At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a community board to shape the future of Park Wood and Senacre.
- Company: Maidstone Borough Council, empowering local voices for positive change.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and make a real impact in your community.
- Other info: Meet monthly, collaborate with diverse groups, and reflect the neighbourhood's diversity.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative project with £20 million funding for local improvements.
- Qualifications: No qualifications needed, just a passion for community improvement.
The Park Wood and Senacre area in Maidstone has been chosen for Pride in Place funding. The area will get £20 million over ten years to improve things that matter to people who live and work there. Local people will decide how the money is spent across Park Wood and Mangravet, Senacre, Shepway and parts of Loose and Linton.
The Neighbourhood Board will shape the future of Park Wood and Senacre, and we are looking for people who want to take an active role on a voluntary basis and make a difference.
About the board
The Board will be made up of residents and people with a connection to the area and will not be run by the council or the government. The power to make decisions will stay with local people. Board members will also include:
- people from community groups, faith groups, schools and sports clubs
- people from local businesses and housing associations
- the local MP and at least one ward councillor
- people from health or emergency services
The Board will work with local people to create a ten-year Pride in Place Plan. The plan will set out the changes the community wants to see and how they will be prioritised.
About the role
Board roles are voluntary and unpaid, but they offer a way to help shape the future of your local area. You can help to:
- make sure decisions are what local people want and need
- keep the programme fair and open to everyone
- set a shared plan for Park Wood and Senacre
- decide the priority of investment
- decide how funding is spent
About you
You do not need qualifications or leadership experience to apply. A commitment to improving the lives of people in the area matters most. We are looking for people who:
- live, work or are actively involved in Park Wood and Senacre
- want to share the views of the community, not just their own
- will listen to the views of local people and bring their ideas to the Board
- can work with people from different backgrounds and views
- can attend meetings, community events and project groups
- want to learn and develop their skills
The Board will usually meet once a month. Some time to prepare or hold task groups may also be needed. You will be supported by us, a project manager, and an induction to help you get started. We want the Board to reflect the full diversity of the neighbourhood. We are keen to hear from residents who may not have had a role like this before.
Applications close on 19 June 2026.
Independent Chair
We are also seeking an Independent Chair to help guide the Neighbourhood Board. They make sure the Pride in Place programme is led by local people in Park Wood and Senacre.
About the role
You will provide strategic leadership for the Neighbourhood Board. You will build trust with people in the community and make sure the Board works to help everyone. This is a voluntary and unpaid role that is similar to being a school governor or a charity trustee. It takes around one day a week, with some weekends and evenings. You will not be asked to manage projects or decide things on your own. Your job is to bring people together and help the Board work well. You will be supported by us, a project manager and structured support in early months to help you get started.
Applications close on 12 May 2026.
Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board - Volunteer roles in Maidstone employer: Maidstone Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Maidstone Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board - Volunteer roles in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! Attend local events and engage with residents to understand their needs and concerns. This will not only help you connect but also show your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to local groups, businesses, and organisations. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights into what’s happening in Park Wood and Senacre.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Share your ideas and suggestions with the Board and be ready to contribute actively during meetings and discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board - Volunteer roles in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what drives you to make a difference in Park Wood and Senacre.
Show Your Commitment: Make sure to highlight your dedication to the community. Whether you live, work, or volunteer in the area, share your experiences and how they connect to the role. We love seeing passion for local improvement!
Listen and Reflect: Remember, this role is about representing the community. Mention how you plan to listen to others' views and bring those ideas to the Board. It’s all about collaboration, so show us you’re ready to engage!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to get involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at Maidstone Borough Council
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to really understand the Park Wood and Senacre area. Familiarise yourself with local issues, community groups, and what residents are passionate about. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to improving the lives of people in the area.
✨Listen and Share
During the interview, show that you’re not just there to share your own views but to listen to the community's needs. Be prepared to discuss how you would gather and represent the opinions of local residents on the Board.
✨Highlight Your Commitment
Emphasise your dedication to making a difference in the community. Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re informal, that showcase your willingness to engage with others and contribute positively to local initiatives.
✨Be Open to Learning
Since this role is about collaboration and growth, express your eagerness to learn and develop new skills. Mention any specific areas where you’d like to improve or gain experience, showing that you’re ready to grow alongside the Board.