Job Description

About the Role

Bournemouth Foodbank, in partnership with

The Open University's Open Societal Challenges Programme

, has been awarded funding for a groundbreaking research project titled "Sustaining Bournemouth: The Changing Face of Our Foodbank During Financial Crisis."

We are now seeking a

Community Researcher

to lead this important six-month study exploring how the cost-of-living crisis has changed who needs our help, why, and how support services can respond more effectively.

The researcher will work closely with Bournemouth Foodbank's team and academics from The Open University to gather, analyse and interpret both quantitative and qualitative data, culminating in an

impact report

and

stakeholder event

to influence local and national policy.

Key Responsibilities

Clean and organise existing referral and voucher data for analysis. Work with OU mentors to identify key trends and patterns in foodbank access. Co-design and conduct interviews and surveys with Foodbank clients (with full ethical guidance). Capture powerful stories and case studies showing the longer-term impact of Foodbank support. Co-author the final

Impact Report

and assist in preparing the

stakeholder presentation

. Support the planning and delivery of the dissemination event in summer 2026.

About You

We are looking for someone passionate about social justice, food insecurity and community research. You may be a recent graduate, postgraduate, or someone with lived experience of hardship who has developed strong research or analytical skills.

You will bring:

Experience with research, evaluation, or data analysis (academic or professional). Strong Excel and data-handling skills; experience with qualitative interviewing desirable. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Empathy, professionalism, and the ability to work sensitively with vulnerable individuals. Organised, self-motivated, and confident managing your own project schedule.

Training and Support

You will be trained and mentored by a team of academics from The Open University (Dr Alessandra Marino, Dr Maria Nita, Dr Nicoleta Tipi, and Dr Merim Baitimbetova) who specialise in ethical community research, economics, and supply-chain analysis.
You'll also be embedded within the Bournemouth Foodbank team, receiving practical support from our Partnerships & Fundraising Manager and Hub Leads.

What We Offer

6-month paid research placement with real community impact Mentoring from OU academics and Foodbank professionals Flexible working options (some remote work possible) Opportunity to co-author a published report and gain research experience Be part of a nationally significant project tackling food poverty

How to Apply

Please send your

CV

and a

covering letter

(maximum two pages) explaining your suitability and motivation for the role to

graeme@bournemouth.foodbank.org.uk

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: 27,417.00 per year

Expected hours: 22.50 - 30 per week

Benefits:

Canteen Discounted or free food Employee discount Free parking
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Bournemouth BH7 6HW