Community Support Officer
Community Support Officer
About NOW Group
NOW Group are an award-winning social enterprise who delivers services across Northern Ireland supporting people with learning difficulties, autism and neurodiverse conditions into jobs with a future.
We are passionate about changing lives and our priority is on outcomes and impact for individuals, their families and communities who are the most disadvantaged. We support participants to have better health, a better education and a brighter future. Our services are continually evolving as a result of co-design, participant feedback and project learning.
The Role
As Community Support Officer you will provide direct support to participants on NOW Group’s Community Opportunities programme by delivering a programme of daily activities to increase independent living and social skills. The post holder will work closely with other departments including our Employment and Training Services to encourage and support participants on their journey of progression from community services.
Key Responsibilities
Provide person-centered support to participants on the NOW Connects programme.
Support participants within classroom and outdoor venues.
Encourage individuals to engage in opportunities and build independence skills.
Promote Volunteer opportunities for group members.
Build on existing external networks/relations and develop new ones to increase range of activities and networks available to participants.
Route train participants to increase independence skills.
Work effectively with NOW Group Services to provide a full range of support, optimizing positive progression for participants.
Ensure organisational, team and individual annual KPIs are met.
Ensure accurate record keeping of participant attendance, retention and progression in compliance with organisational data protection and confidentiality policy.
Comply fully with NOW Group's 'Organisational Approach to Safeguarding.
This job description is not definitive and may be subject to review as the duties and responsibilities determine
What We Offer
At NOW Group, we value and invest in our employees. Benefits include:
Generous Leave: 25 days annual leave plus 12 statutory days (pro-rata).
Health Cash Plan: Available after successful probation.
Wellbeing Support: Access to confidential counselling and financial advisory services.
Pension Scheme: 5% employer contribution.
Flexible Work Initiatives: Including the Bike-to-Work scheme, holiday purchase options, and more.
Our Values:
We are looking for candidates who align with NOW Group’s values, demonstrating flexibility, dedication, and a commitment to empowering participants. Successful candidates will exhibit a passion for social change and the ability to work collaboratively with participants, stakeholders, and colleagues.
About this role
Additional Information
Employment is subject to a Garda Vetting Bureau check.
NOW Group is committed to fair recruitment practices. A copy of our safeguarding and recruitment policies is available upon request.
Join us at NOW Group and make a real difference in the lives of individuals with learning difficulties and autism. Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future.
What you will need
Required criteria
- Minimum one years' experience of supporting people with intellectual disabilities within a group environment.
- Educated to Leaving Certificate level or above.
- Experience of engaging with volunteers.
- Ability to demonstrate administrative skills with good record keeping.
- Proficient in the use of the Microsoft Office suite.
- Clear understanding and articulation of the barriers faced by people with intellectual disabilities or autism.
Desired criteria
- Certified Qualification (ideally to degree level) in a relevant discipline e.g. Community Work or Youth Work
- Proven track record of securing employment for people with barriers to learning.
