Youth Engagement Lead – WWL Hospital

Company Description

Wigan Youth Zone is a purpose built, state-of-the-art youth facility in Wigan town centre which opened in June 2013. It offers young people from across Wigan the opportunity to meet friends, have new experiences, learn new skills and access the support they need to develop and achieve their potentia

The Youth Zone is open to all young people across Wigan aged from 8 to 19 (up to 25 with additional needs), striving to offer something for everyone, regardless of their interests or abilities. With almost 15 dedicated areas to choose from including our four 40-metre floodlit football pitches, art room, music room and climbing wall – there's something for everyone here at Wigan Youth Zone.

Our aim is simple, to provide the town's young people with somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to.

Role Description

This role is designed to act as a vital bridge between young people aged 8–19 who attend Rainbow Ward and the Emergency Department (ED) at Royal Albert Edward Infirmary (RAEI) and Wigan Youth Zone (WYZ) - and the wider network of youth services available across the borough. The post-holder will play a key role in building trust-based relationships with young people during vulnerable moments in their lives—often during repeat or emergency hospital visits—and use these interactions as opportunities to connect them with positive, supportive environments outside of the hospital setting.  

This is an innovative and pioneering initiative, launched as a collaboration between WWL NHS Foundation Trust and Wigan Youth Zone, aimed at supporting young people in new and meaningful ways. The role represents a unique opportunity to shape a brand-new programme from the ground up, with the ambition of creating a sustainable model that can continue beyond the initial 12-month pilot. The post holder will set up a youth voice group within the hospital and will be an advocate for young people within WWL.. 

We are seeking an independent, proactive self-starter who brings creativity, empathy, and out-of-the-box thinking. The successful candidate will be instrumental in designing and delivering a youth-centred approach that not only responds to immediate needs but also contributes to long-term wellbeing and engagement. This is a chance to make a lasting impact on how health and youth services work together to support young people in Wigan. 

Knowledge and Understanding

Knowledge of the issues affecting young people in today's society and how to plan activities with a view to raising awareness around relevant topics.

To be empathetic and approachable person who will listen to young people and support them with relevant information, advice and guidance.

In-depth knowledge of the Lundy Model of Participation, including its four key concepts: Space, Voice, Audience, and Influence, and how these can be embedded in youth work practice to ensure meaningful participation of young people in decision-making processes.

An ability to work with a diverse range of young people including; ages, gender, sexuality, needs and abilities.

Knowledge and understanding of emotional wellbeing, mental health and how to sign post onto other relevant services and/or undertake work around positive coping strategies and how to keep safe.

Understanding of the principles of working with children and young people including behaviour that challenges and trauma informed practice.

Knowledge of health and safety, diversity awareness and safeguarding best practice and how these relate to children and young people.

Delivery of activities within an equality framework.

To lead from the front following our vision and values and embedding these in our 
offer.