Probation Officer (Ref: 12618)

HM Prison and Probation Service; Huntingdon; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A Government Entity in Huntingdon is seeking a qualified Probation Officer to assess and manage risks posed by individuals on probation. Responsibilities include providing written reports to courts, conducting assessments, and working collaboratively with various agencies to support efforts in reducing re-offending. Applicants are required to have a relevant qualification such as a PQF Honours Degree and experience working with diverse communities. The role promotes equality and diversity within the framework of the Criminal Justice System.

Qualifications

• Qualified Probation Officer with relevant degree or diploma.
• Knowledge of legislation related to the Criminal Justice System.
• Experience in motivating individuals to change their behavior.

Responsibilities

• Assess and manage risks posed by people on probation.
• Provide advice and reports to courts and criminal justice agencies.
• Conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests.

Skills

Knowledge of Criminal Justice System

Experience with diverse communities

Evidence-Based Practice

Communication

Motivational skills

Education

PQF Honours Degree/Graduate Diploma

Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice

Diploma in Social Work (Probation option)

Job description

Job Overview

To assess and manage the risk posed by people on probation to protect victims of crime and the general public by providing information and advice to criminal courts, other criminal justice agencies and partner organisations; supervising people on probation subject to community orders and licences, and during custodial sentences; contributing to the management of risk; and working with other agencies and groups to prevent crime and meet the needs of victims and people on probation.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional advice and assessment, including written reports to courts, the Parole Board and other criminal justice agencies.
• Undertake the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation assessed at all levels of risk of serious harm, including high and very high.
• Use computer‑based systems to produce, update and maintain records and other documentation within agreed timescales.
• Ensure timely and effective referrals to, and relationships between, offender management, court teams, victim contact units, interventions, approved premises, prisons and external agencies to enhance positive outcomes, manage risk and reduce re‑offending.
• Attend professional meetings and represent the PS at partnership forums such as MAPPA and MARAC.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, maintain effective team relationships and provide professional guidance and support to Probation Services Officers (PSOs) and other staff as appropriate.
• Provide cover within your team and to other teams as required.
• Undertake prison, home or other alternate location visits 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 the PS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
• Demonstrate pro‑social modelling skills by consistently reinforcing pro‑social behaviour and attitudes and challenging anti‑social behaviour and attitudes.
• Work within the aims and values of PS and HMPPS.

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Probation Officer: PQF Honours Degree/Graduate Diploma and Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice, or Diploma in Probation Studies, or Diploma in Social Work (Probation option), or CQSW (Probation option).
• Knowledge and understanding of the work of the Criminal Justice System and the Probation Service.
• A working knowledge of relevant legislation and National Standards.
• Knowledge of Evidence‑Based Practice and risk/needs assessment tools.
• Experience of working with a wide variety of people who have experienced a range of social/personal difficulties.
• Experience of working with diverse communities, promoting equality and valuing diversity.
• Experience of working with individuals and groups to motivate and change offending behaviour.
• Experience of working with people who have committed offences.

Key Behaviours (Success Profiles)

• Making Effective Decisions
• Changing and Improving
• Working Together
• Delivering at Pace
• Communicating and Influencing

Eligibility

Nationalities: UK nationals and qualified EU/European Economic Area nationals, Commonwealth nationals with the right to work, and other eligible groups (see full list of requirements).

Security: Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check and, where relevant, baseline personnel security standard checks.

Equal Opportunities: This role is open to all qualified applicants regardless of background. The Civil Service promotes diversity and equality.