Our Application Process
We are committed to fair, inclusive, and transparent recruitment. We look for people who share our values and who want to make a real difference for fishermen and their families.
Know what to expect when you apply to work with us
At the Fishermen’s Mission, our aim is to make every part of the recruitment process clear, safe, and welcoming. We take the safety and wellbeing of everyone we work with seriously — including the people we support, our staff, and our volunteers.
Safer recruitment
We follow Safer Recruitment practices to make sure everyone who joins us suits their role and shares our commitment to safeguarding. This means:
- every applicant is treated equally, with respect and confidentiality
- we check the background of successful candidates through references and relevant criminal record checks (DBS, Disclosure Scotland, or Access NI)
- all roles require proof of identity and right to work in the UK
- we make sure volunteers go through the same safeguarding checks as staff when their role involves working directly with fishermen and their families
- we review these processes regularly to stay up to date with good practice and legal guidance.
You can read more by downloading our policy:
What to expect when you apply
We list all our open vacancies on our Careers page. All our job adverts will show:
- the job title, hours, location and contract type
- salary or volunteer expense details
- closing date and interview information
- any checks or qualifications needed.
You will need to fill out a form for any job application you make with us. We will not accept CVs. We do this to have a consistent and fair process for everyone. You will need to:
- complete all sections of the form, including work history and references
- explain any gaps in employment
- declare any relevant criminal convictions (we will explain when and how to do this confidentially).
If you need the form in another format or have accessibility requirements, please get in touch. We will always do our best to help.
After you apply
When the closing date for a role passes, we will review every application carefully against the role’s requirements.
If we shortlist you, we will invite you to an interview. It will usually be in-person but may be online using Microsoft Teams. At least two people will be present at every interview. We will ask questions about your experience and how you would handle different situations relevant to the role.
You will also be asked to provide original documents confirming your identity and any relevant qualifications.
If we offer you the role, it will be conditional on:
- two satisfactory references (one from your current or most recent employer)
- proof of right to work in the UK
- relevant background checks (such as a basic DBS check, repeated every few years depending on your role)
- agreement of a start date and signed contract.
Keeping your information safe
We store all applications securely in line with GDPR. We only keep records for as long as necessary and destroy sensitive documents, like DBS certificates, securely once the process is complete. You can read more by downloading our policy:
Equity, equality, diversity and inclusion
We value diversity. Different perspectives help us make better decisions and serve our fishing communities more effectively. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, faiths, and communities.
If you’d like to discuss adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know.
You can read more by downloading our policy.
Our Equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion policy - PDF download
Our safeguarding commitment
Safeguarding is important to our work. We handle any concerning behaviour during our recruitment process or employment quickly, guided by our Safeguarding Policy. You can read more by downloading our policy:
Volunteering
Volunteers are an essential part of our work. The same Safer Recruitment checks apply to volunteer roles that involve direct contact with fishermen or their families. No volunteer will be asked to visit someone at home without appropriate checks and supervision.
Our faith
The Fishermen’s Mission has been, and always will be, a Christian charity. Our work is guided by the teachings of Christ, shown through practical care and compassion for fishermen and their families.
In some cases, our roles require a practicing Christian, and we will always make this clear. For most roles, however, we welcome applicants of all faiths and none. What matters most is your commitment to our values of kindness, integrity, and service.
Join us
If you share our values we’d love to hear from you.
Explore our current opportunities and become part of a team that makes a real difference for fishermen and their families.