Overview
Freelance - Fundraising & Publicity Lead for The Pillar, a church-led mental health project for young people aged 11-18, based at St Wins Church, Totton, near Southampton. The Pillar is transitioning toward becoming a stand-alone registered charity. The role is part-time (10 hours per week), with hybrid working (remote / St Wins Church) and travel to St Wins, Totton as required. Start date as soon as possible. Length of Contract: 1 Year Fixed-Term Contract with the possibility of extension. Salary: £200-£400 per day, dependent on experience. DBS check: No. Reports to: Georgia Hart, Project Lead. Location: Southern region; based in remote / St Wins Church, Totton.
Hours
* 10 hours per week, with the option of term-time only working
* Hybrid working offered, with travel to St Wins, Totton as required
* Occasional evening and weekend work for fundraising/publicity events is required – these are planned in advance
Special Requirements
This post has been identified as being one to which a Genuine Occupational Requirement (as set out in Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010) applies and the post is conditional on the post holder being a practising Christian.
* 3 month probationary period
* Based in the southern region and able to attend St Wins, Totton when required
* The role holder will need to be available to work key calendar dates including our annual vision evening, fundraising events and other evening or weekend work
The Pillar is a church-led mental health project for young people aged 11-18 years of age. The Pillar combines evidence-based mental health interventions and a relationship with Jesus, delivered by Christians who have relevant experience in mental health and working with young people. The Pillar is a project of St Wins Church, Totton, near Southampton, and is transitioning toward becoming a stand-alone registered charity.
We are seeking a proactive and passionate fundraiser to take a strategic approach in strengthening our financial sustainability. We are currently funded by The Church of England until the end of 2026, alongside support from other private income streams and smaller grants. In the next year we hope to become a Registered Charity, moving away from operating under St Wins Church.
Funding & Objectives
This role is funded by The Church of England for 1 year, with the following goals:
* Increase levels of unrestricted income
* Increase free reserves to at least 3 months of operating costs
* Obtain funding to maintain a Central Pillar Leadership Team to drive the project forward as we become a charity
You will work closely with the Project Leads to bring in robust and strategic funds to the charity, through grants funding, statutory contracts, corporate and commercial sponsorship. Your role will be vital in sustaining and expanding our programs by increasing existing income streams and developing strong, lasting relationships with funders. You will also support the team in delivering successful fundraising initiatives.
Responsibilities Include
* Develop, implement, and regularly update a strategic fundraising strategy that aligns with The Pillar’s mission, vision, and values, to guide income generation and support long-term sustainability.
* Collaborate with Project Lead and relevant staff to assess funding needs and create strategic, well-researched proposals that reflect project objectives.
Fundraising Strategy & Planning
* Develop, implement, and regularly update a strategic fundraising strategy that aligns with The Pillar’s mission, vision, and values, to guide income generation and support long-term sustainability.
* Collaborate with Project Lead and relevant staff to assess funding needs and create strategic, well-researched proposals that reflect project objectives.
Funding Research & Grant Management
* Build and maintain a comprehensive, up-to-date catalogue of funding opportunities that align with The Pillar’s goals.
* Write and submit high-quality, competitive grant applications and funding proposals that meet funder criteria and deadlines.
* Submit all applications to a high standard, ensuring accuracy, alignment with project goals, and representation of the project with integrity.
* Track awarded funds and support timely reporting to funders as required.
Donor & Stakeholder Engagement
* Cultivate and manage relationships with donors, funders, sponsors, and key stakeholders to strengthen support and financial sustainability.
* Ensure consistent, clear communication and recognition of supporters to build long-term engagement.
* Support the development of appropriate partnerships that benefit the organisation’s mission and growth.
Events & Community Engagement
* Plan and promote fundraising events and explore opportunities for community-led initiatives.
* Collaborate with the Communications Lead to increase visibility and engagement through marketing and social media.
* Support delivery of events as needed, contributing to The Pillar’s public presence and fundraising goals.
Monitoring & Income Generation
* Track, monitor, and report on fundraising income and performance, working toward an annual income target for year 1 of £50,000.
* Ensure that all fundraising activity is aligned with strategic goals and financial sustainability priorities.
* Maintain shared trackers and provide regular updates on fundraising activity to Project Lead.
* Ensure compliance with relevant fundraising regulations and sector best practice.
Essential Skills & Qualities
* Proven experience in fundraising, grant writing, and income generation with proven experience of securing 6-figure or high end 5-figure contracts/grants/awards.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Strong IT and computer skills, including advanced use of spreadsheets for data analysis and reporting.
* Excellent research skills and ability to understand and distil complex information quickly and accurately.
* Excellent self-management skills, able to work independently to a high standard - prioritising work, setting and meeting deadlines
* Passion for supporting young people and mental health initiatives.
* Numerical. Able to develop budgets and analyse data.
* Ability to critically evaluate own work and pay close attention to detail.
* Knowledge of fundraising regulations and best practices.
Desirable Skills & Qualities
* Experience growing a small-medium sized charity through strategic and effective fundraising.
* Knowledge and experience of the financial and legal requirements of a small-medium sized charity.
* Experience in event management.
* Experience using fundraising databases to track donor interactions and funding applications.
* Understanding of digital fundraising and crowdfunding platforms.
* Local corporate, statutory or commercial connections that would be of benefit to The Pillar.
How to apply and closing date
Closing date for applications: 14th September
We won’t be holding formal interviews for this role. Instead, our Project Lead, Georgia Hart, will arrange an informal conversation with shortlisted candidates to explore your experience, approach, and fit for The Pillar.
Please send your CV with a cover letter and fee proposal to georgia@stwins.org.
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