1. Purpose of the Role
The Community Development Worker (CDW) will enable Beaconsfield URC to deepen its mission of “Knowing Jesus and making Jesus known” by developing sustained, relational engagement with the local community, with a particular emphasis on Holtspur.
The role will focus on building connections, reducing isolation, and creating accessible opportunities for belonging, wellbeing, and faith exploration, especially among those with little or no existing church involvement.
2. Context
Beaconsfield URC serves two distinct communities:
- Beaconsfield – generally affluent, with established church activities and community engagement
- Holtspur – a community experiencing hidden challenges including isolation, cost-of-living pressures, and limited opportunities for connection
Beaconsfield URC has responsibility for the Holtspur building and is developing it as a local centre for mission and community engagement.
Planned building improvements will enable expanded use of the Holtspur site. The CDW role is essential to ensure that these improved facilities translate into meaningful community impact.
We are looking for someone to work flexibly for 22.5 hours per week on a salary of £30k p.a. (£18k pro-rata).
3. Key Responsibilities
3.1 Community engagement (Holtspur as a priority, but also Beaconsfield)
- Establish a consistent, visible presence in Holtspur
- Build relationships with local residents - particularly children, young people and families and those experiencing isolation or vulnerability
- Engage with local charities, schools, and community groups
3.2 Development of Community Activities
- Support and expand existing initiatives, including:
- Community lunches and potential breakfast/afternoon tea provision
- Bereavement support gatherings
- Informal groups and pastoral spaces
- Develop new initiatives in response to identified needs, including:
- Family and children’s activities
- Wellbeing and support groups
- Help maximise the use of the refurbished Holtspur building as a welcoming community hub
3.3 Volunteer Development
- Recruit, support, and encourage volunteers
- Build confidence and skills within the volunteer team
- Promote a culture of welcome, inclusion, and pastoral awareness
3.4 Faith and Mission Integration
- Work alongside the Minister and Eldership to ensure activities reflect the church’s Christian ethos
- Create natural opportunities for conversation about faith and spirituality
- Act as a visible representative of the Christian faith and mission of Beaconsfield URC within the community
3.5 Communication and Outreach
- Support the promotion of activities within the local community
- Contribute to communication channels, including the website and social media
- Ensure visibility of Holtspur-based activities integrated with Beaconsfield as appropriate
3.6 Monitoring and Reporting
- Maintain appropriate records of activities and engagement
- Contribute to monitoring and evaluation processes
- Provide reports to the Eldership, Church Meeting, Synod and funding bodies as required
3.7 Other
- Ensure all work is carried out in line with safeguarding, health & safety and data protection requirements
- Undertake other duties reasonably required within the scope of the role
This post carries an occupational requirement under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010 that the post-holder be a practising Christian. The role forms an integral part of the church's Christian mission and involves representing the church's faith, encouraging faith exploration and supporting pathways into Christian community.
Pay: £30,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Are you a practicing Christian?
- Do you have directly relevant experience?
- Please explain why you are suitable for this role?
Work Location: In person
