DiscoverMe Project Worker

RECRUITMENT PACK(DISCOVERME PROJECT WORKER)(DISCOVERME PROJECT WORKER)(DISCOVERME PROJECT WORKER)MARCH 2026WelcomeDear Applicant, Thank you for your recent interest in the DiscoverMe Project Worker at VODA (NorthTyneside Voluntary Organisation Development Agency).VODA works to support and develop the voluntary and community sector byproviding a wide range of support services and by representing the views of thesector to government and policymakers on a local and national level.We have over 300 VODA members made up of voluntary, community and socialenterprise organisations in the North Tyneside area. In addition to this, we have afurther 600 groups and organisations that are part of our community databaseand networks.  We have a strong Board of Trustees that brings a wealth of experience andknowledge. We have a committed, passionate and experienced staff team. We provide advice and guidance for the trustees, committee members andanyone else involved in the governance of an organisation. One of our key objectives is to ensure the voluntary and community sector has astrong voice and is respected and involved in decision-making as an equalpartner.We have additional funded projects that support the local community and CVS.Including the North Tyneside Volunteers Centre. We offer 28-33 days holiday plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time staff), apersonal development and training allowance, flexible and hybrid working, BUPAcash plan, 5 volunteer days (pro rata for part time staff), car and cycle milageallowance and the ability to contribute to the culture and practices of VODA by beinginvolved in the staff working groups. VODA recognises that everyone has a contribution to make to our society and aright to equal treatment. VODA is fully committed to providing an environment which eliminatesdiscrimination and actively promotes diversity and values differences based onthe unique contributions of individuals. We are part of the Disability Confident Employer scheme. If you are disabled andmeet the minimum criteria, you are guaranteed an interview. If you are selected for an interview, you will be contacted via email with a date andtime. Interviews will be held in person in the Spirit of North Tyneside Hub. You will besent directions to the Hub, the names and roles of those interviewing you andpictures of the space. We will also ask if you have any additional requirements to beable to attend an interview. VODA sends applicants the interview questions prior tothe interview, and you are able to bring notes into the interview with you. The closing date for applications is Wednesday  8 April 2026 at 12 noon, withinterviews being held on Thursday 16 April July 2026.  ththTo apply, send your CV and a covering letter of no more than 500 words outlininghow your experience and skills meet the requirements of the role toadmin@voda.org.uk  If you would like to discuss the role before applying, please contact Kirsty Christofi,Health Projects Manager on 0191 643 2626 or kirsty.christofi@voda.org.uk If you require this pack in an alternative format, please contact admin@voda.org.uk orcall 0191 263 2626Vicky Smith About North TynesideVODA VODA is North Tyneside Voluntary Organisations Development Agency. We value,promote and support the development of the voluntary and community sector byproviding an independent, sensitive, responsive and inclusive service to achieve anactive and lively community, which is rich in volunteers. VODA has been in existence since 1993. VODA is overseen by a Board of Directors,who are elected by VODA members at our Annual General Meeting. Below are VODA’s main areas of work: VODA runs the accredited Volunteer Centre for North Tyneside, raising awareness ofthe benefits of volunteering, recruiting, and placing volunteers with a range ofvoluntary, community and statutory organisations. We deliver volunteering projectsincluding a supported volunteering project for people with enduring mental healthissues and other long-term conditions. Advice and support for voluntary orcommunity organisations based in oroperating in North Tyneside on a range oftopics including developing a new group,fundraising, financial management, andgovernance. Information production: We ensure thelocal voluntary sector stays informedabout key issues impacting its work. Ourregular e-bulletin, with over 1,600subscribers, provides timely updates,funding and essential news. Our websitefeatures a comprehensive collection ofinformation sheets and guidance tosupport the sector. Additionally, wemanage multiple social media profiles,sharing information on events, news, andtraining opportunities.About North TynesideVODA Representation: VODA provides a voluntary sector viewpoint and facilitates representationwithin the sector in North Tyneside on a broad range of issues. VODA manages a range of contracts and other projects as appropriate to the needs of thelocal community, and where they fit with our strategic objectives. Training: VODA provides low cost or freetraining to meet the needs of the local voluntaryand community sector, both in person andonline. Networking and developing partnerships withlocal, regional and national organisations. VODAfacilitates local networks including theVolunteer Network and North Tyneside VCSChief Officers group. VODA works strategicallywith a range of voluntary and public sectororganisations including North TynesideStrategic Partnership. InnovativeAPPROACHABLENON-JUDGEMENTALCURIOUSHONESTCOMPASSIONATEEMPOWERINGFAIRVODA Values VODA’SVALUESEnablingCollaborativeRespectfulInclusiveWe adopt innovationwhere we can, and weare committed toencouraging andsupporting the localVCSE sector to do thesame.We strengthen theVCSE by providingopportunities,knowledge, skills andresources to buildconfidence, resilienceand independence.We will bringpeople together, inpartnership andcollaboration, toachieve a commongoal.We promote a respectfulattitude across the localVCSE sector, and ensurewe drive high-qualityengagement, appreciatingeveryone’s contribution.We are committedto promotingequality and beingfair and reasonableto all.ALIGNED TO OUR VALUES, OUR ORGANISATIONAL BEHAVIOURS ARE: ENGAGE - SUPPORT - DELIVERSECTOR & BOROUGH WIDEVODA Vision VODA VALUESOUR STRATEGIC OBJECTIVESWe will providea full range ofhigh-qualitycore servicesfree tovolunteers andvoluntary andcommunityorganisationsacross NorthTyneside.CORE SERVICESWe will manageand operate theNorth TynesideVolunteersCentre, anddirectly deliverprogrammesthat enablevolunteers tosupport localresidents andorganisations.VOLUNTEERINGWe will supportand facilitatestrong,mutuallybeneficialpartnershipsbetween VCSEorganisationsand othersectors.PARTNERSHIPSWe will ensurethe VCSEsector has astrong voice, isrespected andis involved indecision-making as anequal partner.REPRESENTATIONVODA’S MISSIONWe support volunteers and community organisations toenable people to live happier, healthier and morefulfilling lives in North Tyneside.ENGAGE - SUPPORT - DELIVERWe will offer anumber ofchargeableservices thatare in demandwithin theVCSE sector,but which lieoutside of ourfree coreservices. SUSTAINABILITYFunding AdvisorGovernance AdvisorMarketing & CommsCo-ordinatorOperationsAdministratorStructure of VODABoard of TrusteesCEOMental HealthAlliance Co-ordinatorLiving WellDevelopmentOfficerDigital TrainingDevelopment OfficerVolunteeringManagerDelivery ManagerGrow & EatDevelopment OfficerGood NeighboursProject WorkerBest Start Project WorkerDiscover MeProject WorkerDiscover MeProject WorkerSector ConnectorCo-ordinatorVolunteerDevelopment OfficerFinance ManagerFinance OfficerWhy work for VODAFlexibility and Hybrid Working: Webelieve in arranging work patternsaround other commitments such asfamily life, so we offer a 50% hybridworking arrangement and flexibilityaround working times.   Pay: We pay our staff at verycompetitive rates.  Pension: Providing you are eligible,VODA contributes a monthly amountinto the designated pension scheme.  Mileage allowance: We pay car orcycle milage allowance for work-related journeys. Holidays: Full-time staff currently geta minimum of 28 days holiday a year,rising by 1 day per year up to amaximum of 33 days plus BankHolidays. Part-time staff receiveholidays pro rata.Volunteer Days: We offer 5 volunteerdays per year (pro rata for part-timestaff).Wellbeing Activities: We offer anoptional monthly wellbeing hour whenstaff can choose to take part in avariety of activities organised by thewellbeing working group. Focus on Employee Development:We believe that as staff develop, sotoo does VODA. To encourage this, weprovide a Personal Training Budget,regular Support and SupervisionSessions – with the emphasis verymuch on support — to help staffreview their projects and their ownneeds. At the end of the year, we pulleverything together in a more formalPersonal Review & DevelopmentSession to help you take stock of whathas happened during the previous 12months, and what you need to do tomeet the challenges that lie ahead. Sick Pay Scheme: We operate acontractual sick pay scheme (after thefirst 6 months of employment) to helpyou when you are unwell. The lengthof contractual sick pay depends onhow long you have worked for us. At VODA we try to create an atmosphere of trust and respect, where people feelvalued and engaged, and where everyone is treated equally. We strive to be a goodemployer, service provider and neighbour. Among the benefits of working for VODAare:Health Care Scheme: Staff are entitled to join our health care scheme operatedby BUPA. Carers Leave VODA staff are entitled to one week every 12 months of paid CarersLeave if they have dependants who rely on them for care. In-house expertise: VODA has been around for more than three decades andduring that time, we have built up expertise in several key areas. The way we workallows you to draw on that expertise and add your own to it. Unrivalled experience: VODA is a key player in North Tyneside’s voluntary andcommunity sector. You will gain invaluable experience that you can use to furtherdevelop your career. Cross-team working: No one works in isolation at VODA. In addition to being anintegral part of your own team, you will have the opportunity to work with otherteams on common themes, to join working groups, and to have your say on awide range of issues. Conferences: We encourage staff to attend conferences that will benefit them,VODA and the community. Why work for VODAQuotes from staff The staff team are fantastic, sosupportive, helpful and encouraging ofeach other. There is a culture ofwellbeing, listening to staff andencouraging them to develop their skillsthroughout the organisation. Theindividual projects are amazing, there isalways lots going on but everyone stillworks collectively.VODA’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere is one of the many reasons I love workinghere. Our wide range of projects makes every day interesting, as does our diverse teamof encouraging and enthusiastic staff. VODA’s collaborative approach to working in thecommunity is one of the many reasons it is such a valued institution and employer inNorth Tyneside. VODA really cares about its employees and strives to ensure staff arehappy and fulfilled. VODA goes above and beyond to accommodate its staff, as well aspromoting flexible working and good wellbeing in the workplace.VODA is the best place I have everworked at-everyone is so friendlyand supportive.VODA is a fantastic place towork - they really strive to giveyou a healthy work/life balanceI have worked at VODA for nearly 2years now and can honestly say it's anincredibly supportive environment andno matter what project you work on,you're really made to feel part of thewider team. I have also appreciatedthe amount of training/developmentopportunities on offer.At VODA, I feel trusted to do my job ina way that works for me, with theflexibility to balance life and work.There’s always support when I needit, and I know I’m part of a team that’smaking a real difference in thecommunity.I really enjoy working at VODA withlikeminded people. I have foundeveryone to be very welcoming,supportive and generous with theirtime and knowledge. It's great to feelwell supported and encouraged todevelop your own post and project.Quotes from staff I love working for VODA. They reallytake care of their staff and value eachand every one of us. I always feelsupported to, listened to and heard.I've never felt happier in a job. It issuch a great team to work with.Job descriptionJob title: DiscoverMe Project WorkerHours: 15 hours per week Salary: £26,213pa pro-rataContract Type: This role is fixed-term for 12 months with the potential for extensiondepending on funding. Responsible to: Volunteering Manager Job PurposeTo support young people in North Tyneside to design and deliver activities thatimprove the mental health and wellbeing of their peers and their local communities.SummaryTo promote DiscoverMe locally, ensure smooth intake of young people, delivereffective sessions, support volunteers, and maintain efficient project operations.Help Us Reinvent Support for Young People in North TynesideNorth Tyneside VODA is launching DiscoverMe #ReinventUs, a brand‑new RecoveryCollege for young people aged 11–19. This project builds on the success of our 16–25DiscoverMe model and will offer peer‑led, strengths‑based sessions that help youngpeople develop resilience, confidence, and essential life skills in safe, inclusivecommunity spaces.We’re looking for a compassionate, creative, and youth‑focused DiscoverMe YouthWorker to help shape and deliver this exciting new offer.About the RoleAs a DiscoverMe Youth Worker, you will:Co‑produce sessions with young people, ensuring their ideas and experiencesdrive the projectDeliver weekly group sessions focused on wellbeing, resilience,confidence‑building, and life skillsBuild trusting, supportive relationships with young people aged 11–19 Job descriptionEngage those who may be isolated, struggling with low‑level mental healthchallenges, or facing barriers to supportWork collaboratively with schools, youth organisations, CAMHS, and communitypartnersSupport volunteers and peer leaders to take active roles in the projectHelp gather feedback and shape the ongoing development of the RecoveryCollegePromote the project across North Tyneside to ensure it reaches those who need itmostThis is a role for someone who believes in early intervention, community‑basedsupport, and the power of young people to shape their own futures.About YouWe’d love to hear from you if you:Have experience working with young people in a supportive, empowering, oreducational settingUnderstand the challenges young people face around mental health, confidence,and social isolationAre passionate about co‑production and youth‑led approachesCan create safe, inclusive, and engaging group environmentsAre organised, proactive, and comfortable working independentlyCan travel across North Tyneside to deliver sessions and outreachExperience in youth work, mental health, education, or community development ishelpful, but what matters most is your ability to connect with young people andchampion their strengths.About the ProjectDiscoverMe #ReinventUs will run across Wallsend, Whitley Bay, North Shields,Killingworth and Longbenton, offering accessible, community‑based support foryoung people who may not meet clinical thresholds but still need a safe place to talk, learn, and grow.Job descriptionPersonal SpecificationExperience, Skills and KnowledgeEssential SkillsExperience of working within a youth or community‑focused project.Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of young people, with anunderstanding of their needs, experiences, and barriers to participation.Proven experience in building and maintaining positive relationships with key servicesand partners to enhance project delivery.Strong communication skills, including the ability to deliver engaging presentationsand workshops to a range of audiences.Ability to plan, deliver, and co‑produce engaging sessions with young people,ensuring content is relevant, accessible, and impactful.Experience providing support and guidance to young people, including inco‑facilitation or peer‑led environments.Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures and the ability to respondappropriately to safeguarding concerns.Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritiseeffectively, and meet deadlines.Experience in recruiting and supporting volunteers.Ability to track and evaluate project impact, using data to inform decision-making.Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a proactive approach toproblem-solving.Strong administrative skillsDesirableKnowledge of the Young Persons Recovery College model or similar frameworks.Experience in managing digital platforms, including websites, social media, andnewsletters.Job descriptionLocation: North Tyneside  Salary scale: £26,213 - £28,140 Contract: This role is offered on a fixed-term basis for 12 months with the potential forextension beyond the initial period depending on future funding..  Pension: If eligible, you will be auto enrolled into the VODA Pension Scheme.  Hours: 15 hours per week Holidays: The holiday entitlement is 28 days per year, increasing by one day percompleted year, rising to a maximum of 33 days. All holidays are pro rata for part-timestaff.            Maternity/Paternity: Details of maternity/paternity leave are available. Sick Pay: Details of sick pay arrangements are available.  Health Scheme: Employees are entitled to join VODA’s health scheme, which isoperated through BUPA.  Expenses: Travel expenses are paid for necessary work-related journeys.  Notice: One monthTerms and conditions North Tyneside Voluntary OrganisationsDevelopment Agency (VODA)Spirit of North Tyneside Wing,2nd Floor, Wallsend Community Hub and Library,16 The Forum, Wallsend, NE28 8JRT: 0191 643 2626 E: admin@voda.org.ukwww.voda.org.uk Facebook:@NTVODALinkedIn: @North Tyneside VODACharitable Incorporated Organisation: 1075060