Community Engagement and Development Officer

IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

Please note: Candidates must be willing to undertake a CRB Disclosure check; possess a valid UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use and/or driver/assistance.

For more informatio and to apply:http://changeagents.org.uk/Graduates/GradVacDetails.asp?ProjNo=2046

Background:

Voluntary Action Melton, based in the market town of Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, is seeking to employ a dynamic, energetic and hard-working graduate to perform a vital function in the local Voluntary and Community Sector. VAM provides a number of vital services in the area and represents and supports the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) to a number of organisations and statutory bodies, providing a hub for local voluntary work. One of VAM’s core functions is to ensure the voices of those in the voluntary sector, and local community groups, are heard, and consulted in policy making bodies and with other strategic organisations and partners. There have been a number of changes in the third-sector which have presented not only very real challenges, but also opportunities and a chance to re-evaluate what works, what is needed, and demonstrating the social and economic value that voluntary work brings to any area. With increasing attention on Localism, the Big Society, public sector cuts and Neighbourhood planning, this a vital, challenging and exciting time for voluntary groups and their representatives to ensure that communities’ needs and views are well served and incorporated into any plans that affect them. The post holder will be subject to a full CRB Disclosure check and will require a valid UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use and/or driver/assistance.

Objective:

Working closely with the Resident Involvement Officer, the overriding objective of this work is to ensure that the voices of the diverse frontline voluntary and community groups will be heard by all appropriate strategic bodies and partnerships through identified representatives. The Community Development and Engagement Officer will assist Voluntary Action Melton (VAM) with their local engagement and representation and lead on developing the appropriate fora and media to achieve this objective. The post holder will be expected to engage with, and support, a variety of volunteers, voluntary organisations and community groups and undertake a minimum number of events, meetings and publications with the VCS, local councils, and members of the public.

Benefits To Graduate

The successful candidate will develop a range of knowledge and skills through this project whilst gaining real-life, practical experience of working with communities, local authorities, and broader partnerships. The candidate will have the opportunity to hone project management and communication skills. There will also be access to Change Agents UK training workshops.

Employment Potential and Options Post Project Work

This role will provide experience of managing projects, undertaking community engagement and consultation, and working in partnerships provides. This is extremely valuable experience for any graduate wishing to work in roles in the public or third sector, as well as providing strong transferable skills. Whilst there are no current plans for extending this position, it will position the successful candidate well for any opportunities that do emerge with VAM and its partners. This role offers an excellent chance to demonstrate capabilities and take responsibility for important VCS work that will offer a significant advantage in this popular and important field of work.