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Community Worker

Community workers work with individuals, families, groups and organisations to help and support community development.

 

Tasks & duties

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Community workers may do some or all of the following:

  • represent groups and individuals from a wide variety of sectors, such as youth, the elderly or beneficiaries 
  • develop networks and initiate support for community groups such as the elderly, people with disabilities, beneficiaries or refugees 
  • provide support by visiting people in the community 
  • provide support to people such as released prisoners 
  • provide emergency relief for individuals and families 
  • provide a link between community members and social services, and arrange referrals to the appropriate services 
  • help to develop community resources and training opportunities 
  • help community groups obtain information, government resources and training 
  • facilitate and help with public meetings and decision-making on community issues 
  • co-ordinate community and fund-raising activities, and apply for grants 
  • write letters, articles, submissions and reports as part of the support process 
  • ensure individuals and organisations comply with legislation and regulations that relate to the area they are working in
  • work with or supervise paid and voluntary community workers

 

Specialisations

Community workers may specialise in working with Māori communities.

 

Skills & knowledge

Community workers need to have:

  • the ability to communicate with a variety of people and groups 
  • understanding of communities they work in 
  • knowledge of community, social assistance and family support agencies 
  • counselling skills 
  • listening skills
  • knowledge of various cultural and gender issues 
  • an understanding of tikanga Maori and the Treaty of Waitangi 
  • knowledge of relevant government policies and regulations 
  • advocacy skills 
  • leadership skills 
  • the ability to delegate 
  • planning and organisational skills

Community workers who specialise in working with Māori communities need to have a knowledge of Māori language and culture.

 

Entry requirements

There are no specific qualifications required for this job. However, courses in community work are offered at some polytechnics and private training establishments, and a National Diploma or Certificate in Community Work or a National Certificate in Social Services is preferred.

 

Training on the job

Most skills can be gained on the job. Training in tikanga Māori and on the Treaty of Waitangi is usually provided by employers. Community service courses may also be offered. Community workers are encouraged to work with supervisors as part of their ongoing learning and development.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for community workers includes:

  • teaching
  • counselling
  • nursing or other work that involves caring for people
  • volunteer work
  • leadership experience

Life experience is also an advantage.

 

Related courses

Care for People with Disabilities
Children's Services
Community Health
Counselling
Social Work
Welfare Studies

 

 For more information, please refer to Career Services.

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