WHAT IS NCH?
Formed in 1869, the children's charity NCH, formerly known as National Children's Home, is one of the UK's leading children's charities. Its services support the vulnerable and excluded, working with children, young people and families facing difficulties such as poverty, disability and abuse. NCH is a provider of family and children's centres, children's services in rural areas, services for disabled children and services for care leavers.
IS THERE A CHOICE OF ROLES AVAILABLE?
NCH is active nationwide in a range of children's services from adoption and providing early years and family support, through to residential breaks for those with disabilities and youth services for those leaving care. Typical roles include team leader, project worker or nursery assistant. It employs about 7,000 people.
WHAT IS THE WORKING CULTURE LIKE?
NCH is committed to investing in its people. It gives employees the opportunity to learn and develop skills through training and regular appraisals. NCH aims to provide family-friendly working conditions, and its employment policies include maternity, paternity and adoption leave, and flexible working. The charity was formed by Methodists and retains strong links with the Church. It recognises and supports trades union membership.
ARE THE BENEFITS GOOD?
NCH employment policies are generally in excess of statutory guidance, particularly leave and maternity benefits. A hybrid pension scheme is made up of both salary-related and contribution elements. Season ticket loans and childcare vouchers are also offered. Relocation costs are available at 80 per cent of certain defined costs.
WILL I HAVE READ ABOUT NCH IN THE NEWS RECENTLY?
Almost certainly. The charity has a strong campaigning culture and is currently pressing the government to halve child poverty by 2010. The charity also has strong celebrity support with ambassadors ranging from Big Brother twins Sam and Amanda to Sir Trevor McDonald.
