About Hope Cirencester
Hope Cirencester is a growing, community‑focused Christian initiative supporting families, young people, and vulnerable adults across the town. We deliver weekly groups, creative programmes, pastoral care, and practical advocacy in partnership with local schools, churches, and community organisations.
We are seeking a Family, Youth & Community Support Worker to join our team and work closely with our Pioneer Minister, Bernie Mann, to strengthen relationships, develop projects, and provide hands‑on support to those who need it most.
Role Overview
This is a highly relational role combining pastoral care, community engagement, and programme development. You will help to design and deliver weekly groups, support individuals facing practical challenges, and contribute to the spiritual and community life of Hope Cirencester.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Development & Delivery: Co‑create and host weekly community groups, youth/family initiatives, and specialist sessions such as Lifelong Learning and Exploring the Arts.
- Pastoral Care & Advocacy: Build trust with attendees, offer a listening ear, and provide practical support (e.g., navigating housing or social care, writing letters, attending appointments).
- Youth & Family Support: Identify gaps in local provision and tailor learning programmes to build resilience, digital inclusion, and everyday life skills.
- Liturgical & Discipleship Support: Assist with logistics, hospitality, and preparation for community services, discipleship groups, and seasonal events (Easter, Christmas, summer trips).
- Partnership Working: Liaise with local schools, Social Services, Cirencester Foodbank, local churches including the Salvation Army, and the Diocese of Gloucester to ensure coordinated care.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Candidates must demonstrate:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience working with children, young people, families, or vulnerable adults.
- Strong organisational and time‑management skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Basic IT skills (email, Microsoft Office).
- Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends.
- Willingness and ability to work within the Christian ethos and values of Hope Cirencester.
Desirable Criteria
It would be advantageous to have:
- Experience in community development or engagement.
- Experience delivering group activities or learning programmes.
- Knowledge of local support services and referral pathways.
- Experience supporting or coordinating volunteers.
- A valid First Aid qualification.
Safeguarding Statement
Hope Cirencester is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All staff are expected to share this commitment.
This role is subject to:
- Enhanced DBS Disclosure (including barred list check).
- Satisfactory professional references.
- Completion of mandatory safeguarding training.
- Full compliance with Hope Cirencester’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
Locations:
- St Lawrence Church, Countess Lilias Road, Chesterton, GL7 1UB
- The Salvation Army Hall, Lancaster House, 10 Thomas Street, Cirencester, GL7 2AX
Pay: From £14.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
