Group Advocacy Leader

ARC NI has 25 years experience in representing the learning disability community and from the outset have valued the importance of Experts By Experience.  These are people with a learning disability, autism and other support needs.  We have actively encouraged their voice being heard.

Main Purpose of Role

The Group Advocacy Leader will support groups of people with a learning disability, in a range of settings including the community and hospital, to build their independence in speaking up about issues important to them.  These groups are called Telling It Like It Is (TILII) and the members are Experts By Experience.

Specifically, the Group Advocacy Leader is responsible for the delivery of a high quality group advocacy service in line with ARC NI’s existing contracts; and the development of new opportunities in partnership with TILII members.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Facilitate group advocacy activities to adults with a learning disability, autism or other support needs, adopting a person-centred approach and building the capacity of TILII members
2. Complete monitoring returns and participate in contract review meetings
3. Support the production of high-quality creative material (including Easy Reads; films, reports etc.) tailored to a range of online channels and audiences
4. Represent ARC NI by attending appropriate events and responding to stakeholder enquiries
5. Engage with other staff as a positive member of the team
6. Undertake any other duties appropriate to the post, and/or agreed by the Director.

Person Specification:

The following essential criteria will be applied at shortlisting stage:

• Experience in supporting people with a learning disability, adopting a person-centred approach
• Experience in supporting the voice of underrepresented groups being heard
• Ability to communicate effectively, including oral and written
• Skilled in using IT packages
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to work on own initiative and able to meet deadlines
• Understanding of the ethos and values of ARC NI
• Full Driving License and access to a car

Please be advised that this list is not meant to be exhaustive and may be added to or amended as and when deemed necessary.

Return completed applications to Stephen Walker quoting REF: GAL-01/25 in the subject line.

Applications in the form of a CV will not be accepted

The closing date for receipt of completed application forms is Thursday 30th January 2025 at 5pm