Project Assistant - maternity cover

• Job Type: Part Time
• Job Location: Glebe Street, Inverness
• Reporting to: Foodbank Manager
• Department: Operations
• Closing Date: 22.04.2026

• Job Type: Part Time
• Job Location: Glebe Street, Inverness
• Reporting to: Foodbank Manager
• Department: Operations
• Closing Date: 22/04/2026

The post-holder will work closely with and report to the Foodbank Manager across the range of activities covered by the post.

• Service Delivery & Frontline Coordination
• Support the delivery of foodbank sessions across all centres
• Help ensure a consistent, welcoming and dignified client experience
• Help with the day-to-day coordination of foodbank operations
• Identify and respond to issues arising during service delivery
• Support the implementation of service procedures and improvements
• Liaising with referral agencies and supporting clients
• Maintain positive relationships with referral agencies (e.g. CAB, NHS, housing teams)
• Support referral pathways and ensure accurate and appropriate use of the e-referral system
• Help to monitor referral trends and highlight any gaps or issues
• Assist with signposting clients to additional support where appropriate
• Administrational Duties
• Manage the shared foodbank inbox, ensuring timely responses and clear communication
• Maintain accurate records across systems (including DCS and internal trackers)
• Support reporting, data collection and monitoring
• Monitor and manage the allocation of Emergency Food Boxes (EFBs) to referral agencies
• Coordinate documentation, spreadsheets and internal processes
• Order and manage supplies (e.g. stationery, packaging, centre essentials)
• Safeguarding & Compliance
• Follow all safeguarding procedures and report concerns appropriately
• Support safe, respectful and appropriate interactions with clients
• Ensure work is carried out in line with Highland Foodbank and New Start Highland policies
• Maintain confidentiality and GDPR compliance at all times
• Contribute to a positive, supportive and inclusive working environment
• Support wider foodbank activities such as events, collections and projects
• Undertake any other reasonable duties as required

• Volunteer Coordination (Day-to-Day)
• Support volunteer rotas across centres, ensuring sessions are adequately staffed
• Act as a key point of contact for volunteers during shifts
• Support the onboarding and induction of new volunteers
• Communicate updates, changes and key information to volunteers
• Manage rotas and identify gaps in volunteer capacity and flag to the Foodbank Manager
• Communication & Coordination
• Manage and maintain the foodbank’s social media presence, ensuring regular and appropriate updates
• Act as a key point of contact for churches and community groups
• Coordinate and send out regular appeals (e.g. food, bags, seasonal campaigns) to churches and supporters
• Design and create posters, appeals and communication materials in line with organisational branding
• Support engagement with local communities, encouraging donations and involvement
• Work with the Foodbank Manager to ensure messaging is clear, consistent and aligned with priorities

• Strong organisational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and part of a team
• Confidence using IT systems (email, spreadsheets and databases)
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism

• Passion for supporting people experiencing hardship

• Experience creating digital content and managing social media accounts

• Experience working in a community, charity or support setting
• Experience working with volunteers
• Understanding of referral systems or partnership working
• Knowledge of local support services