At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate engaging programmes for young people at the Lower Ormeau Youth Centre.
- Company: Join LORAG, a community-focused organisation dedicated to supporting the Lower Ormeau area since 1987.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like free fitness classes, enhanced leave, and access to an on-site gym.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while working with a passionate team of youth workers.
- Qualifications: Must have a professional qualification in Community Youth Work and three years of relevant experience.
- Other info: Driving licence required; applicants must complete the position application form.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 Β£ per year.
LORAG (Lower Ormeau Residents Action Group) is seeking to recruit an enthusiastic Youth Worker II (Centre Based) to operate and coordinate the Lower Ormeau Youth Centreβs programme. Following the closure of the purpose-built St John Vianney Youth Centre in October 2023, LORAG, in partnership with other key stakeholders, is tasked with re-opening and strengthening the facility for the delivery of area-based programmes, funded by the Education Authority. LORAG has successfully delivered a range of youth services within the Lower Ormeau area for the past 30 years, seeking to provide a net for those young people not engaged with other youth provision. LORAG's current youth service team will assist the Youth Worker II with the reestablishment of the area-based youth facility services. The successful candidate will be tasked with growing the service to meet the needs of the area and will be assisted in this task by the wider LORAG teams.
Qualifications:
- Hold a professional qualification in Community Youth Work or equivalent qualification (in accordance with para 5 of the JNC Report for youth Workers)
Skills/Experience required:
- Minimum three years paid experience post-qualified working as a professional youth worker, including a minimum of one year managing youth work staff/volunteers in a youth centre project.
- Demonstrable experience of effective management of staff, volunteers, budgets, and premises.
- Demonstrable experience of engaging with the wider community and a range of agencies for the benefit of children & young people.
- Demonstrable experience of monitoring and evaluation processes to include report writing.
- Experience in a range of youth work settings e.g., street-based youth work, centre-based work, youth work within a community or voluntary group, residential or thematic group.
Knowledge & Skills:
- Knowledge of Health and Safety requirements and safeguarding best practice and how these relate to young people and staff.
- Capable of leading and directing a team and facilitating developmental group work projects.
- Ability to design, plan, and implement programmes of activities for young people based on evidence of need and the NI youth work curriculum.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to build sustainable relationships with key stakeholders including young people and adults.
- Knowledge and understanding of delivering youth work within an equal opportunities framework/CRED principles.
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
- Experienced in using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint to produce reports, spreadsheets, and presentations.
- Hold a driving licence and have access to a suitable vehicle or have a suitable alternative form of transport in place.
Personal Qualities:
- Strong commitment to young people.
- Conscientious, flexible, and reliable.
Additional Benefits:
- Additional leave.
- Bereavement leave.
- Enhanced maternity leave.
- Free fitness classes.
- Free parking.
- Health & wellbeing programme.
- On-site gym.
About LORAG:
LORAG is a needs-led community development organisation, founded in 1987 to support the residents and community of the Lower Ormeau. LORAG has managed Shaftesbury Community and Recreation Centre, a council-owned facility since 2000, successfully growing the services delivered from the centre from 20 hours per week to 94 hours, sustaining 26 jobs and serving the needs of the community. LORAG has undertaken the redevelopment of the John Murray Lockhouse as a Healthy Living Hub, Community Garden, Shed, Boat Store, and River access point on the Lagan. The redevelopment aims to improve health and good relations through animating the towpath, river, and community connection, providing a wide range of additional opportunities for young people to engage in water-based activities and social economy initiatives. The project is currently under construction and set for completion in 2026. LORAG can only consider applicants that complete the position application form.
Youth Worker II (Centre Based) employer: LORAG
Contact Detail:
LORAG Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Youth Worker II (Centre Based)
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with LORAG's mission and values. Understanding their community-driven approach will help you align your experience and passion for youth work with their goals, making you a more appealing candidate.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff members at LORAG or similar organisations. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the role and the community, which you can reference during interviews.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and engage with the community. Highlighting your successes in these areas will show that you have the practical skills needed for the Youth Worker II position.
β¨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on local youth issues and trends in the Lower Ormeau area. Being knowledgeable about the challenges young people face will allow you to propose relevant programmes and initiatives during your interview, showcasing your commitment to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Worker II (Centre Based)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Youth Worker II position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your three years of paid experience as a professional youth worker. Include specific examples of managing staff, engaging with the community, and any relevant projects you've led.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your knowledge of health and safety, safeguarding practices, and your ability to design and implement youth programmes. Use clear examples to illustrate your organisational and communication skills.
Complete the Application Form: Make sure to fill out the position application form provided by LORAG. Pay attention to detail and ensure all sections are completed accurately before submitting your application through our website.
How to prepare for a job interview at LORAG
β¨Show Your Passion for Youth Work
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with young people. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted youth in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the position.
β¨Highlight Your Management Experience
Since the role involves managing staff and volunteers, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Mention any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
β¨Demonstrate Community Engagement Skills
LORAG values community involvement, so be ready to talk about your experience in engaging with various stakeholders. Discuss how you've built relationships with local agencies and the community to benefit young people.
β¨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-life situations. Think of scenarios where you had to design programmes or handle conflicts, and explain your thought process and outcomes clearly.