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- Tasks: Lead and manage a team to ensure effective probation services.
- Company: Join the National Probation Service, dedicated to public safety and rehabilitation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, a generous pension, and annual leave.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role until July 2026, based in Gloucestershire.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in probation or social work are required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is a management role within the National Probation Service (NPS). The Senior Probation Officer supports the Head of Operational Function to provide management and a leading role within a Local Delivery Unit (LDU) or other operational unit.
Summary
The job holder will be expected to manage and lead staff within the operational area to the required standard, and will offer support and cover to other teams/functions during periods of absence. In line with NPS 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.
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
- To provide effective management and leadership to the team.
- To be accountable for the quality delivery of good practice and team performance improvement within policy and national standards.
- To ensure that all team resources, including interventions, are deployed cost effectively and provide best value in terms of both budget control and realising the organisation's strategic aims.
- To ensure that staff can efficiently and effectively meet the requirements of the NPS' contract with HMPPS, Community Rehabilitation Companies (CRC) and local business plans as required.
- To access, interpret, analyse and apply performance data pro-actively in order to maximise LDU/team performance, evaluate practice and deliver organisational aims.
- To proactively manage staff development, issues of underperformance, attendance, health and safety, employee relations and diversity matters. Adopt a consistent, fair and objective standpoint when making decisions in relation to individual staff issues.
- To ensure that offender managers manage risk appropriately, and meet all public protection standards and targets.
- To contribute directly to public protection through multi-agency arrangements and individual casework review, discussion and feedback.
- To promote a culture of innovation and continuous improvement to service delivery.
- To manage financial resources for your area of responsibility as required by your Head of Operational Function and in line with HMPPS financial regulations and policies. To authorise expenditure within financial limits.
- In accordance with the business plan, to provide a leading role and direction in work with partners and key stakeholders, and represent the NPS as appropriate to the role.
- To facilitate effective communication between the LDU/Operational Unit management team and internal and external partners.
- To play an active part in the corporate management of the NPS as necessary, as a member of the LDU/Operational Unit Management Team.
- To undertake specific areas of responsibility as delegated by the Head of Operational Function.
- Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills by consistently reinforcing pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenging anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
- Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with the NPS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
- To work within the aims and values of NPS 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 Job Evaluation and shall be discussed in the first instance with the Job Holder.
Person specification
Qualifications: Or a qualification which was recognised at the time of qualification by the Secretary of State for Justice as per Section 10 of the Offender Management Act 2007. The following qualifications gained in England and Wales were Previously Recognised As Providing Such Eligibility: Diploma in Probation Studies, Diploma in Social Work (with Probation Option), CQSW (with Probation Option).
Behaviours
We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process: Leadership, Delivering at Pace, Making Effective Decisions, Managing a Quality Service, Developing Self and Others.
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.
Selection process details
This vacancy is using Success Profiles, and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths and Experience. Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard 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), individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020.
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code 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. The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact: Name: SSCL Recruitment Enquiries Team Email: moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk Telephone: 0345 241 5358.
Senior Probation Officer - Gloucestershire - Fixed Term / Loan until 6th July 2026 - 1 FTE (Ref[...] 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 Senior Probation Officer - Gloucestershire - Fixed Term / Loan until 6th July 2026 - 1 FTE (Ref[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Probation Service's policies and procedures. Understanding their approach to equality, inclusion, and public protection will help you demonstrate your alignment with their values during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former probation officers to gain insights into the role and the challenges they face. This can provide you with valuable information that you can reference in discussions with interviewers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've managed teams and improved performance in previous roles. Highlighting your leadership skills and ability to handle underperformance will be crucial for this management position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and issues within the probation service and criminal justice system. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will show your commitment to the field and your readiness to contribute effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Probation Officer - Gloucestershire - Fixed Term / Loan until 6th July 2026 - 1 FTE (Ref[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Probation Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these expectations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your management experience, leadership skills, and any relevant qualifications such as a Diploma in Probation Studies or Social Work. Use specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities.
Showcase Your Skills: Address the key behaviours listed in the job description, such as 'Delivering at Pace' and 'Managing a Quality Service'. Provide concrete examples of how you have exemplified these behaviours in your previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Senior Probation Officer. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the specific duties mentioned, such as managing staff and ensuring public protection standards.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As this role involves management, be ready to provide examples of your leadership experience. Discuss situations where you've successfully led a team, managed performance issues, or implemented improvements in service delivery.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Equality and Inclusion
The National Probation Service values equality and inclusion. Prepare to discuss how you have promoted these values in your previous roles and how you would continue to do so in this position.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your behaviours and strengths, such as 'Delivering at Pace' and 'Managing a Quality Service'. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.