Forward Connect Trainee

Overview:
We are Forward, the social enterprise that empowers people to break the cycle of crime or addiction to move forward with their lives. For more than 25 years we have been working with people to build positive and productive lives, whatever their past. We believe that anyone is capable of lasting change. Our services have supported thousands of people to make positive changes and build productive lives with a job, family, friends and a sense of community.

What you will be doing?:
Forward Connect is a nationwide peer led community for service users, providing a platform to stay connected.

The Forward Connect Coordinator will provide a comprehensive, inclusive and bespoke Forward Connect service to Forward Connect members.

The Forward Connect Coordinator will strengthen and grow the national Forward Connect network, as well as being innovative in providing more opportunities for members to connect with each other, and give back to Forward and the wider society, including their local communities.

We aim to work in partnership with many agencies giving them the opportunity to offer their services to our members, ensuring that every member has access to a holistic service.

Some of the Key responsibilities of the role are as follows:

- Promotion of the Forward Connect network and it’s interventions to SU’s, staff and relevant local external agencies such as supported housing projects.
- Support with the organisation and smooth running of events and Forward reunions
- whether social events, fundraising events or celebratory events.
- Support the team with the delivery of Recovery Support services including 1:1 casework and group work.
- Work with the communications team to research and write copy, new stories and case studies for both internal and external audiences, such as newsletters, website articles, blogs and press releases.
- Working with the Communications team, you will assist with the design and editing our client magazine, The Journey.
- Support the development of social media channels, website and intranet.
- Conduct research to support new projects and activities within Forward Connect.
- Develop links with relevant agencies including residential rehabs, supported housing / housing providers, and other local organisations offering volunteering opportunities.
- Available to facilitate Forward Connect meetings as and when required to a good standard.
- Develop skills in the collection and recording of data for audit, research and reporting Purposes.
- Keep the database up to date and accurate and managed in accordance with Data Protection Principles and Law.
- Take on other tasks and responsibilities as deemed appropriate by the Line Manager as part of the Traineeship.
- Work with other staff members across the Recovery Support Directorate as appropriate.

What we are looking for?:

- Lived experience of recovery from addiction (will need over 2 years abstinence from all substances and a commitment to maintaining recovery)
- An understanding of the needs of vulnerable adults in recovery with experience of previous offending or homelessness
- Understanding of, and commitment to, the principles of equal opportunity and client confidentiality
- An understanding of the needs of clients who are in or working towards recovery
- An ability to set and maintain professional boundaries
- Good organisational and communication skills
- Experience in organisation of events

What we offer:

- Training opportunities and career development
- Flexible working
- Season Ticket Loan Scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- 25 days (rising to 30 with length of service) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays
- Contributory Pension Scheme - Employer matched contributions of up to 6% in the first two years’ service and up to 9% thereafter
- Death in Service Payment (2x annual salary)Person specification:
Trainee Practitioner Job Description (Forward Connect) - East Kent