Community Worker

The Trust, which has supported the community of Walney since its establishment in 2003, is seeking to appoint a suitable candidate for the position of Community Worker.

There are two key areas to the work of the Trust: our youth work and our community work. Our long-established youth club and other work with young people has underpinned the youth work for many years. The community work was introduced some years or so ago and has also flourished. Over time, it has become more apparent that these vital provisions overlap considerably and as such, there is a need to develop roles that oversee these key areas of the Trust.

The Community Worker will work with children, young people, adults and families in our community, helping to build healthy relationships, with inclusive and engaging opportunities that promote wellbeing, resilience participation and positive community connections. They will build trusted relationships, support outreach activities, encourage community involvement and contribute to programmes that respond to local needs.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting people, strengthening communities and making a positive difference to the lives of local residents. The role requires excellent interpersonal skills, a commitment to safeguarding and inclusion, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a wider team. Based on the job responsibilities outlined in

Trustees have given their full support to seeking a Community Worker, for 10 hours per week over a full year, at £12.71 per hour. We are looking for the successful candidate to start as soon as possible. The post will mainly be based in our centre on Walney, the hours will be worked within the weekly community sessions, across the week to meet the needs of the Trust.

Hopefully this Introduction shows you a little of why we are very keen for this work to continue and are now seeking to make an appointment to this new role!

If this is a position you are interested in, then please read the following documents, that are available on the Vacancies page on the Trust website

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience of working with children, young people, adults and/or families in a community, education, youth work or support setting.
• Experience of planning, supporting or delivering activities, groups, projects or events.
• Understanding of safeguarding, child protection and safe working practices.
• Understanding of confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Knowledge of issues affecting children, young people, families and vulnerable adults.
• Ability to build positive and trusting relationships with a wide range of people.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to engage, motivate and encourage participation.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and on own initiative.
• Ability to manage challenging situations in a calm and professional manner.
• Good organisational skills and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Basic IT skills.
• Respect for and commitment to the local community.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• High standards of integrity, professionalism and reliability.
• Commitment to the values and aims of Walney Community Trust.

Desirable

• Relevant qualification in Community Work, Youth Work, Social Care, Education or a related field.
• Current First Aid qualification.
• Current Safeguarding training.
• Experience in the third sector or a community organisation.
• Experience of outreach or community engagement work.
• Experience of working with volunteers.
• Experience of partnership or multi-agency working.
• Knowledge of local services and community resources.
• Full UK driving licence and access to transport

Job Description

Job Purpose:

The community worker will contribute to the planning, organisation and delivery of the Trust’s community activities, events and family support work, ensuring access to safe, inclusive and developmental opportunities.

Accountable to:

Deputy Community & Youth Lead

Key Responsibilities:

Community Activity & Delivery:

• Set up and supervise community activities, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment
• Assist with the planning and delivery of issue‑based sessions (e.g. mental health, healthy relationships, online safety, confidence)
• Support structured and informal learning opportunities through games, workshops, arts, sports and social groups and community events
• Encourage participation, inclusion and positive behaviour
• Contribute to wider community activities such as holiday programmes, neighbourhood events, seasonal events, and intergenerational sessions

Community Engagement, Support & Outreach:

• Build positive relationships with local families, residents and community groups based on respect, trust and clear professional boundaries.
• Help identify needs within the community and support individuals to access available services.
• Support outreach work (schools, family hubs, parks, community venues).
• Promote Trust activities through positive engagement and communication.
• Encourage volunteering, participation and community involvement.
• Mentor, guide and support young people and adults in the community as appropriate, providing guidance around personal development, wellbeing, and decision‑making.
• Listen to people’s experiences and needs, involving them in shaping community sessions and activities.
• Promote resilience, confidence, social skills and healthy choices.

Behaviour Management & Safeguarding:

• Challenge inappropriate behaviour in a fair, consistent manner and model positive conduct.
• Deal with emerging issues during sessions and escalate concerns promptly to the Deputy Youth & Community Lead.
• Adhere to WCT safeguarding procedures at all times.
• Identify early signs of risk (e.g. bullying, exploitation, emotional distress, unsafe relationships) and act accordingly.
• Maintain professional boundaries and contribute to safe-working practices.

Partnership, Teamwork & Communication:

• Work closely with the Youth & Community Lead, Deputy Lead, Adult & Youth Mentors and volunteer team to support effective delivery
• Maintain and support communication across sessions, team meetings and planning discussions
• Build positive relationships with parents/carers and signpost when appropriate
• Contribute to multi‑agency work, linking with partner organisations such as schools, Family hubs, health providers, police and other local charities

Administration, Monitoring & Reporting:

• Maintain attendance records, incident logs, and other required documentation
• Support the recording of progress, safeguarding concerns and outcomes (where required)
• Keep line managers informed of any issues that affect delivery, safety or engagement

Professional Development & Compliance:

• Ensure any certification and/or training required for the role remains valid (e.g. safeguarding, first aid, food hygiene)
• Engage in reflective practice and attend training, team meetings and supervision
• Uphold the values, policies, and expectations of Walney Community Trust

Application Form

If, having studied these, you wish to make an application, then please send both the following to Laura Powell, Community & Youth Lead at: [email protected]

or by post to: Walney Community Trust, Spring Mount Community Hall, Amphitrite Street, Walney, Barrow-in-Furness LA14 3AR:

(i) a completed application form

(ii) your current CV

If you require any further information before submitting an application, or if you would like an informal chat and/or visit to our centre, please contact me on

Thank you for your interest in Walney Community Trust!

Laura Powell

Community & Youth Lead

Pay: £12.71 per hour

Expected hours: 10.0 per week

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person