We are recruiting for a part-time project worker to embed lived experience in the work of the Migrant Destitution Fund and other collaborative projects supported by Manchester Community Central. If you are passionate about lived experience involvement and voice and have the desire and proven ability to help people share their feedback, stories and experiences, then this role is for you. You might be looking for temporary part-time employment or a freelance post– we’re open to both.

The Migrant Destitution Fund (MDF) supports people in Greater Manchester forced into destitution by their immigration status. By providing cash grants, the fund helps people meet their basic needs, ease pressure on their mental health and restore dignity. MDF also advocates for a society where everyone is free to live with dignity as members of their communities – and we believe that the voices of people who have experienced enforced destitution should be central to advocating for this vision.

This role involves supporting people with lived experience to speak out and share their knowledge and experiences to raise awareness and advocate for change. It is all about connection, care, and making sure everyone feels supported and heard.

To be successful, you will need experience of facilitating groups and other activities to involve people with lived experience. You will have a flair for developing relationships with local organisations and partners.

We're especially interested in hearing from you if you are:

• A strong communicator, someone who builds trust, listens deeply, and can work with a wide range of people
• Someone who enjoys organising, keeping things running smoothly, and making sure no one is left out

Manchester Community Central are proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups and recognise that lived experience brings valuable insight. Learning, personal development and regular support will be available through Manchester Community Central’s Collaboration Manager.

Who we’re looking for
We are seeking a proactive and passionate individual who values working collaboratively with partners across the voluntary, community, social enterprise (VCSE), public, and private sectors.

This role welcomes individuals who have:

• A commitment to inclusion: You are passionate about diversity and make sure that different voices are heard and respected. You will work to reduce barriers to involvement to increase representation of Experts by Experience in leadership and decision-making
• Influencing and advocacy skills: You help make sure the voice of lived experience experts is heard in key decisions about policy and funding. You’re confident in challenging assumptions and speaking up to promote fairness and long-term change.
• A community-centred mindset: You should have a strong commitment to social justice and working in solidarity, with practical experience of working within and/or supporting voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations
• Excellent communication skills: You are confident in facilitating group work with a wide range of partners, with the ability to hold safe supportive spaces and engage with others in a sensitive and trauma-informed way
• A collaborative approach: You work well with others, can network and build trusting relationships with diverse groups, linking organisations and individuals to create opportunities for working together and making a positive impact
• Strong documentation and reporting skills: You are organised and thorough in keeping records, tracking progress, and sharing clear updates with colleagues and partners. You have good English writing and computing skills, such as using WhatsApp, email, word and spreadsheets
• Self-awareness and initiative: You can work independently and manage your own time using sound judgement and initiative, reaching out for support when needed. You’re able to identify and escalate risks, especially around safeguarding when working with vulnerable people.

It’s a bonus if you also have:

• Knowledge of local organisations: A good understanding of local community and refugee and migrant support organisations in Greater Manchester
• Personal experience of immigration control: You might have direct experience of immigration, for example seeking asylum, or being on a work or spouse visa.

You’ll need to be able to travel within Manchester. However, a driving licence isn’t required – we encourage active travel such as walking, cycling, or using public transport.

If this sounds like you, and you’re excited by the chance to help create meaningful change in Manchester, we’d love to hear from you.

Key information

• Employer: Manchester Community Central
• Locations: Manchester
• Role Type: Fixed term
• Salary: £10,488 per year (0.4 of £26,221 full-time equivalent)
• Working Hours: Part-Time
• Working Hours Per Week: 14 hours per week

To apply for this role:

To apply complete and return the Application form and EDI form to: pauline@macc.org.uk