Voluntary Internship Communications 2015
About Responding to Conflict (RTC)
Responding to Conflict is a small and dynamic NGO that works to transform violence and build peace.
Founded in 1991 we have worked with 1000’s of people from over 70 countries and in some of the
world’s most violent conflicts. We provide support and training for people in conflict situations so that
they are able to develop the skills they need to build peace in their own communities.
About the role
RTC is offering an exciting opportunity for a talented Communications Intern to gain valuable experience
working with a leading UK peacebuilding organisation whilst developing valuable skills in
communications and marketing.
As a Communications Intern, you will have a key role in communicating RTC’s work to a range of
audiences and engaging their support. This role is not just about filing or stuffing envelopes; we want
someone who will bring energy, enthusiasm and initiative to our team. You will be involved in
everything from editing the RTC website, updating social media, interviewing, writing articles and
putting together newsletters. You will also have the opportunity to develop any of your own ideas
through the course of the internship.
Key responsibilities will include
Communications
 Maintaining and developing social media channels (Facebook/Twitter/LinkedIn)
 Drafting and uploading copy for the RTC website
 Putting together the RTC newsletter and send it to members
 Interviewing people for news items and case studies
 Working in close collaboration with the Fundraising team to create and promote fundraising
events and campaigns
 Organising mailings and maintaining the contact database
 Drafting press materials and promoting RTC to the media
 Promoting RTC’s courses to a wide audience
Other duties
 Some general administration duties such as answering the phone, responding to course
enquiries and welcoming visitors
What skills and abilities will you need to have?
 Interest in and understanding of social media channels
 Ability to use own initiative within specified guidelines and work independently but also show
ability to work as part of a team
 Strong organisational skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines and attention to detail
 Excellent written and verbal communication skills
 Well versed in Microsoft Office applications and willingness to learn how to use new databases
 To be creative and enthusiastic
 Ability to network, influence and build relationships with key individuals and organisations
 An interest in peacebuilding and enthusiasm for the work of RTC
Desirable experience
 Experience of producing effective communications materials e.g. writing articles for a range of
different audiences
 Experience of using social media for professional purposes
 Experience of marketing communications
What you will gain
 Hands-on experience of writing communications materials
 Experience of organising and coordinating communications
 Experience of how an international NGO works and opportunities to learn about practical
peacebuilding
 Enhance your CV and gain written references at the end of your placement
 Most importantly this role has the potential to make a real difference to the organisation and
will give you an opportunity to see how your work can have a direct impact on RTC and the
people we work with
The internship is 3 days a week, for a period of six months including a one month probationary period. It
will be based at our office in south-west Birmingham. The role is unpaid but local travel in Birmingham
and a lunch allowance is provided (max. £8 per day.)
Please note that we are unable to meet relocation expenses. You must have permission to work in the
UK.
The closing date for this post is Sunday 15th November. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 18th
November. The starting date will be Monday 30th November.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, so that we reflect the vibrant diversity of
today’s society.
How to apply
Please send your CV and a detailed cover letter to Rebecca Wherrell at rebecca@respond.org explaining
how you meet the specific skills and experience needed for this role and why you want to work with RTC
as an intern. In addition, we would be pleased to receive examples of your previous marketing
communications work, e.g. articles or newsletters that you think will support your application.
Due to the volume of applications we receive and in order to ensure the best stewardship of our
resources, please assume you have not been successful with your application if you have not heard from
us within one week of the positions closing date.