisations and other key audiences.
• Lead and empower the senior leadership team through effective delegation, early involvement in strategic discussions, clear accountability and support for individuals to flourish.
• Encourage an open, supportive work environment allowing creativity and building staff confidence.
• Help shape the future of the MPS Society.

About you

•  Self-motivated, with the drive to lead the organisation through a period of change and transition.
• Unquestionable probity and personal integrity, given the trust placed in the CEO by families, trustees and partners.
• Exemplary written and verbal communication skills, able to convey complex scientific and clinical information to audiences ranging from clinicians to families with no prior knowledge of MPS disorders.
• Strong self-awareness, with insight into their own leadership style and impact on others.
• Emotional resilience, able to sustain performance while supporting a community facing life limiting conditions.
• A collaborative and empowering leadership style, able to build trust, delegate effectively and help individuals across the organisation flourish.
• Genuine passion for the Society's mission, with a family and member-first ethos.
• Confidence to build relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, from beneficiaries and Trustees to politicians, media and pharmaceutical partners.
• A proactive, positive approach, comfortable reacting to change and organising their own work to meet deadlines.
• Confidence speaking publicly on behalf of the organisation and the people it represents.

Why join us?

A close-knit, values-led culture. With just over thirty staff across the Society and RDRP combined, this is a place where the CEO can know the team personally, work closely with families day-to-day, and see the direct results of decisions rather than managing at a distance through layers of bureaucracy.

• Genuine autonomy to shape direction. The Board is explicitly looking to the new CEO to bring fresh thinking on technology, AI, and digital tools, and to give real freedom to modernise fundraising, services, and engagement rather than simply maintaining what already exists.
• A stable foundation to build from over forty years of track record, trusted relationships and a strong national reputation mean the incoming CEO can focus energy on vision and growth rather than firefighting or rebuilding credibility from scratch.
• Proximity to cutting-edge science: the Society's close relationship with RDRP gives the CEO regular exposure to advances in rare disease research and treatment access, while day-to-day research leadership sits with the RDRP Managing Director, allowing the CEO to focus on strategy, people and sustainability.
• A high-visibility, high-influence platform. Regular contact with government, pharmaceutical companies, clinicians and international rare disease bodies offers strong opportunities to build a public profile and personal network well beyond the charity sector.
• A team that already shares the mission. Staff are described as passionate about the Society's aims, and as having a family-first ethos, so the new CEO inherits a culture to lead and empower rather than one that needs to be built from the ground up.
• Work with a different kind of return. Beyond salary and career progression, this role offers the less tangible reward of knowing that strategic and financial decisions translate, into better support for families facing some of the rarest conditions in the country.

Benefits

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

• A competitive salary
• Generous annual leave
• Extra leave between Christmas and the New Year
• Contributory pension
• Life assurance (subject to the conditions of the scheme)
• Employee assistance programme offering support 24/7

Further information

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

The main duties, responsibilities and requirements of this role can be viewed in the job description on our website.

Salary to be agreed depending on experience and will be pro-rata for part time hours.

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

This senior role requires flexibility in working hours and location.  It is primarily offered on a hybrid basis with a minimum of 2 days in our Amersham, Buckinghamshire, office each week. As part of the role, UK and overseas travel is necessary, which may on occasion include early morning and/or evening working and sometimes overnight stays. We have policies in place to ensure that any unsociable hours worked over the weekend are fairly compensated through TOIL.

This role will require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS) details of which can be found in the job description.

For an informal discussion about the role or the work of the MPS Society, please contact Dr Fiona Stewart.  Contact details can be found on the full job description. Kindly note, meetings with other relevant people will be available to shortlisted candidates at interview stage.  

Peer Support Officer

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the South West, Wessex and Channel Islands service delivery team to support our exciting work in Gloucestershire.

You will bring experience and understanding of the meaningful involvement of lived experience, working to address health inequities, using a data driven approach to prioritisation and focus of work.

Position: 000050 Peer Support Officer

Location: Home-based Gloucestershire, as part of the South West, Wessex & Channel Islands locality team

However, frequent travel will be required as part of this role (may include team meetings or other work-related meetings)

Hours: Part-time, 21 hours per week 

Salary: Circa £17,800 per annum (FTE circa £29,813.07)

Contract: This is a fixed-term contract for 1 year. We currently have funding for this service for 1 year.

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Health Cash Plan, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: 4 October 2026

Interview Date: 13 and 14 October 2026. Interviews will be held via video conferencing. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you email your application.

The Role

Reporting to the Service Delivery Coach for the South West and Channel Islands, the Peer Support Officer will work with colleagues across the locality to deliver against engagement activity.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the involvement of people affected by stroke to prioritise our work and improve the experience of people affected by stroke
• Development of peer support groups across Gloucestershire
• Working with health care professionals, including clinicians, managers and leads
• Managing volunteers
• Build stroke communities to enable stroke survivors and their carers to rebuild their lives after stroke

About You

You will be:

• Data driven
• Able to work independently, prioritise activity and focus to increase impact and reach
• Willing to travel
• Experimental and willing to learn
• Dependable
• A team player

This role requires travel across Gloucestershire as well as occasional travel across the South West locality. Candidates must be able to demonstrate how they can meet this requirement of the role

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

Applications

To apply you’ll be redirected to the organisation website where you can download the full role profile. You’ll need to submit a CV and cover letter demonstrating how you meet the person specification detailed in the role profile, and what you bring to the role in terms of your skills and experience.

If you are applying under the Disability Confident scheme, please indicate this in your supporting statement when applying for the role.

Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

You may also have experience in areas such as Engagement Officer, Community Engagement Officer, Peer Support, Health Support Officer, Community Support.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People. #INDNFP

About the role
We are seeking a proactive, enthusiastic, and highly organised Fundraising Officer to support our individual giving, community fundraising, and small trusts and foundations activities. The Fundraising Officer will manage individual and community donor activities, and the donor database to support thanking, stewardship and targeted donor engagement. They will also play a key role in monitoring the impact of our fundraising activity to ensure continuous improvement and income growth.

This is a dynamic, hands-on role for someone who is creative, collaborative, and enjoys working across a diverse range of tasks.  They will be enthusiastic and keen to generate new ideas that strengthen supporter relationships and deliver impactful fundraising.

Main duties and responsibilities

Individual, Corporate and Community Fundraising

• Work with the Fundraising and Communications Manager and Communications Coordinator to develop and deliver three - four individual giving appeals at year (digital and offline) to increase income.
• Monitor and analyse appeal performance to inform future activity.
• Support wider donor acquisition, retention, and upgrade strategies through data-led insights.
• Work closely with colleagues in communications and service delivery to create compelling fundraising content and impact stories.
• Act as the main point of contact for community fundraisers and local events, offering guidance, support materials, and encouragement. Work closely with Communications Coordinator where needed.
• Lead on the promotion and recruitment of participants for sponsored challenge events, particularly the Oxford Half Marathon and Bike Oxford.
• Research charity of the year opportunities amongst school and local businesses and support applications as required.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local community groups, schools and faith communities.
• Confidently represent the organisation at community events and manage a pool of volunteer speakers.
• Manage and develop a small number of local business partnerships.
• Use and optimise our CRM (Donorfy) to ensure accurate and up-to date relationship management records.  

Donor Stewardship and Prospect Research

• Ensure all donors are thanked promptly and feel valued and engaged.
• Manage and maintain accurate donor data in Donorfy, producing reports on donor activity and performance.
• Monitor and manage fundraising and donation enquiries through our development@ inbox, responding and referring them as appropriate.  
• Research new fundraising prospects and initiatives across individuals, community groups, small trusts, local businesses and other potential supporters. Maintain organised records of prospects and recommendations.

Trusts & Foundations (Small Grants)

• Support the Fundraising and Communications Manager and Trust and Foundations Fundraiser with the small grants pipeline, including prospect research, applications and reporting. 
• Work closely with appropriate staff and service coordinators on project budgets, reporting and planning as needed.

Other responsibilities

• Support and oversee volunteers and interns as required.
• Work collaboratively within a busy staff team, participate in meetings and planning processes, and contribute to organisational development.
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role, as agreed with the Fundraising and Communications Manager or CEO. 

Person specification

Essential:

• Demonstrable fundraising and supporter-facing experience, with the ability to manage multiple income streams simultaneously.
• Knowledge and experience of individual and community fundraising.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to tailor content to different audiences.
• Experience using CRM databases, with confidence managing day-to-day data processes.
• Highly organised with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong research skills and a track record of writing funding bids and reports.
• Ability to build productive, collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• A positive, creative, “can-do” attitude, with the ability to adapt to change.
• Confidence representing the organisation at community events.
• Ability to work within a budget.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and measure impact.
• A demonstrable passion for, and affinity with, our cause
• Ability to communicate and work sensitively with people with lived experience of migration and tell their stories with dignity.

Desirable:

• Experience of working for a local charity.
• Knowledge of the migration and refugee sector.
• Experience in digital fundraising, social media and online giving platforms (eg JustGiving, crowd-funding platforms, social ads).
• Experience in corporate fundraising.
• Experience of working with Mailchimp and donorfy
   

Deadline for applications: Midnight Sunday 4th October 2026

Interviews: Week commencing 12th or 19th October in Oxford.