At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide reception duties and administrative support within the Probation Service.
- Company: Join a supportive team focused on helping individuals with criminal convictions.
- Benefits: Fixed-term appointment with training and development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a difference by supporting rehabilitation and promoting diversity.
- Qualifications: Proficient in Microsoft Office and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
Probation Employment Pathway (PEP) is a recruitment scheme targeted at supporting individuals who have a history of criminal convictions and who face barriers to employment. PEP is open to anyone who within the last 10 years has received:
- A custodial conviction and has been released from prison
- A conviction resulting in a community sentence
- A conditional discharge
- An out of court disposal
The Probation Employment Pathway is an exception to fair and open competition and is only open to eligible applicants. Eligible applicants who pass our assessment processes will be offered up to a 2-year fixed-term appointment, under an accredited Exception 2 scheme within the Civil Service Recruitment Principles.
Overview of the job: This is an administrative role based within the Probation Service (PS) Directorate in HMPPS. The job holder reports to the designated Line Manager and supports the provision of business-specific and transactional office-based activities. The job holder works collaboratively with other team members to provide reception duties and a range of administrative support services. The job holder may be expected to support a number of teams/functions within the operational area and is to offer support and cover during periods of absence, for which training will be provided.
The job holder must promote diversity and anti-discriminatory practice in the performance of the post in a way that embraces Equality and values Diversity. The post holder must adhere to all policies in respect of the sensitive/confidential nature of the information handled whilst working in this position.
Responsibilities include:
- Support and service meeting rooms including preparing for events and event registration as required.
- Pay bus fares/travel warrants to people on probation and handle day-to-day petty cash including collection and transport of petty cash and travel warrants between Probation properties.
- Assist in maintaining Health and Safety and security aspects of the building, including acting as key holder, operating the physical security of the building, testing fire alarms, testing panic alarms, monitoring CCTV and assisting evacuation measures, and where necessary to act as Fire Warden/First Aider and in the absence of a line manager to support risk assessments where trained.
- Log building faults and incidents and keep a log of maintenance and repairs escalating issues through the appropriate channels and making decisions (within guidelines) on the urgency of the faults in order to maintain the security of the building.
- In the absence of the Senior Admin Officer escort contractors and visitors around the building.
- Support the case administration of Person on Probation by providing a confidential and high-level administrative support service to operational teams, including processing and updating computer-based and manual files and filing systems; using a range of computer software in providing comprehensive administration support; producing a range of documentation and correspondence; accessing databases for information as necessary and inputting information; scanning and archiving data, some of which is sensitive and highly confidential.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and are 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.
Core Hours include regular unsocial hours (evenings and/or weekends) as determined by the business need. The job holder is expected to provide an effective and efficient first point of contact with all visitors, telephone callers and undertake administrative functions in accordance with service policy and procedures.
Ability: Must have proven proficiency in ICT skills across the full range of Microsoft Office applications. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Desirable: Has worked in the criminal justice field. Has experience of working in high pressure/stressful working environments. Has experience in customer relations.
17428 - PEP: Receptionist employer: Ministry of Justice
Joining the Probation Employment Pathway (PEP) as a Receptionist offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause while working in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our commitment to diversity and employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive training programmes and collaborative work culture, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered. Located within the Probation Service, this role not only provides essential administrative support but also plays a vital part in fostering rehabilitation and reintegration for individuals with criminal convictions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 17428 - PEP: Receptionist
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research the Probation Service and understand their values, especially around diversity and inclusion. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through common questions with a friend or family member. Focus on how your past experiences can relate to the role of a receptionist and how you can contribute positively to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! The Probation Employment Pathway is all about supporting individuals with diverse backgrounds. Share your story and how you've overcome challenges; it can really resonate with the interviewers and set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the application process right there. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace 17428 - PEP: Receptionist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and how they’ve shaped who you are today.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. We’re looking for how you can contribute to our team, so connect your background to the role!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your qualifications quickly and easily!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and makes it easier for us to review your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Receptionist role within the Probation Employment Pathway. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as handling sensitive information and providing administrative support. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Receptionist, excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've effectively communicated with others, especially in high-pressure situations. Practising common interview questions can also help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
The job requires supporting various teams and functions, so it's important to highlight your ability to adapt to different roles and environments. Think of specific instances where you've successfully adjusted to new challenges or taken on additional responsibilities. This will show that you're flexible and ready to contribute wherever needed.
✨Understand Diversity and Inclusion
Given the emphasis on promoting diversity and anti-discriminatory practices, be prepared to discuss your understanding of these concepts. Share any relevant experiences where you've embraced diversity in the workplace or contributed to an inclusive environment. This will demonstrate your alignment with the values of the organisation.