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Understanding special needs

Work for us

Families InFocus is a vibrant, engaging place to work. We regularly recruit to our committed team of staff and volunteers. If you want to use your skills and experience to make a positive difference to the lives families with SEND children, then take a look at our latest vacancies below.

Why work for us

Families InFocus is a great place to work. Our dedicated and hard-working team constantly put families with SEND children at the heart of everything we do.

We offer a range of benefits, including:

  • A non-contributory pension scheme (Families InFocus pay 8%, rising to 10% after 18 months of service).
  • Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Competitive salary.
  • Enhanced annual leave.
  • A flexible, friendly place to work.
  • A range of flexible working options.
  • Full training and development.

Our current vacancies

Community Engagement Manager 

Are you passionate about bringing people together and creating lasting change?

Do you thrive on helping others find their voice, confidence and community?

Do you believe that small connections can make a big difference?

If so, this could be the role for you.

About Us

Families InFocus (FiF) is a well-known and respected Essex charity that supports families with children and young people who have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).

Our vision is to create a more inclusive Essex — one where every child and young person with SEND can realise their full potential.

We’ve spent over 25 years walking alongside families, helping them navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and build the connections that make everyday life stronger.

About the Role

We’re looking for a creative, compassionate and organised Community Engagement Manager to help families feel heard, confident and connected.

You’ll play a key role in:

  • Building community – creating spaces where parents, carers and guardians can meet, share experiences and shape change together.
  • Supporting volunteers – recruiting, training and mentoring people who want to make a difference in their local area.
  • Developing partnerships – working with other local SEND agencies, and community groups to strengthen opportunities for SEND families.
  • Coordinating activities – helping run our inclusive SEND activity clubs and ensuring families’ voices are at the heart of everything we do.

It’s a varied role that blends community development, facilitation, and leadership — perfect for someone who enjoys connecting people and seeing ideas grow.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from all walks of life. You might be:

  • Or someone who’s simply passionate about community and inclusion.
  • A parent or carer with lived experience of SEND,
  • Or a professional from education, health, social care or the voluntary sector.

You’ll need to be:

  • A natural relationship-builder who can bring people together,
  • Skilled at facilitation and communication,
  • Organised, confident and comfortable working with a mix of volunteers and professionals,
  • Able to travel across Essex (so access to your own transport is essential).

Why Join Us?

At Families InFocus, you’ll be part of a close, caring team that supports one another as much as the families we serve.

Every week, you’ll:

  • Help parents and carers feel less alone and more empowered,
  • Contribute to a positive change in how SEND families are seen and supported,
  • Work in a culture that values trust, collaboration and adaptability,
  • See the difference your work makes — one family, one community, one day at a time.

How to Apply

To apply, please email us, and we will send you a full job description and an application form.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: £25,000.00-£35,000.00 per year with company pension

Expected hours: 28 – 37 per week