Youth engagement jobs

Job Title: Youth Support Adviser

Location: Hastings and covering the east of the county

Salary: £24,505 - £25,497 per annum depending on experience

Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week)

Contract: Permanent

Reports to: Team Leader – Youth Employability Service

About CXK

CXK empowers people to succeed in employment, education and training. The charity strives for a fairer society where everyone can grow and realise their potential. “The CXK Way” embodies the following core values:

· Ethical – We work with professionalism, honesty and integrity

· Passionate – We reach out enthusiastically to all who need out support

· Innovative – We inspire, enhance and improve

· Collaborative – We engage, support and share with others

The Youth Employability Service

CXK delivers the Youth Employability Service (YES) across East Sussex, commissioned by East Sussex County Council. We offer information, advice, support and guidance to young people in academic years 12 and 13 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), helping them to explore their options, plan and then take their next steps. We also work with schools supporting young people in year 11 who are at risk of becoming NEET. Liaising with a range of other services, YES is focussed on supporting young people to achieve their potential.

The Team

The YES team support young people from across the county, seeing them at CXK bases, partner venues or in community settings. The team assess and action plan with young people referred to the service, supporting them to understand their options and take steps toward achieving their goals around education, training and/ or employment. Working with a wide range of young people, the team approach is focused, creative and persistent, building on young peoples’ confidence and motivation alongside their skills and personal growth.

The Role

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Youth Support Adviser.

The Youth Support Adviser (YSA) is a key role in the Youth Employability Service, acting as the first point of contact for 16-18-year-olds who are NEET or at risk of NEET.  You will support with first appointments and initial assessments of need, when young people are referred to YES, alongside supporting your caseload.  Guiding them through re-engagement with suitable post-16 provisions and provide targeted intervention to those who have withdrawn from or not started their Post 16 provisions.

Working across the East of the county with schools and FE Colleges you will play a key role in ensuring that young people — receive the tailored guidance and support they need to progress confidently into further education, training, or employment. So strong customer service and communication skills are essential.

You will maintain regular contact with the young people you support, plus be a pivotal part of the YES Tracking Team, where you will use various communication methods (phone, text, WhatsApp, email, face-to-face) to engage and support young people and offer our support.

About You

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with experience of working with young people and looking to progress.

Ideally you understand the post-16 education and training landscape in East Sussex and the importance of person-centred support. You will be a confident communicator and collaborator, able to manage a varied caseload and make a genuine impact on the lives of the young people you support.

Skills and Knowledge

At CXK we are proud to be a disability confident and equal opportunities employer. We actively promote diversity within our workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Minimum Criteria

· An understanding of the needs, and challenges faced by young people who are not in education, employment or training

· Experience of working with young people on a one-to-one basis, developing personalised plans and goal setting

· Experience of managing a range of tasks at any one time, and holding positive relationships with different stakeholders

· A commitment to undertaking all necessary training for the role

· Willingness to work evenings when required

· Full, valid UK drivers’ licence with access to your own vehicle

Core Competencies

· Experience working with young people

· Proven ability to engage and support young people (ideally those who are NEET or at risk of NEET)

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with experience liaising effectively with schools, parents/carers, and multi-agency professionals

· Ability to assess individual needs, develop action plans, and monitor progress

· Skilled in managing a varied caseload and maintaining accurate and confidential records

· Understanding of the post-16 education, training, and employment landscape

· Ability to build trust and maintain regular, consistent contact with young people

· Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

· Competent in using IT systems, databases, and digital communication tools

Employee Experience

A career with CXK is deeply rewarding and offers the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people. As part of the Youth Employability Service (YES) team, this role gives you the chance to empower and motivate young people to take positive steps into education, employment, or training.

You’ll work independently and proactively, with the flexibility to manage your own diary and plan your week around the needs of your caseload. No two days are the same—you’ll balance 1:1 support, multi-agency collaboration, school visits, and provider engagement. It’s a role that requires initiative, empathy, and a passion for creating opportunities for young people who need it most.

At CXK, we are committed to supporting our staff to grow, thrive, and develop their potential. You’ll be part of a supportive and collaborative team that values inclusion, wellbeing, and continuous learning.

Benefits of working with us

Our employee benefits include:

· 30-33 days holiday, plus bank holidays

· Defined contribution pension scheme (matched by CXK up to 10% depending on length of service criteria)

· Benenden private healthcare cover

· Flexible working

· Enhanced maternity and paternity leave

· Training and development programmes and opportunities

· Mental and physical healthcare initiatives and more

Recruitment Timeline

Vacancy closing date: Sunday 1st February 2026

Application review date: Monday 2nd February 2026

Interviews date: Tuesday 10th February 2026

Useful Information

If you have any questions or wish to have an informal conversation before submitting your application, please contact the Recruitment Team at recruitment @ cxk. org

Please note: Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide references before any offer of employment is made.

High Trees is seeking a Youth Employment Support Service Coordinator for our Build Your Future programme. Build Your Future is a targeted youth employment project supporting young people aged 16–24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). The project provides holistic, person-centred support combining outreach and engagement, pastoral support, employability skills development and progression into education, training or work.

The project is primarily delivered in-house by High Trees, working in partnership with other local delivery partners. Build Your Future focuses on young people facing multiple barriers, including care-experienced young people, migrants and refugees, young people with SEND, and those experiencing social or economic exclusion.

The Build Your Future Project Coordinator plays a central role in ensuring the effective day-to-day delivery of the project. Working closely with High Trees delivery teams and partner organisations, the postholder will coordinate outreach and engagement activity, support the provision of high-quality pastoral support for young people, and ensure strong project coordination, monitoring and reporting.

This role will suit someone who is highly organised, collaborative and passionate about supporting young people facing multiple barriers into education, training and employment.

The role requires a balance of coordination, communication and relationship-building skills. You will work closely with colleagues across Employment & Careers and Children, Young People & Families teams, as well as with delivery partners, to ensure Build Your Future is delivered to a high standard.

The post holder will also play an important role in monitoring and evaluation, maintaining accurate records and supporting reporting requirements linked to external funding.

Who we’re looking for

We are looking for a passionate and skilled development professional who wants to make a real difference for children, young people, and families in Bury. The main aim of this role is to strengthen the capacity of VCSE organisations in Bury to deliver safe, inclusive, and impactful services for children and young people.

This role is about more than delivering projects. It’s about shaping systems, amplifying voices, and building capacity across the voluntary sector. You will be a connector, advocate and facilitator: supporting grassroots organisations to thrive, embedding safeguarding and better practice, and championing youth voice in decision-making.

If you believe in co-production, equity, and the empowerment of communities, this is your opportunity to lead work that transforms lives and strengthens the VCSE sector in Bury for the future.

Main Responsibilities

• Scope the children’s and young people’s sector in Bury, building positive relationships in the process.
• Create and maintain relationships with children & young people’s VCSE groups and organisations
• Supporting the work of our VCSE organisations and helping them to increase their capacity and capabilities, including their safeguarding skills, through information, advice and guidance (IAG) and training
• Working closely with Bury Integrated Safeguarding Partnership to develop and deliver high-quality, accessible child safeguarding materials, training, workshops and support packages that enable VCSE groups and organisations to build strong and effective safeguarding policies and procedures to meet safeguarding requirements
• To enable the VCSE sector to develop its safeguarding practices and policies with children, and to meet their safeguarding requirements
• Develop and deliver Trauma Informed Training to VCSE groups and Organisations. · Facilitate the Bury VCSE Children, Young People's and Families Forum, including ensuring the production of the forum’s communications, paperwork and resources.
• Represent Bury VCFA and the Bury VCSE Sector as appropriate at key boards, forums and meetings. · Build positive working relationships with VCSE groups and organisations, statutory partners, commissioners and funders.
• Advocating for the role of the VCSE sector in strategic plans/as delivery partners in line with Bury memorandum of understanding between the public and VCSE sector.
• Lead youth engagement initiatives, including youth-led grant-making and civic leadership development · Support co-production activities with young people and families to influence local service design.

Job Title: Engagement and Employability Assistant x2

Location: Kent and Medway (Hybrid/ Field-based)

Salary: £24,996 - £25,497 per annum (depending on experience)

Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week) OR Part-time (4 days per week)

Contract: Permanent

Report to: Area Manager – Engagement Programmes

About CXK

CXK empowers people to succeed in employment, education and training. The charity strives for a fairer society where everyone can grow and realise their potential. “The CXK Way” embodies the following core values:

· Ethical – We work with professionalism, honesty and integrity

· Passionate – We reach out enthusiastically to all who need out support

· Innovative – We inspire, enhance and improve

· Collaborative – We engage, support and share with others

The Team

The Targeted Support Team deliver a wide variety of programmes to empower young people and adults to improve their confidence and skills and progress into training and employment. Leading group sessions and individualised mentoring, the team deliver with passion and expertise to individuals from a range of backgrounds, offering person-centred guidance and support.

The Role

CXK is looking for an Engagement & Employability Assistant to support our programmes across Kent and Medway. As an Engagement & Employability Assistant, you'll use your creativity and mentoring skills to aid tailored support to individuals in various community settings, preparing them for the workforce or further education. Whether through one-on-one sessions or group activities, you'll foster personal, social, and employability skills, helping to equip beneficiaries with the tools they need to move into education, training, an apprenticeship, or sustained employment.

The main responsibilities of the role are to:

· Support the delivery of engaging unaccredited/accredited training sessions and workshops, incorporating both face-to-face and online formats to suit diverse learning styles.

· Employ a person-centred approach, adapting strategies to suit individual or group dynamics.

· Deliver personalised mentoring, advice, and guidance to unemployed young people and adults, nurturing their growth and employability.

· Identify the additional support needs of young people and adults and work with appropriate providers to ensure this is available to them.

· Support work placements and other community opportunities and be confident working in detached and outreach settings.

· Advocate for young people and adults, working to support them and their families to address barriers to progression with sensitivity and confidentiality.

Skills and Knowledge

At CXK we are proud to be a disability confident and equal opportunities employer. We actively promote diversity within our workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Minimum Criteria

· To be successful in this role, you will have a passion to support young people and adults.

· You will need to be a great team player with the ability to adapt and be flexible to changing work environments.

· You will have a full UK drivers’ licence and use of own vehicle to travel across Kent and Medway and support delivery across the county.

· You will also need to be fully committed to taking on all necessary training for the role.

Core Competencies

· An understanding of the factors that affect young people and adults' lives, and how to help them to overcome barriers.

· Experience in carrying out administrative duties and meeting deadlines.

· Some knowledge of local agencies and organisations that could support CXK services.

· Experience of Microsoft products and ability to use them effectively, including Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint

Employee Experience

A career with CXK is rewarding work, enabling you to fulfil your potential. This fulfilling and exciting role provides the opportunity to develop and grow meaningful relationships with a range of services and employers in East Sussex. You will build upon the specialised skills and knowledge relating to Supported Employment and be a positive influence on the lives of people entering work.

Benefits of working with us

Our employee benefits include:

· 30-33 days holiday, plus bank holidays

· Defined contribution pension scheme (matched by CXK up to 10% depending on length of service criteria)

· Benenden private healthcare cover

· Flexible working

· Enhanced maternity and paternity leave

· Training and development programmes and opportunities

· Mental and physical healthcare initiatives and more

Recruitment Timeline

Vacancy closing date: Monday 2nd February 2026

Application review date: Tuesday 3rd February 2026

Interview dates: Monday 9th and Wednesday 11th February 2026

​

Useful Information

If you have any questions or wish to have an informal conversation before submitting your application, please contact the Recruitment Team at recruitment @ cxk. org

Please note: Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide references before any offer of employment is made.

We’re offering an opportunity to support the delivery of the Trust’s flagship Lessons from Auschwitz Project, and the Trust’s Youth Advocacy Programme (AKA Ambassador Programme), including all content and quality assurance related to the delivery of a portfolio of activity that falls within these programmes. Ensuring that the young people we work with, through these programmes, understand what the Holocaust was, inspiring them to be part of ensuring this history is remembered, and empowering them to recognise and address antisemitism when they see it today. Driving our youth engagement strategy, developing high quality and empowering content, and advocating for youth engagement and youth advocacy.

About the Role
The Senior Programme Development Lead (Lessons from Auschwitz Project and Ambassador Programme) Maternity Cover is accountable for the delivery of the Trust’s flagship Lessons from Auschwitz Project, and the Trust’s Youth Advocacy Programme (AKA Ambassador Programme), including all content and quality assurance related to the delivery of a portfolio of activity that falls within these programmes. The remit of the Senior Programme Development Lead (Lessons from Auschwitz Project and Ambassador Programme) Maternity Cover will include two areas of leadership:

1. The continued development and delivery of our Youth Advocacy/Ambassador Programme – the Trust’s youth engagement initiative. The SPDL is responsible for ensuring that through this programme the Trust engages young people across the country, ensuring they understand what the Holocaust was, inspiring them to be part of ensuring this history is remembered, and empowering them to recognise and address antisemitism when they see it today. The SPDL is responsible for driving a youth engagement strategy, which actively scales up the reach of the programme – bringing it to new audiences. They will be responsible for developing high quality, inspiring, engaging and empowering content to young people in England, Scotland and Wales – quality assuring the programme and all associated initiatives. The SPDL will be an advocate, internally and externally, for youth engagement and youth advocacy, ensuring the Trust’s voice and reputation plays a role in leading and shaping the sector and a future where young people play an active role in Holocaust remembrance and tackling antisemitism today.

2. Oversight of the Trust’s Government funded Lessons from Auschwitz Project, ensuring that the programme continues to reach students across the country each year; that it continues to be regarded as a globally recognised site-based learning initiative; that we are delivering in line with all associated KPIs; and importantly that the content continues to educate in-line with objectives, and continues to inspire young people to continue to engage with the Trust’s cause. This role will work closely with the Chief Programmes and Outreach Officer to drive delivery across programmes in line with the Trust’s strategic vision and strategic plans. The SPDL will work closely with the Senior Logistics Manager who will be accountable for schools marketing; engagement with and registration for all Trust programmes; all associated logistics for schools’ programmes; and ticketing and logistical support for the Ambassador Programme.

For information on the key responsibilities of the role and the person specification, please see the full application pack on our website. This also contains information on how to apply. 

About this Internship

The Youth Voice Development Officer is a 12-month internship starting in March 2026. It is part of the Rank Foundation’s Time 2 Shine Leadership programme, and the successful candidate will need to commit to attending a range of training events throughout the year which are delivered by the Rank Foundation. Travel and accommodation will be provided.

Main Purpose of this Role:

The role’s main purpose is to support the delivery and monitoring of Reaching Higher’s Youth Voice strategy by working closely with the Head of Contextual Youth Work (Community) and empowering young people to meaningfully shape and share their voices. This includes supporting young people to co-develop and co-deliver Youth Voice training for a range of stakeholders, preparing and accompanying them to facilitated meetings with key leaders across Croydon’s schools, statutory services and community organisations, and ensuring their perspectives are heard and valued. The role also involves planning and delivering regular training and development opportunities for Youth Board members, supporting youth-led events such as the annual community meal, and mentoring a small cohort of young people to build their confidence, skills and leadership capacity.

Youth Delivery Mentoring Officer

We are looking for a skilled, committed, and passionate individual with experience within the youth work sector (this could be in a voluntary capacity). Whilst developing our focus around youth engagement and early intervention techniques, we recognise the importance of having individuals who really want to make a difference in the lives of young people. The successful applicant will understand our values, ethos and principles as an organisation and will demonstrate a strong desire to contribute to and deliver meaningful and effective youth work. 

Main Purpose of this Role

This is an exciting role at Reaching Higher and demonstrates our uncompromising commitment to playing our part to positive impact the lives of young people and their families. This role has been designed to lead on the delivery of our work and play a central role in creating meaningful experiences for young people via school and community-based youth projects.The purpose of this role is help ensure high-quality support for young people across our various programmes, in line with our mentoring ethos, helping to build an even stronger rapport with those we currently serve and improving accessibility for new young people being referred to us. 

About Reaching Higher 

Reaching Higher is a youth organisation which works with almost 2000 young people aged 10 - 18 each year across Croydon and surrounding boroughs. Developed in partnership with local churches, we are a youth-led charity with a Christian ethos.We place particular emphasis on providing mentoring support to young people and facilitating their development as leaders. We have established strong links with key local, London and UK-wide organisations and our approach leads us into regular working contact with partner schools, community groups and churches. 

Can you inspire, energise and motivate young people aged 9–18?
Do you want to make a genuine difference while being part of a supportive, values-driven team?

If so, we’d love to hear from you!

One YMCA Youth Clubs provide safe, inclusive spaces where young people can socialise, build confidence, and develop skills for life. We are looking for a Youth Development Worker to support the delivery of engaging youth work sessions and contribute to the growth of our youth offer, including the opening of new clubs in Bedford town centre.

The Role

Reporting to the Senior Youth Development Worker, you will support the planning and delivery of a range of youth work activities. This is a hands-on role working directly with young people, helping to create welcoming, fun and meaningful sessions that reflect the YMCA Youth Work Strategy and Principles.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone passionate about youth work who wants to develop their skills in a supportive environment. Training and ongoing support will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the planning, delivery and evaluation of youth work activities for young people aged 9–18
• Deliver a range of youth work activities, including centre-based sessions, outreach, school-linked programmes, mentoring and digital engagement
• Build positive, trusted relationships with young people, offering encouragement, guidance and support
• Assist with projects and new youth club development in Bedford town centre
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, engagement and outcomes to support monitoring and reporting
• Promote safeguarding, equality, inclusion and positive behaviour in all aspects of delivery

About You

You don’t need to be fully qualified - what matters most is your enthusiasm, reliability, and commitment to young people.

You will be:

• Passionate about supporting children and young people
• Confident engaging with young people in group settings
• Willing to learn and develop your youth work skills
• Able to work as part of a team and follow safeguarding procedures
• Experience working with young people (paid or voluntary) is desirable but not essential.

Hours and Contract

• Part-time role
• 10 hours per week, paid on a monthly salaried basis
• Working pattern includes evenings and weekends, with most sessions taking place after school

Additional Information

• Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship available)
• This role may require a Basic or Enhanced DBS check following a conditional offer
• Applications will be reviewed as received, so early application is encouraged

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: At One YMCA, we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and aim to create a working environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Accessibility & Adjustments: We are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Please let us know if you need any support to apply or attend an interview.

We are looking for a Skills Development and Engagement Coordinator who will be involved in supporting the programme journey of a young person from when they have a confirmed place on our programmes to the point when they start their expedition or adventure with us. The successful candidate will also coordinate the delivery of our Expedition Workshops and manage our Workshop Facilitators.

If you are an energetic, mature, and motivated self-starter keen to take on new challenge come and help us prepare young people for adventure and to achieve their fundraising targets.  You will need to be hard working, proactive, practical and organised, and have the self belief to be a confident communicator and empathetic to the different starting points of young people. You’ll be motivated by targets, and able to identify opportunities and foster relationships with young people and other stakeholders as part of our wider British Exploring Society community.  

We welcome applications from individuals returning to work, looking to change sectors or to apply their skills in a new context. British Exploring Society is committed to equal opportunity and to building a team that represents a diverse variety of backgrounds, skills and perspectives. The more inclusive we are, the better we think we’ll be at delivering our charitable aims.  We are an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate on the grounds of gender identity, sexual orientation, martial or civil partnership status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, disability, or age.

If you are interested in applying and require any accessibility adjustments to the interview process, please do let us know when you apply. Thank you.

Job Title: Engagement and Employability Coach x2

Location: Kent and Medway (Hybrid/ Field-based)

Salary: £27,058 – £31,086 per annum

Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week) OR Part-time (4 days per week)

Contract: Permanent

Report to: Area Manager – Engagement Programmes

About CXK

CXK empowers people to succeed in employment, education and training. The charity strives for a fairer society where everyone can grow and realise their potential. “The CXK Way” embodies the following core values:

· Ethical – We work with professionalism, honesty and integrity

· Passionate – We reach out enthusiastically to all who need out support

· Innovative – We inspire, enhance and improve

· Collaborative – We engage, support and share with others

The Team

The Targeted Support Team deliver a wide variety of programmes to empower young people and adults to improve their confidence and skills and progress into training and employment. Leading group sessions and individualised mentoring, the team deliver with passion and expertise to individuals from a range of backgrounds, offering person-centred guidance and support.

The Role

CXK is looking for x2 Engagement & Employability Coaches to drive our programmes across Kent and Medway. As an Engagement & Employability Coach, you'll use your creativity and mentoring skills to provide tailored support to individuals in various community settings, preparing them for the workforce or further education. Whether through one-on-one sessions or group activities, you'll foster personal, social, and employability skills, equipping beneficiaries with the tools they need to move into education, training, an apprenticeship, or sustained employment.

Your role will extend beyond direct beneficiary support; you'll collaborate closely with partner organisations, ensuring seamless referrals and continued progress for our beneficiaries post-programme.

The main responsibilities of the role are to:

· Deliver personalised mentoring, advice, and guidance to unemployed young people and adults, nurturing their growth and employability.

· Conduct engaging unaccredited/accredited training sessions and workshops, incorporating both face-to-face and online formats to suit diverse learning styles.

· Employ a person-centred approach, adapting strategies to suit individual or group dynamics.

· Identify the additional support needs of young people and adults and work with appropriate providers to ensure this is available to them.

· Support work placements and other community opportunities and be confident working in detached and outreach settings.

· Advocate for young people and adults, working to support them and their families to address barriers to progression with sensitivity and confidentiality.

Skills and Knowledge

At CXK we are proud to be a disability confident and equal opportunities employer. We actively promote diversity within our workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Minimum Criteria

· To be successful in this role, you will have experience of successfully planning, delivering, and evaluating programmes for young people or adults.

· You will have experience of delivering programmes with embedded numeracy/literacy and working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and needs.

· You will have a full UK drivers’ licence and use of own vehicle to travel across Kent and Medway and deliver provision across the county.

· You will also need to be fully committed to taking on all necessary training for the role.

Core Competencies

· An understanding of the factors that affect young people and adults' lives and experience of supporting them to overcome barriers.

· Experience of supporting someone on a one-to-one basis and of delivering group sessions.

· Knowledge of local agencies and organizations’ that could support CXK services.

· Experience in fulfilling administrative responsibilities and meeting deadlines.

· Proven experience of meeting and exceeding outcomes and targets

· Experience of Microsoft products and ability to use them effectively, including Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint

Employee Experience

A career with CXK is rewarding work, enabling you to fulfil your potential. This fulfilling and exciting role provides the opportunity to develop and grow meaningful relationships with a range of services and employers in East Sussex. You will build upon the specialised skills and knowledge relating to Supported Employment and be a positive influence on the lives of people entering work.

Benefits of working with us

Our employee benefits include:

· 30-33 days holiday, plus bank holidays

· Defined contribution pension scheme (matched by CXK up to 10% depending on length of service criteria)

· Benenden private healthcare cover

· Flexible working

· Enhanced maternity and paternity leave

· Training and development programmes and opportunities

· Mental and physical healthcare initiatives and more

Recruitment Timeline

Vacancy closing date: Monday 26th January 2026

Application review date: Tuesday 27th January 2026

Interview dates: Tuesday 3rd and Thursday 5th February 2026

Useful Information

If you have any questions or wish to have an informal conversation before submitting your application, please contact the Recruitment Team at recruitment @ cxk. org

Please note: Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide references before any offer of employment is made.

*Please get in touch with us via the email in the job pack to access a copy of our Q&A webinar held in mid January*

Our CEO, Daisy Srblin, has served since May 2022, and is expecting to take maternity leave from May 2026. We are looking for an excellent Interim CEO, to steward YCF in her 9-12 months away, lead our team and keep our charity on track.

2026/27 is set to be a busy period for Young Camden Foundation, as we navigate a complex ecosystem for the voluntary sector, embed new projects, and drive forward the objectives of our 2025-28 strategy. This is also a pivotal year for fundraising efforts, as is the case for many in our sector, and maintaining strong leadership on behalf of our dynamic and talented team will also be essential.

We are looking for an experienced Interim CEO, who brings particular proven expertise around fundraising, people and budget management, and reporting, as well as confidence in stakeholder relationships and proven leadership experience.

You will be responsible for a team of 7, reporting to a board of twelve, and managing a budget of around £1.3m. You will be responsible for the effective management and delegation of responsibilities throughout the team, via your three direct line reports. You will be responsible for reporting to funders on a regular basis, who fund everything from YCF’s core operations to our grants and onward projects. You will oversee YCF’s complex functions, including grant giving, membership and training, and youth engagement.

You will lead on YCF’s fundraising goals for 26/27 and beyond, helping to put YCF on a firm and confident footing as we look to the future. You will also lead external engagement work at the charity, ensuring YCF is represented and advocating in high-level spaces in Camden, whether with Camden Council, local Councillors, sector and member leaders, and local businesses. 

Please download the full job specification for a complete breakdown of responsibilities and essential skills and experience. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The job of a CEO is hard to define, especially in a small charity, so the list below is by no means exhaustive, or reflective of all the responsibilities you will undertake in post.

However, these summarise the key areas of responsibility and priority as Interim CEO in the 9-12 month period:

1. Fundraising on behalf of our objectives

2026 is a pivotal fundraising year for YCF, as with so many in the sector. You will lead on our fundraising efforts (including identifying and writing bids) for both core and project funding in this important year, to put YCF on the strongest financial footing possible in delivering our objectives to 2028.

2. Team management and leadership

The YCF team is a dynamic mix of individuals, ranging from longer-serving staff to newer staff. You will effectively lead our people (YCF’s key asset) driving performance by identifying development opportunities, and effectively delegating to get the most out of our team. You will also be called upon to make judgement calls on behalf of the team, when these come up.

3. Stewarding our finances

In our small organisation, the CEO is chiefly responsible for the effective stewardship of our finances. Working closely with our Finance Manager, you will set our 27/28 budget and steward and monitor our performance across both financial years (including around fundraising targets). You will oversee an effective audit process in 2026, and ensure records and invoicing are meticulous and kept up to date.

4. Supporting project management and delivery

While staff members hold responsibility for their work streams, YCF is a small team, and you will have overall responsibility and oversight for all delivery, including two sizeable projects in the 26/27 year (the delivery of the UK Government’s Holiday Food and Activities programme, (HAF) on behalf of the Borough of Camden, and YCF’s new cross-borough programme tackling Serious Youth Violence). You will ensure strong delivery across each workstream, identifying opportunities for development throughout, and stepping in where needed.

5. Ensuring effective communication

YCF has a wide range of stakeholders, including members, funders, partners and many others from our cross section of voluntary, public and private sector partnerships. You will be an effective communicator (verbally and in written form) and able to represent YCF in the spaces needed, including with prospective partners, on strategic boards, and with high-level stakeholders. You will lead the team in our written reporting to funders, guiding the team to harness our data to communicate our impact.

6. Oversee governance 

Bringing experience with Board accountability, you will report to the board quarterly, and work closely with the Chair to ensure progress is being driven forward on YCF’s strategic objectives.

[While your closest working senior relationship will be with the Chair, YCF benefits from a very engaged board. As such, the trustees can be available to support you on an on-going or ad-hoc basis. Collectively, they have deep local connections, excellent sector knowledge and expertise in various functional areas such as HR, governance, finance and more.]

PERSON SPECIFICATION

We are looking for the following essential experience in our prospective Interim CEO candidate:

- Successful fundraising experience: You will have proven experience in fundraising in a VCS context, including from Trusts & Foundations, corporate sources, and Local Authorities. You will have direct experience in writing applications, making pitches and so on.

- Proven finance experience: As a proven sector leader, you will have experience managing complex and large organisational budgets. You will be able to demonstrate how you have set and managed budgets in the past, including stewarding budgets to effective use.

- Leadership and team management: You will have experience of leading teams, including in contexts without an internal HR function where these are held by the CEO. You will be well versed in all aspects of team leadership, including managing performance, supporting morale and maintaining YCF’s positive team culture. You will have held the position of Director or CEO before, and have experience reporting to a Board of Trustees, and knowledge of governance arrangements that support a healthy charity.

- Exceptional communication: You will demonstrate proven exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal. You will be well versed in compiling strong reporting to funders and stakeholders, as well as producing high quality reports for Trustees. You will also be an exceptional verbal communicator, representing YCF and the needs of our members in advocacy spaces.

- Project start up and management: While YCF has senior leaders to oversee work delivery, you will bring your own experience in project management, to help support existing and new projects at YCF, namely the Tackling Serious Youth Violence Project, which will begin in 2026.

- A positive attitude: Working in a small charity is tremendously rewarding, but it can be tough to lead a small organisation. You will demonstrate proven maturity in navigating those challenges, while bringing an optimism and positive attitude to your work, including all of the (many) responsibilities that fall outside of the ‘usual’ CEO job description, in a small charity.  

We would also ideally be looking for some of the following desirable areas of expertise and experience:

- Working in a youth setting: Our Interim CEO will need to share our passion for a stronger Camden for all children and young people. Ideally you will also bring experience of working in a youth setting or for a youth focused charity in the past, and be familiar with some of the challenges facing children and young people

- Grant making: Our Interim CEO will steward a significant grant-making budget of around £1m per year. Our ideal candidate would bring knowledge of hyper-local grant giving for community led organisations

- Working with and for community groups: Our team works predominantly (though not exclusively) with members who are micro, small and medium sized. Ideally you will be well versed in the unique challenges facing grassroots community VCS organisations. You may bring experience leading a small charity yourself, proving your understanding of the unique leadership challenges in doing so

- Understanding Camden: YCF’s work is unapologetically rooted in our borough, with all its challenges and opportunities. Our ideal candidate brings an understanding of the challenges of living within inner London, particularly for communities facing disadvantage.

WHAT WE OFFER IN RETURN

We firmly believe you’ll be working in one of the best teams in the sector, with a collaborative and supportive culture.

You will be working with a dynamic and enthusiastic team, and will also benefit from regular check-ins with a present and supportive Chair, as well as support from our experienced Board of Trustees. Flexible working is also available, after discussion and agreement with the Chair.  

You will also benefit from:

· 25 days of annual leave per year (pro-rata’d for part time employees)

· In addition, your Birthday off (or closest working day) as paid leave

· Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, 360 Wellbeing, including 6 free in-person counselling sessions per year and unlimited 24/7 online and telephone GP consultations

· Training and development opportunities

· Free on-site gym access and access to free creative and fitness classes (and access to on-site showers) as part of our Labs membership

· Access to tea, coffee, biscuits and fruit each day at our office

· Discount on food and drink in Camden Stables Market

Please download the full job description for further information. Pease note the deadline for applications is Sunday 8th February - however the Charity Jobs advert will expire on Thursday 5th February, so please be sure to download this application and details of how to apply before this date. 

One YMCA provides housing, health, wellbeing, children’s, youth and community services across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. We are committed to helping people reach their full potential and strengthening communities through inclusive, high-quality programmes.

Are you an experienced youth worker ready to take the next step in your development?
Do you enjoy leading sessions, supporting colleagues, and shaping meaningful opportunities for young people?

We are seeking a Senior Youth Development Worker to support the development and delivery of One YMCA’s Universal Youth Work provision in Bedford.

The Role

Reporting to the Youth Work Coordinator, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality youth work for young people aged 9–18. You will lead engaging sessions, support and supervise sessional youth workers, and contribute to the growth and development of One YMCA’s youth work offer in line with the YMCA Youth Work Strategy.

This is a hands-on role combining direct youth work, team support, and partnership engagement. You will help ensure young people feel safe, included, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, deliver and evaluate inclusive youth work sessions for young people aged 9–18
• Lead sessions and act as a positive role model for young people
• Support and supervise sessional youth workers during delivery
• Build and maintain positive relationships with partners, schools and external agencies
• Maintain accurate records to monitor attendance, engagement and outcomes
• Contribute to the development and expansion of One YMCA’s youth work offer, including partnership and funding opportunities
• Promote safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion in all areas of work

About You

You are passionate about youth work and committed to making a positive difference in young people’s lives. You are confident leading sessions, supporting others, and working collaboratively as part of a team.

You will have:

• Experience delivering youth work (paid or voluntary)
• Confidence leading group sessions and supporting small teams
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• An understanding of inclusive and safeguarding-led practice
• A Level 3 Youth Work qualification, or willingness to work towards one (essential)

Hours and Contract

• Part-time role
• 18 hours per week, salaried on a monthly basis
• Working pattern is flexible but will include evenings and weekends, with most delivery taking place after school

Additional Information

• Interviews will be held on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged
• Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available)
• This role may require a Basic or Enhanced DBS check, subject to a conditional offer

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: At One YMCA, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We actively promote equality of opportunity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities, and experiences.

Accessibility & Adjustments: We are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Please let us know if you require any support to participate fully.

One YMCA provides housing, health, wellbeing, children’s, youth and community services across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. We are committed to helping people reach their full potential and to strengthening communities through inclusive, high-quality services.

Are you passionate about youth work and ready to lead and shape provision for young people aged 9–18?
Can you inspire, motivate and support young people while coordinating engaging, safe and impactful youth programmes?

One YMCA Youth Clubs provide welcoming and supportive spaces where young people can build confidence, develop life skills, and feel a strong sense of belonging. We are now seeking a Youth Work Coordinator to lead the development and delivery of our Bedford Town Centre Youth Clubs.

The Role

As Youth Work Coordinator, you will take a lead role in the planning, coordination and delivery of youth clubs and activities. You will be responsible for setting up and developing new sessions, coordinating day-to-day delivery, supporting youth workers and volunteers, and ensuring high-quality youth work practice in line with the YMCA Youth Work Strategy and Principles.

You will also work closely with local partners, schools, and community stakeholders to strengthen engagement and create positive opportunities for young people. This is a hands-on role combining direct youth work, outreach, and leadership responsibilities.

The role includes working 2–3 days per week after school, with some evening work required. Additional daytime hours are allocated for planning, coordination, partnership working, and administration, bringing the total to 37.5 hours per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and deliver centre-based and outreach youth work sessions
• Lead the development of new youth clubs and activities
• Support, mentor, and coordinate youth work staff and volunteers
• Build positive relationships with young people aged 9–18
• Work collaboratively with local partners and stakeholders
• Ensure safeguarding, health and safety, and quality standards are met
• Contribute to planning, monitoring, and evaluation of youth provision

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in youth work or a related field (paid or voluntary)
• A strong commitment to inclusive, young person–centred practice
• Ability to coordinate sessions and support a small team
• Strong communication, organisational, and partnership-working skills
• Willingness to undertake a Level 3 or Level 6 qualification in Youth Work (essential)
• An understanding of both outreach and centre-based youth work

What We Offer

• Opportunity to accrue up to 5 additional days of leave
• Paid training and tailored learning and development opportunities
• Free 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme (including counselling and GP access)
• Employer contributory pension scheme
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and compassionate leave
• Health and wellbeing initiatives
• Employee discount scheme (brands, travel, groceries, and more)

Additional Information

• This is a full-time role (37.5 hours per week)
• Working pattern includes shifts over 7 days, including evenings
• Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship available)
• The role may require a Basic or Enhanced DBS check following a conditional offer

At One YMCA, we actively promote equality, diversity and inclusion and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.

We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to our dedicated Youth Work team at One YMCA.

This role will take the lead in creating and developing an exciting, safe, fun and vibrant young people’s ministry at St. Andrew’s Church that sees young people come to faith and grow in their knowledge and love of Jesus.