About First Kick Foundation
First Kick Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving physical and mental wellbeing through accessible sport, health, and enrichment programmes. We work with children, young people, and families across Preston and the wider North West — delivering school-based sport, HAF holiday provision, and targeted community initiatives that create real impact.
As we continue to grow, we are seeking an organised, driven, and community-focused Community Engagement Officer to support the effective, high impact delivery of First Kick Foundations community provision which covers the following delivery areas; Health Lifestyles, Education, Mentoring, Behaviour change, Youth Work and Physical Activity.
Role Overview
As Community Engagement Officer, you’ll be the friendly face of the Foundation - building strong connections with families, schools, referral partners, and local organisations. You’ll drive service user recruitment, support communications and outreach, and help ensure our programmes are inclusive, accessible, and impactful.
You will play a key role in supporting the delivery and growth of the Foundation's employability programmes, helping to engage young people and adults who face barriers to education, employment, and training. Working alongside delivery staff and external partners, you will promote opportunities, coordinate referrals, and support participants to access the right provision.
You will be responsible for ensuring the high-quality, effective delivery of the Foundation's programmes across all delivery strands, including Healthy Lifestyles, Education, Mentoring, Behaviour Change, Youth Work, Physical Activity, and Employability.
Key Responsibilities
Community Engagement & Outreach
· Build positive relationships with families, schools, youth organisations, and community stakeholders.
· Lead outreach to recruit participants for programmes, including HAF and school-based initiatives.
· Attend community events, school meetings, and networking opportunities to promote First Kick Foundation.
· Act as a first point of contact for families and participants, providing information and support.
Employability Programme Support
- Support the recruitment and engagement of participants into employability and skills programmes.
- Promote employability opportunities within local communities through outreach and engagement activities.
- Support participants to access appropriate training, volunteering, work experience, and employment opportunities.
Recruitment & Relationship Building
· Build partnerships with schools, families, referral partners, and youth organisations to promote engagement and broaden access.
· Act as a friendly and knowledgeable point of contact for community members seeking programme information and support.
Programme Support & Evaluation
· Assist in the smooth running of programmes through on-site support, registration, and family liaison.
· Collect attendance data, feedback, and case studies to inform continuous improvement.
Marketing & Communications
· Collaborate with the marketing team to create engaging outreach content-for social media, newsletters, and case studies.
· Share real-life stories that highlight participant experiences and programme impact.
· Represent the Foundation at community events, school meetings, and networking opportunities when needed.
Compliance & Administration
· Ensure all engagement work aligns with safeguarding, GDPR, and health & safety policies.
· Maintain accurate records of session delivery, referrals, and incident reports.
· Contribute to reports and evaluations for funders and internal use.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Experience in community engagement, outreach, or a similar role.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and rapport.
- Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple priorities.
- Knowledge of safeguarding and inclusive working practices.
- A genuine passion for supporting children, young people, and families.
Desirable:
- Experience working in schools, youth work, or community programmes.
- Experience of working on employability, skills, or NEET programmes.
- Knowledge of local employment, education, and training pathways.
- Understanding of the charity or not-for-profit sector.
- Skills in marketing/communications (e.g. social media, Canva, newsletters).
- Experience collecting and reporting participant data.
- A relevant qualification in youth work, community development, sport, or education.
What We Offer
✅ A varied and rewarding role in a values-driven charity
✅ 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 [email protected]
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £24,420.00-£28,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- On-site parking
- Work from home
Application question(s):
- This role requires working across multiple locations. Are you able to travel easily across the whole of Greater Manchester?
- Do you have previous experience in a community engagement or youth work role?
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Preston PR5 4LA
