Community Worker - Exciting Vacancy

We are looking for a Community Worker to fill a vacancy working in partnership with our existing Leadership Team. Our vision for the future is that alongside our existing model of church we want to develop new ways of “being church” that directly and positively impact the lives of people in our local community. 

Based on our own recent research we are aware that loneliness and social isolation are very real problems. The Community Worker’s main focus is to run and develop several initiatives that seek to enhance the lives of local people who feel socially isolated. These include a dementia support group, "Sunflower Café", a new dementia singing group, "Singing for the Mind", a monthly film club open to all and a support café for new parents. The role of the Community Worker includes exploring other options for community based activities e.g. intergenerational activities.

The successful candidate does not have to be a committed Christian but would be expected to be caring and empathetic, with a genuine interest in people and concern for the issues of loneliness and isolation. They would also need to be comfortable with GURC’s understanding of mission, which is that a church can be a supportive and positive presence in a community without any need to “push” its religious beliefs.

Principal responsibilities and duties

• To develop and support initiatives, both established and new, that aim to improve the lives and wellbeing of people in our local community.
• To provide a link between the existing congregation, other users of the premises and groups developed through this community work.
• To work with local agencies and voluntary organisations, other churches and faith groups whenever possible.
• To work in partnership with GURC’s Congregation, Minister, Children & Families’ Worker and Leadership Team.

Terms and Conditions

• The salary will be up to £26,000 pro rata depending on experience.
• Normal working pattern: 18 hours per week, with some degree of flexibility across Monday to Friday
• 30 days’ statutory annual leave entitlement per year inclusive of Bank Holidays (pro-rata for part-time employees). 
• Full T&Cs: please see website