At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive quality improvement and performance initiatives in probation services.
- Company: Join the North East Probation Service, committed to making a difference.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that shapes the future of probation services.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 4 or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The role is a member of a Performance & Quality Officer team (2–4 members) working with LDU clusters to ensure performance and delivery to agreed targets. Responsibilities include identifying local performance and quality issues, developing quality improvement programmes, and implementing improvement initiatives that align with HMPPS priorities.
Summary
- Ensure LDU clusters deliver in accordance with national service delivery indicators and specifications
- Develop and deliver a quality improvement programme for the division
- Identify local performance and quality issues linking to HMPPS priorities
- Run improvement initiatives to address opportunities for performance improvement
- Collaborate with other PQOs to share best practice and maximise improvements in quality and performance
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
- Provide guidance for effective practice delivery across LDU clusters
- Demonstrate support for organisational vision and strategies regarding quality improvement
- Implement systems for reviewing and assessing effective practice within LDU clusters
- Implement practice development opportunities in collaboration with HMPPS/NPS training and OD
- Contribute to a culture of innovation and continuous improvement
- Support performance management of LDU clusters within the division
- Identify opportunities for performance improvement and analyse trends within clusters
- Support implementation of performance plans and monitor effectiveness
- Work with PQO colleagues to share good practice and promote performance initiatives
- Support continuous quality improvement
- Implement best practice initiatives internally
- Monitor compliance with quality systems
- Establish effective working relationships with other teams and colleagues
- Write reports for management on contract performance and provide cost analysis where required
- Provide information to colleagues where required
- Support a performance and quality‑focused organisation
- Support manager with information provision for SLA review meetings and recommend improvements; monitor action logs where appropriate
- Monitor CRC and other organisations' delivery of interventions on behalf of NPS
- Share knowledge and good practice to inform continual improvement of service delivery
- Provide information, feedback and advice
- Influence and persuade stakeholders where necessary
- Participate in meetings using appropriate skills, styles and approaches
- Manage own resources and professional development
- Liaise with staff to receive, collate and analyse information, compiling reports as necessary
- Develop and utilise data to identify trends and recommend action to maintain and enhance performance
- Comply with systems for the exchange of sensitive information, data and intelligence
- Support a culture and systems that promote equality and value diversity
- Implement diversity policies of the service and consult the Equalities and Diversity Unit as appropriate
- Ensure an effective approach to project and process evaluation
- Manage a programme of complementary projects
- Enable others to carry out project management roles
- Maintain effective communication with project stakeholders
Behaviours
- Changing and Improving
- Working Together
- Managing a Quality Service
- Delivering at Pace
Technical Requirements
- NVQ Level 4 or equivalent in a relevant subject (or appropriate practical experience)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, PowerPoint) or equivalent (e.g., Lotus Notes)
Abilities
- Maintain information and administrative systems, including databases
- Strong analytical, evaluative and outcome‑focused problem‑solving skills
- Operational experience of working in a probation setting
- Experience of quality systems and implementing quality improvement initiatives
Eligibility – Civil Service Nationality Rules
- UK nationals
- Nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- Nationals of Commonwealth countries with right to work in the UK
- Nationals of EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members with settled or pre‑settled status under the EUSS
- Nationals of EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein with a valid application for settled or pre‑settled status under the 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 who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Benefits
- Annual leave: 25 days on appointment (increases to 30 days after five years of service), plus public holidays
- National Probation Service covered by the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Access to training and development opportunities offered by the Ministry of Justice
- Family‑friendly policies including reduced hours, job sharing and flexible benefits
- Paid paternity, adoption and maternity leave
- Free annual sight tests for employees who use computer screens
Performance and Quality Officer - Permanent in Ashington employer: Ministry of Justice
The North East Probation Service is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee development and well-being, offering a supportive work culture focused on quality improvement and collaboration. With access to comprehensive training opportunities, family-friendly policies, and a commitment to diversity, employees can thrive in their roles while contributing to meaningful change within the community. Located in the vibrant North East, this position not only provides a chance to make a real impact but also fosters a sense of belonging and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Performance and Quality Officer - Permanent in Ashington
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
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We think you need these skills to ace Performance and Quality Officer - Permanent in Ashington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Ministry of Justice and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ministry of Justice, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Ministry of Justice.
