Job Description

Tower Hamlets Friends and Neigbours is seeking a compassionate and culturally aware Advocacy and Befriending Coordinator to join our dedicated team at THFN. This role offers a unique opportunity to support older members of the Somali community in Tower Hamlets, acting as a vital bridge between services and community members.

Key Details:

• Location: Bethnal Green, London (with community outreach)
• Salary: £25,225 (including pension) pro rata
• Hours: 28 hours per week
• Contract: Fixed term until November 2025

About Us

Tower Hamlets Friends and Neighbours is a trusted local charity supporting over 200 older people annually. We provide essential befriending and advocacy services that help reduce isolation and improve wellbeing among older residents in our community.

What You'll Do

• Provide culturally sensitive befriending and advocacy support to 20-30 older Somali residents
• Conduct home visits and maintain regular contact with service users
• Act as a cultural bridge between THFN and the Somali community
• Organize community events and social activities
• Support and mentor volunteers
• Provide interpretation services when needed
• Help develop culturally appropriate services

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• Fluency in both Somali and English
• Deep understanding of Somali culture, traditions, and heritage
• Experience working with older people in a caring capacity
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Good administrative and IT skills
• Ability to work sensitively in a multicultural environment
• Commitment to supporting older people

Desirable:

• Experience working with people living with dementia
• Knowledge of Tower Hamlets area
• Understanding of migration and refugee experiences
• Experience in interpretation and translation
• Qualification in social care or advocacy

What We Offer

• Meaningful work making a real difference in people's lives
• Supportive team environment
• Regular supervision and development opportunities
• Comprehensive training
• Pension contribution

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a statement (maximum 3 pages) addressing the person specification through our Charity Job portal.

Closing Date: 20th December 2024, 5pm
Interviews: Week beginning 2nd January 2025