Probation Officer - Permanent - Somerset (Ref: 9219)

Overview of the job

Post holders will undertake the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation under supervision, including assessment, sentence implementation, and producing reports; utilising service procedures and practice directions to underpin professional judgement.

Summary

To assess and manage the risk posed by people on probation to protect victims of crime and the public by:

• Providing information and advice to criminal courts, other criminal justice agencies, and partner organisations.
• Supervising people on probation subject to community orders and licences, and during custodial sentences.
• Contributing to the management of risk.
• Working with other agencies and groups to prevent crime and meet the needs of victims and people on probation.

In line with PS policies and procedures, the job holder must demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion and understand their relevance to the work. The post holder must adhere to all policies regarding the sensitive/confidential nature of information handled.

Responsibilities, Activities & Duties

• Provide professional advice and assessment, including written reports to courts, the Parole Board, and other criminal justice agencies.
• Undertake offender management tasks with individuals assessed at all risk levels, including high and very high risk of serious harm.
• Use computer-based systems to maintain records and documentation within agreed timescales.
• Ensure timely referrals and relationships with offender management, court teams, victim contact units, interventions, Approved Premises, prisons, and external agencies.
• Attend professional meetings and represent the PS at partnership forums such as MAPPA and MARAC.
• Collaborate with colleagues, maintain team relationships, and provide guidance and support to PSOs and staff.
• Provide cover within your team and others as required.
• Conduct visits to prisons, homes, or other locations as needed.
• Deliver and co-lead accredited programmes appropriate to grade.
• Carry out mandatory alcohol and drug tests and follow medication procedures.
• Perform safeguarding children duties according to statutory responsibilities and policies.
• Model pro-social behaviour and challenge anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
• Work within the aims and values of PS and HMPPS.

Additional tasks and adjustments may be necessary, which will be discussed with the job holder. The role requires confidence in spoken English or Welsh (in Wales).

Selection will assess behaviours such as communication, delivering at pace, and decision-making. Benefits include learning opportunities, flexible working, inclusive culture, pension, annual leave, and more. For details, visit the Candidate Information Page: https://justicejobs.tal.net/vx/candidate/cms/About%20the%20MOJ

This vacancy uses Success Profiles to assess behaviours, strengths, and experience. Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check and meet nationality requirements.

Applicants must hold a Probation Officer qualification or be a qualified Probation Officer, with additional qualifications such as a PQF Honours Degree/Graduate Diploma and Level 5 Diploma in Probation, Diploma in Probation Studies, or equivalent.