Job Description

Overview

We are seeking a passionate and proactive individual to lead Age UK NSWD's local presence in Wareham. This new role will coordinate the delivery of volunteer-led support services, engage with older people in the community, and act as a visible ambassador for our charity during and beyond a major service transition.

Following the closure of Helping Hands, this role will build on their legacy by ensuring continuity of support, strengthening local relationships, and helping to grow awareness of our charity's local and independent identity. The postholder will play a central role in community engagement, volunteer coordination, and local fundraising development laying the foundations for a sustainable and thriving service.

Key Responsibilities

Community Engagement & Representation

Develop strong relationships with local organisations, community leaders, health services, and older people. Serve as the local face of Age UK NSWD in Wareham. Promote the charity's mission, values, and independence from the national Age UK network. To help stimulate the development of future services through the cultivation of working partnerships. Help shift perceptions by reinforcing the local nature of the charity at every opportunity.

Volunteer Coordination

Welcome and induct volunteers transitioning from Helping Hands. Working closely with our Volunteer Coordinator, to help recruit and support future volunteers ensure all volunteers complete required processes (application, DBS, induction). Maintain accurate records in CharityLog, including hours, engagement, and compliance. Provide regular check-ins, support, and supervision in collaboration with the Volunteer Coordinator.

Communications & Local Visibility

Support local marketing and engagement efforts, including distributing flyers, attending events, and contributing to social media where appropriate. Be a point of reassurance and reliable information for clients, families, and volunteers during the service transition. Work with the central Communications Lead (CEO/Project Lead) to share positive stories and address local perception challenges.

Service Oversight (Volunteer Drivers Scheme)

Be a point of reassurance and reliable information for clients, families, and volunteers during the service transition. Oversee the telephone operators in their scheduling of volunteer drivers to support clients attending medical and wellbeing appointments. Track and log journeys, ensuring mileage claims are processed accurately and expenses are within policy. Promote access to the scheme and ensure it remains sensitive to the needs of older people.

Fundraising & Service Development

Help identify local fundraising opportunities (e.g., grant bids, local appeals, community events). Ensure that all volunteer drivers work within policy guidelines and quality standards. Build relationships with existing and potential donors to strengthen community ownership of the service. Work with central staff to explore opportunities and expand support services for older people in the Wareham area.

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Experience in community engagement, outreach, or support services Confidence working independently and managing own workload Experience coordinating or supporting volunteers Strong organisational skills and good attention to detail Understanding of the needs and challenges faced by older people Ability to work flexibly Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle with business insurance

Desirable

Experience in the voluntary sector or charity environment Familiarity with CRM/database systems (e.g., CharityLog) Local knowledge of the Wareham area Experience with fundraising or donor engagement

Additional Information

This role is subject to a DBS check. Travel expenses will be reimbursed at 45p per mile. Staff will be fully supported through induction and have access to regular supervision, training, and networking opportunities within Age UK NSWD.
Join us in making a significant impact within the community while advancing your career in a fulfilling environment!

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: 13.15 per hour

Expected hours: 12 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Health & wellbeing programme Sick pay
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 21/05/2025