Job Description
About The RoleDo you have a passion for community development and helping people thrive?Were looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Community Support Officer (Projects) to join our Community Wellbeing Team at Forest of Dean District Council.This exciting role will support delivery of the Councils Thriving Communities Priority, helping to improve quality of life across the district through community-led projects, partnerships, and support networks. The role also plays an important part in the Councils safeguarding responsibilities, providing triage and casework support where needed.As a Community Support Officer, youll:Take a strengths-based and place-based approach to community development.Support and deliver projects linked to Council priorities, including areas such as Financial Inclusion, LIFT (Low Income Family Tracker) projects, and the Forest Food Network.Work collaboratively with colleagues, partners, and community organisations to respond to local needs and develop effective solutions.Support the Councils statutory safeguarding duties through triage, casework, and partnership working.Work closely with the Communications Team to create engaging local messaging and social media content that promotes community initiatives.Monitor progress, maintain accurate records, and provide clear and up-to-date reports on project outcomes.At the Forest of Dean District Council, were passionate about creating connected, resilient, and thriving communities. Youll be part of a supportive and forward-thinking team that values creativity, partnership working, and making a tangible impact in peoples lives.You will need A minimum of 5 qualifications equivalent to NVQ level 2 or GCSE at Grade C/4 or above, must include Maths and EnglishConfidence in engaging with communities and individuals2 years practical experience in a community wellbeing or engagement field of work with a clear understanding of asset-based community development.Knowledge of the local areaExperience of working within a multi-agency and fast paced environmentSpecial Conditions Full UK Driving Licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes.DBS CheckWhat we can do for you Agile working allowing a mix of home and office workingFlexible working arrangements (depending on the role)27 days paid annual leave (pro rata if you are working part time) plus bank holidays, which increases to 30 days after five years of serviceIn addition you will have an extra two volunteering days a year for you to support a charity of your choiceRenewed again for another year there is a Health cash plan giving you cash back on health, dental and eye careGenerous contributory local government pension schemeEmployee Assistance Programme 24/7, providing positive, preventative and supportive advice and counselling to deal with everyday events and issuesCycle to work schemeSalary sacrifice car lease scheme with significant tax and NI savings to be made on electric carsGenerous sickness cover above statutory entitlementsAbout The OrganisationForest of Dean District Council is dedicated to creating a vibrant and sustainable future for our community.
Our priorities are centred on fostering thriving communities by empowering and engaging residents, enhancing infrastructure, promoting community well-being, and ensuring social equity.We are committed to decarbonisation and nature recovery, focusing on renewable energy transitions, energy efficiency, transport transformation, nature recovery, and food resilience. Additionally, we strive to build a sustainable economy through the promotion of a circular economy, robust business support, workforce skill development, sustainable town initiatives, and the preservation of natural capital.Accredited of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies - Please state this within your covering statement or in a separate email.Forest of Dean District Council is committed to meeting its statutory and moral duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people under 18 years of age and adults at risk who are the recipients of its services and/or activities.Safer recruitment practices are applied to all job vacancies. Successful candidates will be required to complete a pre-employment medical questionnaire; provide references; proof of identity; nationality and immigration status; three years employment or education history (if applicable) and, in some cases, verification of criminal record.TPBN1_UKTJ