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Programme Coordinator – Refugee & Asylum Seeker Youth Support
Job description
Hours & Contract
Hours: 21 hours per week (some evening/weekend work required)
Contract: 1 year fixed-term
Proposed start date: September 2026
Location: Belfast-based, with occasional travel across Northern Ireland
Purpose of the Role
The Programme Coordinator will lead the delivery of a youth programme supporting young adults (18–25) who are seeking asylum or have refugee status in Northern Ireland. The role will focus on reducing isolation, building skills, improving employability, and promoting inclusion, equity, and diversity through accredited training, mentoring, residentials, workshops, and social events. The Coordinator will also strengthen connections between refugee/asylum seeker communities and local young people, helping to challenge racism and promote integration.
Key Responsibilities
Programme Delivery
Plan, organise, and deliver all programme activities, including:
Bi-annual residentials
Accredited OCN youth work and essential skills training
Themed workshops (rights, education, cultural access, navigating systems)
Social events (e.g. World Refugee Day, Eid celebrations, sporting events)
Social mentoring programme
Leadership development for past participants
Anti-racism resource development and workshops for young people
Ensure all activities are inclusive, culturally safe, trauma-informed, and accessible.
Recruit and support participants in collaboration with partner organisations.
Pair participants for peer mentoring and facilitate small group support.
Engage past participants as peer mentors and youth leaders.
Partnership & Community Engagement
Work closely with partners to promote the programme and recruit participants.
Liaise with community groups, schools, youth centres, and networks to deliver anti-racism workshops and avoid duplication of services.
Support co-design and co-delivery of activities with community partners and participants.
Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
Maintain accurate participant records and attendance logs.
Collect and analyse participant feedback to evidence need and impact.
Produce monitoring and evaluation reports for funders.
Safeguarding & Wellbeing
Ensure safeguarding policies are followed at all times.
Provide pastoral support and signposting for participants experiencing crisis or additional needs.
Maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality.
Manage the programme budget responsibly, ensuring accurate record-keeping, and compliance with funder requirements.
Person Specification
Essential
Experience of coordinating community, youth, or inclusion programmes.
Understanding of the needs and experiences of asylum seekers and refugees.
Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple activities/events.
Experience of partnership working with community and voluntary organisations.
Ability to work in a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed way.
Excellent communication skills (good level of written and spoken English), including facilitation and presentation.
Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
Desirable
Experience of delivering accredited training or workshops.
Qualification in youth work, community development, or related field.
Experience of working with young people from diverse backgrounds.
Knowledge of anti-racism education and community integration work.
Lived experience of migration or displacement.
Additional Requirements
Enhanced Access NI check required.
Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Willingness to travel within Northern Ireland.