We are looking for someone passionate about connection, community power and action! The Community Spaces Project is an exciting exploration into how the RSPB can work with communities to unleash the power they hold for positive impact on people, place and planet! Over the next two years, we will ask questions; trial new ways of working, network and relationship build, and deliver exemplary co-creation practice with both communities and stakeholders. The ethos for this project is one of sharing, learning, listening and true connection - connecting communities with each other; local stakeholders, community-support networks, and diverse opportunities for nature connection. You will have excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to adapt to different audiences and an inclusive and approachable ethos. The ability to handle difficult conversations - diplomacy skills, would be useful.

The Community Spaces Project will investigate different approaches and models for community empowerment, with two set locations - Lake Vyrnwy in Wales, and Belfast Harbour in Northern Ireland - whilst also gaining insight from existing community spaces across the UK. Community Organiser roles will be based within these two set locations, integrated into the existing reserve teams and managed within country. They will also report to/have direct contact with the Community Spaces Project Manager - who sit's within the UK HQ team. The role will therefore be provided with - the support of numerous teams and expertise; access to existing networks and resource, and a framework to guide them through the project and provide resource.

For the first 6 months, the Community Organisers will go out into local spaces - building relationships and networks, talking and listening to the community - creating a community and stakeholder map. Through the process of co-creation, a programme of opportunities will be developed and delivered by and for the local community, enabling them to connect with and act for nature throughout 2022. The role will also explore community integration within the RSPB's informal structures, through the creation of community representative groups that will support their role, the project, and the community. In this way, people will have the ability and opportunity to input into that which affects and impacts them. Feedback, reflective practise, and evaluation will occur throughout - feeding into the second year of opportunities (2023), again co-created with the local community, and informing work across the RSPB.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

- Excellent interpersonal, communication and relationship-building skills.
- Passion for people, place, planet.
- Experience in community organising/empowerment/engagement - does not have to be formal.
- Management/leadership experience - does not have to be formal.
- Experience in public speaking/presentation skills.
- Ability to adapt to diverse audiences.
- Computer literacy and a basic understanding of social media platforms.
- Strong planning and organisational skills.
- The ability to work in a team as well as individually.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

- A knowledge of Welsh language & culture.
- Formal experience of community organising, empowerment and/or engagement.
- Experience with events management - does not have to be formal.
- Experience of delivering targets, monitoring, evaluating and reporting outcomes.
- Experience of working with partners/networks.
- General knowledge of the local area and societal/cultural aspects.
- Delivering community-focussed events.

This is a fantastic chance to co-create, develop and deliver opportunities that benefit both people and nature - climate and social action in one! With flexible working and a fantastic team to be a part of – this position looks to extend until 2024 and potentially beyond. Be a part of our movement for people, place and planet! We look forward to hearing from you.

This is a Contract, Part Time role for 15 months, for 22.5 hours per week. The RSPB reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent on business needs at the end of the contract term. 

We plan to hold interviews for this position from 13th January 2022. For further information please contact Emma.Burt@rspb.org.uk

As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

This role will require completion of a DBS in addition to the standard pre-employment checks.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.