Non-job of the week

One of the criteria for a job to qualify as the non-job of the week is whether we could live without it.  This week, see for yourself from the Guardian Society pages:

“Community Capacity Building Officer

£25,320 - £31,606 pa (pay award pending)

Ref: CS85

Fixed term post for 3 years

Take on this key role in the Community and Voluntary Relations Unit, and you will ensure the continued growth and development of the voluntary and community sector in Solihull. Your capacity building remit will involve working in partnership with local voluntary and community organisations, other service areas within the Council, as well as a range of partners from Solihull's Local Strategic Partnership.

Expert at translating strategy into practice, building and developing strong relationships, and carrying out meaningful community engagement, you will be involved in the design, development and delivery of Local Area Agreement initiatives and targets around volunteering, community cohesion and a thriving third sector.

A graduate-calibre professional, you will have a proven track record of working with the voluntary and community sector to support the growth, development and sustainability of local community groups and organisations. Working knowledge of local strategic partnerships, thematic subgroups, community strategies and local area agreements will also be essential. For an informal discussion, please contact Faisal Hussain, Head of Community & Voluntary Relations on 0121 704 8541.

Apply on-line at http://www.solihull.gov.uk

Alternatively for a recruitment pack and application form: Tel: 0121 704 6800 (24 hour answerphone)

Email: connectcc@solihull.gov.uk

We are unable to accept CVs. Please quote reference number CS85 in any communication.

Closing date: 23rd May 2008.

Interview date: 3rd June 2008.

All applications will be considered on their merits and people with disabilities meeting the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.”

Whilst the aims of the post are honourable, the voluntary sector has survived long enough without government interference.  People turn to and get involved in the voluntary sector partly because it isn’t government related, and usually does a better job too.  Similarly with community groups, people take their time out for a good cause they care passionately about.  The strength of a voluntary group is the cause, not government employing an officer to get people to volunteer – that defeats the point of voluntary activity.

During these tough economic times, families have to tighten their belts.  Councils should be expected to do the same instead of squandering taxpayers’ money on positions the community can easily live without.