Job Description

Training, Support and Development Officer, Volunteer Centre Dorset - Fixed Term



Purpose of the role



To engage, support and develop Voluntary and Community Sector Organisations (VCSOs) across the Dorset Council area - particularly small and grassroots groups and those in areas of higher deprivation. You will be the local link between communities and infrastructure support, offering tailored support and practical help, facilitating access to training, capturing insights, and enabling a responsive, place based approach to development, to grow their capacity, enhance their sustainability, and strengthen their impact.


Key responsibilities



Community engagement and outreach

proactively develop and maintain relationships with VCSOs, especially those in priority or underserved communities conduct outreach through 1-2-1s, local drop ins, community hubs, digital channels, and partnership networks map local VCS activity, identify emerging organisations, and assess support and capacity building needs promote inclusion across all VCS sectors including youth, faith, social, cultural and support organisations
Support and capacity building

provide 1-2-1 tailored support to VCSOs, helping with guidance on governance, policy development and reviews (eg safeguarding, H&S, GDPR), business planning and operational development assist organisations with funding diversification planning, grant applications and how to be 'funding ready', plus impact measurement and evaluation connect organisations to relevant toolkits, online resources, peer networks, and external support services targeted support for small grassroots organisations, to build resilience and sustainability signpost to additional infrastructure or specialist support as appropriate
Training and development

promote and help facilitate a calendar of live, recorded and community based training, including 'Lunch & Learn' sessions and in person workshops, eg governance, fundraising, safeguarding, impact evaluation co-ordinate specialist sessions in partnership with subject matter experts support the development of topical and innovative training themes, eg AI, digital inclusion, green initiatives, social enterprise facilitate digital access to toolkits, guides and training via webinars, recorded modules, and downloadable resources
Collaboration and partnership working

work closely with stakeholders and delivery partners to ensure a joined up approach for VCS support facilitate statutory VCS collaboration, fostering shared practice and community led solutions represent VCD in locality based initiatives and collaborative planning forums facilitate peer to peer learning through in person networking events and online support platforms
Community intelligence and feedback

capture and record engagement, support and training activity using our in house CRM system, maintaining accurate and up to date records collect and analyse feedback and outcomes from participants, identify trends, and inform future planning contribute to quarterly monitoring reports, annual impact summaries, and case studies for funders and stakeholders
Person specification



Essential

strong understanding of Dorset's VCS and experience working in or with VCSOs strong relationship building and communication skills; able to engage diverse stakeholders experience in delivering tailored support or training to VCS organisations knowledge of charity governance, fundraising, or organisational development ability to manage time and priorities across a wide geographical area strong administrative and digital skills, including use of CRM systems and online meeting/training tools flexible approach to working hours including, outside regular office hours full UK driving licence and access to a reliable vehicle
Desirable

familiarity with Dorset's local communities and the challenges facing rural or deprived areas experience working in partnership with statutory bodies or delivering funded projects experience delivering training, workshops, or small group learning sessions knowledge of safeguarding, GDPR, or other key VCS compliance areas
How to apply

To apply, please submit your application to a.lambert@volunteeringdorset.org.uk including:

your CV a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification
Deadline for applications: Sunday, 10 August

Interviews expected: Week commencing 18 August

For further information contact: Abbi Lambert, Office Manager on 01305 269214 or a.lambert@volunteeringdorset.org.uk