Jobs in barking and dagenham

Job Description 

Service Officer 

About Us 

Spring Community Hub exists to ensure that no one in our Southwark community goes hungry. But we don’t just provide food:

We work alongside people to help them escape poverty, build confidence, and find community.

Our principal activity is the prevention of food poverty and food insecurity by offering culturally appropriate food, fresh fruits, and vegetables as well as dietary and religiously appropriate food which we have continued to run at our five-week sessions to local people for as long as they address the underlying cause.

We also provide a range of wraparound support, including advice services, particularly around employment and immigration through our Back2Work Team, Holiday Clubs for Children, Youth Groups, a Clothing Bank and our Spring Up Women’s group.

Mission 

The mission of SCH is that through a 'Community Hub’ and full activity programme, local people in or at risk of crisis will be supported along their journey to move on and achieve full social, economic and emotional independence to live healthy lives in a community which supports each other 

Vision 

Our vision at Spring Community Hub is to tackle food insecurity and hunger before people find themselves in crisis. We want to see equality in our communities and be a vehicle for positive and lasting change in our clients so that they never need a Food Bank again. 

Values 

These are our Principles, ideals, and characteristics that define the culture, standards and aspirations of the organisation. 

An organisation that is driven by people with integrity and commitment to the cause 

We believe in leadership, development, growth, and continual learning

Ensuring fairness, equity and equality 

Creating a place of respect, kindness and dignity for all 

A healthy environment where people have fun and can be creative

Salary £16,224 per annum

Permanent Contract. ( Subject to further funding ) 

Part-Time,  20 hours over 5 days 

Term Time 

Monday, 1 pm - 6 pm 

Wednesday 1 pm - 6 pm

Thursdays - 1 pm - 6 pm

Fridays 9 am - 2 pm 

Saturdays 9.30 am -2.30 pm 

(including 1 hr unpaid lunch) 

School Holidays

Monday -    9 am-2 pm 

Tuesday -    9 am - 2 pm 

Wednesday 9 am - 2 pm 

Thursdays   9 am - 2 pm

Saturdays    930 am -  230 pm 

(including 1 hr unpaid lunch) 

Working - from our Offices and  Centres and in the community/outreach locations

The post holder must be flexible to work evenings and weekends to meet client and community needs.

There will be work/training outside of office hours, including evenings and weekends, with appropriate time back in lieu.

Main Purposes of Job and Key Tasks

Do you have an empathic personality and want to work in a challenging but rewarding field? Spring Community Hub has an exciting opportunity to recruit a Service Officer 

The Service Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the mission of our charity by providing comprehensive assistance and advocacy services to individuals and families in need. This position will involve engaging with diverse communities and ensuring that all services are delivered with cultural sensitivity. 

The Service Officer will work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to deliver Food Bank services, Activity Camps, and Afterschool club, advice and advocacy support, clothing assistance, cooking programs, and Social Supermarket Operations, as well as support initiatives for the elderly, individuals experiencing poverty and isolation, and families with children.

The post holder must be an enthusiastic and motivated person to coordinate and manage our Food Banks, Community Café, and Social Supermarket, including the supervision of its volunteers/staff, as well as planning, organising, and implementing supermarket collection. 

The post holder will be required to be flexible to the changing needs of the organisation and as such, undertake tasks and responsibilities not specifically listed here but relevant to the smooth running of SCH, including general office and administrative tasks and aspects of service delivery, as directed by the Leadership Team/ CEO and trustees.

About the Role / Key Responsibilities 

Programme Planning, Delivery and Implementation

•  To design and deliver the  Activity Camps and After School Club  Programme calendar, curriculum, and events that are outcomes-focused, educational, and engaging, and enable young people to develop a range of skills appropriate to their needs.

• Working with Children, young people, and their families to build services that meet their needs, wants, and aspirations of the individual.

• Work in Collaboration with the Leadership Team  to oversee the work of the Spring Activity Camps Coordinators to design and develop a range of activities, workshops, and programmes to meet the needs of our children, young people, and their families 

• Collaborate with other staff members, volunteers, and external partners to deliver engaging, fun, and impactful activities

• Ensure all activities align with the organisation's mission and values and promote personal growth, inclusivity, and well-being.

• Oversee and coordinate the operations of Food Services 

•  Assist clients in accessing food bank services, ensuring they receive the necessary support with dignity and respect.

• Maintain inventory management for food items and coordinate food drives and partnerships with local suppliers.

• Developing and coordinating effective stock control systems, arranging timely transportation of collections and deliveries, and meeting legislative standards - i.e., Health & Safety/Environmental Health.

• Provide and oversee assessments of guests, customers, and service users on a one-on-one/group basis to ensure they receive adequate advice/signposting and support on benefits, housing, financial support, and other relevant issues impacting clients' well-being. Work in collaboration with the Advice and Advocacy team.

• Advocate on behalf of clients to secure access to necessary resources and services.Stay updated on the relevant policies and available community resources.

• Oversee the operation of the clothing bank, ensuring that items are organised, available, and of good quality for clients..

• Develop and oversee cooking workshops that celebrate cultural diversity and promote healthy eating practices.

• Collaborate with local chefs or volunteers to create a welcoming environment for participants.

• Oversee in the day-to-day operations of the social supermarket, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

• Engage with elderly clients and those experiencing isolation to provide companionship, support, and resources related to their specific circumstances.

• Work on outreach programs targeting vulnerable populations to provide suitable assistance.

• Educate the team on nutritional options and food

• Lead or assist in after-school clubs and programs that promote educational engagement, social skills, and personal development for children.

• Support families to identify their needs and connect them with appropriate services and resources.

• Represent Spring Community Hubs Service and project at relevant forums and meetings across the Borough and at a London/National level

• Ensure that all processes and procedures in the SCH manual are being followed

• Ensure that the foodbank meets health and safety/environmental health standards in all its locations

• Bring to the attention of the Service Manager any concerns about the running of the project or its future sustainability

• Oversee the food Services in conjunction with the Service Manager

• Organise and run food collections in conjunction with Hub support

• Liaise with clients and referral agencies and resolve any issues that may arise in conjunction.

• Keeping up to date with legislation and policy related to the Service and making any necessary modifications to accommodate changes.

• Overseeing stock orders and working in collaboration with the Hub support and  Finance department.

• Comply with SCH policies and procedures regarding the operation of services and policies 

Strategy, Stakeholder Management, Leadership, and Management 

• Representing the organisation on a  strategic level at external meetings and events with Community partners, Local Authorities, Funders, and other key stakeholders 

• Liaise with clients and referral agencies and resolve any issues that may arise in conjunction.

• Foster relationships with local organisations, community leaders, and stakeholders, and participate in community outreach initiatives to raise awareness about available services and encourage community involvement.

• Maintaining relationships with suppliers, community groups,  Schools, Libraries, supermarkets, and other stakeholders.

• Supervise the work of the Activity Camp Coordinators, Bank Staff, Volunteers, and Facilitators during Camp and Activity Sessions 

• As one of the Deputy Safeguarding Leads, manage any concerns about a child, young person or family's welfare effectively and share concerns with the Leadership Team and other DSLs. 

• Actively contribute to and participate in AGMs, Away Days,  Team Meetings, Development Sessions, and other  Internal Meetings

• Support in the rolling recruitment of Coordinators, Bank Staff, and Volunteers to meet the needs of the service.

• Work with the Leadership Team to ensure up-to-date Employment, Training, and other HR  records for all Staff and Volunteers within the Team, and work in collaboration with the Business Support Team

• Work with the Leadership Team to ensure the service and Resources are used effectively within designated budgets, including the reimbursement of expenses.

Camps and Event Management:

• Coordinate and oversee the planning, logistics, and execution of SCH Holiday Camps, Afterschool Camps and Events.

•  Ensure adherence to Health and Safety Guidelines, Risk Assessments, and appropriate Safeguarding measures.

• Manage Camp staff, volunteers, and external contractors during activities and events, creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere. 

• Liaise with schools, organisations,  local authorities, and volunteers to explore ways of sustaining and improving the provision.

• Promote and market the project through outreach to schools and other community groups in Southwark/Havering and surrounding areas, and organise bookings.

Volunteer Management:

• Work in collaboration with the Leadership Team and  Business Support Team to recruit and train Volunteers.

• Oversee and manage the volunteers in the team who support activities and events, providing necessary guidance and supervision.

• Work with the Leadership team to foster a positive and inclusive volunteer culture, recognising and appreciating their contributions.

•  Work with the leadership Team to monitor and evaluate volunteer performance and provide constructive feedback, reports, and support as needed.

• Coordinate and oversee  all Food Service / Project volunteers, and oversee the volunteer timetable to ensure the best use of volunteers

• Coordinate the volunteer team at the warehouse and oversee groups of corporate volunteers, school groups, and other youth groups visiting to help.

• Ensure that volunteers are trained to undertake responsibilities within the warehouse and to meet the relevant legal requirements. This could include basic food hygiene,  first aid, evacuation procedures, manual handling and lifting, health and safety, and fire procedures 

Administration and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of activities, participant attendance, incidents, Impact Reporting,  Monitoring and Evaluations,  including referral processes, and ensure the requirements of Data Protection, Quality Assurance, Funding, and Compliance are met. 

• Prepare regular reports for all the Projects highlighting progress, challenges, and recommendations for improvement.

• Work within agreed budgets for activities, Camps, and Pastoral Care Services, ensuring efficient resource allocation.

• Ensure that local data is entered into the database

• Maintain accurate records of client interactions, services provided, and outcomes achieved for reporting and evaluation purposes.

• Provide regular updates to the Leadership Team on service delivery and community needs.

• Produce monthly project reports and keep the CRM/ Database updated 

Person Specification

• Experience in working with children and young people, in particular individuals who are experiencing significant Poverty and Inequality and may also have multiple and complex needs. 

• The ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of people and establish and maintain good working relationships with Partners and external stakeholders

• Proven Line Management and Supervisory experience 

• Willingness to undertake further training as required by Spring Community Hub

• Commitment to the concept of continuous improvement of procedures and practices

• Ability to remain calm in challenging situations and reinforce boundaries

• Ability to support people in managing difficult feelings, and communicate their needs effectively

• Knowledge of best practice for lone working, data protection, and safeguarding adults

• Ability to recognise and work within the boundaries of the role, including confidentiality, and the working protocols between agencies

• Strong sense of self, and ability to set and maintain boundaries and lead by example 

• Ability to communicate effectively in person on a one-to-one basis and with groups, as well as over the telephone and in writing

• Excellent listening skills

• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and others.

• Understanding of the needs of disadvantaged, disaffected, and vulnerable people, and the ability to work with them in a positive way

Qualifications and Skills:

• Qualifications/Experience in a relevant field (e.g., social work, Counselling, psychology, Information Advice and Guidance, Education, or related disciplines). A master's degree is desirable.

• Proven experience in Programme Planning and Event Management, preferably within a Charity, Community, Education, or similar setting.

• Strong organisational, Project Management and Prioritising abilities, with impeccable attention to detail.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with participants, volunteers, and external partners.

• A compassionate and empathetic approach, with a genuine interest in the well-being of others.

• Knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures, including child protection and vulnerable adult support.

•  Proficiency in using relevant software for record-keeping and report generation.

•  Empathy and compassion for individuals facing hardship

•  Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.

•  Proficiency in Google Workspace and databases, and experience with client management and other IT  / Project Management systems.

• Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and experiences.

- A degree in social work, community development, or a related field is preferred.

- Experience working in a charity or community service environment, particularly with vulnerable populations.

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse groups.

- Understanding of issues related to poverty, housing, and social welfare systems.

- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Commitment to Equal Opportunities 

All Staff, Contractors, Freelancers, and Volunteers have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure that Spring Community Hub is free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying

We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications regardless of sex, gender, and race, age, belief in any religion and none, gender identity, ethnic origin, class, sexuality, nationality, appearance, unrelated criminal activities, disability, responsibility for dependents, part-time or shift workers, being HIV positive or living with AIDS, lived experience of Significant Poverty or Inequality and any other matter which causes a person to be treated with injustice.

We believe diversity is a strength, and we aim to make sure that SCH reflects the communities we serve. 

SCH is consciously working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can bring out their skills and talents and make their best contribution to our mission to support our guests along their journey to move on and achieve full social, economic, and emotional independence to live healthy lives in a community that supports each other.

We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of Significant Poverty and Inequality and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds.

Responsible for staff/equipment 

Spring Activity Camp Coordinators/Bank Staff/Facilitators and Sessional Volunteers/Partnerships/Phone/Laptop 

Reporting to…

• Spring Activity Camp/Pastoral Manager

Why Join us / Benefits 

• A warm, welcoming, and passionate working environment.

• People-focused with a friendly and supportive workplace culture

• We are a London Living Wage Employer

• An active commitment to equality and diversity

• We offer continuing opportunities for learning, and personal and Professional development together with regular supervision, training, and support for all our staff and Volunteers.

• Generous annual leave entitlement: 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays)

• Company pension scheme.

• Frequent Team Away Days and Celebrations, as part of a friendly and collaborative team

How to Apply 

Complete the application form. You will be asked to submit a CV if suitable. 

Please also include the names of 2 referees, one of whom should be your current or most recent employer (references will not be taken up until after interview for the successful candidate)

Closing Date: Interviews to be held virtually on a rolling basis 

Application process:

1. Complete our Application form 

2. Submit your CV with a Supporting Statement.

3. Initial Telephone interview - shortlisted candidates will be invited for a Telephone interview

4. If you are shortlisted from the Telephone Interview, you will be invited to a formal interview which will consist of the following: 

• A  Presentation topic will be shared with you in advance

• 60-minute Panel Interview with members of the SLT / Board of Trustees 

• Questions will be shared with you before the interview so that you can prepare. 

• Role-specific Practical Task 

Accessibility

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please contact our Compliance and Development Manager to discuss how we can help.