Children and young people

Trainee Arts Practitioner

22 September 2026 By EVOC Communications Team

Organisation: Catherine Wheel, Lyra and Starcatchers
Job Opportunity: Trainee Arts Practitioner (2 roles)
Contract: Freelance
Salary: £12,000
Deadline: 2 November 2027
Interviews: 19 & 20 November

Role Description:

Catherine Wheels, Lyra and Starcatchers have come together to offer two bespoke traineeships for practitioners who are passionate about creating meaningful experiences with and for children and young people. We believe every child has the right to experience high-quality, joyful and imaginative arts and culture. We also know that too many talented practitioners face barriers to developing sustainable careers in the sector. By working together, we want to create time, space and support for practitioners to grow their practice, deepen their curiosity and build lasting creative relationships.

This opportunity is for people who may face barriers to the industry, specifically from backgrounds typically under-represented in arts for young audiences. We are open to applications from all roles within the arts. You can apply as an trainee artist, facilitator, designer, stage manager, technician etc – as long as you have an interest in work for babies, children and young people.

Please download and read the full information pack.

Vacancy: Family Worker, Edinburgh

18 September 2026 By EVOC Communications Team

Post: Family Worker, Edinburgh

Organisation: The Yard

The Yard is an award-winning charity that delivers adventure play services for children with disabilities and additional support needs, as well as their families. The organisation is committed to improving the lives of disabled children, young people, families, and carers through inclusive, supportive services.

In the role of Family Worker, the postholder provides information, emotional support, and practical assistance to families of children with a wide range of disabilities and additional support needs. The role focuses on empowering families to understand and access available support from external agencies and services, ensuring they receive the right help at the right time.

Key responsibilities include:

Providing direct information, guidance, and emotional support to families.
Assisting families in navigating and accessing relevant support services.
Building positive and trusting relationships with children, young people, parents, carers, and partner organisations.
Promoting children’s rights and applying trauma-informed and inclusive practices.
Supporting safeguarding through a sound understanding of child and adult protection procedures.
Maintaining accurate records and completing administrative tasks effectively.
Contributing to an environment where families feel valued, supported, and part of an inclusive community.

The role requires:

Experience working with children and young people with a range of disabilities and additional support needs.
Excellent relationship-building and communication skills.
Knowledge of children’s rights, trauma-informed approaches, and inclusive practice.
Understanding of child and adult protection procedures.
Strong organisational and administrative abilities.

Working within a supportive and understanding environment, the Family Worker plays an essential role in helping families overcome challenges, access appropriate resources, and improve their overall wellbeing.