Programmes and Outreach Officer

We are seeking an engaging and reliable Programmes and Outreach Officer to join our small team. They will work with and support the Programmes and Operations Manager, alongside the Charity Administrator, to deliver creative programmes for people affected by dementia. 

Who we are

Arts for Dementia is a small charity but a leader in our field. We work with artists, galleries, museums and community spaces to offer inspiring arts programmes for people in the early stages of dementia and their companions. We train facilitators from around the country in early stage dementia awareness and how to deliver effective arts-based activities for people living with dementia.  We also raise awareness of the value of the arts for people affected by dementia through our advocacy work.

Key responsibilities

·        Co-ordinating and supporting creative programmes, including working with host organisations, artists, and volunteers to deliver creative workshops for people living with dementia and their companions. Maintaining ongoing communication with participants throughout the programmes.

·        Leading on feedback and evaluation processes across programmes. Including accessibility and safeguarding.

·        Stewardship of programme volunteers, providing support and guidance to ensure safe, engaging and enjoyable workshops.

·        Recruitment and registration of workshop participants. Identifying key referrers, visiting relevant organisations, occasionally delivering taster sessions and gathering contact details.

·        Community outreach and development both online and in-person. Building and maintaining relationships across local networks, including memory cafes, dementia groups, older adult community centres and potential referral partners.

·        Co-ordinating our weekly online Art Wednesday sessions. Including the delivery of sessions and planning for guest artists and arts organisations to lead a variety of creative sessions.

Additional responsibilities

·        Supporting the work of the wider organisation, including attending events, exhibitions, fundraising activities when needed. Occasionally including evenings or weekends.

Skills, knowledge and experience

Essential

·        Excellent networking and relationship-building skills

·        Excellent written and verbal communication skills

·        Highly organised with effective time management

·        Confident hosting groups; empathetic and personable demeanour

·        Ability to work reliably and independently

·        Ability to work flexibly, responding to the changing demands and needs of a small, busy organisation

·        Interest in the arts 

Desirable 

·        Experience of community outreach/development

·        Experience of facilitating and hosting creative workshops

·        Understanding of dementia

·        Experience working with older adults, those living with dementia or people with various access needs

·        Experience with a CRM 

·        Experience of the charity sector  

Benefits

·        25 days holiday a year, plus 8 bank holidays

·        Company pension scheme (employer contributes 3%, employee contributes 5%) upon completion of probation period

·        Flexible working available

·        Regular training and development opportunities

·        Social events with wider Arts for Dementia team

Why join us 

This is an opportunity to join a growing and ambitious charity and help deliver our core creative activities.  As a small organisation, we value initiative, creativity, and teamwork, and we aim to provide an environment where staff can grow their skills while being part of a supportive, committed and positive team. 

We are very keen to have a diverse and inclusive team, and value lived experience.    We actively encourage applications from people from racially minoritised and culturally diverse communities, particularly those underrepresented in the arts and dementia support sectors. We also recognise the value of lived experience, including caring for someone with dementia.