RECONNECT Team Leader: Norfolk
Location: Norfolk
Salary: GBP 27,992 per annum, plus benefits
Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time
Closing Date: 07 Aug 2025
We are recruiting for a RECONNECT Team Leader in Norfolk.
We are Forward, a social enterprise that empowers people to break the cycle of crime and addiction to move forward and live fulfilling lives.
RECONNECT is a care after custody service aimed at improving the continuity of care for people leaving prison or an immigration removal centre (IRC) with identified health needs. We operate a hybrid support model, working with individuals up to 12 weeks before their release and up to six months post-release to support the transition to community-based services, safeguarding health gains made in custody.
Our East of England RECONNECT service is available for adults over 18 with a healthcare need, due to be released from prison or an IRC in the next 12 weeks. We also accept referrals up to 28 days post-release.
Role Responsibilities
You will be responsible for providing a comprehensive, inclusive, and bespoke RECONNECT service, including advice and guidance to Forward Trust clients across HMP Norwich, HMP Bure, HMP Wayland, and community services in the local area. You may be asked to assist with other establishments and regions, either remotely or in person.
RECONNECT enables service users to access and sustain supportive interventions upon release, including physical and mental health support, wellbeing needs, signposting, GP referrals, accompanying to appointments, meet and greet at the gate, aftercare support, and connecting to the wider Forward community. Following a referral 12 weeks prior to release, the service will assess client needs and work with various agencies to create a bespoke, client-centered care plan.
Some key responsibilities include:
* Implementing a comprehensive strategy aligned with the RECONNECT contract.
* Building and maintaining partnerships with external agencies and stakeholders.
* Recruiting and developing a network of lived experience volunteers and peer support workers.
* Managing a team, including supervision, quarterly reviews, and team meetings.
* Maintaining clear referral pathways for stakeholders, including custodial partners, family, and self-referrals.
* Leading by example in line with Forward Trust values and mission.
* Ensuring high-quality, safe service delivery through collaboration, risk assessments, and safeguarding.
* Connecting teams with local services for client release support.
* Supporting recruitment, training, and retention of staff and volunteers.
* Collecting and reporting data for KPIs and other requests.
* Assisting your line manager as needed.
All prison-based roles require enhanced DBS and HMPPS security vetting, which can take 3-6 weeks. Offers are subject to vetting clearance, requiring information on personal, financial, police, criminal history, family, co-residents, and potential conflicts of interest.
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