A smiling woman sorts through food items in a warehouse

15th August 2025

Leadership role available at Poole Lifecentre: a place where community, care, and change meet

People walk through the doors of Poole Lifecentre for many reasons – some need food or debt advice, others seek company, housing support, or simply someone to listen. The Lifecentre is for everyone – a vibrant place, combining a busy foodbank and a network of essential services that help people in crisis find practical solutions and renewed hope. In the last year over 2,750 people benefitted from the foodbank alone.

Faithworks is seeking a manager to steer this crucial project. While the role covers many responsibilities, two are especially crucial: inspiring and empowering volunteers, because they are the lifeblood of everything we do, and building dynamic partnerships with churches, statutory agencies, and community groups to broaden the Lifecentre’s reach and deepen its impact.

At its heart, this job is about creating a welcoming space where dignity is restored, hope is renewed, and real change happens every day.

Its welcoming café spaces invite conversation and connection, while agencies such as Citizens Advice and our own Community Money Advice teams deliver debt guidance, budgeting help, and personalised support. The atmosphere is warm and informal – but the difference made is profound.

James*, for example, came in for monthly food parcels and stayed for the chats with the Lifecentre staff. In his 60s, living with chronic health issues and street homeless, he gradually built trust. With encouragement, he approached his GP for a letter that improved his housing prospects. When his father passed away, the Lifecentre made sure he could attend the funeral by arranging a haircut, shave, new outfit, and bus pass. James reconnected with his family, has moved into safe accommodation and is part of our Men That Lunch Group.

“It’s not possible to put into words the changes we can already see,”  says Illana Smith from Poole Lifecentre. “We celebrate his progress – and his newly retrieved sense of humour!”

*Name changed.

If you’re ready to lead a vital community hub that transforms lives and builds hope, Poole Lifecentre welcomes your application – find out more below…

Poole Lifecentre & Foodbank job vacancy

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