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- Tasks: Support rural communities in building digital skills and confidence through engaging workshops and initiatives.
- Company: Join Volunteer Now, a leading organisation promoting volunteering and community engagement in Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, pension contributions, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive, inclusive culture focused on making an impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by empowering communities with essential digital skills and tools.
- Qualifications: Experience in community work and delivering training, with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25476 - 25476 £ per year.
Location: Newry (with travel across rural project areas; hybrid working policy in place)
Salary: £25,476 per annum
Contract: Fixed‑term until 31 March 2029
Hours: Full‑time, 35 hours per week (evening and weekend work may be required at times to fulfil the obligations of the post)
About the Organisation
Volunteer Now is an organisation that promotes, develops and supports volunteering across Northern Ireland. The organisation focuses on community engagement, digital inclusion, safeguarding, training and major events volunteering.
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated and community‑focused Community Support Officer – Digital Inclusion to support rural communities in the Newry area to build digital skills, confidence and capacity. This role forms part of the Digital Communities programme, a cross‑border pilot project designed to build digital skills and capacity in rural communities. You will work directly with community groups, volunteers, SMEs and remote workers to improve access to technology, strengthen digital literacy and help communities benefit from digital tools and services.
Key Responsibilities
- Engage with rural communities, community groups, volunteers, SMEs, remote workers and local stakeholders to identify digital needs and opportunities.
- Build strong relationships with community organisations, volunteers, local authorities and service providers.
- Support communities to participate in digital inclusion initiatives and ICT‑related projects.
- Plan and deliver workshops, training sessions and community events focused on digital skills and ICT use.
- Support individuals and groups to use digital tools such as online services, communication platforms, productivity tools and social media.
- Assist communities in accessing local digital initiatives such as community hubs, digital champions and online platforms.
- Support communities to develop sustainable digital capacity, including training volunteers and local leaders.
- Disseminate user‑friendly guides, resources and learning materials.
- Promote inclusive approaches to digital engagement, particularly for older people, disadvantaged groups and those with low digital confidence.
- Contribute to project planning, monitoring and evaluation.
- Maintain records of activities, participation and outcomes.
- Prepare reports for funders and stakeholders.
- Support budget monitoring and resource management where required.
- Work collaboratively with project partners, funders and local stakeholders.
- Identify opportunities for further funding, partnerships and programme development.
About You
You will be passionate about community development and confident in supporting individuals and groups to build digital skills. You will bring:
- Experience working with communities, voluntary organisations or rural development initiatives.
- Experience delivering training, workshops or support in digital or community settings.
- Experience engaging with diverse groups, including people with limited digital skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to explain digital concepts in a clear, accessible way.
- Excellent organisational and time‑management skills.
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good IT skills, including familiarity with common digital tools and platforms.
- An understanding of digital inclusion, rural communities or community development.
- Awareness of barriers to digital access and participation.
- Willingness to travel within the project area.
- A full driving licence and access to a vehicle where applicable.
- Qualifications in community development, education, ICT, social sciences or a related field, or experience of funded programmes, partnership working, or rural policy and digital strategy is advantageous.
Benefits
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Generous annual leave, rising with service (starting at 22 days plus statutory/public holidays).
- Pension contributions of 4.5% after probation.
- Training and professional development opportunities.
- Supportive, inclusive, and values‑driven organisational culture.
Equal Opportunities
Volunteer Now is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Applications are particularly welcome from males and individuals from minority communities who meet the criteria.
Closing Date: Tuesday 5th May 2026 at 12 noon
Community Support Officer - Digital Inclusion employer: Happy Jobs NI
Contact Detail:
Happy Jobs NI Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Support Officer - Digital Inclusion
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! Before you even step into an interview, do some research on the local groups and initiatives in Newry. Understanding their digital needs will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves engaging with diverse groups, it’s crucial to articulate your thoughts clearly. Try explaining digital concepts to friends or family who might not be tech-savvy – it’ll prepare you for the real deal!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! When you’re in that interview, share specific examples of how you've supported communities or delivered training. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the Digital Communities programme or the challenges they face in rural areas. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Community Support Officer - Digital Inclusion
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Community Support Officer – Digital Inclusion. We want to see how you can engage with rural communities and support digital skills development!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for community development shine through! Share examples of how you've helped others build digital skills or overcome barriers to access. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain your experiences and skills, especially when discussing digital tools and training. We appreciate clarity as much as you do!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Happy Jobs NI
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to research the rural communities in Newry and their specific digital needs. Understanding the local context will help you demonstrate your commitment to community development and show how you can effectively engage with diverse groups.
✨Showcase Your Training Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in delivering workshops and training sessions. Think of specific examples where you've successfully helped individuals or groups build their digital skills. This will highlight your ability to communicate complex concepts in an accessible way.
✨Highlight Your Relationship-Building Abilities
The role requires strong relationships with community organisations and stakeholders. Share examples of how you've built partnerships in the past, focusing on your interpersonal skills and how you’ve engaged with volunteers and local authorities.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios. Think about challenges you might face in promoting digital inclusion and how you would address them. This will show your proactive approach and readiness to support communities effectively.