Social Worker– Community Garden Engagement
Hope Community Trust
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Description
Registered Social Worker– Community Garden Engagement Lead
Location: Hope Community Trust, 111 East Belt RangioraEmployment Type: Part-timeReports To: Trust Manager, Hope Community Trust Board
Position Overview:We are seeking a compassionate and dynamic Registered Social Worker to lead a unique, community-based initiative centred around a thriving community garden. This role blends hands-on social work with program coordination, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. The successful candidate will provide direct support to community members with complex needs, linking them with relevant services, training, and support pathways.Additionally, the role includes the supervision and mentoring of social work student interns within the garden setting.This is a faith-based, values-driven role ideal for someone who is passionate about community development, food security, social justice, and empowering individuals through inclusive, strength-based approaches.
Key Responsibilities:Community Engagement & Program Oversight:*Oversee the daily operations of the community garden, ensuring it remains a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space.*Design and implement training and skill development programs for community members (e.g., gardening, nutrition, life skills, vocational training).*Cultivate a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive environment that promotes participation and empowerment.
Social Work Practice & Case Coordination:*Conduct intake, assessment, and triage for community members presenting with complex needs (e.g., housing instability, mental health, substance use, unemployment).*Develop individualised support plans and provide short-term case management, advocacy, and referrals to appropriate services (e.g., health, housing, employment, legal aid).*Maintain accurate, confidential client records and documentation in compliance with ethical, legal and health and safety standards.
Student Supervision & Development:*Supervise and support social work student interns placed in the community garden setting.*Provide ongoing mentorship, reflective practice opportunities, and structured learning aligned with academic and practice standards.*Facilitate student evaluations and liaise with academic institutions as required.
Community Capacity Building:*Build and maintain strong partnerships with local service providers, community organisations, and other stakeholders.*Promote the garden as a therapeutic and skill-building space that enhances well-being and community cohesion.*Lead or contribute to community events, workshops, and initiatives that align with program goals.
Qualifications and Experience:*Bachelor or Master of Social Work (BSW/MSW) from an accredited institution.*Current registration with the Social Workers Registration Board of NZ*Minimum 3 years' experience in community-based social work, preferably in a setting supporting individuals with complex needs. ● Experience in group facilitation, community organizing, or program development would also be an asset.*Previous experience supervising students or staff preferred.
Key Skills and Attributes:*Strong assessment, advocacy, and referral skills.*Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.*Ability to work autonomously while being part of a collaborative team.*Knowledge of local health, housing, and social services.*Commitment to anti-oppressive, client-centred, and strength-based practice.*Comfortable working in outdoor and garden settings (gardening experience is a plus but not essential).
Other Requirements:*Valid New Zealand Driver’s License / Police - MOJ check / CPR & First Aid*Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends for community events.
Why Join Us?This is a unique opportunity to join a highly effective, faith-based community organisation as a Team Leader / Social Worker who can build on what the Hope Community Trust has already established in the community. The role also positions the successful candidate to seek out new ways to bring hope, confidence and independence into the lives of local vulnerable New Zealanders.
Apply online for this role or contact Kerry Brewerton for more information.
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