At a Glance
- Tasks: Support clients in reconnecting with their communities through engaging activities and coaching.
- Company: Join a compassionate organisation dedicated to helping individuals in recovery.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, generous leave, pension scheme, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building your skills and experience.
- Qualifications: Experience working with vulnerable people and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 36000 £ per year.
All of our services are Free and Confidential. We have an immediate need for a Community Engagement Specialist to join our Specialist Housing Support Service. This is a permanent, full-time position (35 hours per week). Location: Bristol – Office Based with Outreach. Salary: £30,348. Contract: Permanent. Department: Specialist Housing Support.
Role Purpose
The Community Engagement Specialist will support clients to reconnect with their communities by identifying and facilitating access to meaningful activities, workshops, courses, volunteering roles, wellbeing groups, training and education opportunities, employment pathways, and other social opportunities. The role includes delivering short‑term 1:1 coaching to build confidence and motivation and to help clients overcome barriers to accessing new opportunities. The post‑holder will also facilitate group activities that promote confidence‑building, wellbeing, and community participation. Working across North, South and East Bristol, they will develop strong partnerships with community organisations, promote opportunities through Ara’s communication channels, and contribute to a structured pathway that enables clients to move forward in their recovery and sustain stable housing.
Key Responsibilities
- Engage clients to build structure, confidence, new relationships and positive community involvement.
- Provide short‑term 1:1 coaching to build confidence, motivation and address barriers to accessing activities, workshops, courses, volunteering, wellbeing groups, training, education and employment pathways.
- Research and engage community organisations to develop partnerships offering a wide range of opportunities.
- Plan and facilitate group sessions that support confidence‑building, reduce anxiety and encourage social connection.
- Share weekly updates on activities and opportunities through client WhatsApp groups and contribute content for Ara’s social media channels (consent dependent).
- Maintain referral processes, resources and a database of community partners.
- Work collaboratively with the Senior Community Engagement Lead and SHS colleagues to keep the CE offer relevant and effective.
- Maintain accurate records and provide data to support service delivery and evaluation.
- Participate in training, supervision and team meetings to support ongoing development.
Skills, Experience & Knowledge
- Ability to build relationships with external stakeholders and community partners.
- Experience of working with vulnerable people.
- Strong research skills and knowledge of Bristol community services.
- Understanding of drug and alcohol services and multi‑agency working.
- Empathic, motivational and solutions‑focused approach.
- Strong organisational, time‑management and teamwork skills.
- Excellent communication skills, including clear writing and concise reporting.
- Ability to manage administrative tasks independently.
- Good IT literacy (including Excel) and understanding of the role of data in reporting.
- Knowledge of safeguarding, health and safety and data protection requirements.
What We Offer
- 35‑hour working week with flexible working.
- Up to 32 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Pension scheme, comprehensive training and 24‑hour Employee Assistance Programme.
- A meaningful role supporting people in recovery to rebuild their lives.
How to Apply
To apply, please email recruitment@recovery4all.co.uk with a CV and covering letter, or call 0330 1340 286. More information: www.recovery4all.co.uk. Closing date: 09/01/26. Interviews: 12/01/26.
Community Engagement Specialist in Bristol employer: Addiction Recovery Agency (Ara)
Ara is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful role as a Community Engagement Specialist in Bristol, where you can make a real difference in the lives of individuals in recovery. With a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing, comprehensive training, and flexible working hours, Ara fosters professional growth and encourages collaboration with community partners. Enjoy up to 32 days of annual leave, a pension scheme, and access to a 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme, all while contributing to a vital mission of rebuilding lives.
Contact Details:
Addiction Recovery Agency (Ara) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Engagement Specialist in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company before your interview! Research their values, mission, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. The more comfortable you are with your responses, the more confident you'll feel during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to prepare some questions for them! Asking insightful questions shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the company culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and you can keep track of your progress easily. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Community Engagement Specialist in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the Community Engagement Specialist role. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to showcase how you can support clients in reconnecting with their communities.
Write a Personalised Cover Letter:This is your chance to shine! Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about community engagement and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Be sure to mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to build relationships and support vulnerable people.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Community Engagement Specialist, strong communication is key. Make sure your application reflects your ability to write clearly and effectively. Use straightforward language and structure your documents well to make it easy for us to see your strengths.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s super easy! Just send your CV and cover letter to recruitment@recovery4all.co.uk, and we’ll be in touch. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Addiction Recovery Agency (Ara)
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, do some research on community organisations in Bristol. Familiarise yourself with their services and how they align with the role of a Community Engagement Specialist. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the local landscape.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've worked with vulnerable individuals. Highlight how you built relationships and supported them in overcoming barriers. This will demonstrate your empathic and solutions-focused approach, which is crucial for this role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Group Facilitation
Think about your experience in planning and facilitating group activities. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've encouraged social connection and confidence-building in others. This will illustrate your ability to engage clients effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Since excellent communication skills are essential for this position, consider preparing a brief summary of your relevant skills and experiences that you can share during the interview.
