Sessional Team Member

NIACRO; Maghaberry; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A community support organization in Maghaberry is seeking a Visitor Centre Support Worker to create a welcoming environment for visitors in a prison setting. Responsibilities include supporting families, maintaining health and safety standards, and engaging in child-centered activities. Candidates should have an NVQ Level 2 qualification in Childcare or be willing to obtain it, along with experience working with children and families. Closing date for applications is November 21, 2025.

Qualifications

• Good understanding of confidentiality and data protection.
• Experience of working within the Criminal Justice System.
• Hold a Health and safety or First Aid Certificate.

Responsibilities

• Promote a welcoming atmosphere at visitor centres.
• Support child-centred activities in the play area.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety in canteen and facilities.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to work in a challenging environment

Experience with children and families

Understanding of safeguarding

Customer service

Health and safety awareness

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Childcare

Basic food and hygiene award

Job description

The post holder will be a part of a team that will create a welcoming and inclusive environment for anyone visiting someone in prison. The role is varied, and you will support in all areas as and when required this includes welcoming visitors initially at the visitor centre, offering support and guidance, canteen duties, childcare, cleaning and general day to day activities required. The post holder will be required to deliver hospitality services within the centres.

Responsibilities

• To promote a friendly, caring and supportive atmosphere welcoming all who attend the visitor centres, buses and visiting halls.
• Within the internal visiting area as a team member, you will provide a safe and secure play area/rest zone for the provision of child support services (creche).
• Support provision of Visitors Centre canteen facilities.
• Prepare and engage in child centred activities and seasonal family events to meet the needs of children and young people visiting.
• Assist in the preparation and serving of food/drinks in the visitor’s centre/visits area.
• Clean and maintain canteen, kitchen equipment, visitor centres and toilets.
• Maintain health and safety standards.
• Building relationships over time to build trust and offer support and signpost to other services within the prison and beyond.
• To participate in family seasonal events for families and children.
• Keep appropriate records.
• Liaison with prison staff on behalf of visitors as appropriate.
• To undertake any relevant training in relation to the post such as NVQ in Childcare and Food Safety and Hygiene.
• To undertake any other duties as required by the Visitor Centre Supervisor.

Skills and Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 qualification or equivalent in Childcare or willingness to obtain within 6 months of appointment to the role.
• Experience of working directly with children, young people or directly with adults & families.
• Ability to work in a challenging environment and remain calm.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to relate sensitively to the needs of prisoners families.
• Obtain a basic food and hygiene award or willingness to obtain within 6 months of appointment.
• Good understanding of safeguarding.
• Good understanding of confidentiality and data protection.
• Experience of working in a tea-bar environment or other retail outlets or working in an environment where customer service is important.
• An awareness and understanding of the challenges facing those working in a custodial setting.
• Hold a Health and safety or First Aid Certificate.
• Experience of working within the Criminal Justice System.
• Experience of working with families under stress.

Area: Derry or Londonderry
Closing date: 21 Nov 2025