We are recruiting for a Community Buildings Advisor

Why this role matters

Many village halls were built after the First World War. Set up in a concerted national effort to develop social and educational provision in rural areas, they have adapted over the years to provide a space for many activities from exercises classes, playgroups and weddings to hosting vital services such as post offices, doctors’ surgeries and shops. Quite often, they are the only place for people to meet and socialise locally. They also sustain an estimated 50,000 livelihoods connected with use of the venue.

These buildings are almost entirely managed by volunteers. Based on a recent national survey of village halls, it is estimated 80,000 people regularly volunteer their time to keep these important community assets alive. But this is no easy task. Running a hall requires good governance, funding and an ability to negotiate red tape.

About the role

• SSP 29 to 32 Annual Salary £28K to £30K (pro rata) depending on skills/experience
• 21 Hours per week
• Currently based in Lewes; remote working arrangements can be considered
• 28 days annual holiday (pro-rata) and contributory pension scheme

Action in rural Sussex is seeking a customer focussed, friendly, Community Buildings Advisor to join us as a key member of our Community Based Services team.

We provide the people who run community buildings across Sussex with advice, information and support via our Village Halls & Community Buildings Advisory Service

For this varied and interesting role we are looking for someone who has an understanding of setting up charitable organisations, good governance an eye for detail and/or experience of running a facility or community building. If you enjoy a mix of office based and on-location working, meeting new people and helping local communities achieve their aims then we would love to hear from you.

Download the Person Specification HERE

Download the Job Description HERE

How to apply

IMPORTANT Before applying for this post please read the Job Description and Person specification carefully and make sure you have understood the below points fully before downloading and completing the application form.

• Using the section headed “Information in Support of your Application” please explain exactly why you think you have the skills, knowledge and experience to fill this role. Please do not attach a cover letter, CV or other documents.
• Please note that if you do not meet the criteria, or score sufficient marks, based on the information that you have provided, then we will send you a rejection email on this basis shortly after short-listing.
• We will email those short-listed to invite them to a formal interview which will be held week beginning 25 September 2023.

Download the Application Form HERE

Please email your enquiries and application form to: recruitment@ruralsussex.org.uk

Closing Date: Midday Monday  18 September 2023 – Interview Date: Week beginning 25 September 2023

Action in rural Sussex is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. To help us honour this commitment we would ask you to complete the following two surveys:

Equal Opportunities Survey (just over 1 minute to complete)

Recruitment Survey (Less than 1 minute to complete)

Registered name: Sussex Rural Community Council, Charity No: 1035401