Reconnect Support Peer Worker – Flexible, Community-Focused

Ad Warrior Ltd; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

The Forward Trust is seeking a RECONNECT Peer Worker to support individuals leaving prison, working with HMP Bedford, HMP Woodhill, Yarl's Wood IRC and local communities. You will assess health and wellbeing, develop care plans, and help clients access essential services to aid reintegration.

We value lived experience and a non-judgemental attitude, with strong communication and organisational skills to manage a busy caseload and provide ongoing support for up to six months post-release.

Qualifications

• Relevant lived experience of the criminal justice system, substance misuse, health issues or other life experiences.
• Non-judgemental and compassionate approach.
• Ability to build trust and positive relationships with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent communication and listening skills.
• Ability to support people with complex or multiple needs.
• Good organisational skills and ability to manage a busy caseload.
• Strong administrative skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to complete clear and accurate case notes, assessments and support plans.

Responsibilities

• Manage referrals and carry out comprehensive health and wellbeing assessments.
• Develop individualised care and support plans with each person.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with service users and provide ongoing support.
• Manage a busy and varied caseload.
• Help people prepare for release and reintegration into the community.
• Support service users to access GPs, healthcare providers and other services.
• Provide practical advice, guidance and signposting based on individual needs.
• Maintain regular contact with service users for up to six months after release.
• Ensure people are connected with appropriate services before leaving prison.
• Work with colleagues to share best practice and identify/manage risks.
• Contribute to delivering a safe, effective and person-centred service.

Skills

Communication skills

Active listening

Relationship building

Organisational skills

Administrative skills

Case notes documentation

Non-judgemental approach

Job description

The Forward Trust is seeking a RECONNECT Peer Worker to support individuals leaving prison, working with HMP Bedford, HMP Woodhill, Yarl's Wood IRC and local communities. You will assess health and wellbeing, develop care plans, and help clients access essential services to aid reintegration.

We value lived experience and a non-judgemental attitude, with strong communication and organisational skills to manage a busy caseload and provide ongoing support for up to six months post-release.