Join Our New Community Safety Team
Are you passionate about making a real difference in communities? Do you thrive in a role where every day is different, and where your actions help people feel safe, supported, and proud of where they live?
Sunderland City Council is launching a new Community Safety Team as part of our bold vision for safer, stronger, and more resilient neighbourhoods. We are looking for a motivated and community-focused individual to join us as a Community Safety Officer, helping to deliver visible, impactful services that tackle anti-social behaviour, environmental crime, and public safety issues across the city.
About the Role
As a Community Safety Officer, you’ll work at the heart of Sunderland’s neighbourhoods to support our vision for safer, stronger, and more resilient communities. This is a highly visible and rewarding role that blends proactive engagement with robust enforcement, making a real difference to the quality of life for our residents.
In this role, you will:
* Conduct targeted, high-visibility patrols to deter and respond to issues affecting community safety
* Investigate complaints relating to anti-social behaviour, environmental crime, and public protection, gathering and securing evidence in line with legal requirements
* Use a wide range of enforcement tools, including the issuing of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs), Community Protection Notices (CPNs), and other formal actions to address persistent issues
* Work closely with partner agencies such as Northumbria Police, alongside residents, elected members, and local businesses, to address complex and persistent community concerns
* Deliver education and prevention initiatives aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour and promoting responsible behaviours
* Support community resilience by encouraging local involvement, improving public confidence, and contributing to long-term problem-solving efforts
This role combines frontline presence with professional casework, requiring excellent judgment, confidence, and a firm yet fair approach to enforcement and public engagement.
What We’re Looking For
Confident, community-minded individuals with:
* Experience in enforcement, compliance, or public protection (or a related field)
* Knowledge of relevant legislation, including anti-social behaviour legislation, the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE)
* Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
* The ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
* A full UK driving licence (if applicable)
* A Level 4 qualification in a related field is desirable, where equivalent relevant experience will also be considered
Please note that a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required prior to appointment.
Why work for Sunderland City Council?
* Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), offering secure and flexible retirement benefits
* You’ll receive 26 days annual leave (31 after 5 years’ continuous service), plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave through the Council’s flexible benefits scheme
* Ongoing training, professional development, and career progression opportunities
* A supportive, collaborative, and inclusive working environment where your contribution makes a difference
For an informal discussion please contact Michelle Coates, Neighbourhood Enforcement Manager at:michelle.coates@sunderland.gov.uk
Applications must be completed on-line at northeastjobs.org.uk/sunderlandcitycouncil. If you need any support, contact:jobs@sunderland.gov.uk
Please note that CVs are not acceptable.
All communication about your application for this post will be to the email address that you register with North East Jobs. This may include details of an online assessment you may need to complete and an invite to interview if you are short-listed. Please check your email inbox after the closing date for notifications as you may not be notified by any other method. Please remember to check your junk mail items. #J-18808-Ljbffr