Community Activities and Engagement Officer
Hours: 24 hours per week
Working Pattern: Hours to be worked over 4 days. Working hours arrangement to be agreed with the successful candidate but there will be requirement for some evening work and occasional weekends requiring flexibility on the part of the post-holder.
Purpose of the Role
To support the Town Council in delivering community activities, events, and local projects that strengthen community participation, enhance wellbeing, and improve the town’s environment. The postholder will act as a key link between the council, residents, community groups, and partners, ensuring that engagement is meaningful, inclusive, and well coordinated.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Community Activities & Events (Priority Area)
* Plan, organise, and support delivery of a wide range of community events, examples include:
o seasonal celebrations
o community fairs and markets
o civic ceremonies
o community clean ups
o youth and family activities
o community socials
* Assist with event logistics, safety planning, and risk assessments.
* Support the council in accessing grants and resources to support its community activities.
* Recruit, coordinate, and support volunteers.
* Promote events through social media, posters, newsletters, and local networks.
* Evaluate events and recommend improvements for future delivery.
Project Support & Delivery
* Assist in the planning and delivery of community projects, such as:
o environmental improvements
o youth and wellbeing initiatives
o small scale regeneration or place making projects
o community development programmes
* Support project documentation, timelines, risk assessments, and monitoring.
* Liaise with contractors, consultants, and volunteers to ensure smooth delivery.
* Prepare progress updates and reports for committees and working groups.
Community Engagement & Communications
* Support the delivery of the council’s Community Engagement Plan.
* Build positive relationships with residents, community groups, businesses, and partners.
* Coordinate public consultations, surveys, drop ins, and engagement events.
* Produce accessible communications, including:
o social media posts
o website updates
o newsletters
o posters and promotional materials
* Represent the council at community meetings, forums, and partnership groups.
Partnership & Stakeholder Development
* Build and maintain partnerships with:
o voluntary and community sector organisations
o local authorities
o schools and youth groups
o health and wellbeing providers
o local businesses
* Encourage collaboration between organisations to deliver shared outcomes.
Insight, Data & Reporting
* Gather and analyse community feedback and project outcomes.
* Prepare reports for council meetings and external partners.
* Maintain accurate records in line with GDPR and council policies.
* Support monitoring of KPIs and contribute to strategic planning.
Other – a) To undertake other duties from time to time which are commensurate with the level and grading of the post.
EMPLOYEE SPECIFICATION
Essential Criteria
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* In-depth knowledge and understanding of the local community and the operating environment of the Town Council.
* Ability to build positive relationships with diverse groups.
* Experience organising events or community activities.
* Good administrative and IT skills (Microsoft Office, social media, desktop publishing, spreadsheets, CMS).
* Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
* Willingness to work flexibly, including evenings/weekends.
* Commitment to public service.
* Personality, conduct and credibility that engages the confidence of councillors, staff, partners, and stakeholders.
* Committed to continuous professional development.
* Awareness of health and safety legislation and its application within an organisation.
Desirable Criteria
* Experience in local government or the Voluntary Sector.
* Understanding of town/parish council functions and governance.
* Experience with consultation tools (e.g., "SurveyMonkey").
* Knowledge of safeguarding, health & safety, and GDPR.
* Project management training or experience.
* Understanding of the requirements of the data protection and freedom of information legislation and its application within an organisation.
* Full driving licence and access to a car.
Key Competencies
* Community Focused.
* Organised and proactive.
* Collaborative and diplomatic.
* Creative problem-solver.
* Data literate and evidence based.
* Adaptable and resilient.
Additional Information
* Occasional evening and weekend work is required.
* A DBS check may be required depending on the nature of activities.
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