At a Glance
- Tasks: Write compelling funding applications to support vulnerable people in Lancaster.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at Lancaster & District Homeless Action Service.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Help change lives by securing vital funding for essential services.
- Qualifications: Strong writing skills and a passion for social justice.
Lancaster & District Homeless Action Service Limited (LDHAS) has been operating in Lancaster for over 30 years providing support to rough sleepers and vulnerably housed people. The centre is the heart of our organisation, delivering crisis support in a welcoming safe space. We provide a ‘one-stop shop’ homeless hub so our clients can access the services of visiting agencies, be it advice on benefits (universal credits, PIP etc), advocacy with bureaucracy, access to drug and alcohol services, help with housing needs, Hepatitis C testing, podiatry, and medical assistance from our in-house nurse in our medical room.
We provide the following essential needs for rough sleepers:
- Assistance with form filling
- Breakfast and lunch
- Phone access
- Access to identification documents
- Shower
- A care of address for correspondence
- Clothing
- Laundry facilities
We aim to provide a trusted and welcoming space, applying a person-centred approach to help alleviate and prevent crisis through timely intervention.
The postholder will be responsible for identifying, writing, and submitting compelling, well-researched and tailored funding applications to relevant grant-giving bodies. The post holder will work closely with the LDHAS management team to gather information, write bids, and track progress of submissions, ensuring LDHAS meets income targets as agreed by the Trustees.
The postholder will:
- Proactively research, navigate the system and identify suitable grant and funding opportunities from charitable trusts, foundations, and statutory bodies.
- Write and submit high-quality funding applications and proposals in line with LDHAS's strategic priorities working closely with the Manager and in their collaboration with key partners.
- Work collaboratively with the LDHAS Manager and colleagues to gather accurate, up-to-date data and service information for applications.
- Tailor applications to funder requirements and priorities, ensuring persuasive storytelling and alignment with LDHAS's mission.
- Research and identify opportunities to raise money via businesses including payroll giving and sponsoring fundraising events.
- Research and identify opportunities to encourage supporters to consider leaving a gift to LDHAS in their wills.
- Manage a pipeline of applications and submissions, ensuring deadlines are met and income targets are tracked.
Communication and Relationships
- Have communication skills and a communication style which ensures that written bids are compelling, clear, and rooted in evidence.
- Ability to turn service data and case studies into powerful narratives that align with funder priorities.
- Act as an ambassador for vulnerable people.
- Maintain effective communication with the Board.
Analytical and Judgement Skills
- Research and identify suitable grant and funding opportunities from charitable trusts, foundations, and statutory bodies.
- Work collaboratively with LDHAS Manager and colleagues to gather accurate, up-to-date data and service information for applications.
Planning and Organisation Skills
- Contributes to LDHAS's long-term income generation plans.
- Manage a pipeline of applications and submissions, ensuring deadlines are met and income targets are tracked.
- Manage LDHAS’s bid writing schedule ensuring effective systems and accountability.
- Support development of strong internal bid and grant management systems, including templates, case studies, and project reporting tools.
- Monitor success rates and provide monthly performance reporting.
Client Care
- Assist clients during incidental contacts.
- Provide general, non-clinical advice to clients.
- Provide general advice to members of the public contacting LDHAS.
Responsibilities for Policy and Service Development
- Lead on Bid writing policy and procedure development.
- Propose changes to improve LDHAS practice, policies and action plans.
Responsibilities for Finance / Physical Resources
- Ensure equipment required for the role is appropriate and used safely.
- Manage finances associated with the role.
Responsibility for Human Resources
- Demonstrate own duties to other staff.
- Promote a positive and supportive culture.
To Apply
If you are interested in applying for the role of Bid Writer with Lancaster & District Homeless Action Service Limited (LDHAS) and feel you have the necessary skills and experience to bring to the team, you can download the job description and personal specification details from our website with instructions on how to apply. The closing date for applications is Thursday 24th September 2026, and the interviews will be held week commencing Monday 5th October 2026.
Bid Writer in Lancaster employer: LDHAS
Lancaster & District Homeless Action Service Limited (LDHAS) is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community. With over 30 years of experience, LDHAS fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth and development, offering opportunities to engage in vital work that directly benefits vulnerable individuals. Located in the heart of Lancaster, employees enjoy a fulfilling role with flexible part-time hours, allowing for a healthy work-life balance while contributing to essential services that change lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bid Writer in Lancaster
✨Get Involved in Local Initiatives
Dive headfirst into local community projects and social enterprises! This not only builds your experience but also connects you with like-minded folks who may know about part-time opportunities. Plus, many nonprofits announce openings through their events and volunteer activities, so keep your ears to the ground!
✨Join Social Impact Networks
Look for networks and forums centred around social impact – think local charity groups or online platforms where changemakers hang out. These places are goldmines for job leads, especially for part-time roles like the ones at LDHAS. Engaging in discussions can also help you make meaningful connections with potential employers!
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re still in uni, tap into career services that may have exclusive listings for part-time roles in nonprofits. They often host job fairs or info sessions where you can meet representatives from organisations like LDHAS directly. It’s a great way to make an impression beyond your CV!
✨Check Out Online Opportunities
Websites like Idealist or CharityJob specifically showcase part-time positions in the nonprofit sector. Make sure to check these regularly while keeping an eye on LDHAS’s own job listings on our website. Being proactive here can put you ahead of the curve!
We think you need these skills to ace Bid Writer in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:For a role like Bid Writer at LDHAS, your cover letter is your chance to shine a light on why social impact matters to you. Share any personal experiences or volunteer work that highlight your commitment to the cause. We want to see your genuine enthusiasm!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure your CV showcases any nonprofit work or projects you've been involved in, even if they were part-time or volunteer roles. Emphasize skills like project management, fundraising, or community engagement. These are key in the nonprofit sector, and we want to see how you can contribute to our mission!
Tailor Your Application:When applying for the Bid Writer, customise your documents to fit the vibe of LDHAS. Use our language, reflect our values, and connect your personal goals with our mission. This shows us you’ve done your homework and you're excited to join the team in this part-time capacity.
Don’t Forget Your Availability:As this is a part-time position, clearly outline your availability in your application. Whether you're a student balancing studies or have other commitments, we appreciate transparency. Just pop your available hours in your cover letter or CV so we can see how you fit into our schedule.
How to prepare for a job interview at LDHAS
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When applying for a part-time role in the nonprofit sector, it's essential to convey your genuine enthusiasm for the mission of LDHAS. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences that highlight why social impact matters to you and how you align with their goals.
✨Bring Tangible Examples of Impact
Nonprofits often look for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to create meaningful change. Prepare examples from your past experiences—whether in volunteering, projects, or academic work—that showcase your skills in making a positive impact. Use metrics if possible; it's all about showing how you’ve really contributed.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect to encounter scenario-based questions during your interview. These will assess how you handle real-world challenges in the nonprofit space. For example, how would you deal with limited resources or navigate a conflict with team members? Think through your past experiences to give thoughtful responses.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
Since it's a part-time role, they might dig into your availability during the interview. Be open and clear about your schedule and how it can align with LDHAS's needs. They’ll want to know that you can commit without compromising your passion for the work!
