APPLICATIONS ADMINISTRATOR in Keele

We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Applications Administrator to join our dedicated, experienced and growing team of professionals as we embark on a journey of expansion. You will support the smooth and efficient running of our busy Applications Department, working closely with colleagues across the Applications Team to support and guide volunteers in processing funding applications for specialist equipment and services.

As the first point of contact for families, you will provide clear and empathetic administrative support, engaging quickly to understand their needs and identify how our services can help. Collaboration is central to this role, and you will work confidently with colleagues across the organisation and stakeholders at all levels.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact to phone, email and online enquiries and provide clear advice on available equipment and services.
• Guide families through the application process and ensure all supporting documentation is complete.
• Communicate with children, families and all stakeholders in a way that respects their views, autonomy and culture in full compliance with the Equality & Diversity Policy.
• Process online and paper applications efficiently in line with departmental KPIs.
• Assess applications against eligibility criteria prior to approval.
• Liaise with equipment and service providers regarding orders and delivery.
• Keep comprehensive and accurate records in relation to your role and in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and Data Protection and at all times work in accordance with General Data Protection Regulations 2018.
• Work effectively and collaboratively as a member of the team, building and maintaining good working relationships with all internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the Applications Team in training, mentoring and guiding volunteers.
• Assist with onboarding and ongoing coaching on both paper-based and IT systems.
• Demonstrate commitment to ongoing personal and professional development.
• Adhere to all Caudwell Children policies and procedures.
• Support internal and external ISO audits.
• Collate files and documentation for auditors when required.
• Provide information to colleagues for media, PR, fundraising, grant applications and case studies.
• Work flexible hours to meet the needs of the business when necessary.
• Willingness to travel on occasion in order to fulfil the needs of the post.

Person Specification

• Strong customer service or office administration background.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work with a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to plan and prioritise workloads.
• Ability to handle sensitive issues professionally.
• A positive 'can-do' attitude with a flexible approach to work.
• Able to meet the physical requirements of the role after reasonable adjustments have been made for illness or disability.
• Knowledge of statutory and voluntary agencies.
• Experience of working in the Third Sector.
• Experience of working in CQC and ISO regulated organisations.
• Experience of working with volunteers.

The Charity is committed to safeguarding children and young people and therefore adopts a safer recruitment approach through a robust recruitment and selection process. All posts within the Charity are subject to DBS checks, in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). This role is eligible for a basic disclosure check.

Caudwell Children is a Disability Confident employer committed to offering an interview to all applicants who meet the minimum criteria and declare they have a disability as defined in the Equality Act 2010. We are committed to creating a diverse environment and will not discriminate for any reason against any person because of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sex or sexual orientation. We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background and other underrepresented groups.

Location: Caudwell International Children's Centre (CICC) Keele, Staffordshire (informal homeworking arrangements available up to 20% of working week)

Entry Level – National Minimum Wage (currently £23,810 per annum)