Description Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities! We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants. Introduction Are you passionate about growing food, building community, and making a difference in local green spaces? We’re looking for a motivated and community-minded individual who enjoys working with and engaging diverse groups to help shape a more sustainable and inclusive Lewisham What’s the role? As our Community Food Growing and Engagement Officer, you’ll lead on developing and supporting sustainable food-growing initiatives across the borough. You’ll work with residents, schools, allotment committees, community groups, and partner organisations to create thriving growing spaces, promote environmental sustainability, and improve local food security. From identifying new sites to supporting existing allotments and community gardens, you’ll be at the heart of Lewisham’s food-growing movement. What’s in it for you? Excellent training and development opportunities, plus a range of benefits including: Generous holiday allowance Local Government Pension scheme Flexible working and family friendly policies Season ticket and bicycle loans A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships Supportive staff networks What we’re looking for We're looking for someone with experience in community development, food-growing, or environmental sustainability, who is passionate about empowering communities and promoting sustainable practices. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and have the ability to build effective partnerships and engage a wide range of stakeholders in the benefits of food growing. Location The job is primarily based at Wearside Service Centre, Ladywell but we operate a hybrid approach where you have the option to work both in the office and from home on a regular basis. Special conditions Two year fixed term contract role A formal horticultural qualification (e.g. RHS Level 3) or equivalent experience is desirable Weekend and evening working may be required The recruitment process is anonymous and we don’t accept CV’s. Applicant handbook - please read the guidance in this handbook when applying. It is essential that you complete the application fully and that your supporting statement covers how you meet each of the person specification criteria listed. For an informal discussion about this job, please contact Katy Delaney (Senior Contract Officer) - Katy.delaney@lewisham.gov.uk Please click here to view the Job Description and Person Specification Salary £40, 404 - £41,637 per annum (S01) N.B: All appointments will be offered at the minimum spinal column point (SCP) for the grade of the role. The only exception to this will be when matching current salary (up to the maximum of the scale), which is subject to evidential proof. Diversity Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you want to join Lewisham Works, please email JobsAndSkills@lewisham.gov.uk and an advisor will be in touch with you. The Council reserves the right to close adverts early if there is a large response. Let’s stay connected, follow us on social media: LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Instagram