Visit Centre Support Worker

POPS; Lancaster; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A community support organization is seeking a post-holder based at HMP Lancaster Farms to provide practical and emotional support to visitors. Responsibilities include supervising play activities for children, greeting visitors, and coordinating with prison staff. The ideal candidate will have experience working with children and families, and must be willing to work flexibly, including weekends.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children and families.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and security.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Meet and greet visitors in a friendly manner.
• Provide practical and emotional support to families.
• Supervise age-appropriate play activities during visits.

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POST

Based primarily in the visit centre at HMP Lancaster Farms, the post-holder will work as part of a team to provide practical and emotional advice and support to visitors.

Work as part of a team within the wider POPS staff team to ensure children visiting enjoy a range of play activities and experiences during visit sessions and scheduled family day events. The post holder will oversee the play area within the prison visit room hall, providing play activities for 2-5-year-olds visiting their loved ones. Additionally, the post holder will prepare tabletop activities for older children to engage in with their parent/carer and visitor.

MAIN TASKS

Activities

1. Meet and greet visitors, ensuring a friendly and welcoming environment.
2. Provide practical and emotional support to prisoners and their families.
3. Maintain confidentiality and security of information.
4. Update notice boards and information stands with relevant information as directed.
5. Carry out administrative tasks related to visitor bookings, including checking visitor ID documentation.
6. Coordinate with prison staff, including visits and security staff, to ensure smooth visitor reception.
7. Access and update the POPS’ case management system for reporting purposes.
8. Serve hot and cold drinks to visitors if required.
9. Assist with the organisation and delivery of Family Forums when needed.
10. Comply with POPS and prison policies, including Security, Health and Safety, and Safeguarding.
11. Participate in relevant training.
12. Undertake any other duties as requested by the Family Engagement Worker.
13. Work flexibly, including weekdays and weekends on a rota basis.
14. Ensure age-appropriate play activities are available and supervised during all visit sessions and family events.
15. Arrange and implement varied play activities considering the needs and ages of visiting children.
16. Plan and evaluate daily activities, setting up and packing away equipment.
17. Maintain hygiene of equipment through regular cleaning.
18. Attend regular supervision sessions with your line manager.
19. Participate in relevant training.
20. Undertake other duties as assigned by the Family Engagement Worker.