Main Purpose of the Role

The Administrator plays a key role in supporting the effective day-to-day operation of The Friendly Trust. As the first point of contact for many callers and visitors, the postholder will provide a professional, welcoming and responsive service, ensuring enquiries are handled efficiently and messages are communicated accurately. The Administrator will be responsible for maintaining effective administrative systems, managing organisational records and data, and providing high-quality administrative support to the Director, General Manager, Team Managers and Trust Officers. Through these activities, the postholder will help ensure the smooth running of the organisation and contribute to the achievement of The Friendly Trust's aims and objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Communication and Customer Service

• Act as the first point of contact for telephone enquiries, providing a professional and helpful service to service users, families, professionals and other stakeholders.
• Answer incoming telephone calls promptly, relay messages accurately and ensure enquiries are directed appropriately.
• Manage incoming and outgoing correspondence, ensuring information is communicated effectively and in a timely manner.
• Maintain positive and professional relationships with internal and external contacts.

Data Management and Reporting

• Support the Director, General Manager, Team Managers and Trust Officers in maintaining accurate records and statistical information.
• Ensure the timely and accurate input, maintenance and retrieval of information within the Trust's case management and data systems.
• Assist with the production of monitoring information, reports and organisational statistics.

Office Systems and Administration

• Develop, maintain and improve administrative systems and processes that support the efficient running of the organisation.
• Maintain electronic and paper filing systems, ensuring records are stored securely and remain accessible when required.
• Provide administrative support to managers and Trust Officers across the organisation.

Operational Support

• Assist with arranging meetings, training sessions and organisational events.
• Prepare, photocopy and distribute documents, agendas, leaflets and other materials required for service delivery and organisational activities.

Building, Facilities and Resources

• Support the General Manager in coordinating building maintenance, repairs and equipment servicing.
• Liaise with landlords, contractors and suppliers as required.
• Help maintain office resources and equipment.

Financial Administration

• Undertake routine financial administrative duties, including processing invoices and highlighting any discrepancies or concerns to the General Manager.

Quality, Compliance and Sustainability

• Support the maintenance of accurate organisational records and compliance with organisational policies and procedures.
• Contribute to environmentally sustainable working practices across the Trust.

Other Duties

• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role as reasonably required

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly, professionally and sensitively with Service Users, family members, colleagues and external agencies.
• Strong administrative, organisational and customer service skills, with the ability to manage a varied workload, prioritise competing demands and respond effectively to changing priorities.
• Excellent attention to detail, with the ability to maintain accurate records, handle confidential information appropriately and comply with data protection requirements.
• Confident and competent user of Microsoft 365, databases and other IT systems, including experience of data entry and maintaining electronic record systems.
• Ability to work independently using initiative, whilst contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Positive, flexible and proactive approach to work.
• Empathy, patience and the ability to work sensitively and respectfully with vulnerable people and individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, professional standards and The Friendly Trust's values.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience working within the charity, voluntary, health or social care sectors.
• Experience of handling front-line enquiries, telephone calls, reception duties or other customer-facing services.
• Knowledge of issues affecting people with learning disabilities and their families.
• Knowledge of welfare benefits, financial administration or related support services.
• Experience of using case management, CRM or client record systems, including CASPAR Gov or similar software.
• Experience of producing reports, statistics and monitoring information.
• Experience of coordinating office systems, administrative processes or facilities management.
• Knowledge of information governance, records management and basic financial administration, including invoice processing and record keeping.
• Good record of punctuality, reliability and attendance.

Personal Attributes

• Professional, trustworthy and dependable.
• Solution-focused, adaptable and committed to continuous learning.
• Able to remain calm and professional when handling sensitive or challenging enquiries.
• Committed to supporting The Friendly Trust's mission, values and person-centred approach.