LYNC - Linking Youth to s Programme - Connect Programme - Assistant Youth Support Wor

LYNC CONNECT PROGRAMME

The LYNC CONNECT programme will be implemented across the statutory EA Youth Service in Causeway Coast and Glens. The purpose of these programmes is to develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills of young people aged 18-25 years old, through training and paid work experience, whilst they are supported by professionally qualified youth workers.

Participants will attain EA recognition at the Youth Support Worker level qualification, relevant personal and youth work skills training and accreditation over an eight month period from March 2026 – October 2026.

Please note however, there is no guarantee of a paid post on completion of this programme.

The CONNECT programme is aimed at engaging 54 young people across Northern Ireland aged 18-25 years old who have a minimum of 4 GCSEs (grades A*
- C) or equivalent or higher, one of which should be English (essential skills level 2 is accepted as an equivalent to GCSE English) and want to receive work experience, either to increase a personal statement to apply to further education, or to gain employment.

Applicants must be a registered youth service member, volunteer or part-time youth leader (attend, volunteer or work in any form of youth provision, for example a youth club/centre, area based youth provision, a Girls Brigade group, a Boys Brigade group, a Scout group, a Guide group or a church based or community youth group).

Applicants will have to demonstrate they have evidence of a commitment to working with children and young people and have a commitment to volunteering.

You will be paid for 24 hours per week and the 6 remaining hours will be a commitment to volunteer by giving your time as positive role models and peer mentors for the young people in the EA Youth Service Community scheme. You will provide one to one support as a peer mentor using the Circle of Courage framework as well as small reflective group work using the reflection framework model.

Successful candidates will be given the opportunity where possible to choose and complete two work placements, working directly with children and young people in youth service teams which may include working in schools

Placement opportunities will include:

• Centre Based Youth Work (This placement will involve regular weekend work)

All participants of the programme will be provided with a link youth worker providing support and supervision. There will be regular opportunities for participants to meet and to share practice and personal learning. Each participant will have an individual plan with their own personal goals detailed and reviewed, ensuring that outcomes are recorded as well as satisfaction rates

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Assistant Youth Support Worker – Part Time

HOURS PER WEEK: 24 hours (+6 additional hours of voluntary work)

RATE OF PAY: Youth Support Worker Range Pt 5 | £21,571 per annum pro rata.

REPORTS TO: Nominated Officer

RESPONSIBLE FOR: Assisting with the unit programme and the implementation of Education Authority organisational policies.

JOB PURPOSE: To work directly with young people to develop their social education by providing programmes of activities. This post is for staff appointed to undertake duties under the direction of a Worker in Charge or nominated Youth Support Worker.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with the planning and implementation of programmes, related to the ‘Model for Effective Practice’.
• Ensure that young people play an active role in the youth group and work towards a model of youth participation.
• Communicate effectively and develop a rapport with young people.
• Assist in the development of relationships with the wider community and external agencies.
• Assist young people to express and realise their goals.
• Challenge oppressive behaviour in young people.
• Provide information and support to young people.
• Support young people in evaluating youth work activities and the impact of youth work on their development.
• Implement the unit’s Child Protection Policy and work with young people to safeguard their welfare and the welfare of others.
• Assist with administrative duties within the unit.

This job description will be subject to review in light of changing…