Young People Criminal Justice Practitioner

Recovery Focus; Greater London; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Greater London is looking for a Young Person Criminal Justice Practitioner to support youth affected by substance misuse and the criminal justice system. This role involves developing tailored interventions, conducting assessments, and collaborating with various agencies to promote wellbeing and reduce reoffending. The candidate should have experience with young people, knowledge of safeguarding practices, and strong communication skills. A relevant qualification is required, and the position offers a generous benefits package including annual leave and pension contributions.

Benefits

27 days’ annual leave

Pension scheme with employer contribution

Professional fee reimbursement

24/7 online GP access

£500 bonus

Qualifications

• Experience working with young people, particularly affected by substance misuse.
• Knowledge of harm reduction approaches.
• Strong relationship-building and advocacy skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver tailored 1:1 and group interventions to young people.
• Develop intervention and recovery plans.
• Lead on risk assessment and safeguarding.

Skills

Experience working with young people

Strong knowledge of substance misuse

Excellent communication skills

Confidence in multi-agency environments

Education

Relevant qualification in social work, youth work, criminology

Job description

Location: Lewisham, Winslade Way

Working Hours: Full-time (37 hours)

Contract Type: Permanent

Salary: £28,690 - £34,730

Make a real difference in your community

Waythrough is a specialist provider of mental health, substance misuse and related services, delivering evidence‑based, high‑quality support tailored to individual needs.

At Insight Lewisham, we provide free, confidential support to young people under the age of 25, offering guidance around substance use, sexual health and relationships, as well as support to families across Lewisham.

Young Person Criminal Justice Practitioner (London)

About the Role

The Young Person Criminal Justice Practitioner plays a vital role in supporting young people affected by substance misuse and involvement in the Criminal Justice System. Working within Insight Lewisham, the post holder will deliver targeted, evidence‑based interventions designed to reduce harm, address offending behaviour and support long‑term positive change.

The role involves working across the full journey of a young person’s engagement, from assessment and risk management through to intervention, recovery planning and onward support. You will work closely with young people, their families and a wide range of partner agencies to promote resilience, improve wellbeing and reduce reoffending.

This position requires a proactive, trauma‑informed approach, strong safeguarding practice and the ability to build trusted relationships with young people who may have complex needs. Flexibility is essential, including participation in evening clinics on a rota basis.

What You’ll Do

• Deliver tailored 1:1 and group interventions to young people affected by substance misuse and offending behaviour, using evidence‑based and harm‑reduction approaches.

• Undertake comprehensive assessments, develop intervention and recovery plans, and provide effective case management throughout the young person’s engagement.

• Lead on risk assessment, safeguarding and risk management planning, ensuring the safety of young people and others in line with local and organisational procedures.

• Work collaboratively with Youth Justice Services, social workers, education, health and community partners to provide coordinated and holistic support.

• Support positive family involvement by reducing the impact of substance‑related harm on family life and strengthening relationships where appropriate.

• Act as an advocate for young people, supporting access to treatment, education, training and employment opportunities.

• Maintain accurate, timely records using online case management systems, monitor progress and contribute to service evaluation and continuous improvement.

To Succeed in This Role, You’ll Need:

• Experience working with young people, particularly those affected by substance misuse and the criminal justice system

• Strong knowledge of substance misuse, harm reduction approaches and safeguarding practices

• Excellent communication, relationship‑building and advocacy skills

• Confidence working within multi‑agency environments

• A relevant qualification in social work, youth work, substance misuse, criminology or a related field, or equivalent experience

About Waythrough

Waythrough was formed in 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Together, we’ve created one of the largest mental health and social support charities in England.

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through nearly 200 services – and it’s all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package:

• 27 days’ annual leave, rising to 32 after 1 year (plus bank holidays)

• Pension scheme with 4.5% employer contribution, matched up to 6.5%

• Life assurance (3× annual salary)

• Enhanced sick pay and family‑friendly pay

• Birthday leave and the option to buy up to 5 extra days’ annual leave

• Professional fee reimbursement for relevant qualifications

• 24/7 online GP access and Employee Assistance Programme

• Recognition and long service awards via our portals

• £500 bonus

• Cycle to Work scheme and Credit Union membership

• Discounts via Blue Light Card, Charity Discounts, Extras and Tickets for Good

• Free will writing service and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year

Inclusion and accessibility

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support.

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

If you need adjustments or support to apply, please email our recruitment team.

Closing Date: 2026‑02‑02