Prospectus is delighted to be partnering with Respond. A unique organisation that provides specialist, therapeutic services to individuals and families of those with learning disabilities or autism, with the aim of reducing trauma and abuse and the impact thereof. At an exciting time of expansion for the charity, they are now recruiting a COSA Project Manager to lead the establishment and provision of their existing COSA model for their new pilot service in the West Midlands region.

A Circle Of Support and Accountability (COSA) brings together a group of 5 specially trained volunteers from the local community. They meet weekly as a group with the client for a period of 18 months enabling them to experience structured, regular and consistent emotional and practical support as well as a sense of engagement and participation. A non-judgemental reflective space is created in which risky feelings and behaviours can be addressed, listening can take place and alternative strategies devised. The volunteers model positive social relationships, the client feels valued and cared about as a member of the group, which in turn increases the client's sense of self efficacy and their social and communication skills. The COSA also provides a very practical forum for problem solving around building a life in the community; access to education, employment.

As their COSA Project Manager you will undertake a mix of service design and delivery, which would include some direct support to clients whilst in hospitals, as well as the recruitment, training and ongoing support of COSA volunteers. Working collaboratively with, and reporting to the Transforming Care Manager you will ensure that all COSA interventions and care are delivered and maintained with the needs of the client being central to all recruitment, training and service delivery. Finally, due to the nature of service, you will work collaboratively with your colleagues and peers to ensure that all professionals involved are fully equipped with the knowledge and expertise to be able to provide exemplary support to clients during their transition and to bring about a cultural change in the region.

To be considered, you will have demonstrable experience of recruiting, training and managing volunteers combined with experience of working with people with learning disabilities and/or autism who have experienced trauma, violence or abuse. A strong project manager, you will have previously worked extensively in a multi-disciplinary environment and possess the ability to work collaboratively with clinical and non-clinical professionals, service users and their families and members of the public. This is a vital role for their service and as such a non-judgemental approach is essential, as is a relevant qualification required for working with people with learning disabilities and autism.

This is an incredible opportunity to join a unique charity as they expand their reach in supporting some of society's most vulnerable.