Role of Community Development Workers:
- Community development workers facilitate social change and enhance quality of life in local areas.
- They empower individuals, families, and communities to identify assets, needs, and opportunities, plan actions, and develop confidence through activities and services.
- They act as intermediaries between communities and various local authorities and voluntary sector providers.
Responsibilities:
- Address specific issues like mental health, public transport, and drug abuse, particularly in disadvantaged communities.
- Engage communities in identifying and addressing their concerns.
- Set improvement goals, empower participation, and manage resources.
- Develop partnerships, raise awareness, prepare reports and policies, manage funds, and recruit/train staff.
- Coordinate meetings/events, oversee budgets, encourage participation, and address inappropriate behavior.
Salary and Working Hours:
- Starting salaries range from £16,000 to £26,000, rising to £36,000 with experience.
- Working hours often include evenings and weekends, with flexibility required.
- Part-time, temporary, and freelance work are possible due to funding nature.
Expectations:
- Fieldwork dominates, with occasional office work.
- Freelance work as a trainer or consultant is feasible.
- Funding often favors urban areas, but rural community development is growing.
- Coping with disadvantaged communities may be stressful, with long-term results and frequent travel.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Open to graduates with social science backgrounds, though experience is crucial.
- Various vocational and university courses are available.
- DBS/PVG checks may be necessary.
- Essential skills include advocacy, communication, research, empathy, and fundraising.
Work Experience and Employers:
- Pre-entry experience is vital, often gained in teaching, youth work, or healthcare.
- Common employers include community education organizations, local authorities, NHS trusts, and voluntary sector groups.
- Limited job security due to funding constraints, with many positions on fixed-term contracts.
Professional Development and Career Prospects:
- Ongoing training is essential, with opportunities for advancement limited.
- Promotion may require relocation or postgraduate study.
- Freelance opportunities exist, along with prospects in education, health, social work, and overseas development.