Birchwood provides essential support and accommodation services for vulnerable people at critical points in their lives. Our services encompass mental health and wellbeing support, homelessness prevention, social inclusion, and community engagement through a comprehensive programme such as counselling, mediation, housing and homelessness support, therapeutic accommodation, employment support, and wellbeing behaviour change activities.
Job Overview:
Birchwood Charity is seeking an enthusiastic and committed Volunteer & Community Co-ordinator to join our Social Inclusion Team as part of the Mental Health & Wellbeing Service.
The successful candidate will play a crucial role in the ongoing development of our volunteer programmes through recruiting, retaining, supporting, and recognising the contribution of our volunteers.
This role will strengthen engagement programmes with our communities and foster a sense of community and volunteer belonging, ensuring volunteers are valued and recognised for their contributions.
The role will also focus on broader community development activity in the Skelmersdale community using Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) principles.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Community Engagement:
o Plan and facilitate community engagement activity through identifying and leveraging local assets and strengths to address community needs and opportunities.
o Engage with community leaders and members through engagement activity meetings, workshops, and events to gather input and foster a collaborative approach to community development.
2. Asset Mapping:
o Conduct asset mapping to identify individual and organisation assets within the community.
o Utilise community strengths and assets to build partnerships and develop initiatives that align with community priorities and needs.
3. Capacity Building:
o Empower community members by building their capacity to contribute to community initiatives.
o Provide training, resources, and support to help individuals and groups develop the skills and confidence needed to take an active role in community projects.
o Work with community members to develop and sustain volunteer peer-led approaches to supporting service beneficiaries and communities.
o Develop and implement approaches to attract and recruit volunteers from diverse backgrounds.
o Match volunteers to appropriate roles based on their skills, interests, and availability.
o Organise and facilitate volunteer orientation and training sessions to prepare volunteers for their roles.
o Provide ongoing support and guidance to volunteers, addressing any concerns or issues promptly.
o Promote volunteer opportunities through various channels, including Birchwood social media platforms, community events, local media, and partnerships with local organisations.
o Develop and implement initiatives to boost volunteer engagement and satisfaction, including regular check-ins and feedback sessions.
o Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where volunteers feel valued and part of the team.
o Plan and execute volunteer appreciation events and recognition programmes to celebrate the contributions of our volunteers.
o Manage and maintain the volunteer database, including contact information, availability, training records, and other relevant details.
o Prepare regular reports on volunteer activities, participation rates, and programme outcomes for review by the Social Inclusion Team Leader.
o Create and maintain a comprehensive volunteer schedule to ensure adequate coverage for all programmes and events.
o Maintain accurate records of volunteer contributions and achievements for recognition purposes.
o Manage and facilitate partnerships with companies seeking to engage their employees in paid voluntary work at the Birchwood Charity as part of their corporate social responsibility and social value initiatives.
o Develop and maintain relationships with corporate partners, coordinating volunteer schedules, and ensuring that both the needs of the charity and the volunteers are met effectively.
o Organise volunteer orientations and training sessions, oversee project assignments, and provide ongoing support and communication to ensure a positive and impactful experience for all participants.
o Help integrate local company corporate support into the Birchwood mission, enhancing the charity's outreach and impact in the community.
The postholder will also be familiar and build on:
* Inclusive Practices
* ABCD Principles
* Local Control
* Relationship-Driven
* Place-Based Focus
* Inclusivity
General Responsibilities:
1. Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication with volunteers and community members using current platforms and new methods to keep everyone informed and engaged.
2. Reporting: Keep accurate records of volunteer activities and community development progress, providing regular reports to the Social Inclusion Team Leader.
3. Collaboration: Work closely with other team members and external partners to achieve community development goals. Foster a collaborative environment where ideas and resources are shared to benefit the community.
Qualifications:
* Proven experience in community development, volunteer coordination, or a related field.
* Understanding of Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) principles.
* Experience of developing and growing volunteer peer-led approaches in communities.
* Good interpersonal and communication skills.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* Strong organisational and project management skills.
* Passion for social inclusion and community empowerment.
Additional Information:
* This is a full-time position.
* A valid current driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential.
* Background checks will be conducted as part of the hiring process.
Overview:
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £26,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Casual dress
* Employee discount
* Free fitness classes
* Gym membership
* Health & wellbeing programme
* On-site parking
Schedule:
* Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 04/10/2024
Reference ID: Volunteer & Community Coordinator
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