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- Tasks: Support offenders in turning their lives around through assessments and guidance.
- Company: Join the Probation Service, dedicated to public safety and rehabilitation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, a Civil Service pension, and annual pay progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while building a rewarding career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: No degree needed; empathy, patience, and good writing skills are essential.
- Other info: Opportunities available at various court locations in South Essex.
The predicted salary is between 22400 - 29600 £ per year.
The position is based at Basildon Magistrates Basildon, SS14 1EH, NPS Basildon Crown Court, SS14 2EW, Southend Crown Court Southend On Sea, SS2 6EG, Southend-On-Sea Magistrates Southend-On-Sea, SS2 6EG
Job Summary
Please refer to Job Description.
Job Description
To provide professional advice, guidance and assessments, including oral and written reports primarily to Courts but also other criminal justice agencies and partner organisations. Post will be based within either Basildon or Southend Courts.
Helping to keep the public safe. Giving people the chance to turn their lives around. Building a rewarding professional career. There are many reasons to join the Probation Service. What will yours be?
New entrants are expected to join on the minimum of the pay band.
If you are successful in the recruitment process to join the Probation Service, your starting salary will be £26,475
The Probation Service offers the opportunity for annual pay progression through a Competency Based Framework (CBF), which if eligible, will see your pay increase. CBF is designed to enable you to move up through the pay band range as your competence grows.
Probation Service also increase their pay band ranges annually in line with Civil Service Pay guidance, which will also apply an increase to band pay ranges where applicable.
About The Role
Probation services officers can help make a real difference to peoples’ lives. It’s not always easy to help someone turn their life around, but it can be immensely rewarding.
We’re looking for empathetic, patient and resilient people to join us as probation services officers. As well as making a difference to others, the role offers plenty of on-the-job training and a real chance to build a career in the Probation Service.
As a PSO, you’ll have a similar job to a fully qualified probation officer. The main difference is you’ll work with medium and lower risk clients. That’s not to say it’ll be easy. There’s no doubt this is a challenging role.
Day-to-day, you’ll manage a caseload of offenders before and after sentence. We’ll look to you to assess and manage risks, provide information to courts and work closely with agencies throughout the justice system. You’ll also do everything you can to support offenders. This could involve everything from providing practical advice about housing and employment to simply listening and empathising.
About You
You don’t need a degree for this role. We’re much more interested in your personal qualities. Ideally with experience of working with people who have social or personal difficulties, you’ll be empathetic, patient and resilient. Good writing skills are also essential. You must be able to produce clear and accurate reports to tight deadlines.
About Us
By managing offenders in the community, the Probation Service protects the public from the effect of crime and gives offenders the chance to turn their lives around. Join us and you’ll be part of a supportive team that thrives on sharing knowledge and expertise.
Successful applicants may be based a wide variety of office, court, team or prison locations within the Probation Service region. Allocations will be made according to business need. To find out more about working as a Probation Service Officer please click here: Probation services officer – Ministry of Justice
Overview Of The Job
The job holder will undertake the full range of work with people on probation before and after sentence. This will include assessment, sentence implementation, offender management and producing reports. The job holder will provide case management support to a full range of people on probation utilising service procedures and practice directions that underpin professional judgement.
Summary
To assess and manage the risk (including risk management plans and escalation) posed by people on probation to protect victims of crime and the general public by:
- Liaising, providing information and advice to criminal courts, criminal justice agencies and other partner agencies.
- Supervise and manage risk of those people on probation subject to community sentences, during and after custodial sentences.
- Work 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 at all times demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion and an understanding of their relevance to the work they do.
The post holder must adhere to all policies in respect of the sensitive/confidential nature of the information handled whilst working in this position.
If relevant to the role, some out of hours working may be required (i.e. Courts, Approved Premises, programmes, evening reporting etc.).
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:
- To undertake the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation assessed as low or medium risk of harm and to support the Probation Officer grade in high risk cases.
- When providing case manager support, to contribute to the delivery of the Risk Management plan and report significant changes relating to risk of harm and/or of reoffending or any non‐compliance within agreed enforcement procedures.
- To use computer based systems to produce, update and maintain records and other documentation within agreed timescales.
- Ensure effective referrals to services and facilities and communicate with offender management staff, interventions staff, service providers and external agencies to review progress and associated risks.
- To undertake prison, home or alternate location visits as required in accordance with service procedures and policies.
- To undertake work in the court setting, including the completion of appropriate reports on cases and prosecution of breaches.
- To provide cover within teams as required.
- To deliver and co-lead accredited programmes commensurate with grade.
- To conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests as required, and to follow prescribed medication procedures.
- Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with the PS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
- Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills by consistently reinforcing pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenging anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
- To work within the aims and values of PS and HMPPS.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Significant adjustments may require re-examination under the Job Evaluation Scheme and shall be discussed in the first instance with the job holder.
An ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence through the medium of English or (where specified in Wales) Welsh.
To provide professional advice, guidance and assessments, including oral and written reports primarily to Courts but also other criminal justice agencies and partner organisations. Post will be based within either Basildon or Southend Courts.
Helping to keep the public safe. Giving people the chance to turn their lives around. Building a rewarding professional career. There are many reasons to join the Probation Service. What will yours be?
New entrants are expected to join on the minimum of the pay band.
If you are successful in the recruitment process to join the Probation Service, your starting salary will be £26,475
The Probation Service offers the opportunity for annual pay progression through a Competency Based Framework (CBF), which if eligible, will see your pay increase. CBF is designed to enable you to move up through the pay band range as your competence grows.
Probation Service also increase their pay band ranges annually in line with Civil Service Pay guidance, which will also apply an increase to band pay ranges where applicable.
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:
- To undertake the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation assessed as low or medium risk of harm and to support the Probation Officer grade in high risk cases.
- When providing case manager support, to contribute to the delivery of the Risk Management plan and report significant changes relating to risk of harm and/or of reoffending or any non‐compliance within agreed enforcement procedures.
- To use computer based systems to produce, update and maintain records and other documentation within agreed timescales.
- Ensure effective referrals to services and facilities and communicate with offender management staff, interventions staff, service providers and external agencies to review progress and associated risks.
- To undertake prison, home or alternate location visits as required in accordance with service procedures and policies.
- To undertake work in the court setting, including the completion of appropriate reports on cases and prosecution of breaches.
- To provide cover within teams as required.
- To deliver and co-lead accredited programmes commensurate with grade.
- To conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests as required, and to follow prescribed medication procedures.
- Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with the PS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
- Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills by consistently reinforcing pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenging anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
- To work within the aims and values of PS and HMPPS.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Significant adjustments may require re-examination under the Job Evaluation Scheme and shall be discussed in the first instance with the job holder.
An ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence through the medium of English or (where specified in Wales) Welsh.
Person specification
Please Refer To Job Description.
Behaviours
We\’ll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
- Delivering at Pace
- Managing a Quality Service
- Working Together
- Communicating and Influencing
- Developing Self and Others
- Making Effective Decisions
- Access to learning and development
- A working environment that supports a range of flexible working options to enhance your work life balance
- A working culture which encourages inclusion and diversity
- A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
- Annual Leave
- Public Holidays
- Season Ticket Advance
For more information about the recruitment process, benefits and allowances and answers to general queries, please click the below link which will direct you to our Candidate Information Page.
Link: https://justicejobs.tal.net/vx/candidate/cms/About%20the%20MOJ
Selection process details
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Ability and Experience.
https://justicejobs.tal.net/vx/candidate/cms/About%20the%20MOJ
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Ability and Experience.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
- UK nationals
- nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission\’s recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission\’s recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
- Name : Recruitment Enquiries Team
- Email : moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk
- Telephone : 0845 241 5358
Recruitment team
- Email : moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk
Further information
Appointment to the Civil Service is governed by the Civil Service Commission’s Recruitment Principles. I you feel a department has breached the requirement of the Recruitment Principles and would like to raise this, please contact SSCL (Moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@gov.sscl.com) in the first instance. If the role has been advertised externally (outside of the Civil Service) and you are not satisfied with the response, you may bring your complaint to the Commission. For further information on bringing a complaint to the Civil Service Commission please visit their web pages: http://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/civil-service-recruitment/complaints
https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/careers/JobDetail/7396?entityId=7396 #J-18808-Ljbffr
Probation Service Officer - Courts - South Essex - East of England. (Ref: 7396) employer: HM Prison and Probation Service
Contact Detail:
HM Prison and Probation Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Probation Service Officer - Courts - South Essex - East of England. (Ref: 7396)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local courts in Basildon and Southend. Understanding the specific challenges and community needs in these areas can help you demonstrate your commitment to making a difference during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former probation service officers. They can provide valuable insights into the role and share their experiences, which can help you tailor your approach and show genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for behavioural interview questions by reflecting on your past experiences. Think of specific examples where you've demonstrated empathy, resilience, and teamwork, as these qualities are crucial for a Probation Service Officer.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current issues within the criminal justice system. Being knowledgeable about recent developments can help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview process and show that you're proactive about your professional growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Probation Service Officer - Courts - South Essex - East of England. (Ref: 7396)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Probation Service Officer. Familiarise yourself with the job description and think about how your skills and experiences align with what they are looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any experience you have working with individuals facing social or personal difficulties. Use specific examples to demonstrate your empathy, patience, and resilience, as these qualities are crucial for this role.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since good writing skills are essential for producing clear and accurate reports, include examples of your written work if possible. This could be in the form of reports, assessments, or any relevant documentation that showcases your ability to communicate effectively in writing.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application specifically for this position. Use keywords from the job description in your CV and cover letter to show that you understand the role and are genuinely interested in it. This will help your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service
✨Show Empathy and Understanding
As a Probation Service Officer, you'll be working with individuals facing personal challenges. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to empathise and connect with people. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported someone in need.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Good writing and verbal communication skills are essential for this role. Be prepared to discuss how you can produce clear reports and communicate effectively with courts and other agencies. Consider bringing a sample report or written work to showcase your abilities.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
The interview will likely include questions assessing your behaviours, such as 'Delivering at Pace' and 'Working Together'. Think of specific situations where you've demonstrated these behaviours and be ready to share them in a structured manner using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
✨Research the Probation Service
Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of the Probation Service. Understanding their commitment to public safety and rehabilitation will help you align your answers with their goals. This knowledge will also show your genuine interest in the role and organisation.