At a Glance
- Tasks: Support staff and volunteers, manage employee relations, and enhance workplace culture.
- Company: Willen Hospice, a leading provider of palliative care in Milton Keynes.
- Benefits: 35 days holiday, pension scheme, enhanced pay, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real difference in the community.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified with 3 years HR experience; retail or charity sector experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Hours: 21 hours per week
Location: Milton Keynes
Closing Date: 03 December 2025
About the role
At Willen Hospice, we are proud to deliver compassionate, high-quality palliative and end-of-life care to our community. Our income generation teams raise the funds to make this possible – and we’re here to support them just as wholeheartedly.
We are now seeking an experienced and proactive HR Advisor in a newly created role to join our dedicated People Services team. As HR Advisor to our income generation teams, you will play a key role in providing expert guidance and hands-on support to managers, employees and volunteers. Based on site at the Hospice in Milton Keynes, this is an exciting time to join us, as we grow our retail portfolio and support our fundraisers to secure vital funds for The Hospice.
Working closely with the HR Business Partner, you will be involved in a wide range of HR activities, helping to support income growth and shape a workplace culture that truly reflects our values and strategic goals.
What you’ll do:
- Support our amazing staff and volunteers across the employee lifecycle
- Advise and support managers and employees on policies, procedures and best practices
- Lead or support employee relations matters including disciplinary, grievance and attendance management
- Build excellent relationships with colleagues, including those who work off-site in our shops and warehouse
- Support the successful opening of new shops and other new income generation projects
- Help us shape a positive, inclusive and values-driven workplace culture
- Contribute to the development and implementation of People initiatives to enhance employee engagement and wellbeing
What you’ll need:
Excellent time management skills are necessary for this role, as is the ability to develop and maintain excellent working relationships at all levels. You will be self-motivated, confident to work autonomously and resilient to respond positively to the rapidly changing demands of charity fundraising teams. Ideally CIPD qualified with a minimum of 3 years relevant, demonstrable experience. Experience working within retail or the charity sector would be advantageous.
You will work from our People Services office at the Hospice, but as you will regularly be visiting our shops and warehouse, you will be a confident driver with access to your own vehicle.
Who we are:
Set in the tranquil grounds of Willen Lake, Willen Hospice is the leading provider of specialist palliative care in the Milton Keynes area. We offer round-the-clock, expert care to local patients with a life-limiting illness, both in their own homes and in our In-Patient Unit. Our passionate staff and volunteers make sure our care is personalised to each patient’s needs and supports their loved ones too. We have a thriving Therapeutic & Wellbeing service providing counselling, physiotherapy, activity groups and more, and a specialist Lymphoedema service. As a registered charity, we raise vital funds through our dedicated Business Development team and our growing portfolio of high street and online shops, to ensure our care stays free of charge.
In return for your skills you can expect:
- A role with purpose – be part of a team committed to continuous improvement and employee wellbeing.
- Supportive and caring environment – work with passionate colleagues.
- Great benefit package – including 35 days’ holiday, contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity/sick pay, and ongoing professional development.
- Perks and extras – free on-site parking, subsidised catering, Blue Light Card discounts (with membership), and an Employee Assistance Programme.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply today and help shape the future of Willen Hospice!
Right to Work: All candidates must have the right to work in the UK. Please note, we are unable to sponsor work permits or visas.
HR Advisor in Milton Keynes employer: Willen Hospice
At Willen Hospice, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and caring environment where our dedicated team can thrive. Located in the serene grounds of Milton Keynes, we provide meaningful work that directly impacts the community, alongside a comprehensive benefits package including 35 days' holiday and ongoing professional development opportunities. Join us to be part of a passionate team committed to enhancing employee wellbeing and making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Advisor in Milton Keynes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field or even those who work at Willen Hospice. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching common HR scenarios. Think about how you'd handle employee relations matters or support managers. We want you to shine when discussing your experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the charity sector! Highlight any relevant experience or volunteer work that aligns with Willen Hospice's mission. It’ll show you’re not just looking for a job, but a purpose.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Advisor in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the HR Advisor role. Highlight your experience in employee relations and any relevant qualifications, like your CIPD status, to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about working at Willen Hospice and how your values align with ours. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your People Skills:As an HR Advisor, building relationships is key. In your application, give examples of how you've successfully supported teams or managed employee relations. We want to see your interpersonal skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willen Hospice
✨Know the Organisation
Before your interview, take some time to research Willen Hospice. Understand their mission, values, and the services they provide. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Prepare for HR Scenarios
As an HR Advisor, you'll likely face scenario-based questions. Think about your past experiences and how you've handled employee relations matters, such as disciplinary actions or grievances. Prepare specific examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain a positive workplace culture.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
Building relationships is key in this role. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with managers, employees, and volunteers in previous positions. Highlight your communication style and how you adapt to different personalities to foster a supportive environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the team dynamics, upcoming projects, or how the HR function supports the charity's goals. This demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
