Support worker and young person sitting on park bench together.

Jobs at Barnardo's

Want to change childhoods and change lives?

We’re here to support children, young people and families, because we know that when you change a childhood, you change a life. We’d love to hear from you if you want to be part of making sure all children have somewhere they can belong, grow and thrive. 

Whether you’re just starting out in your career or have lots of workplace experience, you can choose from a variety of opportunities  to build on your enthusiasm, strengths and skills.

Find out about our people and culture

Our colleagues and volunteers are the beating heart of Barnardo’s. We want to continue to attract a diverse group of people from all communities of the UK who share our excitement, energy, and passion for achieving change for children.  

Our people and culture strategy sets out how we’re supporting our colleagues and creating a positive, inclusive culture where everyone can thrive. 

How to apply for a job

When you find a job you’d like to apply for, click the ‘Apply now’ button. You’ll be asked to log in to your account – or create one if you haven’t already. 

Then simply fill out the online application form for that vacancy. You can save your application and return to it later if you need to before submitting.

Our Interview Guarantee Scheme

We interview all applicants who have a disability, impairment or mental or physical health condition and meet the essential criteria for a job. If you wish to be considered under this scheme, please tell us in the appropriate part of the application form.

Keeping in touch

If you have applied for a job, we will stay in touch with you by email during the recruitment process. Please check your email regularly (including your junk folder) so you don’t miss a message from us. 

We’ll try and contact you within four weeks of the closing date. We’ll let you know if we aren’t going to interview you, but due to the number of applications we receive we can’t give you detailed feedback at this stage.

Coming for interview

If your application is successful, we’ll send you an email inviting you to an interview, asking you to book a convenient time via your account.  

The email will also tell you everything you need to know about the interview. This will include the location (whether in person or online) and what you need to bring, or have with you on the day. We’ll also ask you to let us know any reasonable adjustments you need us to make. Please read all the information carefully.

After your interview

We know that you’ll be keen to hear back from us after your interview and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.  

If you’re successful, we will phone you and send you a letter with a conditional offer. If you’re not and would like some feedback following your interview, please email our recruitment team

Job offers and carrying out checks

If we offer you a job, we will then need to check your: 

  • proof of eligibility to work in the UK (unfortunately we can’t support sponsorship requests) 

  • proof of address 

  • references 

Due to the nature of the work we do, some roles will also require: 

  • a criminal records check 

  • an overseas police check (if you’re not currently living in the UK or have spent significant time overseas) 

  • verification of your registration with relevant professional bodies 

Please note that carrying out our safer recruitment checks may take some time, but we cannot offer you a start date until they are completed. We will still communicate with you throughout the process and let you know once these have been complete.

  • Imagine being able to change a childhood for a living

    Search for current vacancies and apply for a job.

  • Employee benefits

    Find out about the benefits you'll be able to enjoy if you're successful.

  • Could you give us some of your time?

    Our volunteers help change childhoods in all sorts of ways. From working directly with children and young people, to carrying out research or helping customers in our shops, there’s a role you’d be great for.