Age UK County Durham - Community Development Officer in North East

Age UK County Durham is the 'go to' organisation for older people across County Durham. If you are looking to work for an inspirational organisation that puts its people at the heart of all it does, that offers progression, development, commitment and reward, then we are the organisation for you! Our staff and volunteers help over 5000 local older people every year, offering advice, information, activities and support. It's a great place to work if you really want to make a difference in people's lives.

We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to developing our employees and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We have an exciting job opportunity with our Chapter50 Future You project. The project facilitates a healthy change in people aged 50 – 69, encouraging positive health choices, sound financial and later life decisions.

We are looking to recruit a Community Development Officer (26.01) to oversee this exciting piece of work across Weardale and Newton Aycliffe. This post is fixed term maternity cover up to 31 March 2027. We are offering a starting salary of £26,421 with up to 5% pension contributions (37 hour week with flexibility options).

We want to give all people aged 50–69 the opportunity to age well, to retire well and to access all services that will enable them to achieve this. We want to remove the barriers and obstacles that prevent all people aged 50–69 living a healthy and prosperous later life. As the first point of contact for Chapter50 Future You, the post holder’s aim will be to identify and support the people most at risk of missing out on a healthy and happy later life.

You will be practiced at identifying and drawing on their strengths and those of the people around them, enabling them to make positive health and financial choices and decisions. We are looking for someone who has experience of working with rural communities, of health service provision and community development. We need someone with great communication skills and empathy, someone who has patience and positivity, a great organiser, meticulous planner and finisher.

We are looking for someone who can generate positive effects and contribute to someone’s ability to move forward towards their version of a good life. The post will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. We would welcome any calls prior to submitting an application, please contact Robyn Holmes on 0191 386 3856.

Closing date: Monday 9 March 2026 by 12noon. Return your CV/completed application form to info@ageukcountydurham.org.uk or send by post to Julie Nicholls, Age UK County Durham, 1st Floor Houghton House, Belmont Business Park, Durham, DH1 1TW (paper versions of the application form and candidate pack can be sent by post if you do not have access to a printer).