RECONNECT Peer Support Worker

TipTopJob; Norwich; Hybrid; GBP 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading social enterprise is seeking a Reconnect Peer Support Worker to provide essential support to individuals transitioning from prison back into the community. This role focuses on delivering tailored care plans and connecting clients to necessary services, ensuring a smooth reintegration process. The position involves a hybrid work model, combining remote work with on-site support across various locations in Norfolk. Ideal candidates will have strong communication skills and experience in mentoring or case management.

Qualifications

• Experience in providing support to individuals with health needs.
• Ability to conduct needs assessments and develop care plans.

Responsibilities

• Provide bespoke RECONNECT service to clients in the community.
• Assist service users in accessing supportive interventions post-release.
• Maintain contact and support for up to 6 months after release.

Skills

Communication

Mentoring

Assessment

Case Management

Job description

Location: Norfolk

Salary: A GBP 24,000 per annum plus benefits

Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time

We are recruiting for a Reconnect Peer Support Worker in Norfolk.

We are Forward, the 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 that seeks to improve the continuity of care for people leaving prison or an immigration removal centre (IRC) with an identified health need. We operate a hybrid model of support, 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 prison or an IRC.

Our East of England RECONNECT service is available for adults over 18 with a healthcare need who are due to be released from prison or an IRC in the next 12 weeks. Referrals are also accepted up to 28 days post-release.

Role Responsibilities

• Provide a comprehensive, inclusive, and bespoke RECONNECT service, including advice and guidance to Forward Trust clients across HMP Norwich, HMP Wayland, HMP Bure, and the wider Norfolk community.
• Assist service users in accessing and maintaining supportive interventions upon release, addressing needs such as substance use, physical health, mental health, and general wellbeing.
• Offer mentor linking, signposting, GP referrals, aftercare support, and connection to the wider Forward community.
• Conduct needs assessments and develop bespoke care plans in collaboration with clients, starting 12 weeks prior to release.
• Process referrals and communicate assessment outcomes to referrers.
• Maintain contact and support for up to 6 months post-release, focusing on health and wellbeing needs.
• Manage a diverse caseload, supporting clients with reintegration and engagement with local healthcare providers.
• Support the recruitment and training of prison peer supporters.
• Maintain partnerships with external agencies and stakeholders.
• Keep detailed case notes, assessments, care plans, and risk assessments with high administrative standards.
• Implement and maintain referral pathways with external agencies such as Offender Management, healthcare providers, and community services.
• Deliver a holistic, safe service aligned with individual and team targets.
• Engage in risk assessment processes and share best practices within the team.
• Make referrals to the Forward Trust Meet and Greet service and support with 'Meet at the Gate' releases.
• Ensure service users are connected with local services before community release.

This is a new position added to enhance the lived experience element of the RECONNECT service.

This hybrid role involves remote working from home and working at various locations, including HMP Norwich, HMP Bure, HMP Wayland, Probation Offices, and Drug and Alcohol Services. You will work with an immediate team across Norfolk and the wider EoE RECONNECT staff, reporting to your line manager and receiving ongoing training, including organizational and prison-specific training.