Community Support Officer – Digital Inclusion
Location: Newry (with travel across rural project areas; hybrid working policy in place)
Salary: £25,476 per annum
Contract: Fixed‑term until 31 March 2029
Hours: Full‑time, 35 hours per week (evening and weekend work may be required at times to fulfil the obligations of the post)
About the Organisation
Volunteer Now is an organisation that promotes, develops and supports volunteering across Northern Ireland. The organisation focuses on community engagement, digital inclusion, safeguarding, training and major events volunteering.
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated and community‑focused Community Support Officer – Digital Inclusion to support rural communities in the Newry area to build digital skills, confidence and capacity. This role forms part of the Digital Communities programme, a cross‑border pilot project designed to build digital skills and capacity in rural communities. You will work directly with community groups, volunteers, SMEs and remote workers to improve access to technology, strengthen digital literacy and help communities benefit from digital tools and services.
Key Responsibilities
* Engage with rural communities, community groups, volunteers, SMEs, remote workers and local stakeholders to identify digital needs and opportunities.
* Build strong relationships with community organisations, volunteers, local authorities and service providers.
* Support communities to participate in digital inclusion initiatives and ICT‑related projects.
* Plan and deliver workshops, training sessions and community events focused on digital skills and ICT use.
* Support individuals and groups to use digital tools such as online services, communication platforms, productivity tools and social media.
* Assist communities in accessing local digital initiatives such as community hubs, digital champions and online platforms.
* Support communities to develop sustainable digital capacity, including training volunteers and local leaders.
* Disseminate user‑friendly guides, resources and learning materials.
* Promote inclusive approaches to digital engagement, particularly for older people, disadvantaged groups and those with low digital confidence.
* Contribute to project planning, monitoring and evaluation.
* Maintain records of activities, participation and outcomes.
* Prepare reports for funders and stakeholders.
* Support budget monitoring and resource management where required.
* Work collaboratively with project partners, funders and local stakeholders.
* Identify opportunities for further funding, partnerships and programme development.
About You
You will be passionate about community development and confident in supporting individuals and groups to build digital skills. You will bring:
* Experience working with communities, voluntary organisations or rural development initiatives.
* Experience delivering training, workshops or support in digital or community settings.
* Experience engaging with diverse groups, including people with limited digital skills.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* The ability to explain digital concepts in a clear, accessible way.
* Excellent organisational and time‑management skills.
* The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* Good IT skills, including familiarity with common digital tools and platforms.
* An understanding of digital inclusion, rural communities or community development.
* Awareness of barriers to digital access and participation.
* Willingness to travel within the project area.
* A full driving licence and access to a vehicle where applicable.
* Qualifications in community development, education, ICT, social sciences or a related field, or experience of funded programmes, partnership working, or rural policy and digital strategy is advantageous.
Benefits
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
* Generous annual leave, rising with service (starting at 22 days plus statutory/public holidays).
* Pension contributions of 4.5% after probation.
* Training and professional development opportunities.
* Supportive, inclusive, and values‑driven organisational culture.
Equal Opportunities
Volunteer Now is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Applications are particularly welcome from males and individuals from minority communities who meet the criteria.
Closing Date: Tuesday 5th May 2026 at 12 noon
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