We are launching an exciting new Supported Volunteering Programme to help anyone who wants to volunteer find a meaningful role. As the project co‑ordinator, you will work with individuals facing barriers to accessing volunteering – including people with learning or physical disabilities, young people, long‑term unemployed, and those experiencing mental health challenges. You will develop personalised development plans, partner with organisations to create inclusive volunteering opportunities, manage the programme day‑to‑day, recruit and support Volunteer Mentors, and build strong community partnerships.
Responsibilities
* Programme leadership: Coordinate the Supported Volunteering Programme across Dorset, ensuring delivery meets project outcomes
* Volunteer mentor recruitment and support: Recruit, train, and support Volunteer Buddies, ensuring they feel supported and equipped to provide inclusive volunteering support for participants
* Participant support: Work with participants, carers, family and support workers to develop one‑to‑one participant support plans tailored to needs, skills, goals, and barriers ensuring their aspirations are met
* Partnership and advocacy: Support local organisations to adapt roles for accessibility, embed buddies where needed, and advocate for inclusive volunteering
* Relationships and community engagement: Build and maintain strong partnerships with local organisations, community groups, referral agencies (health and social care professionals, education providers). Represent the programme at local networks, events, and meetings, promoting the programme widely
* Supervision and mentoring: Support and mentor Lived‑experience Ambassadors and guide and develop their contribution to the programme
* Programme development: Facilitate training, social activities, and recognition events to build confidence, community, and sustainability. Provide leadership and day‑to‑day support for the Project Assistant
* Monitoring and evaluation: Collect data, feedback, and case studies to evaluate outcomes and support reporting to funders. Monitor progress against agreed outcomes and funding requirements. Utilise our CRM to manage capture data, manage relationships and outcomes
* Safeguarding and compliance: Ensure all programme activities adhere to safeguarding, health and safety, and equity, diversity, and inclusion policies
Qualifications
* Experience managing projects, preferably in a community, voluntary, care or support setting
* Strong relationship‑building and communication skills; able to engage diverse stakeholders
* Strong people skills with proven ability to engage and support people with diverse needs
* Experience working with people who face barriers to inclusion, e.g. learning or physical disability
* Strong understanding of inclusive practice, particularly for individuals facing barriers (disability, mental health, social isolation, youth, poverty, etc.)
* Ability to manage and motivate staff, volunteers, and peers
* Excellent advocacy skills and a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and safeguarding
* Strong organisational, administrative and digital skills, including use of CRM systems
* Ability to manage time and priorities across a wide geographical area, and work occasional evenings/weekends
* Full UK driving licence and access to a reliable vehicle
Desirable qualifications
* Understanding of, or experience working within Dorset's VCS
* Experience in volunteer management, training, or mentoring
* Experience in monitoring, evaluation and impact reporting
* Experience working in partnership with voluntary, statutory, or community organisations and delivering funded projects
* Experience delivering training, workshops, or small group learning sessions
* Knowledge of safeguarding, GDPR, or other key VCS compliance areas
What we offer
* A varied and rewarding role making a difference to people with additional needs or barriers to inclusion
* Contribution to impactful work improving lives and community resilience across Dorset
* Being part of an experienced, passionate, supportive team committed to collaboration and making a tangible impact
* A fun, dynamic working environment within a values‑led organisation
* Mileage allowance and relevant travel expenses reimbursed
* Opportunities for training, personal development, and networking
Volunteer Centre Dorset supports volunteering across Dorset. As a Volunteer Centre, we promote and enable volunteering to take place in Dorset.
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