Job Details:
Lived Experience Project Worker

Job Description

We are recruiting for a part-time project worker to embed lived experience in the work of the Migrant Destitution Fund and other collaborative projects supported by Manchester Community Central. If you are passionate about lived experience involvement and voice and have the desire and proven ability to help people share their feedback, stories and experiences, then this role is for you. You might be looking for temporary part-time employment or a freelance post– we’re open to both.

The Migrant Destitution Fund (MDF) supports people in Greater Manchester forced into destitution by their immigration status. By providing cash grants, the fund helps people meet their basic needs, ease pressure on their mental health and restore dignity. MDF also advocates for a society where everyone is free to live with dignity as members of their communities – and we believe that the voices of people who have experienced enforced destitution should be central to advocating for this vision.

This role involves supporting people with lived experience to speak out and share their knowledge and experiences to raise awareness and advocate for change. It is all about connection, care, and making sure everyone feels supported and heard.

To be successful, you will need experience of facilitating groups and other activities to involve people with lived experience. You will have a flair for developing relationships with local organisations and partners.

We're especially interested in hearing from you if you are:

• A strong communicator, someone who builds trust, listens deeply, and can work with a wide range of people
• Someone who enjoys organising, keeping things running smoothly, and making sure no one is left out

Manchester Community Central are proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups and recognise that lived experience brings valuable insight. Learning, personal development and regular support will be available through Manchester Community Central’s Collaboration Manager.

Who we’re looking for
We are seeking a proactive and passionate individual who values working collaboratively with partners across the voluntary, community, social enterprise (VCSE), public, and private sectors.

This role welcomes individuals who have:

• A commitment to inclusion: You are passionate about diversity and make sure that different voices are heard and respected. You will work to reduce barriers to involvement to increase representation of Experts by Experience in leadership and decision-making
• Influencing and advocacy skills: You help make sure the voice of lived experience experts is heard in key decisions about policy and funding. You’re confident in challenging assumptions and speaking up to promote fairness and long-term change.
• A community-centred mindset: You should have a strong commitment to social justice and working in solidarity, with practical experience of working within and/or supporting voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations
• Excellent communication skills: You are confident in facilitating group work with a wide range of partners, with the ability to hold safe supportive spaces and engage with others in a sensitive and trauma-informed way
• A collaborative approach: You work well with others, can network and build trusting relationships with diverse groups, linking organisations and individuals to create opportunities for working together and making a positive impact
• Strong documentation and reporting skills: You are organised and thorough in keeping records, tracking progress, and sharing clear updates with colleagues and partners. You have good English writing and computing skills, such as using WhatsApp, email, word and spreadsheets
• Self-awareness and initiative: You can work independently and manage your own time using sound judgement and initiative, reaching out for support when needed. You’re able to identify and escalate risks, especially around safeguarding when working with vulnerable people.

It’s a bonus if you also have:

• Knowledge of local organisations: A good understanding of local community and refugee and migrant support organisations in Greater Manchester
• Personal experience of immigration control: You might have direct experience of immigration, for example seeking asylum, or being on a work or spouse visa.

You’ll need to be able to travel within Manchester. However, a driving licence isn’t required – we encourage active travel such as walking, cycling, or using public transport.

If this sounds like you, and you’re excited by the chance to help create meaningful change in Manchester, we’d love to hear from you.

At Manchester Community Central, we are committed to being an inclusive and supportive employer. We believe in creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, and we offer:

• Flexible working: We value flexible working and offer options such as adjusted working hours, hybrid or home working. We have office space in Ardwick but our approach balances personal choice, building teamwork and the needs of the people we work with.
• Wellbeing support: Our dedicated Health and Wellbeing team works to create a culture that supports everyone’s health and wellbeing at Manchester Community Central. This includes access to confidential, in-house mental health first aiders and regular team social activities. We also offer ‘Re-energise Afternoons’ – monthly sessions where staff can take time away from work to rest and recharge.
• Carers support: We are committed to supporting carers in the workplace, and we offer five days paid carers' leave per year for those with ongoing caring responsibilities, along with other support.
• Menstrual Health and Menopause friendly workplace: We are proud to be Menstruation and Menopause Friendly employers, providing a range of support to help staff to manage symptoms, as well as educating employees on these topics.
• Professional development: Personal Development Plans (PDPs) and dedicated budgets for external training and growth.
• Volunteering leave: Staff are entitled to up to 2 days per year (pro rata) with pay to engage in voluntary activities.
• Active travel incentives: Support for public transport season tickets, a Cycle to Work scheme, and travel expenses for cyclists.

These benefits reflect our commitment to supporting staff while working together to strengthen Manchester's communities.