At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead community engagement and drive local improvements in South Whitehaven.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on empowering local communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, guaranteed interviews for eligible applicants, and support for career growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for everyone.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community and help shape its future.
- Qualifications: Passion for community development and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 38220 - 39152 £ per year.
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Mirehouse, Kells, Woodhouse, Greenbank & Sandwith (South Whitehaven)
Contract: Temporary (up to 2 years, secondment opportunity)
Salary: £38,220 to £39,152 per annum
About This Role
To develop a strong understanding of the Pride in Place area, its strengths, challenges and opportunities and use this insight to help drive meaningful local improvements. You will lead inclusive engagement across the community, ensuring all voices are heard and reflected in a Pride in Place Plan that meets local needs and aspirations. Building strong relationships with stakeholders, the Neighbourhood Board, MP’s office and Cumberland Council will be key, alongside designing and delivering effective consultation and engagement activities. You will support the full Pride in Place programme, from planning through to delivery and reporting, ensuring communities see real, positive change. Acting as a professional representative of the Neighbourhood Board, you will build partnerships, understand local priorities and help enable effective leadership. The role also involves supporting communities to access additional funding and maintaining clear communication with Councillors and partners to ensure they are informed, supported and able to fulfil their governance roles effectively.
About Pride In Place
The Government’s Pride in Place Programme is a community‑led regeneration initiative that empowers local people to shape the future of their neighbourhoods. Through dedicated neighbourhood boards, the programme brings together residents, businesses and local partners to identify priorities, co‑design solutions and oversee investment that delivers visible, lasting improvements to South Whitehaven. It focuses on building local pride, strengthening communities and ensuring change is driven by those who know the area best.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for individuals who embody our organisation’s core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change, deliver excellent public services and shape a better future for our communities. We’re also about potential over perfection and we can help you grow in the role and thrive in your career. Be sure to take a look at the post specification for the essential criteria for this role.
Guaranteed Interviews
We offer a guaranteed interview to the following applicants as long as your application can demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role:
- Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
- Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
- Those who identify as a member of the British Armed Forces community (service leavers, veterans, their partners or spouses, reservists, cadets).
Diversity, Inclusion & Adjustments
We’re dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re a proud Disability Confident Leader and also an Age Friendly Employer – to provide opportunities for everyone to thrive. If you need any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. While adjustments aren’t always guaranteed, we’ll always listen and we’ll try our best to accommodate your needs.
Contact
For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Lee Thorburn by email at Lee.thorburn@cumberland.gov.uk.
Application and Interview Information
Easily apply by submitting your CV and answering a few short questions.
Closing date: 22 June 2026
Interview date: TBC
Please Read The Supporting Information: Post Specification.
Community Development Officer (Pride in Place) - CMB2550i employer: Cumberland Council
As a Community Development Officer with the Pride in Place programme, you will be part of a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration and empowerment. Located in South Whitehaven, this role offers the unique opportunity to engage directly with local communities, driving meaningful change while benefiting from professional growth and development within a supportive environment. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued, making this an excellent employer for those passionate about community-led regeneration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Development Officer (Pride in Place) - CMB2550i
✨Get Involved in Local Volunteering
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Join meetings, workshops, or talks hosted by organisations in the nonprofit realm. These events are perfect for making connections and learning about temporary roles that might not be widely advertised. Plus, you can showcase your passion for social impact right there!
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When you spot a temporary role at Cumberland Council that piques your interest, go ahead and apply through their website! Tailor your message to highlight how your skills align with their mission – it shows you care about the cause, which is key in this field.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Development Officer (Pride in Place) - CMB2550i
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:In the world of nonprofits, it's all about the passion and commitment to making a difference. Make sure your cover letter speaks genuinely about why you're excited about this role at Cumberland Council. Share any experiences you've had with social impact projects or volunteering — it shows you live and breathe the cause!
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills:For a temporary position in the nonprofit sector, focus on showcasing any specific skills or experience related to project management, community engagement, or fundraising. List any relevant work or volunteer roles on your CV, and consider including quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
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Be Ready for a Quick Turnaround:Since this role is temporary, let your interest shine through in your application! Mention in your cover letter your availability to start immediately or at short notice. It shows you're keen and ready to dive right into the exciting work at Cumberland Council!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumberland Council
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When interviewing for a role in the non-profit sector, especially for a temporary position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for social impact. Discuss why the mission of Cumberland Council resonates with you and share personal experiences that reflect your commitment to similar causes.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Non-profit projects often require quick pivots and resourcefulness. Be ready to share examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances or tackled unexpected challenges. This will show your potential as a valuable, nimble team member for the Community Development Officer (Pride in Place) - CMB2550i position.
✨Know Your Community Tools
Familiarise yourself with any tools or platforms that are widely used in the non-profit sector like project management software or stakeholder engagement tools. Show your readiness to hit the ground running in your temporary role by discussing any experience you have with these or similar platforms.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to field scenario-based questions during your interview to assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about how you would handle challenges typical of the non-profit sector, such as engaging with diverse stakeholders or managing project timelines effectively.
