Welfare jobs

Are you passionate about making a real difference?

Margaret Green Animal Rescue has been a trusted name in animal welfare for over 60 years, rehoming more than 60,000 animals. Now, we’re embarking on an ambitious five-year strategy to transform how we operate - using data and technology to create sharper insights, streamline processes, and ultimately help more animals find loving homes.

We’re looking for a Business Intelligence Analyst who can turn data into action. This is a pivotal role in our Transformation Programme, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to design and deliver a new business intelligence solution. You’ll help us simplify systems, empower staff and volunteers, and unlock insights that drive the numberof animals helped.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the design and implementation of our new BI solution.

• Streamline our data lake for clear, actionable insights.

• Transform processes and workflows to free up time for what matters most—animal welfare.

• Champion a data-led approach that connects strategy to real-world outcomes.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in data-driven insight and transformation.

• Strong skills in data architecture, BI reporting, and process design.

• Familiarity with automation, workflow optimisation, and human-centred design.

• Ability to engage stakeholders with compelling stories and solutions.

• Passion for animal welfare and a desire to make a tangible impact.

Why Join Us?

This is more than a job—it’s a chance to shape the future of animal rescue. You’ll work in the beautiful Dorset countryside, alongside a passionate team, and play a key role in delivering a strategy that brings joy to animals, families, and communities.

Full details see our Job Description below.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now and help us create an insight-led future for animal welfare.

Please note that the role will be based on-site at our Church Knowle centre near Wareham, in Dorset, for at least 4 days per week. We will only consider applicants who are able to fulfil this requirement.

Due to receiving a high number of applications, we regret that we are only able to reply to successful candidates.

About SPANA

SPANA (The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) is the global charity for the working animals of the world. Since our foundation in 1923, we have worked where they work, to support the welfare of working animals, including horses, donkeys, mules, oxen, dogs and camels.

About this role

SPANA is investing in its Grants and Compliance function to strengthen financial oversight and accountability across its global partnerships. The Grants and Compliance team plays a critical role in safeguarding resources, supporting partners and ensuring compliance with donor requirements and SPANA’s internal policies. The team works closely with colleagues across departments and with partner organisations to deliver impactful programmes for the welfare of working animals worldwide.
Reporting to the Grants Compliance Manager, the Grants Finance Officer is a key role within this function. The position ensures robust financial management of grants and partner funding by reviewing financial reports, conducting compliance checks and supporting partners with capacity building. The role also maintains accurate grant records, assists with due diligence and contributes to risk assessments and audit processes. By providing clear financial support and guidance, the Grants Finance Officer helps SPANA and its partners meet donor expectations and strengthen accountability, ultimately enabling better programme delivery and impact.

Contract, location and salary

This is a UK based, permanent, full-time (34.5 hours per week) role, and current right to work in the UK is required. This is a hybrid position with regular attendance (1-2 days per month or more if preferred) in our London office. 

The salary for this position is c.£34,000 per annum subject to skills and experience. 

Full details and how to apply

Please review the job description for full details including a person specification. The deadline for applications is 23:59 GMT on Wednesday 14 January 2026.

About SPANA

SPANA (The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) is the global charity for the working animals of the world. Since our foundation in 1923, we have worked where they work, to support the welfare of working animals, including horses, donkeys, mules, oxen, dogs and camels.

About this role

SPANA is investing in its Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) function. We have established an independent MEAL team within the Global Programmes Directorate (GPD), led by a Head of Data Insights and MEAL. The MEAL team plays a critical role in ensuring that SPANA’s programmes are effective, responsive and continuously progressing to improve the welfare of working animals globally. The MEAL team works closely with SPANA partners based in different countries and with SPANA colleagues across departments.

Reporting to the MEAL Manager, the Data Management Officer is a key role in SPANA’s MEAL team. The role oversees the full data cycle, including supporting partners with consistent data collection, improving data quality assurance, maintaining data systems, setting standards, co-ordinating consolidation of programme data and producing clear analysis and visualisation. The role contributes directly to better use of evidence in programme design, learning and accountability across the organisation.

Contract, location and salary

This is a full-time (34.5 hour per week), permanent role based in the UK. SPANA works on a hybrid basis, and staff come into our office in London for approximately 1-2 days per month (or more if preferred). 

The salary for this role is c.£35k per annum, subject to skills and experience. SPANA provides employee benefits including a generous company pensions scheme and healthcare cashplan with Medicash. 

Full details and how to apply

Please review the job description for full details including a person specification and information on how to apply.

The deadline for applications is 23:59 GMT on 04 January 2026. 

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.

We are looking to recruit HOPELINE247 Advisers to provide individually tailored suicide prevention advice and guidance to young people and those who are concerned for them via our national multi-channel helpline HOPELINE247 and deliver suicide prevention training online and in community settings across the UK.

What you will do:

• Work as part of a team providing suicide prevention support to a range of clients via multichannel communication platforms. 
• Work on a 7-day shift system
• Use professional judgement to assess the needs of the service users who present with risk to life and manage and report any matters related to safeguarding.
• Maintain accurate records and input data monitoring into the data base system.
• Participate in clinical supervision and reflective practise. 
• Provide training, mentoring and coaching to new recruits.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• a degree or professional qualification in Health or Social Care, Community Work or a related discipline
• previous experience of working in an advisory capacity in suicide prevention or mental health
• a proven record of working directly with vulnerable young people 
• experience of providing advice and guidance via multiple communication channels
• the ability to empathise, support and build rapport with suicidal people and those who care about them, remaining non-judgemental and adhering to the remit of the service

Salary: £16,230.50 per annum progressing incrementally to £17,944.67 per annum. (Scale point 24-28). As a night shift worker, you will receive an additional allowance of £10 per night shift. This will be paid on a monthly basis along with the salary.

Hours:  16.5 hours per week – 2 nights per week.

Working arrangements:  This role will work shifts starting at 10:25pm and finishing at 7:40am. Shifts will be on a rota bases across a 7-day working week.   

Location: Edgbaston, Birmingham

Contract: Permanent 

Benefits: You will receive 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time workers), an attractive pension scheme, Simply Health membership and enhanced sick pay. Please visit our website for more details.

Closing date: Midnight 18th January 2026 

We reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier if we receive sufficient applications so, please submit your application as soon as possible.

PAPYRUS is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in employment, and its recruitment policies are designed to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender re-assignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

PAPYRUS is committed to safeguarding all children, young people and adults at risk that interact with the organisation. The organisation recognises its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of these vulnerable groups by a commitment to procedures to protect them. The charity expects all staff and volunteers to fully support and promote these commitments.

Start Date: Immediate Start

Deadline:  Rolling – as soon as the position is filled 

Join Citizens Advice Richmond as an Financial Resilience Navigator 

Are you passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive on working collaboratively to support those most in need? If so, we’d love to hear from you. 

Following the successful launch of our innovative Financial Resilience Navigator project in April, we are seeking a dedicated Financial Navigator to join our established team. You will lead the way in providing vital support to vulnerable individuals and households across the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.

You will serve as a single point of contact, assisting clients with welfare benefits, income maximization, debt management, housing, and related issues. This role emphasizes connection, compassion, and coordination, requiring collaboration with various organizations and council services to ensure comprehensive client support. Key responsibilities include client advocacy, community outreach, case management, and stakeholder collaboration.

For more information and how to apply please see the job pack on our website via the apply button.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the community we serve.

OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE POST

This strategic and outward-facing role will be instrumental in expanding the School’s network of supporters and maximising philanthropic income as we celebrate our Centenary in 2026. The postholder will take a leading role in identifying, cultivating, and securing new major donor relationships - building a strong and sustainable pipeline of prospects capable of making transformational gifts to support the School’s vision and long-term priorities as it seeks to uphold its global standing as a centre of performance excellence in classical dance from London base.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity for an experienced development professional to play a pivotal part in shaping the School’s next chapter. Working closely with senior leadership, the postholder will design and deliver innovative engagement strategies to attract new supporters, deepen relationships with key prospects, and communicate the School’s impact and ambitions with clarity and passion. The role requires a proactive and strategic relationship-builder with the confidence to engage high-level individuals and the insight to convert interest into enduring philanthropic partnerships in support of the future of the performing arts at the highest level.

CONTRACT TERMS

Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday - Friday

Salary: £45,000 per annum

Location: Upper School, Covent Garden

Start Date: March/April 2026

Annual Leave: 30 days per annum

MAIN DUTIES

Donor Cultivation and Relationship Management

• Build and nurture strong, long-term relationships with new and existing supporters through personalised engagement strategies informed by the Head of Development
• Represent the School at meetings, events, presentations and functions to cultivate connections with prospective donors
• Collaborate with senior leadership and the Donor Relations Team to ensure high-level donors are onboarded seamlessly and receive tailored stewardship and recognition.

Strategic Fundraising Planning

• Develop and implement strategies to attract new major donors, aligning with the School’s fundraising priorities for UK in-year activity, as well as USA and Asia development
• Work with senior leadership to set fundraising targets, track progress, and report on performance across each giving level prioritising annual donations of £50k+ per annum.

Proposal Preparation

• Collaborate with content, communications and marketing team colleagues to create compelling materials that articulate the School’s mission and strategic priorities
• Contribute to the planning and delivery of fundraising campaigns, events, and initiatives to engage, cultivate and convert prospective supporters.

Prospect Research and Identification

• Maintain and update the active prospects pipeline, ensuring all opportunities are tracked and appropriately prioritized with touchpoints and assigned relationship leads
• Contribute to the invitations tracker to ensure all prospects are engaged with in a systemised and relevant way according to location, interest, propensity to give.

Monitoring, Reporting, and Analysis

• Maintain accurate records of donor engagement and interactions in the CRM system improving and refining systems and processes as part of a growing department
• Monitor progress against fundraising targets, providing regular reports and insights to senior leadership on pipeline value from identification to stewardship stages
• Analyse donor trends, sector insights and curate feedback to refine engagement strategies.

Team Collaboration and Leadership

• Work closely with colleagues across Development and the Senior Leadership Team as well as Artistic and Academic staff to refine the propositions and align fundraising priorities
• Host year-round events with the Development Team to enable all prospect engagement
• Mentor and support junior staff involved in development activities where appropriate.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Criteria:

• Proven experience in donor cultivation and relationship management - Demonstrated success in building and sustaining 5 and 6 figure annual relationships with major donors and key stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and project management skills - Capacity to manage multiple donor relationships, events/projects, and fundraising initiatives simultaneously, while maintaining attention to detail in a dynamic office environment.
• Strong strategic fundraising expertise - Ability to design, implement, and evaluate fundraising strategies that align with institutional priorities and deliver measurable outcomes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - Skilled at engaging and influencing diverse audiences through persuasive written and verbal communication, including at senior levels.
• Proficiency in proposal and campaign development - Experience preparing compelling fundraising proposals, campaign materials, and event strategies that inspire donor support.
• Analytical and reporting skills - Ability to monitor, interpret, and report on fundraising performance, donor trends, and engagement metrics using CRM and data analysis tools.
• Collaborative teamwork - Proven ability to work effectively across departments and with senior leadership, collaborating with colleagues to achieve shared goals.
• Ethical commitment and alignment with institutional values - Demonstrated integrity, discretion, and commitment to advancing the mission and values of the School through responsible fundraising practices.

Desirable Criteria:

• A knowledge and appreciation of ballet, the arts, performance, elite sport
• Understanding of 501c3 and Endowment Fund structures
• Previous experience of using Salesforce.

SAFEGUARDING DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and recognises that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility. The School expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment to children’s safeguarding and to share this child-centred approach. This approach means that staff must consider, at all times, what is in the best interests of the child. Additionally, the following is expected of all staff:

• To uphold the School’s policies relating to safeguarding and child protection, behaviour, health and safety and all other relevant policies
• To promote and safeguard the welfare of children and young persons for whom you are responsible and come into contact with
• To report any safeguarding concerns using the relevant channels, such as informing the Designated Safeguarding Lead, in a timely and appropriate manner
• To ensure full compliance with all statutory regulations, particularly the most recent Keeping Children Safe in Education, and to communicate concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, other relevant staff of The Royal Ballet School or local children’s services as appropriate.

This job information cannot be all encompassing. It is inevitable over time that the emphasis of the job will change without changing the general character of the job or the level of duties and responsibilities entailed. Consequently, this information will be periodically reviewed, revised and updated in consultation with the post holder to reflect appropriate changes.

We are committed to creating an environment where all our employees feel part of our team and can flourish, regardless of their background. We’re proud to be an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity.

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced programme manager who will oversee The Advice Workforce Development Fund (AWDF). AWDF is a collaborative programme dedicated to strengthening and sustaining the social welfare advice sector in London. The role will coordinate and run steering and advisory groups, and ‘task and finish’ groups, working with cross-sector stakeholders to enable the implementation of recent recommendations generated by research commissioned by the programme, and help with monitoring and evaluating the project and funded projects under this programme. The successful candidate will have strong project management skills, a commitment to social justice, and a track record of delivering impactful support to external partners.

The workforce development programme was created after working closely with a group of funders and advice sector representatives who are now steering group members. The programme has reached an exciting stage, as it transitions from a foundation-laying and research phase into more of a focus on influencing and implementation of the learning generated to date, while also maintaining and strengthening new and existing relationships. This role, with support from the Head of Sector Support and Grants and the CEO, will oversee the continued development and delivery of this exciting partnership into the longer-term. This role will also work closely with the Propel initiative under London Funders to ensure effective coordination of work is done at all levels.  

✨Something special is opening soon - our BRAND NEW charity shop in Hove✨

To lead this exciting launch we're looking for an experienced, passionate Shop Manager ready to turn great retail into even greater good!

✨ Take charge of our store and make it your own

✨ Lead and inspire a dedicated team of staff and volunteers

✨ Drive sales, manage stock, and deliver excellent customer experiences

✨ Play a key role in supporting animals through every purchase made

We need someone with charity retail know-how, leadership skills, and plenty of passion to keep things running smoothly day-to-day. From managing rotas to keeping standards sky-high, you’ll be at the heart of this shop’s success.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now!

Established in 1790, The RLF Grants Programme has helped over 6,000 writers facing financial difficulties by providing hardship grants to help cover day-to-day living costs living or unexpected bills. Working alongside the Head of Grants and fellow Grant Officer, you will be responsible for handling a caseload of applications from both new and returning writers; processing initial enquiries through to presentation to the RLF’s Grants Committee. The successful candidate will be a point of contact for beneficiaries (and their dependents), ensuring smooth delivery of the grants during the writer’s time with us.

Please note that the role involves regular contact with individuals who may be experiencing vulnerability, including those facing mental, physical, or age-related challenges.

​“Providing free, independent, confidential and impartial advice”

Citizens Advice Southwark has a track record of delivering high-quality services from its offices in Peckham and Walworth and outreach locations across Southwark and South East London. We sort out problems together, for good, by providing free, independent, confidential and impartial advice across all areas of social welfare law, and through using the experience of our clients to bring about positive change through research and campaigns. 

Gateway Assessor

NJC Scale 2 - £28,958 to £29,337 per annum

Full-time – 35 hours per week

The role will assist in providing a quality service to clients through face to face, telephone and digital gateway assessment by supplying accurate, personalised, relevant information and guidance. You must have:

• Recent experience of undertaking the role of Gateway Assessor or of providing information, advice and guidance to the public either through face to face, telephone and emails including experience of exploring clients’ problems and identifying appropriate next steps.
• An understanding of the main enquiry issues involved in assessing clients' problems
• Experience of using interpersonal skills, including sensitive listening and questioning skills to understand the needs of others, especially in the context of telephony
• To understand, empathise with and be committed to the Service’s aims, principles and equal opportunities policies

Closing date: 9.00 am Monday 5 January 2026

Interviews: Thursday 8 January 2026

In return, we can offer you a range of employee benefits, including generous annual leave, an employer matched pension contribution up to 10% of gross salary, an Employee Assistance Programme and training and development opportunities to continue your professional development.

Citizens Advice Southwark is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all applicants who meet the person specification irrespective of sex, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief, age, or disability.

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?  

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge? 

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard? 

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility. 

We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team in Bradford.  Your role will require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes across the area to meet with clients and professionals and be home based for administration; therefore, a suitable home internet connection is essential. 

About us 

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website. 

About you

Desirably you will have some experience of working as an Advocate, providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Professional Development?

You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day. Advocates are expected to be willing to gain, or to already hold, the Level 3 Award in Independent Advocacy Practice with disciplines suitable for the role they work in.

Benefits

· 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time colleagues) rising to 30 days upon 5 years’ service

· 5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution

· Salary sacrifices pension scheme

· Separate Life Assurance Cover (equivalent of two times your annual salary)

· Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays, gym membership etc

· 24/7 Employee Assistance programme

· Access to remote counselling service

· Paid Disability Leave

· Paid compassionate Leave

· Home Working Allowance 

Support with continuous professional development

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development 

Personal Development Plans

How are staff supported to work remotely?

VoiceAbility has a small number of offices. Employees including Team Leaders are homebased for Administration and meetings will be held online as well as in person in the relevant community.

When you need to travel for work, expenses will be paid (mileage or public transport costs). 

VoiceAbility offers the usual regular manager one to ones, Staff forums and communities of practice depending on role. Team meetings with a mix of virtual and in person approach.

Equality and Diversity

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. 

How to apply

To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form. 

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications; 9th January 2026 12:00

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Job Structure

• Reports to: Director of Learning and Impact  

• Direct reports: Programme Leads, Programmes Coordinator

• Location: Haringey, with travel across London boroughs as required

• Hours: 40 hours per week (including 1 hour lunch break)

Benefits 

• 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, your birthday off, and an extra day per year of service (up to 5 additional days) 

• Death in Service cover (up to 4x annual salary / fixed amount for part-time roles) 

• Enhanced sick pay 

• Eye care benefits for those using display screens 

• Up to £750 annual CPD budget to support your professional development 

• A dedicated wellness package promoting staff health and wellbeing 

• Team building and transformation days to strengthen collaboration and personal growth 

• Professional mentoring and ongoing supervision 

• A comprehensive induction and training programme to help you thrive from day one 

About Sister System 

Founded in 2018, Sister System is a charitable organisation and an Open College Network (OCN) approved centre dedicated to empowering girls and young women aged 13-24 affected by the care system.   

Our approach is co-designed with care-affected young women to ensure that their lived experiences continue to drive meaningful change and shape our progression. Built on proven therapeutic models, our long-term mentoring, accredited qualifications, and leadership development programmes strengthen resilience, confidence, and essential life skills.   

Our model seeks to break intergenerational cycles by equipping young women with the tools to thrive and lead change. Through a strong sense of community, peer networks, and trusted adult relationships, we create clear pathways into education, employment, and socio-economic stability, supporting a life free from abuse.

Throughout her journey with Sister System, each girl participates in weekly one-to-one and group sessions focused on self-education and personal growth. These sessions explore the social and emotional transition to womanhood while building a supportive network of “sisters” who continue to empower one another during key life transitions. Our programmes are accessible to girls and young women at any stage of educational attainment, enabling all Sis-Stars to learn, grow, and thrive.  

Our Programmes  

All our programmes have been co-curated with young women in care and are built upon proven therapeutic models of intervention. We deliver a set of inclusive, empowering, enabling, and exploratory programmes. These focus on self-education, investigating the social and emotional impact of the transition to womanhood and creating a network of sisters who can continue to support each other's growth throughout key transitional periods. Our programmes are delivered in such a way that sisters at any stage of educational attainment can access, learn, grow, and thrive.  

Job Purpose 

Sister System is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Programmes to lead the operational delivery and continuous improvement of our mentoring, learning, and development programmes for care-affected girls and young women aged 13–24. The postholder will oversee the full programme cycle — from referral and assessment through to delivery, evaluation, and progression — ensuring all work is trauma-informed, evidence-based, and aligned with Sister System’s mission and OCN accreditation standards. Acting as the central link between the leadership team and delivery staff, the Head of Programmes will manage and develop a high-performing team, maintain quality assurance across all programme stages, and foster strong partnerships with schools, local authorities, and community organisations to drive measurable impact and long-term systemic change.  

This role holds operational oversight of all programme delivery, team management, and quality assurance, ensuring that our work achieves its intended outcomes, aligns with our organisational strategy, and continues to grow in impact and reach.  

Key Responsibilities  

Programme Leadership and Delivery  

• Lead the design, coordination, and delivery of all Sister System programmes, services, and activities in line with organisational aims and funder requirements.  

• Oversee programme planning, scheduling, and annual mapping to ensure smooth delivery and strategic alignment across all three stages (Enable, Enhance, Empower).  

• Work with the Safeguarding Lead to manage referral, assessment, and placement processes to ensure beneficiaries are appropriately matched to programmes and mentors, maintaining high standards of transparency and accountability throughout.  

• Ensure all delivery follows Sister System's three-stage programme model, safeguarding standards, and quality expectations. Support programme delivery where needed, maintaining a visible leadership presence.  

• Monitor the service user journey using Sister System's monitoring and evaluation tools and Salesforce CRM, working with the Head of Monitoring & Evaluation to track progress against work plans, indicators, and our evaluation framework.  

• Conduct regular programme review meetings with team members and stakeholders to enhance information sharing, efficiency, and effectiveness of programme implementation.  

Programme Quality and Impact  

• Oversee programme quality assurance, including risk assessment of referrals, benchmarking, and monitoring of Development & Progress reports.  

• Work with the Internal Quality Assurer to ensure delivery meets agreed quality standards.  

• Maintain oversight of portfolios of work produced by learners and mentors towards their qualifications, in collaboration with the Learning & Development Lead and EET Progression Lead.  

• Support the collection, analysis, and reporting of programme data to evidence impact and inform organisational learning.  

• Play an active role in the impact evaluation cycle, managing and adapting programmes in line with outcomes and goals.  

Operational and Team Leadership  

• Lead and support the mentor team in effective caseload management, ensuring appropriate workload balance and delivery quality.  

• Line manage key programme staff, providing guidance, support, and supervision in line with organisational policies. Support staff wellbeing and development, ensuring a positive working environment. 

• Ensure timely completion of paperwork, reports, and monitoring requirements across all programmes.  

• Lead regular team meetings, contributing to a reflective, learning-focused organisational culture.  

• Support implementation of Sister System's performance management systems and processes.  

• Ensure compliance with all relevant policies and procedures, specifically safeguarding, Child Protection Policy, and Code of Conduct.  

• Encourage a culture of learning, creativity, and innovation. Maintain good team communication and dynamics, taking remedial action when problems occur.  

External Partner Management  

• Commission and manage a pool of external facilitators and delivery partners to meet agreed programme outcomes.  

• Build and maintain strong relationships with referral partners, funders, and external stakeholders to support programme delivery and growth.  

• Represent Sister System externally, promoting our model of culturally responsive, trauma-informed mentoring.  

• Ensure all staff, partners, and stakeholders have clear understanding of Sister System's mission, vision, values, and policies, reflected in programme implementation.  

Strategic Development and Business Growth 

• Contribute to the development of Sister System's programme strategy, aligning delivery with the 3-year plan and long-term system change goals.  

• Contribute to Sister System's strategy development and revision by providing feedback on programme reach, impact, and strategic planning.  

• Identify opportunities for programme innovation and growth, including developing new partnerships and supporting funding applications.  

• Support senior leadership in reporting to funders and partners, contributing to organisational learning and sustainability planning.  

• Represent Sister System at sector events and forums to promote our work and influence best practice in mentoring care-affected young women.  

Safeguarding  

• Sister System places the highest priority on safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.  

• The Head of Programmes will serve as a Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) with responsibility for safeguarding in the organisation, maintaining good knowledge of safeguarding guidance (including Keeping Children Safe in Education and Working Together to Safeguard Children) and related legislation (e.g., the Children Act 1989).  

Person Specification  

Essential – Knowledge & Experience 

• Significant experience in programme management, delivery, and coordination within the charity/social impact sector  

• Proven track record of managing multiple programmes or projects simultaneously, meeting targets and deadlines  

• Experience of line management and team leadership, including supervision and performance management  

• Experience managing relationships with external stakeholders, including funders, delivery partners, and referral agencies  

• Experience in safeguarding and child protection, including handling disclosures and managing risk  

• Knowledge of the challenges faced by care-experienced young women and the care system  

• Knowledge of effective monitoring and evaluation approaches and impact measurement  

• Awareness of equality, diversity, and inclusion principles in service delivery  

Desirable 

• Experience working with vulnerable young people, particularly care-experienced individuals or young women  

• Experience in mentoring programmes or youth development initiatives  

• Experience working with trauma-informed and culturally responsive approaches  

• Experience of co-production or 'by and for' programme design with service users  

• Experience in qualifications-based programmes (e.g., accredited learning)  

Skills & Abilities 

• Excellent programme planning, coordination, and organisational skills with strong attention to detail  

• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret data and use it to inform decision-making  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills  

• Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure  

• Strong relationship-building skills with ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external partners  

• Highly developed cultural awareness and ability to work well in an environment with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures  

• Problem-solving skills with ability to adapt plans and respond to challenges  

• Ability to lead, motivate, and support a team, fostering a positive and reflective culture  

• Strong administrative and IT skills, including proficiency with databases and monitoring systems  

Personal Qualities 

• Passionate commitment to Sister System's mission of supporting care-experienced young women  

• Strong alignment with Sister System's values and approach, including 'by and for' and trauma-informed practice  

• Empathetic and non-judgemental approach to working with vulnerable young people  

• Resilient and able to manage emotional demands of the role while maintaining professional boundaries  

• Flexible and adaptable approach to changing circumstances and organisational needs  

• Commitment to continuous learning, reflection, and professional development  

• High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability  

• Able to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately  

• You will demonstrate Sister System’s values: Tenacious, Solution-focused, Masterful, Collaborative and Evidence-based 

Other Requirements  

• Enhanced DBS check will be required for this role  

• Right to work in the UK  

• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as required by programme delivery  

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment  

Sister System is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults. The successful applicant will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide two satisfactory references.  

Equal Opportunity Statement 

Sister System is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences, and we are committed to fair, inclusive and transparent recruitment. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please let us know. 

Recruitment Process

The post will be advertised from 16th December 2025; applications will close on 12th January 2026. 

• First round of interviews will be 22nd January 2026,  

• Second round interview will commence from the week of 26th January 2025 

This is an exciting opportunity to steer Asylum Aid at an important time in its 30-year existence. As Executive Director you will be responsible for delivering on our strategy for impact. You will oversee our work to increase access to expert, trauma-informed legal representation to those in the asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems and lead our policy and strategic legal work to achieve systemic change that contributes towards our vision.

You will line manage the Director of Legal Casework to oversee the provision of supportive and enabling leadership to Asylum Aid caseworkers so that they can continue to deliver high quality expert advice in complex cases, while being supported in their professional development and wellbeing. You will also manage and develop the work of our welfare advice team within the Westminster Advice Services Partnership and beyond, and work collaboratively with colleagues in the sector to build capacity and increase our impact. 

The ideal candidate, who may be legally qualified, will have experience of leadership in the charity/NGO sector and a sound understanding of the asylum, human rights and trafficking processes in the UK and the legal frameworks which govern the protection of refugees, survivors of trafficking and stateless people, and of the role of law in achieving system change.

We are looking for someone who is strategically minded and passionate about providing supportive and inclusive leadership to our expert team. You will be committed to our objectives and to the role which expert legal representation plays in enabling people in need of protection in the UK to obtain it.

As is the nature of this sector, the role may be exposed to a high volume of traumatic and distressing material and, whilst they will be supported by the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and surrounding team, the candidate should also be able to demonstrate knowledge of good self-care principles in an intense work environment and dissemination of those principles to junior members of the team.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and strategy

·Be responsible, with the support of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO, for the development, implementation and monitoring of Asylum Aid’s organisational strategy

·Provide leadership and strategic direction at Asylum Aid in accordance with its aims and objectives, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework

·Act as external spokesperson for Asylum Aid, maintaining and strengthening Asylum Aid’s position as a leader in the refugee rights, statelessness and legal aid sectors;

·Work collaboratively with others in the sector to promote and strengthen Asylum Aid’s work, identify and establish potential partnerships, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework;

·Work collaboratively with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and Executive Leadership team to drive the implementation of the Group strategic framework;

·Ensure that all reporting and monitoring requirements are met to support fundraising, contract compliance and monitoring strategic impact;

·Support the cross collaboration of the Asylum Aid team with the Helen Bamber Foundation team and play an active part in the management of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group.

Governance  

·Act as the Data Protection Supervisor with responsibility for data protection and cyber security within Asylum Aid

·Together with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and designated safeguarding leads, be responsible for child and adult safeguarding within Asylum Aid

·In collaboration with the Director of Legal Casework, ensure compliance by Asylum Aid with all legal and regulatory obligations, including the Legal Aid Agency contract, the Immigration Advice Authority and Solicitors Regulation Authority;

·Lead on the preparation and presentation of quarterly reports on Asylum Aid’s activities, strategy and risks to the Asylum Aid Board, the Finance and Fundraising Committee and the People and Governance Committee;

·Lead on the preparation of the Trustees’ annual report and ensure that monitoring and evaluation systems are adequate to enable reporting on Asylum Aid’s activities and impact.

Management and Supervision 

·Responsible for line management of the Director of Legal Casework and Welfare Advice service coordinator, and other team supervisors as required;

·Together with the Group Director of People, responsible for Human Resources and implementation of the People Strategy within Asylum Aid, including development and implementation of HR policies and procedures;

·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors, drive the effective management and supervision of the Asylum Aid team and ensure that they comply with relevant professional standards and accreditation;

·Foster a supportive and inclusive team culture at Asylum Aid in which each member feels valued and supported to develop professionally and to perform to the best of their ability;

·Ensure the team’s well-being and that self-care practices are established and work in tandem with the Director of Legal Casework and supervisors to ensure trauma-informed ways of working.

Policy & Strategic Legal Work

·Together with the Group Director of Policy, identify policy priorities and coordinate the preparation of evidence and briefings drawing on Asylum Aid’s experience and expertise to influence system change;

·Build and maintain relationships and partnerships with sector colleagues to support joint strategic engagement including policy advocacy and strategic legal work;

·Work closely with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors to drive changes in the UK asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems through strategic legal work.

Finance & Fundraising

·Work closely with the CEO and the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Finance Team to set and manage budget(s) and general financial matters for Asylum Aid

·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and the Group Finance Team, establish systems for monitoring legal aid Work In Progress and billing, and securing casework income including legal aid, and inter partes income from judicial review cases;

·Work closely with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Fundraising and Communications Team to secure funding for Asylum Aid from a range of sources including trusts and foundations, corporate philanthropy and major donors;

·Ensure that Legal Aid and other income is maximised, and targets are achieved.                                   

Other duties

·Manage the recruitment and supervision of volunteers where necessary in collaboration with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Volunteers Coordinator;

·Support the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Facilities team to ensure the smooth running of the office and that the facilities meet the needs of Asylum Aid;

·Work outside normal office hours as required and travel in order to carry out the responsibilities of the post.

·To undertake any task that may be requested from time to time that may be consistent with the nature and scope of this post.

Essential Experience, Skills and Knowledge

•Experience of running a small to medium sized charity/legal NGO and/or legal department within the NGO sector (or other equivalent senior management role);

•Demonstrable experience of managing and leading a successful team and the ability to manage a growing team with mixed roles from team supervisors to administrative support staff, working co-operatively with colleagues to maintain transparency and effective working relationships within the team;

•Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of backgrounds

•Strong understanding of good governance including legal, regulatory and financial responsibilities;

•Ability to work with a range of stakeholders from trustees to external partners;

•Experience of leading and/or participating in organisational strategic planning;

·Experience of legal policy work within the human rights field and /or of strategic litigation, whether as an NGO claimant or legal representative;

•Experience of managing diverse funding sources and setting and implementing budgets;

•Experience of working in a service delivery partnership with other organisations;

•Experience of fundraising, especially grants from trusts and foundations;

•Sound working knowledge of the law and policy as it relates to immigration,  asylum, human rights and modern slavery/trafficking;

•Demonstrable understanding of the asylum and human rights sector in the UK;

•An understanding of the barriers migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers face regarding access to legal advice, reasons why they may become destitute and why this makes it more difficult to access advice and support; and

•The passion for working empathetically and supportively with migrants, refugees, stateless people and asylum seekers.

Desirable Experience

·Experience of managing the delivery of frontline casework with people in the asylum or trafficking systems

·Experience of tendering for and delivering publicly funded contracts e.g. LAA or local authority funding;

·Working knowledge of Legal Aid Agency contracts, including the delivery of casework and billing under a legal aid contract in the immigration and asylum category and/or the public law category;

How to apply 

The first stage is to complete on our online application form on our website by 10am on Monday 26th January 2026.

The website form will ask you to:

1.Upload a short covering letter. Please tell us why the position appeals to you, and how your relevant skills and experience, including any voluntary experience and lived experience, matches the listed responsibilities and person specification. Please also state in your covering letter when you would be available to start the role.

2.Upload your current CV

3.Complete an online Equal Opportunities monitoring form – completion of this form will help us ensure that our recruitment procedures operate in such a way as to provide genuine equality of opportunity. The questions are entirely optional, and this information will not be available to members of the selection panel.

For an informal conversation about the post before applying, please contact Alison Pickup, the current Executive Director.

Selection Process

We will invite candidates to an initial online interview on Tuesday 10th or Wednesday 11th February, followed by shortlisted candidates attending in-person interviews at our office in Old Street on Tuesday 24th or Wednesday 25th February.

We offer a guaranteed initial interview for refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration, provided that they provide some evidence of relevant experience or skills in relation to the essential criteria.

We regret that we can only respond to applicants who make it to the interview stage.

Eligibility

Please note that the successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK (as a small charity we do not have the capacity to sponsor work visas).

Successful candidates will also be subject to a basic DBS check. If appointed, you will also be required to give your consent to the charity to receive regular updates on your criminal records status throughout your employment and to disclose any relevant convictions incurred during your time with us.

Adjustments

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. If you require a different format of the application form, such as large print or Word format, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements, please get in touch with us.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Our commitment to principles of equity, diversity and inclusion is an integral part of our approach to our clients, our volunteers and our staff, and we are an equal opportunities and Living Wage employer.

We are committed to attracting and recruiting diverse candidates because we are keen to make sure that our staff, trustees, volunteers and ambassadors reflect the communities we serve and the wider community we work in.

We genuinely welcome and encourage applications from candidates from a range of backgrounds, especially people of colour, people with disabilities, people from low socio-economic backgrounds, refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration or trauma and of the housing and welfare system, who are under-represented in our organisation.

We recognise and value the role of lived experience in meeting the needs of our clients and acknowledge the under-representation of people with lived experience of forced migration and statelessness in the advice sector. We value experience gained overseas as well as in the UK.

We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.

Please complete the form on their website to request support and they will confirm if they can match you with a mentor to support your application.

Senior Social Worker

Reports to: Service Manager (Social Work)

Responsible for: Yorkshire and North East personal welfare team

Location: Office based in Pontefract with regular travel

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: £40,787 per annum

Our client is a national charity whose mission is to improve the lives of individuals and communities facing disadvantage due to the impact of the coal mining industry.

They are currently recruiting for a Senior Social Worker to be based in their office in Pontefract to lead the service delivery within the Yorkshire and North East region, managing a team of office based and home-based Social Work Assistants providing advice and support to former Miners and their dependents.

Role Purpose

Responsibility for the professional leadership and management of service delivery within the regional personal welfare team. The role also involves promoting the service locally and developing partnerships with other agencies for the benefit of the client group.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the personal welfare team for the Yorkshire and North East region to provide a high quality, professional, outcomes focused service for former Miners and their dependents.
• Ensure the effective management of casework across the team including case allocation and management.
• Manage a small caseload of clients, when necessary, with a variety of needs, by carrying out high quality assessments and providing a range of appropriate interventions in response to assessed needs of the clients e.g. welfare benefits advice, advocacy, emotional support and practical advice.
• Drive service performance and improvement, monitoring efficiency and effectiveness and taking action to address performance or practice issues should they arise.
• Support the team through supervision, appraisal, case reviews and observations.
• Act as safeguarding lead for the region, advising and supporting team members to take appropriate action, ensuring adherence to the organisations safeguarding policy.
• Manage the delivery of a range of interventions predominantly through a home visiting service, including welfare benefits advice, support with mobility, social isolation and financial issues etc.
• Keep updated with relevant legislation and good practice and share such information across the team and wider organisation.
• Develop and maintain good working relationships with other professionals and partner agencies to ensure integrated, holistic and multidisciplinary approach.
• Represent the organisation at events and meetings as required and co-ordinate publicity and marketing of services in the region in co-operation with head office to promote and advertise the service.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Degree in social work or equivalent social work qualification and current professional registration.
• Experience of leading / managing a team in a social care setting with the ability to manage and effectively prioritise caseloads, work with integrity and professionalism and work under pressure.
• Experience of community based social care services with experience of delivery with older people and / or disability services.
• Experience of implementing systems and processes and facilitating change.
• Experience of contributing to the development and updating of policies and practice in line with legislative changes and good practice.
• Good working knowledge of welfare benefits system.
• Knowledge and understanding of the values and principles underpinning working with vulnerable adults and their Carers within the community setting.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and good practice, particularly in relation to older people, mental health and disability.
• A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Flexibility to travel across a wide geographic area with occasional overnight stays.

Desirable:

• Experience of social work practice teaching and/or practice teacher status or working towards.
• Knowledge and understanding of the issues facing former mineworkers and mining communities.

This role will require a satisfactory DBS check.