Probation Service Officer

Ministry of Justice; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A governmental organization in Gloucester is seeking Probation Service Officers to engage with complex and vulnerable women on probation. The role involves risk assessment and management, working closely with prison staff and rehabilitation agencies. Ideal candidates will demonstrate empathy, strong communication skills, and a commitment to supporting positive change in individuals' lives.

Qualifications

• Experience working with people facing social or personal difficulties.
• Good ability to produce clear, accurate reports under tight deadlines.
• Understanding of the principles of case management in Probation Service.

Responsibilities

• Conduct risk assessments and manage offenders on probation.
• Maintain case files and risk management plans.
• Collaborate with probation officers and external agencies.

Skills

Empathetic

Organised

Communication skills

Decision-making skills

Knowledge of risk management

Job description

Probation Service Officer – Women

As part of our PSO recruitment for Gloucestershire, we will be offering a number of PSO roles in specialist teams including our women's team and our court team. Whilst the job description for all PSOs is the same, there are opportunities to diversify within the role and to benefit from team specific training and support.

This role is an opportunity to work with complex and vulnerable women who are subject to custodial and community sentences in Gloucestershire. You will be primarily responsible for risk assessment and management, and will be supported in engaging and empowering these women to make positive changes in their lives through a trauma‑informed approach. You will work closely with the court team, prison colleagues at HMP Eastwood Park and the Nelson’s Trust to ensure end‑to‑end support and connection. You will also benefit from an advanced level of women’s specific training.

• Risk assessment and management
• Writing women’s Pre‑sentence reports
• Supporting effective resettlement in close collaboration with HMP Eastwood Park team
• Working in partnership with the Nelson’s Trust to deliver rehabilitative interventions

Probation Service Officer – Courts

As a Probation Court Duty Officer, you play a vital role in the criminal justice system, ensuring that courts have accurate, timely information to make informed decisions. This fast‑paced, dynamic role requires excellent communication, problem‑solving and decision‑making skills. You will work in a challenging, rewarding environment where no two days are the same, and develop specialist skills in court processes and risk management.

• Court Representation – act as the probation service’s representative in court, liaising with magistrates, judges and legal professionals
• Information Provision – provide clear, accurate advice to the court on sentencing options, risk factors and suitability for community orders
• Risk Assessment – quickly assess and communicate risk to the public, victims and staff, ensuring safe and appropriate recommendations
• Report Writing – prepare concise oral or written reports for the court under tight deadlines
• Collaboration – work closely with probation colleagues, police and other agencies to share information and manage risk effectively
• Decision Support – advise on enforcement actions and breach proceedings, ensuring compliance with court orders

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation assessed as low or medium risk of harm
• Support the Probation Officer grade in high risk cases
• Maintain case files, risk management plans and report significant changes relating to risk of harm or reoffending
• Use computer‑based systems to produce, update and maintain records within agreed timescales
• Effective referrals to services and facilities and communication with external agencies to review progress and associated risks
• Conduct visits to prison, home or alternate locations as required
• Complete 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 duties in accordance with statutory responsibilities
• Model pro‑social behaviour and challenge anti‑social attitudes
• Work within the aims and values of the Probation Service and HMPPS

Qualities and Requirements

• Empathetic, patient and organised
• Experience of working with people who have social or personal difficulties
• Good verbal and written communication skills – able to produce clear, accurate reports to tight deadlines
• Knowledge and understanding of risk management and assessment in the criminal justice system
• Understanding of the principles of case management and the work of Probation Service
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusiveness
• Understanding of health and safety legislation in the workplace
• Strong decision‑making, planning and coordination skills
• Ability to communicate in English and, where specified in Wales, Welsh

Additional Information

Successful applicants may be based in a variety of office, court, team or prison locations within the Probation Service region. Allocations will be made according to business need.

To learn more about working as a Probation Service Officer, click here (link omitted for privacy).

Applicants will be required to complete a short application form, Civil Service Behaviours, and experience‑based questions, and to sit the Civil Service Judgement test (CSJT). Successful candidates will progress through interviews and, upon offer, will be involved in a structured referral and induction process.

EEO and Diversity Statement

The Probation Service recognises the value of a diverse workforce and promotes equality and inclusion. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.