Communications Officer
CHANGING PATHWAYS
26,222 per year
Felmores End, Basildon
Full-time
Listed today
Application Pack 2026 Communications Officer Welcome Changing Pathways is a registered Charity, providing domestic abuse services across the south of Essex, in partnership with Ending Violence in Essex Charity. We are the Essex County Council commissioned service for Harlow, Epping, Brentwood, Thurrock and Basildon. We deliver a range of services, offering a non-judgemental, trauma informed approach to support men, women and children who are or have experience domestic abuse. This includes: • Safe accommodation • Outreach Support • Specialist Services for the Global Majority • Stalking Support • Counselling • Training Joining our team means becoming part of a dynamic, innovative, and supportive environment where your growth and success matter. We are passionate about what we do, and we value collaboration, creativity, and excellence. By joining us, you’ll work alongside talented individuals who inspire and challenge one another to achieve their best. We are committed to providing opportunities for professional development, inclusivity, and recognising the unique fostering a culture of contributions of every team member. If you’re looking for a workplace that values your skills, encourages your ideas, and supports your ambitions, this is the perfect place for you to thrive. Tania Woodgate Chief Executive Officer Our Vision Our vision is a world in which all can live fulfilled lives, free from domestic abuse. We aim to create an equitable and just future for women, men and their families. Our Mission We do this to by helping everyone find their own pathway out of life of domestic abuse and change their future for the better. We understand the complexities of domestic abuse and that individual who connect us are coming from different points in their journey, some are still in their relationships, some have left, but regardless of where they are, we will support them all. Our Values EMPOWER individuals to make their own choices in a safe environment to enable them to regain their independence. Work with RESPECT AND DIGNITY, valuing everyone’s experiences and circumstances and advocating for their unique needs. EDUCATE for the devastating impact that domestic abuse has on individuals, local community and society. COLLABORATE and work in partnership with other organisations to provide the best support for those impacted. OUR TEAM Board of Trustees Thurrock Refuge Manager EDAPP Health IDVA Senior DAP/CYP DAP Refuge DAP Basildon Refuge Manager Senior DAP Refuge DAP Chief Executive Officer Outreach South Manager Senior IDVA Outreach West Manager Senior IDVA IDVA IDVA CYP DAP CYP DAP ISAC DAP Brighter Futures Worker Cleaner DAP Cultural Specialist Team Senior IDVA IDVA DAP Finance Manager Finance Assistants Admin Assistant Monitoring & Evaluation Adult and Child Counselling Services Ops Lead Therapists Volunteers The Role The Communications Officer will support the development and delivery of Changing Pathways’ communications and engagement activity. This is an entry-level role designed for someone looking to build a career in marketing and communications within a values-driven, trauma-informed organisation. The postholder will help raise awareness of our services, amplify survivor voices (safely and appropriately), and promote the organisation’s work through social media, campaigns, events and brand development. This role plays an important part in ensuring our messaging is clear, consistent and aligned with our values, while engaging a wide range of audiences including service users, partners, funders and the wider community. Our Staff adhere to our values, that make us PROUD of our organisation. P R O U D Positivity We approach change and challenges with a positive mindset and optimism Respect We treat everyone fairly and with respect, value and celebrate differences Ownership Our behaviours are PROUD towards everyone regardless of their role Unity We are one Organisation. Together we are stronger Dedication We uphold a strong commitment to our clients, our work, the organisation and each other Main Responsibilities MAIN DUTIES: 1. Social Media & Digital Content • Support the planning and delivery of social media content across platforms (e.g. Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X) • Create engaging, accessible and appropriate content (graphics, captions, short videos) • Schedule and monitor posts, responding to comments/messages where appropriate • Track engagement and performance, supporting reporting on reach and impact • Ensure all content is trauma-informed, safe and aligned with safeguarding and confidentiality requirements 2. Campaigns & Awareness Raising • Support the delivery of communications campaigns (e.g. awareness days, fundraising campaigns, service promotions) • Contribute ideas for creative campaigns that align with organisational priorities • Assist in developing campaign materials (digital and print) • Work with colleagues to gather stories, insights and impact data to support campaigns 3. Branding & Communications Consistency • Support the consistent use of Changing Pathways’ brand, tone and messaging across all materials • Assist in developing templates and resources to help staff communicate clearly and consistently • Help maintain and organise communication assets (photos, case studies, templates) • Ensure all communications reflect a survivor-centred and inclusive approach 4. Events & Engagement • Support the planning and delivery of internal and external events (e.g. awareness events, stakeholder engagement, community outreach) • Assist with event promotion, materials and logistics • Attend events to capture content (e.g. photos, social media updates) where appropriate • Help ensure events are accessible, inclusive and aligned with organisational values 5. Content Creation & Storytelling • Support the development of newsletters, website content and promotional materials • Work with teams to gather stories of impact (ensuring consent and confidentiality) • Help translate complex service information into clear, engaging communications 6. General Communications Support • Provide day-to-day support to the Communications function • Maintain content calendars and communication plans • Support internal communications where needed • Undertake administrative tasks related to communications and events GENERAL: 1. Identify own training and development needs and participate in all training courses relevant to the Changing Pathway’s commitment to providing high quality services. 2. Work at all times with due regard to the policies and procedures of Changing Pathways, including financial regulations, participating in their development and amendment where required. 3. Willingness to work outside normal working hours including evenings and weekends and to participate in promotional, fundraising and income generating events, activities and any other duties as may be reasonably required by the organisation. OTHER: 1. The post is subject to a DBS disclosure which will be carried out at appointment of a candidate. 2. This post is subject to completion of a six-month probationary period. 3. Must be able to drive (the Pool Vehicle to visit sites) and work across the whole contract area as required. 4. Must hold business cover insurance on their own vehicle. 5. Post is open to women only under the Equality Act 2010, schedule 9, part 1 This job description is not designed to provide an exhaustive list of tasks and therefore the post holder is expected to undertake any other reasonable duties within the scope of the post as specified by their line manager. PERSON SPECIFICATION EXPERIENCE Criteria Some experience (paid, voluntary or academic) in communications, marketing or social media Experience creating content for social media or digital platforms Experience supporting campaigns, events or community engagement Experience using design tools (e.g. Canva or similar) Experience in the charity, public sector or values-led organisation Qualification or training in a relevant field such as communications, marketing, graphic design, creative media, visual arts, film, photography, or similar OR demonstrable experience/portfolio of creative content (e.g. social media, design, video, writing) KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING Criteria Basic understanding of social media platforms and how they are used for engagement Awareness of inclusive and accessible communication Understanding of trauma-informed communication Essential/ Desirable E E D D D E How Assessed Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Essential/ Desirable E E D How Assessed Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Awareness of issues relating to domestic abuse / VAWG SKILLS AND ABILITIES Criteria Strong written communication skills with attention to detail Creative thinking and ability to generate content ideas Good organisational skills and ability to manage tasks and deadlines Ability to work collaboratively with a range of colleagues Willingness to learn and develop within a communications role Engaging communicator and the ability to adapt messages to suit the audience Proven ability to build strong and lasting relationships Excellent organisational skills with good attention to detail Excellent IT skills including the ability to use Microsoft Office and organisational case management databases EDUCATION Criteria D Application Form/Interview Essential/ Desirable E E E E E E E E E How Assessed Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Essential/ Desirable How Assessed A good standard of general education E OTHER/PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Criteria Commitment to equal opportunities and anti- discriminatory practice Willingness to undertake training and a commitment to continuous personal development Willingness to work flexibly and able to travel to different sites and venues Passion for making a difference and supporting a values-driven organisation Proactive and enthusiastic approach Sensitivity and professionalism when handling sensitive topics Open to feedback and committed to learning Essential/ Desirable E E E E E E E Application Form How Assessed Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview Application Form/Interview What you can expect from us Supportive Work Environment • A culture of respect, collaboration, and inclusivity. • Open-door policy for feedback, ideas, and concerns. Opportunities for Growth • Continuous learning through training programs, workshops, and certifications. • Clear career progression paths to help you achieve your goals. Work-Life Balance • Flexible working hours and hybrid/remote work options. • Paid time off, holidays, and wellness days. Competitive Compensation • Fair and market-aligned salary packages. Recognition and Rewards • Regular acknowledgment of individual and team contributions. • Awards, shout-outs, and celebrations of success. Innovation and Creativity • Encouragement to bring new ideas to the table. • Freedom to innovate, experiment, and grow professionally. A Focus on Well-Being • Mental health resources and employee assistance programs. Social Responsibility • Commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Empowerment and Autonomy • Trust in employees to take ownership of their work. • Support for independent decision-making and problem-Solving TERMS AND CONDITIONS Contract Salary Reports to: Benefits Include Hours Leave Expenses Location Occupational Sick Pay Notice Period This is a full time position. On a 1-year fixed term contract (possibility of extension). £26,222.00 per annum paid monthly CEO Contributory Pension Scheme. Equipment to undertake your role (hybrid). Training and developed tailored to your level of experience. Staff Discounts on BrightHR. Pets at Work Policy. 37.5hrs per week. 25 days per year plus bank holidays (pro rata). You will be reimbursed for all reasonable expenses which are incurred by you in the proper performance of your duties Changing Pathways main office is in Felmores remote with a End, Basildon requirement to attend the office on occasion and 6 meetings in Essex per year. Free parking is available. On successful completion of probation, we offer tiered sickness pay benefits. 4 weeks’ notice - mainly How to apply Please complete our application form and email completed form to welcome@changingpathways.org stating clearly in the subject line the post you are applying for. Those shortlisted for interviewed will be informed by email no later than two weeks after the closing date. Only those who are successfully shortlisted will be contacted. We are committed to operating within the legal framework of the Equality Act 2010. As our organisation qualifies for an exemption under Section 9 of the Act, we only recruit female candidates for this role. This exemption is applied lawfully and in accordance with the specific occupational requirements of our organisation.