At a Glance
- Tasks: Support community projects and improve quality of life across the district.
- Company: Join the Forest of Dean District Council, dedicated to thriving communities.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 27 days annual leave, health cash plan, and generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Agile working environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through community development.
- Qualifications: 5 qualifications at NVQ level 2 or GCSE Grade C/4, plus community engagement experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Do you have a passion for community development and helping people thrive? We are looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Community Support Officer (Projects) to join our Community Wellbeing Team at Forest of Dean District Council. This exciting role will support delivery of the Council's Thriving Communities Priority, helping to improve quality of life across the district through community-led projects, partnerships, and support networks. The role also plays an important part in the Council's safeguarding responsibilities, providing triage and casework support where needed.
As a Community Support Officer, you'll:
- Take a strengths-based and place-based approach to community development.
- Support and deliver projects linked to Council priorities, including areas such as Financial Inclusion, LIFT (Low Income Family Tracker) projects, and the Forest Food Network.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, partners, and community organisations to respond to local needs and develop effective solutions.
- Support the Council's statutory safeguarding duties through triage, casework, and partnership working.
- Work closely with the Communications Team to create engaging local messaging and social media content that promotes community initiatives.
- Monitor progress, maintain accurate records, and provide clear and up-to-date reports on project outcomes.
At the Forest of Dean District Council, we are passionate about creating connected, resilient, and thriving communities. You'll be part of a supportive and forward-thinking team that values creativity, partnership working, and making a tangible impact in people's lives.
You will need:
- A minimum of 5 qualifications equivalent to NVQ level 2 or GCSE at Grade C/4 or above, must include Maths and English.
- Confidence in engaging with communities and individuals.
- 2 years practical experience in a community wellbeing or engagement field of work with a clear understanding of asset-based community development.
- Knowledge of the local area.
- Experience of working within a multi-agency and fast-paced environment.
Special Conditions:
- Full UK Driving Licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes.
- DBS Check.
What we can do for you:
- Agile working allowing a mix of home and office working.
- Flexible working arrangements (depending on the role).
- 27 days paid annual leave (pro rata if you are working part time) plus bank holidays, which increases to 30 days after five years of service.
- In addition, you will have an extra two volunteering days a year for you to support a charity of your choice.
- Renewed again for another year there is a Health cash plan giving you cash back on health, dental and eye care.
- Generous contributory local government pension scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme 24/7, providing positive, preventative and supportive advice and counselling to deal with everyday events and issues.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Salary sacrifice car lease scheme with significant tax and NI savings to be made on electric cars.
- Generous sickness cover above statutory entitlements.
About The Organisation:
Forest of Dean District Council is dedicated to creating a vibrant and sustainable future for our community. Our priorities are centred on fostering thriving communities by empowering and engaging residents, enhancing infrastructure, promoting community well-being, and ensuring social equity. We are committed to decarbonisation and nature recovery, focusing on renewable energy transitions, energy efficiency, transport transformation, nature recovery, and food resilience. Additionally, we strive to build a sustainable economy through the promotion of a circular economy, robust business support, workforce skill development, sustainable town initiatives, and the preservation of natural capital.
Accredited of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies - Please state this within your covering statement or in a separate email. Forest of Dean District Council is committed to meeting its statutory and moral duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people under 18 years of age and adults at risk who are the recipients of its services and/or activities. Safer recruitment practices are applied to all job vacancies. Successful candidates will be required to complete a pre-employment medical questionnaire; provide references; proof of identity; nationality and immigration status; three years employment or education history (if applicable) and, in some cases, verification of criminal record.
Community Support Officer (Projects) in Coleford employer: Publica Group Ltd
Contact Detail:
Publica Group Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Support Officer (Projects) in Coleford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! Before your interview, spend some time researching the local area and its needs. This will help you show your passion for community development and demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with local organisations and community leaders on social media or at events. Building relationships can give you insights into the role and might even lead to a recommendation when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on in the past. Highlight how you’ve used a strengths-based approach to make a difference in the community, as this aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive during the interview! Ask questions about the Council's current projects and how you can contribute. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to supporting their mission of creating thriving communities.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Support Officer (Projects) in Coleford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for community development shine through. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission to create thriving communities.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in community wellbeing or engagement. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of asset-based community development and how you've made a difference.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the role.
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.
How to prepare for a job interview at Publica Group Ltd
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to research the Forest of Dean area and its community needs. Familiarise yourself with local projects, partnerships, and any recent initiatives that the Council has undertaken. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect your experience to their priorities.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your skills in community engagement and project delivery. Highlight instances where you've successfully collaborated with partners or led community-led projects. This will help the interviewers see how your background aligns with their goals.
✨Emphasise Safeguarding Knowledge
Since safeguarding is a key responsibility in this role, be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding practices. Share any relevant experiences where you’ve had to triage or support vulnerable individuals, showcasing your ability to handle sensitive situations with care and professionalism.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your passion for community development shine through. Be proactive in discussing how you can contribute to the Council's Thriving Communities Priority. Ask insightful questions about their current projects and express your eagerness to be part of a team that makes a tangible impact in people's lives.