Interlink, the umbrella organisation for the Charedi voluntary sector, wants to employ its first male staff member.

The organisation has advertised for a male development worker, to provide support, financial information and advice to its charities.

Interlink director Chaya Spitz said: "Although Interlink has male trustees, it has an all-women staff both in London and Manchester. This has led to our sometimes being perceived as a women's organisation and we believe that our services are more accessible to women."

However, some strictly Orthodox men would be more comfortable dealing with someone of the same sex and Interlink wanted "a more balanced organisation".

There had been "a terrific response" to the recruitment drive.