Probation Officers

Ministry of Justice; Leicester; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in the UK is seeking a Probation Officer to supervise individuals on probation and manage risk assessments. This role includes providing advice to courts and supporting positive behavioral change in probationers. Ideal candidates will have relevant qualifications in probation and experience working with diverse communities. The position offers hybrid work options, extensive training, and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Annual leave: 25 days increasing to 30 after five years

Hybrid working arrangements

Local Government Pension Scheme coverage

Extensive training and development opportunities

Paid parental leave

Qualifications

• Knowledge and understanding of the Criminal Justice System and the Probation Service.
• Experience with individuals who have committed offences and social difficulties.
• Ability to fulfill role aspects confidently through English.

Responsibilities

• Supervise people on probation under community orders and licences.
• Contribute to risk assessment and timely referrals.
• Provide information and advice to courts and criminal justice agencies.

Skills

Knowledge of risk assessment tools

Understanding of evidence-based practice

Ability to motivate and change offending behaviour

Proficiency in computer systems

Experience working with diverse communities

Education

Relevant qualification in Probation

Diploma in Probation Studies

Job description

Overview

To assess and manage the risk posed by people on probation to protect victims of crime and the general public. This role involves providing expertise and advice to courts, criminal justice agencies and partner organisations while supervising probationers under community orders, licences, and custodial sentences.

Responsibilities

• Provide information, advice and written reports to courts, the Parole Board and other criminal justice agencies.
• Supervise people on probation subject to community orders and licences and during custodial sentences.
• Contribute to the management and assessment of risk, ensuring timely referrals and coordination with court teams, victim contact units, intervention services, approved premises, prisons and external agencies.
• Attend professional meetings and represent the Probation Service at partnership forums such as MAPPA and MARAC.
• Use computer‑based systems to produce, update and maintain records and other documentation within agreed timescales.
• Provide cover within your team and to other teams as required.
• Case‑visit at prisons, homes or other alternate locations as needed.
• Deliver and co‑lead accredited programmes commensurate with the grade.
• Conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests and follow medication procedures.
• Carry out safeguarding duties in accordance with statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
• Model pro‑social behaviour, reinforce positive attitudes and challenge anti‑social behaviour.
• Work within the aims and values of the Probation Service and HMPPS.
• Demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion and adhere to all policies regarding confidentiality.

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Probation (e.g., PQF Honours Degree/Graduate Diploma and Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice, Diploma in Probation Studies, Diploma in Social Work (Probation option), or CQSW (Probation option)).
• Knowledge and understanding of the Criminal Justice System and the Probation Service.
• Working knowledge of relevant legislation and National Standards.
• Understanding of evidence‑based practice and risk/needs assessment tools.
• Ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence through the medium of English (or Welsh where specified).
• Experience working with a wide variety of people who have experienced social and personal difficulties, diverse communities, and individuals who have committed offences.
• Experience motivating and changing offending behaviour in individuals and groups.

Technical Requirements

• Proficiency in computer systems for record keeping and reporting.
• Knowledge of risk assessment tools and evidence‑based practice frameworks.

Benefits

• Annual leave: 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 days after five years, plus public holidays.
• Hybrid working arrangements where business need allows.
• Coverage under the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) via the Greater Manchester Pension Fund.
• Extensive training and development opportunities.
• Family‑friendly policies: reduced hours and job share options.
• Paid paternity, adoption and maternity leave.
• Free annual eye tests for employees who use computer screens.

Equality and Diversity

All candidates are treated as equal opportunity applicants and are subject to security and identity checks before taking up the post. The MoJ is a Disability Confident employer and encourages candidates to request reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.