Job Description
3-Month Contract with a Local Authority
Job Purpose
* The Youth Justice Officer is responsible for delivering high-quality statutory youth justice services to children and young people who offend or are at risk of offending. The role involves managing a complex caseload, conducting specialist assessments, preparing court reports, and working directly with young people, their families, and partner agencies to reduce reoffending, manage risk, and improve outcomes. This position requires strong safeguarding awareness, excellent risk-assessment skills, and the ability to work confidently within youth justice legislation, National Standards, and court processes.
Key Duties/Accountabilities
* Supervise statutory court orders for children and young people in line with Youth Justice Service responsibilities.
* Encourage and promote compliance with court orders, using enforcement processes where necessary.
* Prepare high-quality pre-sentence reports, referral order reports, and other statutory reports in accordance with National Standards.
* Represent the Youth Justice Service at the Youth Court, Crown Court, and other court settings as required, including Saturdays, Bank Holidays, and occasional courts.
* Work in partnership with children’s social care to support young people remanded to Local Authority accommodation, helping maintain community placements and reduce the risk of reoffending.
* Collaborate with the Secure Estate to provide ongoing support to young people remanded or sentenced to custody, including direct intervention, release planning, and resettlement support.
Essential Experience Required
* Minimum of two years of statutory experience within Youth Justice.
* Direct experience working with high-risk children and young people, including those at risk of serious harm or exploitation.
Essential Qualifications Required
* Relevant professional background within Youth Justice.
* Strong understanding of youth justice legislation, National Standards, and safeguarding frameworks.
* High-level assessment skills with the ability to analyse risk, need, and vulnerability.
Additional Information
* Working hours: 35 hours per week
* The role requires an Enhanced DBS & barred list check (Child).
* Please note we work on a bi-weekly payment schedule.
The role closes soon, apply ASAP.
Requirements
An experienced Youth Justice Officer with a minimum of two years statutory experience within Youth Justice. Preferably a Qualified Social Worker or Probation Officer. Candidate must have experience of Asset Plus assessments, working with high risk children and young people, proficient in youth court and managing a complex caseload.