11 Youth participation project manager jobs in Manchester

About us

The Alliance for Youth Justice is an alliance of more than 70 non-profit organisations advocating with and for children to drive positive change in youth justice across England and Wales. We mobilise our members’ frontline expertise, children’s lived experience, and evidence from research to champion a child-centred, rights-based and trauma-informed system that treats contact with the justice system as a sign of unmet need and systemic failure, prioritises support over criminalisation and gives every child the opportunity to thrive.

We're widely recognised as the most influential group campaigning for improvements to the system, with trusted access to decision makers, working towards three goals: keeping children safe from the youth justice system through prevention and diversion; racial justice across the system; and custody as a last resort for children.

About the role

Following the launch of our new strategic approach, our Operations and Membership Lead will provide the operational, financial and administrative backbone of the organisation — keeping our finances and governance on track, and coordinating our network of over 70 member organisations.

Finance, operations and governance (70%) — manage bookkeeping in QuickBooks, coordinate banking, prepare management accounts, support grant financial reporting, maintain internal systems (SharePoint, IT), lead on policy compliance (safeguarding, GDPR, health and safety), and support Board governance and statutory filings.

Membership coordination (30%) — manage the end-to-end membership process from enquiries to renewals, coordinate member surveys and data, and organise our events — quarterly member meetings, roundtables and webinars.

Anti-racist, anti-oppressive practice runs through how we work with our Board, staff, members and stakeholders.

About you

You have experience in an operations, finance or administrative coordination role within a non-profit or membership organisation, including managing the full financial cycle within a charity and a working knowledge of charity fund accounting. You're practically experienced with QuickBooks (or equivalent), highly proficient in Microsoft 365, SharePoint and Excel-based tracking systems or CRMs, and bring exceptional organisational skills, discretion and a proactive, self-motivated approach. You have a personal commitment to anti-racism, social justice and child rights.

Why join us

We're a small team of three punching well above our weight, with real scope to shape how we work and few layers of hierarchy. We offer flexible, trust-based home working (within core hours), plus 25 days' leave (pro rata), Christmas office closure, and a 5% employer pension contribution.

We encourage applications from historically marginalised groups even if you don't meet every requirement, and we do not use criminal records to exclude candidates.

Please download the reruitment pack to find out more and read the full job description and person specification.

We are seeking a talented Director of Programme Delivery and Operations (maternity cover), fully committed to our widening participation cause, to join the Senior Leadership Team in a pivotal role for a growing and ambitious charity. 

You will have responsibility for ensuring we are providing high quality programme delivery to young people across our centre network, that are centres are functioning effectively, and that targets are monitored and met. And of course, you will need to have a genuine passion and enthusiasm for working with young people and helping them achieve their ambitions.

The Director of Programme Delivery and Operations is a Senior Leadership Team position within the charity and reports into the Chief Operating Officer. The role is responsible for oversight of all centre programme delivery and performance across our network of 44 local learning centres (and growing).

Contract

This is a fixed-term, maternity cover role until at least end of November 2027. This role can be either full-time or part-time (0.8 FTE) - responsibilities will be adjusted proportionally for part-time candidates.

Start date
January 2027 (or as otherwise agreed)

Working hours
Mon and Thurs: 09:30-18:00
Tues, Weds, Fri: 09:00-17:30
We are a delivery organisation providing frontline educational services for young people. We are an organisation with team members at different stages of their career, including many in their first roles: We are committed to nurturing talent and providing a developmental culture for all. Our team works in-person 4 days per week (or 3 days for a 0.8 FTE staff member)
with 1 day working from home. 

Location

The role would be based at one of our IntoUniversity centres in Birmingham, Bristol, Coventry, Leeds, London, Manchester or Nottingham, with regular travel across the network and to our Head Office in London. 

Salary

£62,500 (Plus additional London contribution of £2,800 for London-based candidates). Pro rata for part-time candidate.

Annual leave

This is the full-time staff entitlement and will be pro-rated for part-time staff.

33 days (inc bank & public holidays)
+ 3 closure days (two in December and one in July)
+ additional length of service entitlement
(one day per year of service, up to 5 days)
 

Staff benefits

• Employer pension contributions of 6% (and up to 8% after two years)
• Year round ‘early finish’ Fridays at 4.30pm 
• Employee Assistance Programme including access to medical and legal support 
• Life Assurance scheme with AIG including SmartHealth service with access to 24/7 online GP appointments
• Interest-free new starter loans of up to £1,000 
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Travelcard Loan Scheme
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption pay and sick pay allowances
• Staff in FOCUS – rewards, competitions and prizes across the year

Application deadline - 9am Monday 28th September 2026.

Interview Day (in-person at our Head Office in London) - Wednesday 7th October. Please ensure that you are available on this date.

Context and Background

The Public Engagement team is responsible for developing and delivering the strategy that will drive significant, long-term income growth by inspiring and engaging public audiences to support the work of the NSPCC.

This is achieved through integrated, audience-led, multi-channel marketing and fundraising activity, including individual giving, mass participation and public campaigns that generate sustainable funding aligned to the NSPCC's strategic priorities.

Alongside income generation, the team plays a vital role in increasing public understanding of abuse and neglect and building advocacy for children.

The team fosters a high-performing, results-driven culture that values collaboration, innovation and integration. By focusing on excellent supporter relationship management and purposeful engagement, it delivers long-term, sustainable impact to support the NSPCC's mission.

The Direct Fundraising team plays a critical role in acquiring and engaging supporters through face-to-face and telephone fundraising channels, ensuring activity is supporter-centred, compliant and aligned with best practice across the fundraising sector.

We are looking for an organised, proactive and collaborative individual to join the team and help deliver high-quality fundraising campaigns that generate sustainable income and positive supporter experiences.

Job purpose

Reporting to the Associate Head of Direct Fundraising, the Direct Fundraising Fundraiser will support the delivery, monitoring and optimisation of face-to-face and telephone fundraising activity that recruits and engages supporters across the UK.

The role will work closely with internal teams and external agency partners to ensure campaigns are delivered effectively, compliantly and in line with organisational objectives, while providing an excellent supporter experience and protecting the NSPCC's reputation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Support the planning, delivery and optimisation of face-to-face fundraising campaigns.
• Monitor campaign performance, income and expenditure, providing accurate reporting and insight to support decision making.
• Work closely with agency partners to ensure fundraising activity reflects NSPCC values, fundraising regulations and best practice.
• Support campaign compliance through activities such as mystery shopping, call listening and monitoring against agreed standards.
• Assist with supplier and campaign management processes, including campaign setup, purchase orders, invoices and budget tracking.
• Help develop and maintain effective processes, guidance and documentation to support campaign delivery and compliance.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Engagement and Fundraising, Supporter Experience, Finance, Compliance, Insight and other NSPCC teams to maximise supporter engagement and income.
• Maintain awareness of developments in the fundraising sector, including changes to legislation, regulation and best practice.
• Champion a supporter-centric approach in all aspects of campaign planning and delivery.

Key relationships – Internal

• Reporting to the Associate Head of Direct Fundraising.
• Member of the Direct Fundraising team within the Engagement Delivery, Public Engagement Directorate.
• Works closely with colleagues across Engagement and Fundraising, including Audience Strategy, Engagement Delivery, Supporter Experience, Insight and Digital Engagement teams.
• Collaborates with Finance and Compliance teams to support budget management, governance and regulatory compliance.
• Engages with colleagues across NSPCC services and functions to maximise opportunities for supporter engagement and income generation.

Key relationships – External

· Direct Fundraising agency partners delivering face-to-face and telephone fundraising programmes.

• External suppliers supporting campaign delivery, compliance monitoring and supporter engagement activity.
• Charity sector peers and professional networks to share learning and remain informed of sector developments and best practice.

Main duties and responsibilities

Campaign Delivery and Performance

• Support the planning and delivery of face-to-face fundraising campaigns in line with agreed objectives, budgets and timelines.
• Monitor campaign performance, income and key performance indicators, identifying trends, risks and opportunities.
• Produce accurate reporting and analysis to support campaign decision making and continuous improvement.
• Support campaign setup and implementation, working with internal teams and external partners to ensure successful delivery.

Compliance and Supporter Experience

• Help ensure fundraising activity complies with legislation, regulations, Codes of Fundraising Practice and NSPCC policies.
• Coordinate and undertake compliance monitoring activities, including mystery shopping, call listening and quality assurance reviews.
• Work with agency partners and internal stakeholders to identify and implement improvements arising from compliance reviews.
• Promote excellent supporter experiences across all fundraising activity and maintain a strong focus on safeguarding and ethical fundraising practices.

Supplier and Financial Management

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with agency partners and suppliers.
• Support financial administration processes, including purchase orders, invoice approvals and expenditure tracking.
• Assist with budget monitoring and reforecasting activity where required.
• Ensure accurate records and documentation are maintained.

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

• Work collaboratively across teams to maximise fundraising performance, supporter engagement and organisational impact.
• Contribute to projects and initiatives that support wider Public Engagement objectives.
• Maintain knowledge of fundraising trends, innovations and sector developments, identifying opportunities to improve performance and supporter experience.
• Undertake other duties as required by the Associate Head of Direct Fundraising.

Responsibilities for all staff within the Engagement and Fundraising Directorate

• To actively participate in regular team and department meetings, contributing to discussions and decisions that support the NSPCC's strategic objectives.
• To behave at all times in a manner consistent with the NSPCC's values.
• To ensure data held within relevant systems is accurate, current and reliable.
• To maintain an awareness of own and others' Health and Safety and comply with NSPCC policies and procedures.
• To work in a manner that promotes equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging.
• To support a culture of continuous learning, collaboration and improvement.
• A commitment to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.

Person Specification

1. Experience supporting the delivery of fundraising, marketing or supporter engagement campaigns, ideally within a charity or customer-focused environment.
2. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and appropriately for different audiences.
3. Ability to analyse and interpret data, identify trends and opportunities, and present findings in a clear and meaningful way.
4. Experience working with budgets, financial information and performance reporting, with strong numerical skills and attention to detail.
5. Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
6. Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to build productive working relationships with internal stakeholders, external suppliers and agency partners.
7. Experience using Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, alongside other business systems and databases.
8. Understanding of, or willingness to learn, fundraising regulations, compliance requirements and sector best practice.
9. Commitment to delivering excellent supporter experiences and protecting organisational reputation with a personal commitment to the NSPCC’s mission and values to do so.
10. Willingness to travel within the UK to support compliance monitoring activities, including mystery shopping and agency visits where required.

Safer Recruitment

As an organisation, we are committed to creating and fostering a culture that promotes safeguarding and the welfare of all children and adults at risk.

Our safer recruitment practices support this by ensuring that there is a consistent and thorough process of obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and about candidates to ensure that all persons appointed are suitable to work with our children and adults.

The recruitment and selection of our people will be conducted in a professional, timely and responsive manner and in compliance with current employment legislation, and relevant safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance.

Our principles:

· Always seek to recruit the best candidate for the role based on merit including their skills, experience, motivation and competencies. Our robust recruitment and selection process should ensure the identification of the person best suited to the role and the organisation.

· Committed to diversity and equality of opportunity and will interview all applicants (internal and external) who self-declare at application as having a disability and who meet the minimum requirements in the person specification of the vacancy they are applying for.

· We will make reasonable adjustments at all stages of the recruitment process in order to enable successful candidates who declare disabilities to start working or volunteering their time with us.

· Any current member of staff or volunteer who wishes to apply for vacancies and is suitably qualified will be considered and addressed fairly and objectively based on their merit.

· As an organisation committed to safeguarding, we will ensure all under 18’s joining the organisation will have ongoing risk assessments to ensure their role and activities are safe and appropriate.

· All documentation relating to candidates will be treated confidentially in accordance with the GDPR legislation.

ReachOut is a youth development charity and a strategic partner for schools. Through collective mentoring and engaging activities, we build socio-emotional skills that transform outcomes for young people constrained by circumstance. 

The Schools & Universities Partnerships Manager will lead the development, growth, and management of ReachOut’s partnerships with schools, multi-academy trusts, and universities.

This new role is central to delivering ReachOut’s strategy to expand our reach, increase income, and deepen our impact for young people constrained by circumstance. Reporting to the CEO and sitting within the Income & Partnerships Team, the postholder will work closely with colleagues across Programmes & Impact and Volunteering.

The role is responsible for building a strong pipeline of partners, securing sustainable funding, and managing existing relationships to ensure mutual value. Through both new and established partnerships, the postholder will support ReachOut’s mission while helping schools and universities achieve their own strategic objectives.

Who we are looking for

• An ambitious, proactive fundraiser with the ability to develop, deliver, and grow long-term partnerships with schools and universities across London, Manchester, and new locations in line with ReachOut's strategy.
• A confident communicator who thrives in a small, collaborative organisation and can build strong relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders across multiple departments and sectors.
• Someone who can work autonomously, manage competing priorities, and identify opportunities to generate income, raise our profile and increase impact.

How to Apply

• To apply please visit our website.
• We are unable to provide visa sponsorship. To apply for the role you must have the right to work in the UK.

Key Dates

• Applications close: 9am on Friday 18th September 2026
• Interviews (in person in London or Manchester): Wednesday 23rd September 2026 
• Start Date: ASAP

If the date for interviews causes any issues, please still apply and let us know in your email as we may be able to be flexible on the interview arrangements.

Please note: the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced criminal records check with the Disclosure and Barring Service. ReachOut will cover the cost of the check and guide you through the process. All staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and adults. The post holder will undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

ReachOut is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation. We therefore welcome applications from people of all ethnicities, ages, religious beliefs, gender identities, sexual orientations and any other protected characteristics, to provide a diverse range of experiences, ideas and insights into our work. ReachOut wants to increase the representation of our young people amongst our staff, so if you are from these ethnic groups, we would particularly appreciate receiving your applications.

SEND Experienced Creative Youth Support Worker

Location: Gorse Hill Studios, Stretford, Manchester, with occasional trips, outreach work and residentials
Contract: Sessional / Freelance
Hours: Evenings, weekends and school holidays as required
Responsible to: Head of Inclusion and Participation 

Purpose of the Role

To support the delivery of high-quality, inclusive and creative youth work sessions for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The postholder will create safe, engaging and accessible opportunities that help young people build confidence, develop social and life skills, improve wellbeing, and achieve their personal goals through arts, creative activities, youth work, sports and community-based experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Supporting Young People

• Build positive, trusted relationships with children and young people with a range of SEND needs.
• Provide practical, emotional and behavioural support during sessions.
• Promote independence whilst ensuring young people remain safe and supported.
• Adapt activities, communication methods and approaches to meet individual needs.
• Support young people to participate fully and confidently in activities and discussions.
• Encourage the development of social skills, friendships, self-esteem and resilience. 

Session Delivery

• Support the planning and delivery of creative, recreational and youth work activities.
• Contribute ideas for arts, music, drama, film, sports, nature-based and wellbeing sessions.
• Assist with setting up and clearing away resources and equipment.
• Ensure sessions are engaging, inclusive and responsive to young people's interests.
• Contribute to showcases, performances, exhibitions and celebration events.

Safeguarding and Welfare

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
• Follow all safeguarding, health and safety, data protection and organisational policies.
• Report safeguarding concerns and incidents immediately through agreed procedures.
• Ensure young people are appropriately supervised throughout sessions.
• Support positive behaviour using trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches. 

Administration and Teamwork

• Arrive in good time for briefings, set-up and preparation.
• Complete registers, session records and outcome monitoring following each session.
• Contribute to debriefs and share relevant information with colleagues.
• Attend staff meetings, supervision sessions and required training.
• Work collaboratively with staff, freelancers, volunteers, parents and carers. 

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience working with children and young people with SEND.
• Understanding of autism, neurodiversity and inclusive practice.
• Experience supporting group activities, youth work, education or community projects.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to remain calm, patient and adaptable.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends and school holidays.
• Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain one)

Desirable

• Qualification in Youth Work, Education, SEND, Health & Social Care, Creative Arts or a related field.
• Creative skills in areas such as art, music, drama, film, photography, dance, crafts or digital media.
• First Aid qualification.
• Experience of trauma-informed practice.
• Experience supporting young people with complex needs or behaviours of concern.
• Knowledge of person-centred planning and outcome-based youth work. 

Values and Behaviours

We are looking for someone who:

• Is passionate about inclusion and youth participation.
• Believes every young person has strengths, talents and potential.
• Is enthusiastic, reliable and proactive.
• Works positively as part of a team.
• Can think creatively and adapt activities to suit different needs.
• Creates welcoming, safe and fun environments where young people can thrive. 

Typical Activities

The role may involve supporting:

• SEND Short Breaks sessions.
• Arts, music and creative workshops.
• Youth clubs and social groups.
• Community events and festivals.
• Nature-based, wellbeing and outdoor learning activities.
• Trips, visits and residential experiences

Our Commitment to Diversity

We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those who bring lived experience, perspectives and voices. We celebrate the richness of our differences, including social class, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexual orientation, faith and age. We are committed to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Lead Youth Worker

Oasis Community Hub MediaCityUK, Salford

Hours: 32 (0.8 FTE)

Contract: Fixed term contract (12 months)

Salary: £22,695 per annum (£28,369 FTE)

Want to help young people thrive and reach their full potential?
Want to lead high-quality youth work, mentoring and community programmes?
Want to support and develop a passionate team making a difference in Salford?

 Oasis believes every person matters and works to build thriving communities where everyone is included, making a contribution and reaching their God-given potential. Oasis Community Hub MediaCityUK is part of the wider Oasis family and delivers a range of youth and community services that support young people, families and the wider community.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Lead Youth Worker to join our team. Based at Oasis Community Hub MediaCityUK, you will lead our youth work provision, delivering mentoring, youth clubs, holiday activities and detached youth work within local communities. You will play a key role in supporting young people aged 10 to 16 to overcome barriers, raise aspirations and access positive opportunities.

As Lead Youth Worker, you will provide day-to-day leadership, guidance and supervision to a small team of youth workers and volunteers, ensuring the delivery of safe, inclusive and high-quality youth work provision. You will work closely with schools, community partners and statutory services to support young people through both targeted interventions and universal youth provision.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop Oasis Community Hub MediaCityUK's youth work programme, including Friday Night Youth Club, holiday activities and detached youth work.
• Deliver high-quality one-to-one and small group mentoring for young people aged 10 to 16.
• Provide leadership, supervision and support to youth workers and volunteers.
• Build positive, professional and trusting relationships with young people, supporting their personal, social and emotional development.
• Engage vulnerable and hard-to-reach young people through targeted interventions, outreach and detached youth work.
• Work with schools, families, statutory agencies and community partners to ensure young people receive appropriate support.
• Promote safeguarding, wellbeing and positive outcomes for all young people.
• Support young people to access volunteering, leadership and personal development opportunities.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on programme outcomes and impact.
• Represent Oasis within local networks, partnerships and community events.
• Contribute to the ongoing development and growth of Oasis youth provision across MediaCityUK.
• Promote a culture of inclusion, participation and youth voice.
• Work flexibly across evenings, weekends, school holidays and community settings as required.

The Successful Post Holder Must Have

• A relevant Youth & Community Work qualification (Level 3 or above), or significant equivalent experience within the sector.
• Experience delivering youth work, mentoring or community-based programmes with children and young people.
• Experience supporting, supervising or working alongside staff or volunteers.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, health and safety, and effective youth work practice.
• Strong communication, organisational and relationship-building skills.
• Experience working collaboratively with schools, community organisations and statutory services.
• The ability to engage, motivate and inspire young people from diverse backgrounds.
• A flexible and proactive approach, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good IT and administrative skills.
• A commitment to the Oasis ethos, values and safeguarding responsibilities.

As part of the package, Oasis offers:

· A pension scheme, offering 7% employer contribution.

· A generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year (plus 8 Bank Holidays).

· Policies which promote well-being and are family friendly.

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

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

Completed applications should be returned by 9am on Tuesday 22nd September 2026.

Interviews will take place online on Monday 28th September 2026.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers during the recruitment process, please let us know. 

We appreciate you may wish to use AI to support elements of your application but we strongly encourage all candidates to submit applications that genuinely reflect their own skills, achievements and lived experiences. It's what makes your application stand out!

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

The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1136924.

North-West GCSE Resits Senior Programme Coordinator
Our charity delivers a series of interventions that help disadvantaged learners in Further Education to secure gateway English and maths qualifications that unlock opportunities. These interventions include our award-winning GCSE Resit Tuition Programme, for those resitting GCSEs, our Functional Skills Tuition Programme, supporting those on or aspiring to undertake apprenticeship programmes, and training and resources to support teachers and leaders of English and maths in Further Education.

Our benefits include: 

• 36 days of holidays per year (including bank holidays) 

• Ongoing learning and development opportunities 

• Flexible hybrid and remote working 

• Cycle to work scheme 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

• Termly ‘in-person’ team development days at our offices in London 

• The opportunity to work in a progressive and socially conscious, growing organisation where we can have an outsized impact on its success and development. 

About the role

As a Senior Programme Coordinator, you will lead the day-to-day delivery across a portfolio of partner colleges. Acting as the main point of contact for students, tutors and college staff, you will build strong working relationships, maintain a consistent on-site presence and ensure programmes are delivered smoothly, professionally and in line with agreed standards and KPIs. 

You will take ownership of programme performance across your portfolio, with a particular focus on student enrolment, attendance, and session dosage targets. You will oversee programme logistics, monitor delivery quality, and work proactively to maximise student participation and tutor effectiveness. This role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to operational challenges. 

You will also play an important role in maintaining high-quality partnerships with colleges, ensuring stakeholders receive clear communication, accurate reporting and responsive support throughout programme delivery. Alongside this, you will contribute to wider organisational priorities, including safeguarding, tutor development, programme improvement and initiatives that strengthen student outcomes.

As a Senior Programme Coordinator, you will be expected to role model best practice to the wider Programme Coordinator team, working collaboratively to problem solve, and work with your Programme Manager to ensure strategic approaches to meeting KPIs. This is a highly collaborative, delivery-focused role suited to someone who enjoys a challenge, is confident managing relationships.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

See recruitment pack 

ABOUT YOU

You will: 

• Thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment and enjoy managing multiple priorities effectively.
• Be passionate about improving outcomes for young people, with a genuine commitment to tackling educational inequality.
• Enjoy working collaboratively with colleagues, tutors and college partners to achieve shared goals.
• Be comfortable working independently, taking ownership of your workload and delivering results with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach, identifying opportunities and resolving challenges effectively.
• Be highly organised, detail-oriented and able to manage competing demands without compromising quality.
• Take accountability for your work and be confident making decisions and driving progress.
• Be resilient, adaptable and solutions-focused when responding to challenges.
• Be motivated by working in a mission-driven organisation where your contribution has a direct impact on learners' success and future opportunities.

The closing date for applications is 9:00am on Monday 28 September. Applications received after this time will not be considered.

NEXT STEPS

Suitable candidates will be contacted after the closing date. Screening calls will take place on the Thursday 1st & Friday 2nd October. These will take place online.The first-round interviews will be held online onTuesday 6th October & Wednesday 7th October, followed by a second in-person interview Thursday 15th October(London). You will be able to expense your travel for this interview. 

We value diversity and actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly individuals from ethnically diverse communities who are currently underrepresented in our sector. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong.

For full details on responsibilities please see the recruitment pack. 

Change how the UK understands and supports bereaved children and families.

This is an exciting time to join Child Bereavement UK.

We are establishing a brand-new Research & Policy function and are looking for an ambitious Public Affairs Lead to help ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents shape policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians and sector leaders to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, lived experience and influence, translating evidence into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and policy recommendations that make a difference.

This is a rare opportunity to help build a new function, shape our national influence, and ensure the experiences of bereaved children, young people and families are heard where it matters most.

While based remotely, this role has a strong external focus and requires regular travel to London to represent Child Bereavement UK, build key relationships and engage with policymakers, partners and sector networks.

Role Purpose

As Public Affairs Lead you will play a central role in ensuring the voices and experiences of bereaved children, young people, parents and families influence policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, sector partners and influencers to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, policy and communications, helping to translate evidence and lived experience into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and influencing activity.

Main Responsibilities

 Public Affairs & Policy Influence

· Develop and deliver public affairs plans that support Child Bereavement UK's strategic priorities and policy objectives.

· Use research, evaluation findings and lived experience evidence to identify policy gaps, develop influencing priorities and shape recommendations for decision-makers.

· Translate organisational evidence into clear policy asks and reform proposals for government, parliamentarians, public bodies and sector leaders.

· Identify opportunities to embed evidence and learning within national, regional and local policy frameworks, guidance and professional practice.

· Support the development of long-term influencing strategies that drive systemic change for bereaved children, young people and families.

· Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers, government officials, policymakers and key sector stakeholders.

· Coordinate engagement with relevant All-Party Parliamentary Groups, consultations, inquiries and policy forums.

· Support the development of policy briefings, consultation responses and evidence submissions.

· Organise parliamentary events, stakeholder roundtables and engagement opportunities that raise awareness of bereavement issues.

· Work with the Head of Voice & Participation to ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child are represented at all stages of policy development.

Advocacy & Campaigns

· Lead the delivery of advocacy and influencing campaigns aligned to organisational priorities.

· Ensure advocacy campaigns are grounded in robust evidence, insight and lived experience, with clear objectives for policy and practice change.

· Work with the Head of Policy & Research to translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations.

· Develop stakeholder engagement plans that support campaign objectives.

· Build relationships with partner organisations, coalitions and networks to strengthen collective influence.

· Develop compelling narratives that connect research findings with real-world outcomes and policy solutions.

· Work with colleagues to identify tangible actions that policymakers, practitioners, employers, schools and communities can take in response to emerging evidence.

Stakeholder Engagement

· Develop and maintain stakeholder mapping and engagement plans.

· Build productive relationships with sector leaders, professional bodies, charities, academics and decision-makers.

· Coordinate engagement with strategic partners and external networks.

· Support senior leaders in stakeholder engagement activity through briefings, meeting preparation and follow-up actions.

Research Translation & Communications

· Develop evidence-informed policy asks, implementation recommendations and calls to action that support measurable change.

· Identify opportunities to move research and insight beyond publication and into policy development, service improvement and public discourse.

· Translate research, evidence and lived experience into compelling stakeholder communications.

· Produce parliamentary briefings, policy summaries, position statements and advocacy materials.

· Work closely with the Marketing & Communications team to ensure policy and research activity is effectively communicated to external audiences.

· Collaborate with the PR & Press Lead to identify opportunities to amplify policy and research messages through media and public engagement activity.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Insight

· Monitor and evaluate public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity.

· Track policy developments, stakeholder engagement outcomes and influencing opportunities.

· Produce reports demonstrating impact, engagement and progress against objectives.

· Maintain stakeholder databases and records to support organisational relationship management.

Person Specification

Essential

Experience & Knowledge

· Significant experience in public affairs, policy, advocacy, campaigns or stakeholder engagement.

· Experience building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, public sector organisations or influential stakeholders.

· Understanding of UK political systems, parliamentary processes and policy development.

· Experience developing and delivering influencing or advocacy campaigns.

· Experience producing briefings, consultation responses or policy-focused communications.

· Understanding of how evidence and lived experience can be used to influence decision-making.

Skills

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Strong relationship-building and influencing abilities.

· Ability to communicate complex information clearly and persuasively.

· Excellent organisational and project management skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

· Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

Personal Attributes

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child.

· Collaborative and relationship-focused.

· Compassionate and emotionally intelligent.

· Proactive, resilient and self-motivated.

· Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and trauma-informed practice.

Desirable

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents

· Experience within the charity, health, social care or education sectors.

· Knowledge of bereavement, grief, loss or trauma-informed services.

· Experience working with All-Party Parliamentary Groups or parliamentary engagement activity.

· Experience working with research and evidence-based policy development.

· Experience working with lived-experience contributors and ambassadors.

· Understanding of campaigning, coalition building and systems change approach

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 17th September 2026 at midnight

Interview dates: 29th and 30th September on MS Teams

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications for the role before the closing date.

NCT is the national charity for pregnancy, birth, infant feeding and early parenthood. Our vision is simple: a society where everyone who becomes a parent feels confident, connected and safe.

Through our For Every Parent strategy, we're working to make that vision a reality. We support parents with trusted information, practical help, local communities and a stronger voice in the issues that matter to families.

For 70 years, we've been by parents' sides through the excitement, uncertainty, wonder and challenges of becoming a parent. Today, our volunteers contribute more than 70,000 hours of community service each year, helping parents build friendships, find support and feel less alone.

We educate and empower parents with evidence-based information and support. We advocate and act by listening to parents' experiences, raising their voices and campaigning for change. No judgement. No exceptions.

About the role 

We're looking for 5 Perinatal Peer Supporters to join us to provide compassionate, non-judgemental peer support to mothers, birthing people and families across Kent. Support will be delivered through a range of settings, including face-to-face and virtual peer support groups. 

Working closely with our Perinatal Peer Support Service Lead, volunteers, health professionals and community partners, you will help create safe and welcoming spaces where parents can connect, share experiences and access appropriate support. 

Join our passionate team and contribute to the meaningful work that transforms the loves of parents and families. Your role will include: 

• Facilitating welcoming and supportive perinatal peer support groups across Kent, including providing cover for additional sessions when required. 

• Building trusting relationships with parents and families, using active listening and peer support skills to help people feel heard, understood and supported. 

• Identifying when someone may need additional support, signposting to appropriate local services and escalating safeguarding or wellbeing concerns where necessary. 

• Working with volunteers, health and social care professionals, Family Hubs and community partners to increase awareness of the service and strengthen local referral pathways. 

• Supporting the ongoing development of the service through accurate record keeping, feedback, data collection, promotional activity and participation in service review meetings. 

You will also contribute to promoting the service within local communities, particularly among families who may experience additional barriers to accessing support. 

Safeguarding and wellbeing are central to this role. You will receive regular support and supervision and will be expected to raise any concerns appropriately and contribute to creating a safe environment for everyone using the service. 

About you 

You will be compassionate, approachable and able to build trusting relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds. 

You will have a strong understanding of the challenges associated with the perinatal mental health period and be confident providing sensitive, non-judgemental support to parents and families. 

You will also bring: 

• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. 

• Good written and verbal communication skills, including active listening. 

• The ability to manage your time effectively and prioritise competing demands. 

• A reflective and solution-focused approach to your work. 

• Confidence working independently while remaining connected to a supportive wider team. 

• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and internet-based systems. 

• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and to ensuring all families feel welcomed and supported. 

Experience of community engagement, supporting vulnerable families or working with diverse cultural communities would be particularly valuable. 

Knowledge of safeguarding, including child and vulnerable adult protection, and awareness of emotional and practical support services within the local community would also be beneficial. 

You must either be a trained NCT Parents in Mind Peer Supporter or be willing and eligible to undertake this training. The training requires lived experience of perinatal mental ill-health and/or experience supporting someone through perinatal mental health challenges. 

An Enhanced DBS check and driving licence are required for this role. You will also need to be willing and able to travel across the commissioned area, sometimes at short notice to support peer support sessions. 

Our Benefits – What we offer you 

We value our team and offer fantastic benefits to support your well-being and professional growth: 

• 30 days annual leave pro rata (excluding Bank Holidays)
• Pension matched up to 5% 
• Flexible working options to suite your lifestyle 
• Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 GP access, personalised counselling, legal advice and more 
• Life Assurance for peace of mind 
• Free eye test for all staff, with further discounts 
• Blue Light discount card 

At NCT,we’recommitted to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within your role, please let us know—we’rehere to support you.Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of something truly special. 

Join a passionate and committed team driving forward social justice through women-led community organising!

The successful candidate will support Community Savers groups and networks in North Manchester and Wythenshawe achieve their goals for financial and social inclusion, mental wellbeing, community led development, participatory decision-making, and housing and climate justice.

You will work through a community-led process to:

• build strong community associations
• develop common visions and area action plans 
• build membership and support capacity building among young women aged 18-30
• raise small grants funding
• identify priorities for skills development and learning exchange
• help coordinate evidence-based advocacy projects
• keep appropriate records of meetings and events
• capture and communicate learning, progress, and impacts.

You are:

• Experienced in working in neighbourhoods with long term health inequalities.
• Good at building trusting relationships while maintaining boundaries and being mindful of your own levels of resilience.
• Passionate about social justice and championing community expertise.
• Compassionate and non-judgemental.

Please download the application pack for further information and a full job description.

Note that Community Savers is a majority women-led and transinclusive movement that works in alliance with Community Led Action and Savings Support (CLASS). Membership is open to anyone of any gender identity and community action aims to benefit all people in the areas where we work. Leadership and governance structures seek to celebrate and amplify the voices of working class women as those most disadvantaged by the intersecting cost of living, housing and climate crises.