Community Engagement Officer

SS Shieldhall is the country’s last steam powered cargo and passenger ship and the largest
operational steamship in the UK, taking passengers on board for a unique programme of steam-
powered excursions and provides a venue for events to promote maritime interests. Shieldhall is
unique and as a member of the National Historic Fleet is acknowledged as being of pre-eminent

significance, providing an insight into the UK’s maritime history and technology, thereby meriting

the highest priority for long-term preservation. SS Shieldhall is owned by Solent Steam Packet
Limited (a Community Benefit Society) who has delegated all responsibilities for fundraising and
operating the ship to Steamship Shieldhall Charity.

Steamship Shieldhall Charity objects are:

• To conserve, maintain, operate and exhibit for the public benefit the Steamship Shieldhall.,

• To advance the education of the public in all aspects of British maritime heritage and

organisations of all types and the general public, alongside and at sea.

The Board of Trustees are seeking interest in the position: “Community Engagement
Officer”.

Role Summary

Steamship Shieldhall Charity is well established as a volunteer led maritime organisation
delivering a summertime programme of cruises available to the general public plus limited

opportunities for visits by specialist groups. The Charity now seeks to raise the profile of the
organisation as a heritage resource within the community; to engage with target groups and

provide a range of training, access and educational opportunities that utilise the unique resource
that is SS Shieldhall.

Key Responsibilities/Deliverables

• Raise the profile and awareness of SSC and SS Shieldhall with a view to widening

participation and reach amongst target groups.

• Initiate new relationships and engage with community groups, schools, colleges and

others who may have an interest in the history and opportunity for engagement provided

by Shieldhall.

• Design and deliver a range of activities and opportunities utilising the specific potential of

a heritage steamship for education, training and community support initiatives.

• Explore the potential to use Shieldhall as a resource for recruitment initiatives in support

of careers in the maritime, docks and other related industries.

• Identify and support fundraising initiatives that will enable the delivery of community

activities and resources required for the continuing development of the organisation/role.

• Create links and support communication with like-minded organisations to progress the

objectives of integration of SSC in the community.

Reports to
Board of the Charity

Responsible for
There are no staff/volunteers reporting to this role.
Close relationships will need to be developed with the Department Heads and Lead Officers.

Financial Dimensions
It is envisaged that a small budget will be allocated to “kick start” the Community Engagement

initiative. In the longer term the role will be expected to become self-financing through
applications for support to external bodies.

Personal Qualities
Show evidence of successful business Community Engagement skills, demonstrate tact,
diplomacy and powers of persuasion with good communication, organisation and presentation

skills, able to work as an individual and as a team player.

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For further details please and an expression of interest in this role, please contact by email:

chairman@ss-shieldhall.co.uk