About Company
Nottingham Community and Voluntary Service (NCVS) is a leading infrastructure organisation dedicated to supporting the voluntary and community sector across Nottingham. For decades, we have empowered local charities, community groups, and social enterprises to thrive, innovate, and make a profound difference in the lives of residents. Our mission is to build a stronger, more resilient Nottingham by fostering collaboration, providing essential resources, and advocating for the needs of our diverse communities. We believe in the power of local action and are committed to creating opportunities for everyone to participate, contribute, and benefit from a vibrant community spirit. Joining NCVS means becoming part of a passionate team committed to positive social change.
Job Description
Are you a passionate advocate for local communities with a knack for building strong relationships and driving positive change? Nottingham Community and Voluntary Service (NCVS) is seeking a dedicated Community Development Officer with a focus on Local Outreach to join our dynamic team. This pivotal role is designed to be the driving force behind our engagement efforts within the Cinderhill area of Nottingham. You will be instrumental in identifying local needs, empowering residents, and fostering sustainable community initiatives that genuinely address the challenges and aspirations of the people we serve.
As a Community Development Officer for Local Outreach, you will be on the ground, actively listening to residents, community groups, and local stakeholders in Cinderhill. Your primary goal will be to understand the unique social, economic, and environmental landscape of the area, translating insights into actionable plans. This involves conducting community consultations, facilitating workshops, and supporting the development of grassroots projects that are community-led and sustainable. You will act as a bridge between NCVS’s resources and the local community, ensuring that support, funding opportunities, and training are accessible and relevant.
The role requires a proactive approach to partnership building, forging strong alliances with local authorities, other charities, businesses, and resident associations. You will champion inclusive practices, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and that our initiatives are equitable and impactful. From conceptualising new programmes to overseeing their initial implementation and evaluating their success, you will play a crucial role in bringing our vision of a thriving Cinderhill to life. This is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to embed yourself within a community, build lasting relationships, and leave a tangible legacy of positive change and empowerment. If you are driven by a desire to make a real difference at the local level and possess excellent interpersonal skills, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Engage directly with local residents, community groups, and stakeholders in Cinderhill to identify needs, assets, and aspirations.
- Facilitate and support the development and implementation of community-led projects and initiatives.
- Build and maintain strong collaborative relationships with local authorities, voluntary organisations, businesses, and resident associations.
- Organise and lead community consultations, workshops, public meetings, and local events to foster participation.
- Provide advice, guidance, and signposting to local groups on matters such as funding, governance, capacity building, and project development.
- Support the rigorous evaluation and reporting of all community development activities and their outcomes.
- Advocate effectively for the Cinderhill community's identified needs within broader strategic discussions and forums.
- Contribute to the research and development of funding applications to secure resources for community projects.
- Monitor progress of initiatives against agreed objectives and adapt strategies as necessary.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (minimum 3 years) in community development, outreach, or a related field.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.
- Strong project management and organisational abilities, capable of managing multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- A solid understanding of community needs assessment methodologies and the ability to develop practical action plans.
- Knowledge of local government structures and the wider voluntary and community sector.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and various digital communication tools.
- Full UK driving license and access to a reliable vehicle for regular local travel within Cinderhill and surrounding areas.
Preferred Qualifications
- A degree or equivalent professional qualification in Community Development, Social Sciences, Public Policy, or a related discipline.
- Direct experience working specifically within Nottingham communities, particularly with a focus on areas like Cinderhill.
- Demonstrated knowledge of the funding landscape for community projects and experience in bid writing.
- Experience in facilitating workshops, training sessions, and public meetings with diverse audiences.
- An understanding of asset-based community development principles.
Perks & Benefits
- Generous annual leave allowance.
- Access to a comprehensive pension scheme with employer contributions.
- Extensive opportunities for professional development and continuous training.
- A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative team environment.
- Employee assistance programme offering confidential support and advice.
- The profound opportunity to make a tangible and lasting impact on local communities.
- Flexible working arrangements considered upon discussion.
How to Apply
To apply for this rewarding position, please click on the application link below. You will be directed to the NCVS careers page where you can find detailed instructions and submit your CV and a compelling covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. Please ensure your application thoroughly highlights your experience in community engagement and your passion for local outreach in Nottingham. We look forward to receiving your application!