Trainee Youth Support Worker

JobStart Scheme; Banbridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A youth-focused organization is seeking a Trainee Youth Support Worker in Banbridge, Northern Ireland. The role involves supporting young people's personal and social development through planning events, mentoring, and outreach activities. Applicants should have a genuine interest in youth work and ideally two years of experience. The position offers flexible hours and a competitive wage based on age.

Qualifications

• Two years’ experience in youth work (paid or volunteer).
• Genuine interest and enjoyment in working with young people.
• Willing to undertake flexible working patterns.

Responsibilities

• Support recruitment of young people to YI projects.
• Plan and organise events and activities.
• Mentor young people in small groups and one-on-one.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Understanding of young people's development

Ability to work on own initiative

Experience in youth work

Job description

THE EMPLOYER IS: YOUTH INITIATIVES. Youth Initiatives Trainee Youth Support Worker will focus on the personal, social and spiritual development of young people aged 11‑18 in one of the main Youth Initiatives youth community hubs – East Belfast, West Belfast, Downpatrick, Lisburn, Banbridge or Derry/Londonderry. Through weekly programmes, mentoring relationships and small groups, the trainee will plan, prepare and organise the events and activities of projects, reach out to young people and connect them to age‑appropriate YI projects, meet them on a one‑to‑one basis, advocate for them in the local area and engage them in the shaping, planning and delivery of projects.

Responsibilities

• Support the recruitment of young people from the local area, housing estates, parishes and schools and connect them to YI projects.
• Participate on designated project teams and support the planning, preparation, organisation and running of programmes, events and activities.
• Support street‑based outreach and school outreach, working with P7’s to Year 14’s including school assemblies, school lunchtimes, school retreats and street work.
• Participate on project teams supporting the on‑going informal education and mentoring work of the project.
• Support Project Leaders in developing a team of young volunteers aged 15+ in leadership skills through pastoral support and supervision.
• Connect with, mentor and disciple young people in small groups and on a 1‑2‑1 basis.
• Support the planning, preparation and organisation of weekend residentials each year.
• Participate in staff responsibilities of Youth Initiatives, including staff meetings, training and development, administration, fundraising and assistance in other Youth Initiatives projects.

Skills and Qualifications

• Two years’ experience in youth work (paid or volunteer).
• A genuine interest, motivation and enjoyment around working with young people.
• Interpersonal skills (conversation, communication, listening).
• Understanding of young people’s development and their physical, social, educational and emotional needs.
• Familiarity with the issues facing young people aged 11‑18.
• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team.
• Willingness to undertake flexible working patterns/rotas and to work unsocial hours when required.
• A commitment to the ethos and values of Youth Initiatives.
• Experience of working with the personal and social development issues of young people.
• Experience of detached street‑based youth work.

Working Hours

Standard hours: up to 25 hours per week. Flexible/reduced hours may be available upon approval by a Work Coach. Additional hours may be offered depending on availability.

Salary and Location

Banbridge, Northern Ireland. Salary ranges: £7.55 for 16‑17 years, £10.00 for 18‑20 years, £12.21 for 21+ years per hour.

Application Information

JobStart is open to working age benefit claimants deemed eligible by a Work Coach. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.

Closing date: 05 December 2025.