Regional Service User Network Support Worker

Salary: NJC SCP 18 £31,537 (pro-rata £18,922) plus 4% employer pension

Location: ASCERT office with hybrid working, Northern Ireland

Working pattern: Part time, 21 hours per week. Fixed term until March 2028 (subject to funding)

About the role

ASCERT is a Northern Ireland charity and one of the best-known providers of services addressing drug and alcohol related issues. We work from bases in Lisburn, Omagh and Belfast, and we are closely involved in shaping policy and strategy at regional and local level.

We are expanding our Regional Service User Network team and are looking for a Network Support Worker to help the Service Manager develop, co-ordinate and deliver a regional network of groups and individuals with lived and living experience of substance use across Northern Ireland.

The Network offers support, information exchange, better communication, contacts and advice on good practice. It also gives people a regional voice in planning, delivering and evaluating substance use services across Northern Ireland.

You will report to the Service Manager and provide day to day support for network services and activities. You will also promote the network, maintain its website and communications, and give network members development support as well as practical and emotional support.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting the network and its members to plan and carry out activities, and supporting network operations

• Providing support services that empower members to take part in the network

• Supporting the development of peer-led approaches to the network’s growth and services

• Building the capacity of network members and local service user groups

• Offering practical and emotional support so members can stay involved

• Delivering training and development support to individuals and local service user groups

What’s on offer

• 28 days annual leave plus 11 bank and public holidays

• Christmas shopping day

• Time off for Mental Health Awareness

• Time off in lieu policy

• Hybrid working options

• Competitive employer pension contributions

• Investors in People Gold employer

• Career development and training opportunities

• Staff wellbeing programme

• Employee Assistance Programme through Westfield Health Cash Plan

• Staff working groups, giving you a say in organisational development

• Staff representatives

• Staff reward and recognition programme

You may have experience of the following: Peer Support Worker, Lived Experience Support Worker, Substance Use Support Worker, Addiction Support Worker, Keyworker, Community Development Worker, Service User Involvement Worker, Engagement Worker, Network Support Officer, Recovery Support Worker