JOB DESCRIPTION

The purpose of the job is to provide support mechanism through mentoring, build the capacity of individuals and groups Lower North Belfast using community development principles. A key aspect of the project is to build the capacity of local groups. The Community Engagement Officer will work closely with the Community Development & Housing Officer for Castle Community Trust abiding by the policies of the Castle Community Trust.

Overview of the role

· To play a key role in supporting communities within Lower North Belfast through the delivery of the CCT Capacity Building Programme

· To promote a more strategic and coordinated approach to the provision of services in

Lower North Belfast, to ensure that the skills and effectiveness of local community groups are developed.

· Promote appropriate mechanisms for local networking and create opportunities for joint working, i.e. local groups

· To maintain a comprehensive information resource to assist local organisations in action planning and group development.

· To provide a mentoring and signposting service for groups and clients

· Recruit and develop volunteers and source volunteering opportunities. Link with local training providers.

· Identifying community skills, assets, issues and needs offering OCN, Essential Skills and any other relevant training as appropriate

· Producing plans, reports and publications when necessary

· Developing and implementing policies

· Raising and managing funds in conjunction with the Operations Manager and Finance & Administration Officer

· Planning, attending and coordinating meetings and events. Work closely with CCT Development Officer to avoid duplication.

· Identifying and developing new resources through dialogue with the community

· Ensuring compliance with all funders requirements

· Building links with other groups and agencies

· Raising public awareness on issues relevant to Lower North Belfast

· Encouraging community participation in activities

· Preparing relevant reports and performance related data and monitoring current methods and approaches with a view to improvement

· Working closely with the finance & administration officer to in relation to preparing, monitoring and reporting of budgets and finance reports to funders as required

· Working to strict deadlines and be available for work outside normal office hours as required

· Ensuring that programs/services are monitored, evaluated and audited adequately

· Participating in relevant and appropriate training

· Attending staff meetings as required

· Undertaking such other reasonable duties as may be required from time to time

· To operate safely in the workplace.

· To carry out all duties with discretion and confidentiality.

· To attend supervision sessions with designated Line Manager and prepare work report for same and undertake any relevant training

· To carry out such other duties as may from time to time be reasonably requested.

· This Job Description is not intended to comprehensively list the responsibilities of the post, but to indicate the main areas which at this stage appear to be the essential requirements of the post.