Referrals Networker/Venue Organiser

Read Easy Norfolk provides a volunteer led reading coaching programme for adults, specifically in postcodes NR1-5. The reading support we provide is free, confidential and one-to-one.  

This role of Referrals Networker and Venue Organiser, entails working with local companies and community associations in and around greater Norwich to engage with organisations such as Job Centres, social services, community services and businesses who may be able to refer potential Readers to our group and also to find and arrange suitable venues for our reading sessions.  

The role:  

• Liaise with our Read Easy (RE) group to establish knowledge of current referral agents and approved venues and to continue building on that initial work.  
• Manage the relationship between the referral agencies/venues and the group, sourcing new venues and agencies as the group grows in capacity.   
• Provide regular contact to keep the organisation informed of how we can support their personnel or referrals.   
• Ensure venues are suitable for RE by using the Venue Checklist and working in line with the Venue and Lone Worker policy.  
• Regularly review venues and venue arrangements.  
• Report on the venues to gain approval from the MT about your activity and identify how many of your contacts refer new readers.  
• Create and maintain a record of organisations and the dates and information relating to that contact.    
• Attend Monthly Management Team meetings (either face to face or via Teams - evening time).  

The skills you will need:  

• Experience of networking and the confidence to contact local organisations and businesses to promote the work of RE and how it can support local people to improve their reading skills,   
• Ability to develop strong working relationships with local venues and referral agencies.   
• Good communication and people skills with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.   
• Confidence in using IT - especially SharePoint/Excel.  
• Ability to use initiative and work independently.   
• A willingness to abide by RE policies and procedures.  
• An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team.   
• A non-judgmental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity.  
• Energy and enthusiasm with an average of 2-4 hours a week to commit to the role.  

What we provide:  

• Management Team Handbook with Policies  
• Training/Induction with guidance specifically needed for the role  
• The support of the Management Team  
• Regular invitations to attend the Management Team Meetings  
• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses  

What's in it for you?  

• Develop your networking skills  
• Meet and work collaboratively with new people/businesses  
• Be active and engaged, whilst helping adults learn to read  

Read Easy Norfolk follows safer recruiting procedures.