Community Development Officer

Development
Uk
May 20, 2025
£37 - £38 / year
Full Time
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Job Description

Job Reference: REQ00000018355

Date Posted: 19 May 2025
Application Closing Date: 8 June 2025
Location: Penrith, Voreda House
Contract Type: Fixed Term – 12 Months
Hours: 30 per week
Basis: Part-time
Salary: £37,035 – £37,938

Community Development Officer – WMF2074e

About the Role

Are you passionate about community development and ready to make a tangible difference?

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and driven Community Development Officer to join our dedicated team in Penrith, supporting the growth and wellbeing of communities across Eden and the wider Westmorland and Furness area. This is a 12-month fixed-term, part-time position offering 30 hours per week.

In this highly varied and people-focused role, you’ll work closely with local communities, Members, and Managers to help identify opportunities, support the development of local groups, and deliver key council priorities. From tackling pressing community issues to launching new initiatives, you’ll play a pivotal role in creating positive change.

What You’ll Do

  • Initiate, plan, and support a wide range of community-based projects
  • Help local communities access and utilise funding streams
  • Facilitate the development of new and existing community groups
  • Support Members and Managers to deliver key council objectives
  • Identify and mobilise community assets and partnerships
  • Respond proactively to local issues and act as a link between the council and the community

This is a dynamic and hands-on role requiring a flexible and collaborative approach, including occasional evening or weekend work and travel across Eden and beyond.

About You

We’re looking for someone with:

  • Proven experience in community development or a related field
  • Strong knowledge of the local area and its communities
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • The ability to engage confidently with diverse stakeholders, from residents to senior leaders
  • A proactive attitude, strong organisational skills, and a commitment to delivering outcomes

What We Offer

Working for Westmorland and Furness Council comes with a range of benefits, including:

  • A competitive local government pension scheme
  • Enhanced annual leave entitlement
  • Access to employee discount schemes
  • Health and wellbeing support

Learn more about our employee benefits and working environment here:
Our Benefits | Careers

Key Dates

Closing Date: 8 June 2025

Interview Date: Week commencing 30 June 2025
Interviews may be conducted virtually or in person depending on candidate needs.

Right to Work

This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. For more information on eligibility and points requirements, please refer to the official guidance:
Skilled Worker visa: eligible occupations and codes – GOV.UK

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Westmorland and Furness Council, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

We also offer guaranteed interviews to:

  • Veterans and armed forces personnel
  • Care leavers or those with care experience under the age of 24

Want to Know More?

For further details, including the job specification and essential criteria, please refer to the attachments or visit our careers site.

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