Research Assistant (National FGM Centre)

Barnardo's is committed to providing 'Better Outcomes for More Children'. Our children's services volunteers help the charity to deliver essential services in local communities, providing support to over 300,000 children, young people and their families. This role provides a great opportunity to join our fantastic children's services and help make a real difference.

Barnardo's Research Assistants support our qualitative research to develop innovative ideas and practices, so Barnardo's can meet the challenges of modern society and create better outcomes for more children, today and into the future.

We are looking for people who really believe in Barnardo's work and would like to develop their research skills to help us champion the needs of children, young people and families.

Where will you be based?

The role is primarily home-based in London. There may occasionally be opportunities for in-person events, team activities, or development sessions at Barnardo's offices in London. Travel expenses for agreed in-person activities will be reimbursed inline with Barnardo's volunteer policy.

Why we want you

As a Research Assistant Volunteer with the National FGM Centre (NFGMC), you will support two community-based research projects taking place in London and Northern Ireland. These important projects explore diverse communities' experiences and understanding of harmful practices. The findings will help inform the development of policies, programmes, and services for communities affected by these issues.

This role is ideal for someone interested in research and community engagement, and who and would like to gain practical research experience alongside a national specialist service. It would particularly suit someone with an interest in ending harmful practices and violence against women and girls (VAWG), and in using research to inform meaningful change.

The main focus of the role will be supporting the research team with reviewing focus group transcripts and audio recordings to help to ensure the transcripts are accurate, appropriately redacted, and stored securely in line with GDPR requirements.

There will also be other opportunities to support with other aspects of the research process, including proofreading reports, attending steering group meetings, supporting with minute taking, and helping to prepare the launch of the research findings at a NFGMC conference in London in November 2026 (date TBC).

You will be carrying out tasks remotely. However we'd love someone who is London based so that you can support our conference in November and other events in London linked to the research piece. We also hold our team days in London, which you would be invited to.

There will be a period of higher time commitment in July 2026, when focus groups are taking place and transcripts will need to be reviewed and processed within one week. .

About the National FGM Centre

The National FGM Centre works with professionals and in communities to educate and prevent Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), breast flattening, and spirit possession, witchcraft, and ritualistic abuse, as well as other forms of harmful practices. It was established in 2015 to achieve system change in the provision of services for children and their families who are affected by FGM. In 2017, the focus of our work was extended to include Breast Flattening and spirit possession, witchcraft, and ritualistic abuse. The aim is to prevent new cases, protect children and young people, support those affected by FGM and other harmful practices, partner to deliver services and learn.

What you will be doing?

• Reviewing focus group transcripts alongside audio records from focus groups to ensure accuracy.
• Supporting with the redaction and secure handling of transcripts, in line with GDPR.
• Assisting with organising and securely storing research data and documents.
• Proofreading reports and other written research outputs.
• Supporting steering group meeting through minute taking.
• Participating in team discussions and feedback sessions about research findings.
• Supporting the preparation for dissemination and launch events, including the NFGMC professionals conference in London in November 2026 (date TBC)
• Always adhering to Barnardo's policies and procedures, including Barnardo's: Safeguarding; Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; Health & Safety; Data Protection; Confidentiality; Recording policies and procedures.
• Participating fully in training and supervision.
• Volunteering within Barnardo's Values and Behaviours.

The skills you need

• Although we do not require prior professional research experience, an interest in carrying out research and a basic understanding of research techniques would be helpful.
• Basic knowledge of research processes, such as data collection and qualitative methods, including the ability and willingness to work with focus group transcripts and audio recordings as part of qualitative research.
• Ability to review and analyse qualitative data and present information in a format suitable for a variety of audiences.
• Good attention to detail, particularly when reviewing transcripts, proofreading, and ensuring accuracy in written materials.
• An understanding of the importance of confidentiality, GDPR, and secure data handling.
• Reliable, punctual and trustworthy.
• Good communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
• Familiar with and having a good understanding of information systems, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher and other computer packages

What's in it for you?

• The opportunity to be part of a national centre, which is one of it's kind, aiming to bring an end to FGM and other harmful practices
• Relevant training and support to help you succeed in the role — including harmful practices, safeguarding, and more
• Regular supervision and check-ins to support your development
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, agreed in advance
• Access to Barnardo's internal vacancy listings for future opportunities
• The chance to gain hands-on experience in areas like research, admin, and events - great for building your CV
• A unique opportunity to learn about and contribute to work tackling harmful practices and supporting vulnerable communities
• A flexible, supportive volunteer experience where your time and skills are valued
• Recognition of your contribution with a reference
• The chance to feel part of a team making a difference