Befriending Coordinator – Community Programme

About the role

The Befriending Coordinator will deliver a high‑quality community befriending service for men moving from Back Lane Hostel to independent living. The role involves managing a team of volunteers and a part‑time assistant, coordinating support activities, and ensuring safety and risk management throughout the programme.

Key responsibilities

• Recruit, select, induct and train volunteers, ensuring compliance with Depaul Ireland policies on confidentiality, boundaries, equal opportunities and lone working.
• Provide regular supervision, support and performance management for volunteers and the Befriending Assistant, including organising quarterly team meetings and annual recognition events.
• Develop and maintain referral and risk‑management processes in partnership with Back Lane staff to support participants during their transition to independent living.
• Coordinate steering group inputs, represent the programme at internal forums and build relationships with other homeless‑sector projects and agencies.
• Maintain accurate records, produce quarterly and annual reports, and support funding applications as required.
• Participate in internal and external meetings, training events and continuous role development in line with Depaul Ireland’s strategic aims.

Required profile

• Experience in volunteer recruitment, training and support, with a strong understanding of volunteer management principles.
• Leadership and supervision skills, including staff performance management and handling complaints or sensitive issues.
• Ability to conduct risk assessments and implement safety procedures for volunteers and service users.
• Knowledge of community services, referral pathways and inter‑agency collaboration.
• Excellent administrative, report‑writing and record‑keeping abilities.
• Familiarity with Depaul Ireland’s ethos, policies and procedures, and a proactive, flexible approach aligned with organisational values.