Role Purpose
The purpose of this role is to engage with communities across London, delivering the GOALS service and raising awareness of gambling-related harm through in-person community engagement. The role involves building strong, effective networks of support for individuals before, during, and after treatment, with a particular focus on those with lived experience of gambling harm and its effects on others.
As a key member of the team, the GOALS Community Supporter will work directly with individuals impacted by gambling harm, providing one-on-one support in a safe and confidential environment. The role also involves proactive outreach within the community, collaborating with local authorities, public sector bodies, businesses, and charitable organisations to raise awareness of gambling harm and promote available services.
Collaboration with key stakeholders in local authorities, public health sectors, and charitable organisations is essential to expanding the reach of the service, advocating for gambling harm awareness, and developing sustainable support networks. The post holder will also work closely with the GOALS Service Manager to ensure the integration of the service within the broader framework of local and national gambling treatment systems. This includes attending relevant events, networking with key stakeholders, and promoting other Betknowmore services to enhance the overall impact of the work.
The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) -Disclosure
Betknowmore UK aims to promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. Betknowmore UK welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Criminal records will be taken into account for requirement purposes only when the conviction is relevant. As Betknowmore UK meets the requirements in respect of exempted questions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013) by SI 2013 1198. All applicants who are offered employment will be subject to a criminal record check from the Disclosure & Barring Service before the appointment is confirmed. This will include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings, as well as convictions.
Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities
Community Engagement and Development
- Act as a proactive ambassador for the GOALS service, increasing awareness of gambling-related harms and promoting Betknowmore services within the community.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, public health bodies, businesses, and community organisations to raise awareness of gambling harm and advocate for accessible support services.
- Attend events, conferences, and meetings with key stakeholders, including local authorities, public health services, and charitable organisations, to promote gambling harm awareness and Betknowmore services.
- Engage with community groups and individuals to provide information about the risks of gambling harm and the support available, ensuring that local communities are informed of how to access services.
- Deliver promotional activities, workshops, and presentations to key partners, businesses, and community centres to expand awareness of gambling-related issues and Betknowmore’ssupport services.
- Work collaboratively with local statutory and voluntary services to develop referral pathways for individuals affected by gambling harm and ensure appropriate support is offered.
Safeguarding and Safe Working Practices
- Ensure all activities and engagements are conducted in a safe and secure environment, maintaining professional boundaries and confidentiality at all times.
- Take a proactive lead in safeguarding and harm minimisation, ensuring that safety standards are met when working with local partners and engaging with individuals at risk.
- Collaborate with external agencies to ensure safe working practices are followed, particularly when engaging with vulnerable individuals and communities.
Promotion of Betknowmore Services and Gambling Harm Awareness
- Actively promote and raise awareness of all Betknowmore services beyond the GOALS programme, ensuring that individuals are aware of a wide range of resources available to them.
- Develop and deliver tailored messaging that highlights the risks of gambling harm and outlines the full range of support services Betknowmore offers.
- Ensure that the service is visible in the community by distributing materials and connecting with local businesses, community centres, and statutory organisations.
- Represent Betknowmore in local and regional forums, raising the profile of the organisation and its services, and advocating for more comprehensive support for those affected by gambling harm.
- Collaborate with public health campaigns and other service providers to ensure a coordinated approach to addressing gambling-related issues within local communities.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement
- Foster collaborative relationships with local authorities, public sector organisations, and charitable entities, ensuring effective communication and coordination to support individuals with gambling issues.
- Attend multi-agency meetings and stakeholder forums, contributing valuable insights and advocating for enhanced services for individuals impacted by gambling harm.
- Establish and maintain connections with key stakeholders, ensuring that the GOALS service and Betknowmore’sservices are embedded within local service provision, creating a unified approach to harm reduction.
- Actively contribute to shaping service delivery, including providing feedback on service evaluation and identifying opportunities for service improvement.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
- Ensure that all community-based activities and interactions comply with health and safety, safeguarding, and equality policies.
- Support the safe delivery of activities, ensuring all participants feel secure and supported while engaging with Betknowmore services.
General Responsibilities
- Attend regular supervision sessions with the GOALS Service Manager and Clinical Supervisor.
- Work within the organisation’s code of conduct, maintaining professional and confidential boundaries.
- Contribute to the development of the service by sharing feedback and ideas for improvement.
- Assist with any fundraising or promotional efforts as agreed with senior management.
- Undertake any additional duties as required, consistent with the responsibilities of the role.
Qualifications or Relevant Experience
- Two years minimum experience in a similar role.
- Professional qualification in health, social care/community at level 3 or working in health/social care/addiction.
Essential Skills & Knowledge
- Strong knowledge of gambling-related harm and its impacts on individuals and communities.
- Ability to effectively communicate gambling harm prevention messages and raise awareness of the services available to those in need.
- Proven ability to engage with diverse communities and work collaboratively with local authorities, public sector bodies, and charitable organisations.
- Experience of promoting services through outreach, including attending events, conducting presentations, and engaging with key stakeholders.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
- Skilled in building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders across various sectors, including local authorities, public health bodies, and charities.
- Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and a commitment to safe working practices.
- A proactive and flexible approach to community outreach and stakeholder engagement.
Desirable Skills
- Experience liaising with statutory and voluntary organisations to develop community-based support services.
- Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those impacted by gambling harm.
- Lived experience of gambling harms, either directly or through supporting others, is desirable but not essential.
