Position Details School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906 Grade: 6 Part Time (22.5 hours per week) Fixed Term contract up to 2 years from start date (expected March-April 2026) Closing date: 14th January 2026 UK travel may be required for this role Our offer to you People are at the heart of what we are and do. The University of Birmingham is proud to have been a part of the City of Birmingham and the wider region for over 100 years, and we are equally proud to be recognised as a leading global university. We want to attract talented people from across the city and beyond, support them to succeed, and celebrate their success. We are committed to helping the people who work here to develop through our sector leading Birmingham Professional programme which provides all professional services staff with development opportunities and the encouragement to reach their full potential. With almost 5,000 professional services jobs in a wide range of functions in Edgbaston and on our campus in Dubai, there are plenty of opportunities for you to be able to develop your career at the University. We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of staff and that diversity is a source of strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation, and debate. We warmly welcome people from all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who and what we are, and how we work. Supporting our people to achieve a healthy work/life balance is important both to our employees and to the success of the University and, depending on the role, we offer a variety of flexible working arrangements. We therefore welcome discussions on all forms of flexible working. In addition, you will receive a generous package of benefits including 40 days paid holiday a year, one paid day a year for volunteering, occupational sick pay, and a pension scheme. We also have three high quality subsidised day nurseries. The University is situated in leafy Edgbaston and there are excellent transport links to our beautiful campus, including main bus routes and a train station on site. On campus we have a state of the art sports centre with pool, shops, places to eat and drink, our own art gallery, museum and botanical gardens. Find out more about the benefits of working for the University of Birmingham Role Summary The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing and delivering the new Rugby River Champions citizen science initiative - a community based project focused on river health monitoring. They will support volunteer networks, provide training and resources, develop communications, and glean community feedback to enhance participation and impact. The volunteer engagement officer will be expected to display strong organisational skills to plan, prioritise, and deliver activities, while also representing the project within the University of Birmingham and Rugby Borough Council. The position will be expected to work in the Rugby area, although flexibility will be required and some time will also be spent on university campus, particularly during the earlier stages of the role. Main Duties Volunteer Engagement and Support Identifying and connecting with potential volunteer networks across the Rugby area. Once established, deliver training on ecological and water chemistry citizen science techniques related to river health monitoring. Supporting volunteers in their monitoring activities via field supervision and email communications. Communicate project developments and volunteer achievements via different social media platforms. Gathering volunteer perceptions and feedback via basic social science research. Project Reporting and Delivery Determine short term priorities for own work, ensuring you maximise quality, efficiency and continuity. Supporting the analysis of citizen science outputs and research by preparing spreadsheets and calculating basic statistics. Preparing progress reports for project leads or other meetings. Disseminating project updates to volunteers via newsletters and community events. Where relevant, act as main point of contact for, and facilitate the processing of, project related procurement, contracts and invoicing. Project Management and Administration Monitor progress on volunteer numbers and fulfilment, identifying potential issues, and where required recommending improvements to processes. Support budgetary monitoring and management, including reporting. Assessing and escalating issues and risks with project managers as appropriate. Other responsibilities Assist with stakeholder management, developing and maintaining regular contact with internal and external stakeholders to understand requirements. Support the University's sustainability agenda through resource efficient working. Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. Any other duties commensurate with the grade. Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience Educated to Degree level (or equivalent qualifications). Where no equivalent qualification is held, significant practical relevant experience and expertise in a similar role will be required. Significant practical experience in a project management and/or administrative role(s). Experience working with community groups, volunteers, or citizen science initiatives. Experience in project coordination, including administration, scheduling, and resource management. Experience producing newsletters, reports, or outreach materials. Evidence of literacy and numeracy, with the ability to write clearly, and to produce and analyse information and data. Strong organisational and project management skills, with ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to engage and motivate volunteers. Experience with budgetary management. Highly proficient IT skills, including the wider MS Office suite of programmes including Excel and PowerPoint. Experience in social media communication (e.g., Instagram and/or Facebook updates reaching community groups, LinkedIn posts). Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with a range of stakeholders (community, academic, local government). Willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions when supporting volunteer field activities. Flexible and adaptable approach to work, including occasional evening or weekend commitments for community events. Familiarity with social science research methods (desirable). Understanding of freshwater ecology, water quality monitoring, or related environmental issues (desirable). A full UK driving licence (desirable). A high degree of initiative, personal judgement, resourcefulness, flexibility, and a self motivating approach. Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly. Informal enquiries to James White, email: View our staff values and behaviours here Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview. We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Jan 14, 2026
Full time
Position Details School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906 Grade: 6 Part Time (22.5 hours per week) Fixed Term contract up to 2 years from start date (expected March-April 2026) Closing date: 14th January 2026 UK travel may be required for this role Our offer to you People are at the heart of what we are and do. The University of Birmingham is proud to have been a part of the City of Birmingham and the wider region for over 100 years, and we are equally proud to be recognised as a leading global university. We want to attract talented people from across the city and beyond, support them to succeed, and celebrate their success. We are committed to helping the people who work here to develop through our sector leading Birmingham Professional programme which provides all professional services staff with development opportunities and the encouragement to reach their full potential. With almost 5,000 professional services jobs in a wide range of functions in Edgbaston and on our campus in Dubai, there are plenty of opportunities for you to be able to develop your career at the University. We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of staff and that diversity is a source of strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation, and debate. We warmly welcome people from all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who and what we are, and how we work. Supporting our people to achieve a healthy work/life balance is important both to our employees and to the success of the University and, depending on the role, we offer a variety of flexible working arrangements. We therefore welcome discussions on all forms of flexible working. In addition, you will receive a generous package of benefits including 40 days paid holiday a year, one paid day a year for volunteering, occupational sick pay, and a pension scheme. We also have three high quality subsidised day nurseries. The University is situated in leafy Edgbaston and there are excellent transport links to our beautiful campus, including main bus routes and a train station on site. On campus we have a state of the art sports centre with pool, shops, places to eat and drink, our own art gallery, museum and botanical gardens. Find out more about the benefits of working for the University of Birmingham Role Summary The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing and delivering the new Rugby River Champions citizen science initiative - a community based project focused on river health monitoring. They will support volunteer networks, provide training and resources, develop communications, and glean community feedback to enhance participation and impact. The volunteer engagement officer will be expected to display strong organisational skills to plan, prioritise, and deliver activities, while also representing the project within the University of Birmingham and Rugby Borough Council. The position will be expected to work in the Rugby area, although flexibility will be required and some time will also be spent on university campus, particularly during the earlier stages of the role. Main Duties Volunteer Engagement and Support Identifying and connecting with potential volunteer networks across the Rugby area. Once established, deliver training on ecological and water chemistry citizen science techniques related to river health monitoring. Supporting volunteers in their monitoring activities via field supervision and email communications. Communicate project developments and volunteer achievements via different social media platforms. Gathering volunteer perceptions and feedback via basic social science research. Project Reporting and Delivery Determine short term priorities for own work, ensuring you maximise quality, efficiency and continuity. Supporting the analysis of citizen science outputs and research by preparing spreadsheets and calculating basic statistics. Preparing progress reports for project leads or other meetings. Disseminating project updates to volunteers via newsletters and community events. Where relevant, act as main point of contact for, and facilitate the processing of, project related procurement, contracts and invoicing. Project Management and Administration Monitor progress on volunteer numbers and fulfilment, identifying potential issues, and where required recommending improvements to processes. Support budgetary monitoring and management, including reporting. Assessing and escalating issues and risks with project managers as appropriate. Other responsibilities Assist with stakeholder management, developing and maintaining regular contact with internal and external stakeholders to understand requirements. Support the University's sustainability agenda through resource efficient working. Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. Any other duties commensurate with the grade. Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience Educated to Degree level (or equivalent qualifications). Where no equivalent qualification is held, significant practical relevant experience and expertise in a similar role will be required. Significant practical experience in a project management and/or administrative role(s). Experience working with community groups, volunteers, or citizen science initiatives. Experience in project coordination, including administration, scheduling, and resource management. Experience producing newsletters, reports, or outreach materials. Evidence of literacy and numeracy, with the ability to write clearly, and to produce and analyse information and data. Strong organisational and project management skills, with ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to engage and motivate volunteers. Experience with budgetary management. Highly proficient IT skills, including the wider MS Office suite of programmes including Excel and PowerPoint. Experience in social media communication (e.g., Instagram and/or Facebook updates reaching community groups, LinkedIn posts). Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with a range of stakeholders (community, academic, local government). Willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions when supporting volunteer field activities. Flexible and adaptable approach to work, including occasional evening or weekend commitments for community events. Familiarity with social science research methods (desirable). Understanding of freshwater ecology, water quality monitoring, or related environmental issues (desirable). A full UK driving licence (desirable). A high degree of initiative, personal judgement, resourcefulness, flexibility, and a self motivating approach. Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly. Informal enquiries to James White, email: View our staff values and behaviours here Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview. We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
A leading global university based in Birmingham is seeking a Volunteer Engagement Officer to establish and deliver the Rugby River Champions citizen science initiative. The successful candidate will support volunteer networks, provide training, and develop communications to enhance community participation. The role requires strong organisational and interpersonal skills to manage volunteer activities and project reporting. Ideal candidates will have a degree or equivalent experience, and experience in project management and community engagement is preferred.
Jan 14, 2026
Full time
A leading global university based in Birmingham is seeking a Volunteer Engagement Officer to establish and deliver the Rugby River Champions citizen science initiative. The successful candidate will support volunteer networks, provide training, and develop communications to enhance community participation. The role requires strong organisational and interpersonal skills to manage volunteer activities and project reporting. Ideal candidates will have a degree or equivalent experience, and experience in project management and community engagement is preferred.
TRT Development Phase Programme Manager Employment Terms Role Title: Development Phase Programme Manager Hosting Organisation: Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) Responsible to: TRT Chief Executive Officer Responsible for: Oversight of programme development, partner coordination, timeline management, and funding bid preparation FTE: 1.0 Contract Type: Fixed term (12 months) Start Date: February - March 2026 (subject to The National Lottery Heritage Fund Permission to Start) Salary Range: £40,000 - £45,000, depending on experience Location: Home-based with regular travel to London and Thames Basin partner locations Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week, with occasional evening or weekend commitments Annual Leave: 25 days per year plus public holidays Probation Period: 3 months, during which annual leave is by agreement only Pension: TRT operates a contributory pension scheme; details available on request Hosting Organisation Overview Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) is a catchment-based environmental charity focused on enhancing river health and resilience throughout the Thames Basin. As a convening organisation, TRT collaborates with local delivery partners, statutory agencies, and funders to implement nature-based solutions, support environmental data infrastructure, and improve community access to blue spaces. TRT also coordinates the Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP), building on a tradition of multi-partner catchment initiatives to achieve significant environmental and social benefits. The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) is a £3 million flagship programme delivered by Thames Rivers Trust in partnership with seven NGOs and catchment groups. The Development Phase, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, runs from January 2026 to April 2027 and lays the groundwork for a three-year Delivery Phase () across six sub-catchments. This builds on the successful Phase 1 pilot funded through The Green Recovery Challenge Fund (). More info: Project Overview Project Title: Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) Funded By: The National Lottery Heritage Fund (Development Phase) Development Phase Duration: 1 Year Coordinating Organisation: Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) Project Summary: The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) is a collaborative, catchment-scale initiative that supports the recovery of the critically endangered European eel by removing migration barriers, restoring river habitats, and reconnecting communities with their local water environments. The project builds on the success of a pilot phase funded through the Green Recovery Challenge Fund (), which trained over 200 volunteers, surveyed more than 450 barriers, and helped catalyse collaborative action across the Thames Basin. During this Development Phase (2026), partners will work together to finalise the programme design for a three-year Delivery Phase (). This includes site-level feasibility studies, co-designed community engagement, capital project planning, evaluation framework development, and a final funding application for the Delivery Phase. Alongside habitat restoration, the programme also emphasises education, equity, climate resilience, and long-term legacy, using the iconic eel as a flagship species to inspire action and foster connection. Job Summary This essential role will oversee the coordination, governance, and planning of the TCCEP Development Phase. The Programme Manager will supervise the programme's daily operations, manage partner input into key workstreams (capital design, education, citizen science, inclusion), and ensure that timelines, budgets, and deliverables meet The Heritage Fund expectations. The role involves direct responsibility for preparing the Delivery Phase funding application and ensuring that the Development Phase creates a strong legacy platform for long-term impact. This includes coordinating evaluation planning, risk registers, governance frameworks, and a sustainable funding strategy. The role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to facilitate collaboration among multiple partners across diverse catchments and disciplines. Key Responsibilities Programme Management and Delivery: Lead day-to-day coordination of all Development Phase activities across partner organisations. You will be supported by a team including a Learning & Engagement Officer, Finance & Admin Officer and four external consultants (activity, conservation, interpretation, evaluation), alongside the TRT CEO and key staff from the delivery partners Manage and update the programme timeline, risk register, and delivery plan Oversee preparation and submission of the Delivery Phase application to The National Lottery Heritage Fund Track milestones and ensure high-quality deliverables across capital planning, education, evaluation, and engagement workstreams Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination: Convene and chair monthly partner meetings and quarterly Programme Board meetings Act as the central contact for The Heritage Fund, Environment Agency, and strategic stakeholders Facilitate input from delivery partners, ensuring alignment with shared priorities and timelines Communications and Reporting: Support production of communication materials including briefings, reports, and evaluation summaries Collate and submit regular updates to The Heritage Fund Ensure clear and effective internal communications among partners Legacy and Strategy: Lead development of the project legacy strategy and post-2030 sustainability plans Coordinate funding strategy work with TRT's Fundraising Officer Embed climate resilience, equity, and inclusion principles across project planning Person Specification Essential: Proven track record of managing complex, multi-partner programmes Strong organisational, planning, and project management skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Experience with funder reporting and application development (preferably The Heritage Fund or equivalent) Ability to manage timelines, budgets, and risk registers with minimal supervision Strategic thinker with a collaborative working style Desirable: Knowledge of river restoration, catchment management, or eel ecology Experience with The National Lottery Heritage Fund or similar funders is desirable Familiarity with Thames catchment geography and delivery networks Experience using collaborative tools and evaluation frameworks in multi-stakeholder programmes Understanding of equity and inclusion in environmental programme design Additional Requirements: Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits and meetings Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends Willingness to travel throughout the Thames Basin and London region Conditions of Service: Fixed term for one year, though we would look to extend the role, subject to alternative funding being available to cover the period between the end of the Development Phase and commencement of the Delivery Phase (3-5 months) Standard working week is 37.5 hours, with flexible working arrangements considered The role may involve fieldwork, travel to meetings across the Thames Basin, and working outdoors in varying conditions No overtime will be paid; time off in lieu may be taken with prior agreement Application Process To apply, please send: A CV (no more than 2 pages). A one-page covering letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role. Send applications by an email via the button below. Deadline: 11.59pm Friday 16th January 2026. Interviews: 27th - 30th January 2026. If you would like to discuss the role, please contact by an email.
Jan 10, 2026
Full time
TRT Development Phase Programme Manager Employment Terms Role Title: Development Phase Programme Manager Hosting Organisation: Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) Responsible to: TRT Chief Executive Officer Responsible for: Oversight of programme development, partner coordination, timeline management, and funding bid preparation FTE: 1.0 Contract Type: Fixed term (12 months) Start Date: February - March 2026 (subject to The National Lottery Heritage Fund Permission to Start) Salary Range: £40,000 - £45,000, depending on experience Location: Home-based with regular travel to London and Thames Basin partner locations Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week, with occasional evening or weekend commitments Annual Leave: 25 days per year plus public holidays Probation Period: 3 months, during which annual leave is by agreement only Pension: TRT operates a contributory pension scheme; details available on request Hosting Organisation Overview Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) is a catchment-based environmental charity focused on enhancing river health and resilience throughout the Thames Basin. As a convening organisation, TRT collaborates with local delivery partners, statutory agencies, and funders to implement nature-based solutions, support environmental data infrastructure, and improve community access to blue spaces. TRT also coordinates the Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP), building on a tradition of multi-partner catchment initiatives to achieve significant environmental and social benefits. The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) is a £3 million flagship programme delivered by Thames Rivers Trust in partnership with seven NGOs and catchment groups. The Development Phase, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, runs from January 2026 to April 2027 and lays the groundwork for a three-year Delivery Phase () across six sub-catchments. This builds on the successful Phase 1 pilot funded through The Green Recovery Challenge Fund (). More info: Project Overview Project Title: Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) Funded By: The National Lottery Heritage Fund (Development Phase) Development Phase Duration: 1 Year Coordinating Organisation: Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) Project Summary: The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) is a collaborative, catchment-scale initiative that supports the recovery of the critically endangered European eel by removing migration barriers, restoring river habitats, and reconnecting communities with their local water environments. The project builds on the success of a pilot phase funded through the Green Recovery Challenge Fund (), which trained over 200 volunteers, surveyed more than 450 barriers, and helped catalyse collaborative action across the Thames Basin. During this Development Phase (2026), partners will work together to finalise the programme design for a three-year Delivery Phase (). This includes site-level feasibility studies, co-designed community engagement, capital project planning, evaluation framework development, and a final funding application for the Delivery Phase. Alongside habitat restoration, the programme also emphasises education, equity, climate resilience, and long-term legacy, using the iconic eel as a flagship species to inspire action and foster connection. Job Summary This essential role will oversee the coordination, governance, and planning of the TCCEP Development Phase. The Programme Manager will supervise the programme's daily operations, manage partner input into key workstreams (capital design, education, citizen science, inclusion), and ensure that timelines, budgets, and deliverables meet The Heritage Fund expectations. The role involves direct responsibility for preparing the Delivery Phase funding application and ensuring that the Development Phase creates a strong legacy platform for long-term impact. This includes coordinating evaluation planning, risk registers, governance frameworks, and a sustainable funding strategy. The role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to facilitate collaboration among multiple partners across diverse catchments and disciplines. Key Responsibilities Programme Management and Delivery: Lead day-to-day coordination of all Development Phase activities across partner organisations. You will be supported by a team including a Learning & Engagement Officer, Finance & Admin Officer and four external consultants (activity, conservation, interpretation, evaluation), alongside the TRT CEO and key staff from the delivery partners Manage and update the programme timeline, risk register, and delivery plan Oversee preparation and submission of the Delivery Phase application to The National Lottery Heritage Fund Track milestones and ensure high-quality deliverables across capital planning, education, evaluation, and engagement workstreams Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination: Convene and chair monthly partner meetings and quarterly Programme Board meetings Act as the central contact for The Heritage Fund, Environment Agency, and strategic stakeholders Facilitate input from delivery partners, ensuring alignment with shared priorities and timelines Communications and Reporting: Support production of communication materials including briefings, reports, and evaluation summaries Collate and submit regular updates to The Heritage Fund Ensure clear and effective internal communications among partners Legacy and Strategy: Lead development of the project legacy strategy and post-2030 sustainability plans Coordinate funding strategy work with TRT's Fundraising Officer Embed climate resilience, equity, and inclusion principles across project planning Person Specification Essential: Proven track record of managing complex, multi-partner programmes Strong organisational, planning, and project management skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Experience with funder reporting and application development (preferably The Heritage Fund or equivalent) Ability to manage timelines, budgets, and risk registers with minimal supervision Strategic thinker with a collaborative working style Desirable: Knowledge of river restoration, catchment management, or eel ecology Experience with The National Lottery Heritage Fund or similar funders is desirable Familiarity with Thames catchment geography and delivery networks Experience using collaborative tools and evaluation frameworks in multi-stakeholder programmes Understanding of equity and inclusion in environmental programme design Additional Requirements: Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits and meetings Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends Willingness to travel throughout the Thames Basin and London region Conditions of Service: Fixed term for one year, though we would look to extend the role, subject to alternative funding being available to cover the period between the end of the Development Phase and commencement of the Delivery Phase (3-5 months) Standard working week is 37.5 hours, with flexible working arrangements considered The role may involve fieldwork, travel to meetings across the Thames Basin, and working outdoors in varying conditions No overtime will be paid; time off in lieu may be taken with prior agreement Application Process To apply, please send: A CV (no more than 2 pages). A one-page covering letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role. Send applications by an email via the button below. Deadline: 11.59pm Friday 16th January 2026. Interviews: 27th - 30th January 2026. If you would like to discuss the role, please contact by an email.
The Community Engagement Officer will play a pivotal role in delivering Alzheimer s Research UK s Dementia Community Champions (DCC) programme. Launched in 2022, the programme empowers volunteers to share dementia information within communities that are under-served in terms of access to health information and research, and at higher risk of being affected by dementia. The programme has to date focused on South Asian communities in Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby. In 2026, it will expand to include Black African and Black Caribbean communities in East London. As the programme continues to grow, the Officer will have significant scope to support, shape, and develop this important area of work. Dementia Community Champions are volunteers trained by Alzheimer s Research UK to deliver events in their communities to increase knowledge and understanding of dementia, brain health and dementia risk factors. They also emphasise the importance of taking part in research in their local communities. They do this by: - attending and completing training in dementia, risk factors, and dementia research run by the core ARUK team. - holding events within their communities to share dementia information. - sharing leaflets and other resources. - speaking to local people about their experience of dementia and signposting them to appropriate information and opportunities. This role will be known internally as Dementia Community Champion FTC Key Responsibilities: Day to day support of volunteers Assist in the recruitment and management of new DCC volunteers, ensuring a smooth onboarding process and volunteer journey. Act as a point of contact for DCC volunteers, providing guidance, support, and timely responses to their enquiries. Empower volunteers by helping them build skills and confidence to talk about dementia and dementia research, and to engage effectively with their audiences. Plan, facilitate, and deliver monthly online meetings. This includes coordinating with volunteers, arranging logistics, addressing queries, and liaising with internal stakeholders. Comprehensive admin support Provide comprehensive administrative support for the programme, including assisting volunteers in organising and evaluating their events. Collect key metrics from the programme to monitor progress and evaluate activities. Maintain relevant files and documents, ensuring accurate recording of data and adherence to GDPR. Ensure activities comply with ARUK s branding and style guide. Support the delivery of Dementia Community Champions in underserved communities. Assist in the development and delivery of DCC training and ongoing support to volunteers to hold their own events. Act as a champion for DCC across Alzheimer's Research UK, effectively communicating the importance, successes and challenges of the programme. Share insights and support colleagues across ARUK in their efforts to reach underserved communities. Collaborate with the DCC Manager to produce ongoing evaluation of the programme. Proactively suggest new initiatives and continuous improvements. What we are looking for: Science graduate or equivalent level of education (biomedical or biological subject) or relevant work experience Experience of discussing health or research with the public. Experience of communicating complex health information in a simple and accessible way. Awareness of current topics in dementia and dementia research Demonstrated experience in providing comprehensive administrative support for programmes or initiatives. Experience of working with and supporting volunteers. Project and events coordination experience. Effective written and spoken communication skills. A confident, friendly, and professional attitude; would feel at ease representing the charity to a range of audiences. Willingness and ability to travel independently in the UK and occasionally to work outside of regular office hours when needed. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise responsibilities, and meet deadlines effectively, especially in a fast-paced environment. The willingness to learn and understand about dementia and dementia research and be able to use learning to effectively train others on topics of diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Willingness to work collaboratively with colleagues across different departments, as well as external stakeholders and volunteers, to achieve common goals. Openness to adapting to changing circumstances and priorities, as well as flexibility in approach when working with diverse communities and volunteers. Ability to understand and empathise with individuals affected by dementia, as well as volunteers who may have personal connections to the cause. Dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the programme and ensuring that all volunteers feel valued and respected regardless of their background. Additional Information: Ways of working: As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office. Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals. This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events. Our Office : Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. Salary : Circa £30,000 per annum, plus benefits. Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information. The closing date for applications is the 25th January 2026 , with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK. As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. While we strive to anonymise your CV where possible, there are certain sections, such as the application question, that cannot be fully anonymised. We kindly ask that you remove any personal information, including your name, when answering the application question. The hiring panel will not have access to your personal details, such as your name and address, until you are invited for an interview. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application. About Alzheimer s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure. Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope.
Jan 07, 2026
Full time
The Community Engagement Officer will play a pivotal role in delivering Alzheimer s Research UK s Dementia Community Champions (DCC) programme. Launched in 2022, the programme empowers volunteers to share dementia information within communities that are under-served in terms of access to health information and research, and at higher risk of being affected by dementia. The programme has to date focused on South Asian communities in Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby. In 2026, it will expand to include Black African and Black Caribbean communities in East London. As the programme continues to grow, the Officer will have significant scope to support, shape, and develop this important area of work. Dementia Community Champions are volunteers trained by Alzheimer s Research UK to deliver events in their communities to increase knowledge and understanding of dementia, brain health and dementia risk factors. They also emphasise the importance of taking part in research in their local communities. They do this by: - attending and completing training in dementia, risk factors, and dementia research run by the core ARUK team. - holding events within their communities to share dementia information. - sharing leaflets and other resources. - speaking to local people about their experience of dementia and signposting them to appropriate information and opportunities. This role will be known internally as Dementia Community Champion FTC Key Responsibilities: Day to day support of volunteers Assist in the recruitment and management of new DCC volunteers, ensuring a smooth onboarding process and volunteer journey. Act as a point of contact for DCC volunteers, providing guidance, support, and timely responses to their enquiries. Empower volunteers by helping them build skills and confidence to talk about dementia and dementia research, and to engage effectively with their audiences. Plan, facilitate, and deliver monthly online meetings. This includes coordinating with volunteers, arranging logistics, addressing queries, and liaising with internal stakeholders. Comprehensive admin support Provide comprehensive administrative support for the programme, including assisting volunteers in organising and evaluating their events. Collect key metrics from the programme to monitor progress and evaluate activities. Maintain relevant files and documents, ensuring accurate recording of data and adherence to GDPR. Ensure activities comply with ARUK s branding and style guide. Support the delivery of Dementia Community Champions in underserved communities. Assist in the development and delivery of DCC training and ongoing support to volunteers to hold their own events. Act as a champion for DCC across Alzheimer's Research UK, effectively communicating the importance, successes and challenges of the programme. Share insights and support colleagues across ARUK in their efforts to reach underserved communities. Collaborate with the DCC Manager to produce ongoing evaluation of the programme. Proactively suggest new initiatives and continuous improvements. What we are looking for: Science graduate or equivalent level of education (biomedical or biological subject) or relevant work experience Experience of discussing health or research with the public. Experience of communicating complex health information in a simple and accessible way. Awareness of current topics in dementia and dementia research Demonstrated experience in providing comprehensive administrative support for programmes or initiatives. Experience of working with and supporting volunteers. Project and events coordination experience. Effective written and spoken communication skills. A confident, friendly, and professional attitude; would feel at ease representing the charity to a range of audiences. Willingness and ability to travel independently in the UK and occasionally to work outside of regular office hours when needed. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise responsibilities, and meet deadlines effectively, especially in a fast-paced environment. The willingness to learn and understand about dementia and dementia research and be able to use learning to effectively train others on topics of diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Willingness to work collaboratively with colleagues across different departments, as well as external stakeholders and volunteers, to achieve common goals. Openness to adapting to changing circumstances and priorities, as well as flexibility in approach when working with diverse communities and volunteers. Ability to understand and empathise with individuals affected by dementia, as well as volunteers who may have personal connections to the cause. Dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the programme and ensuring that all volunteers feel valued and respected regardless of their background. Additional Information: Ways of working: As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office. Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals. This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events. Our Office : Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. Salary : Circa £30,000 per annum, plus benefits. Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information. The closing date for applications is the 25th January 2026 , with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK. As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. While we strive to anonymise your CV where possible, there are certain sections, such as the application question, that cannot be fully anonymised. We kindly ask that you remove any personal information, including your name, when answering the application question. The hiring panel will not have access to your personal details, such as your name and address, until you are invited for an interview. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application. About Alzheimer s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure. Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope.
