Overview
Probation services officers can help make a real difference to peoples' lives. We're looking for empathetic, patient and resilient people to join us as probation services officers. As a PSO, you'll have a similar job to a fully qualified probation officer, but you will work with medium and lower risk clients. This is a challenging role, with on-the-job training and a real chance to build a career in the Probation Service.
Day-to-day, you'll manage a caseload of offenders before and after sentence, assess and manage risks, provide information to courts and work closely with agencies throughout the justice system. You will also do everything you can to support offenders, from practical advice about housing and employment to listening and empathy. The job involves the full range of work with people on probation before and after sentence, including assessment, sentence implementation, offender management and producing reports, while providing case management support to a full range of people on probation using service procedures and practice directions that underpin professional judgement.
Key responsibilities
* Assess and manage the risk posed by people on probation (including risk management plans and escalation) to protect victims and the public.
* Liaise with criminal courts, criminal justice agencies and other partner agencies to provide information and advice.
* Supervise and manage risk of those on probation subject to community sentences, during and after custodial sentences.
* Work with other agencies and groups to prevent crime and meet the needs of victims and people on probation.
Compliance and working style
In line with PS policies and procedures, the job holder must demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion and understand its relevance to the work. The post holder must adhere to policies regarding the sensitive/confidential nature of information. Some out-of-hours work may be required (e.g., Courts, Approved Premises, programmes, evening reporting).
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:
* Undertake the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation assessed as low or medium risk of harm and support the Probation Officer grade in high-risk cases.
* Contribute to the delivery of the Risk Management plan and report significant changes relating to risk of harm and/or reoffending or any non-compliance within agreed enforcement procedures.
* Use computer-based systems to produce, update and maintain records and other documentation within agreed timescales.
* Ensure effective referrals to services and facilities and communicate with offender management staff, interventions staff, service providers and external agencies to review progress and associated risks.
* Undertake prison, home or alternate location visits as required in accordance with service procedures and policies.
* Work in the court setting, including the completion of appropriate reports on cases and prosecution of breaches.
* Provide cover within teams as required.
* Deliver and co-lead accredited programmes commensurate with grade.
* Conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests as required, and follow prescribed medication procedures.
* Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with PS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
* Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills by reinforcing pro-social behaviour and challenging anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
* Work within the aims and values of PS and HMPPS.
The duties described are current but not exhaustive; reasonable alterations and additional tasks may be required and discussed with the job holder. An ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role in English or Welsh (where specified) is required.
Selection process and behaviours
We will assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
* Delivering at Pace
* Managing a Quality Service
* Working Together
* Communicating and Influencing
* Developing Self and Others
* Making Effective Decisions
Benefits
* Access to learning and development
* Flexible working options to enhance work-life balance
* Inclusive and diverse working culture
* Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
* Annual Leave
* Public Holidays
* Season Ticket Advance
For more information about the recruitment process, benefits and allowances, please visit the candidate information page at: https://justicejobs.tal.net/vx/candidate/cms/About%20the%20MOJ
Things you need to know
Selection process details: This vacancy uses Success Profiles and will assess Behaviours, Strengths, Ability and Experience. Feedback will be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security: Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check. Baseline personnel security standard checks apply for those working with government assets.
Nationality requirements
This job is broadly open to the following groups: UK nationals; nationals of the Republic of Ireland; nationals of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK; nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme; eligible applicants under EUSS; and other specified categories. Further information on nationality requirements is available.
Qualifications
You do not need a degree for this role. We are interested in your personal qualities. Experience of working with people facing social or personal difficulties, empathy, patience and resilience are valued. Strong writing skills and the ability to produce clear and accurate reports to tight deadlines are essential.
Conclusion
By managing offenders in the community, the Probation Service protects the public from crime and helps offenders turn their lives around. You will be part of a supportive team that shares knowledge and expertise.
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