What is a ... community initiatives officer?

What do you actually do?

Meet every local community group. For example, last night I went to a presentation by a group of young people who have set up a motorcycle maintenance project called REVS. They have already attracted a sizeable grant from a local authority, but sustainability may be their biggest issue. I’ve agreed to meet them regularly and offer help with project management – stuff like how to keep good records to ensure future accountability, but also help with other grant applications so they can buy tools or bits of bikes.

How do you engage with locals?

Many people approach me directly as Metropolitan Housing Trust has a high profile, but it’s important that we are out there finding out for ourselves what’s needed and what’s available. Some people are less confident about communicating and it’s important that they, too, are given an opportunity to engage in the community. Youth workers are a valuable source of information and young people themselves are far more positive than they are given credit for. I’m always looking to improve methods of communicating, either through leaflets, newsletters, email or the internet.

To engage, I have arranged cyber cafes, football training and even a week-long mock-Olympics last summer on an estate in West Hendon for people of all ages. One of the most positive outcomes was a reduction in vandalism on the estate.

Is it hard work?

Yes, it certainly is, especially when one resident insisted I take part in the 60-metre sprint. And, no, I didn’t win.

Long hours?

There can be, and evening or weekend work. But it’s a change from the normal 9 to 5.

Would you recommend it?

I’d recommend community development to anyone interested in working with people. You have a real opportunity to change and improve: no two days are the same.

Why choose this job?

You get to positively affect change in people’s lives and their environment. I haven’t come across the “worst bits” of the job, probably because those I work with are trying to do something positive and it’s enjoyable being a part of that.

What kind of skills do you need?

You must be self-motivated, able use your initiative and a good communicator. It’s not a job for shrinking violets. Some employers look for education to degree standard but there’s no prescribed list of qualifications.