Job Description

Community Development Lead

About the job

Job description:

Job Title: Community Development Lead

Location: Manchester

Salary: 28,000-32,000 (dependent on experience)

Contract: Full-time, Fixed Term (12 months, with potential extension subject to funding)

About First Kick Foundation

First Kick Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving physical and mental wellbeing through accessible sport, education, digital inclusion, and enrichment programmes. We work with children, young people, adults, and families across Manchester and the wider North West -- delivering school-based sport, HAF holiday provision, community learning, and targeted initiatives that create real, lasting impact.

We are seeking an organised, driven, and community-focused

Community Development Lead

to support the effective delivery and future growth of Digital Connect: Empowering Communities -- a programme designed to tackle digital exclusion, improve family outcomes, and support marginalised groups including refugees and individuals leaving the justice system.

This role combines digital inclusion, family and youth support, education, skills and training, and community development, with the opportunity for the post holder to contribute to organisational growth through bid writing, partnership expansion, and programme development.

Role Overview

The Community Development Lead will design and deliver accessible community programmes focused on digital inclusion, family support, and progression into education, training, and employment. Working closely with local authorities, housing providers, refugee organisations, and criminal justice partners, you will empower individuals to gain confidence, strengthen life skills, and access new opportunities.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about community empowerment, digital inclusion, and long-term development within a growing organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Programme Delivery & Participant Support

Deliver person-centred digital skills sessions in community spaces (libraries, community hubs, support centres, refugee accommodation, etc.). Provide 1:1 and group support to help participants build digital confidence and use essential tools (email, online forms, Microsoft Office, video calling, etc.). Support learners to achieve AQA-accredited outcomes in Computer Skills, Internet Safety, and ICT Employability Skills. Deliver sessions supporting daily living skills (online banking, NHS services, managing bills digitally). Facilitate employability and digital job-search workshops, including the use of AI-based personal development tools. Provide family support interventions, helping parents and caregivers navigate digital systems, school communication platforms, and online learning tools. Support young people to develop digital skills, life skills, and progression pathways into education, training, or sport programmes. Use a trauma-informed, inclusive, and culturally sensitive approach when supporting refugees, people leaving the justice system, and economically inactive individuals.

Education, Skills & Training

Identify and support progression pathways into adult education, vocational training, volunteering, or employment. Work with partners to develop tailored learning plans for individuals and families. Deliver confidence-building workshops, skills development sessions, and introductory ICT learning.

Community Development & Programme Growth

Contribute to programme development, helping shape new community learning, youth support, and digital inclusion initiatives. Support bid writing, funding applications, and the creation of proposals for new or expanded projects. Build partnerships with community organisations, employment services, refugee support networks, probation services, and educational providers. Lead on outreach and engagement to grow programme reach and secure new referral pathways. Represent First Kick Foundation at community events, digital inclusion forums, and partnership meetings.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Compliance

Maintain accurate records of attendance, progress, and AQA-accredited achievements. Gather participant feedback and case studies to demonstrate impact to funders and partners. Ensure all delivery meets organisational standards for safeguarding, GDPR, and health & safety. Escalate safeguarding or welfare concerns in line with policy.

Person Specification

Essential

Experience delivering digital skills, community education, youth support, or adult learning programmes. Understanding of digital exclusion and barriers faced by vulnerable, marginalised, or economically inactive groups. Strong relationship-building skills with diverse learners and partners. Confident using and teaching digital tools and online platforms. Experience supporting families or young people in a community context. Organised, proactive, and adaptable, with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and lifelong learning.

Desirable

Experience working with refugees, asylum seekers, ex-offenders, or criminal justice service users. Knowledge of Greater Manchester's digital inclusion and community development landscape. Experience with AQA-accredited learning or other qualification frameworks. Skills in mentoring, community outreach, family support, or youth engagement. Experience contributing to bid writing or partnership development. Relevant qualification in community development, education, ICT, youth work, or related field.

What We Offer

? A varied and rewarding role in a values-driven organisation
? Supportive and collaborative team culture
? Training, personal development, and progression opportunities
? Competitive salary, generous annual leave, and wellbeing days

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a short covering letter outlining your suitability for the role to r.armstrong@firstkickfootball.co.uk.
Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: 28,000.00-32,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person