At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the friendly face of our team, greeting visitors and managing office logistics.
- Company: Join the Probation Service Directorate within HMPPS, a supportive and diverse workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: No prior experience needed; perfect for those looking to start their career!
- Why this job: Make a difference in a dynamic environment while developing your administrative skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE A*–C in Maths and English or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
This administrative role is based within the Probation Service Directorate in HMPPS. The holder reports to the designated line manager and supports the provision of business‑specific and transactional office‑based activities. The post involves reception duties, administrative support and occasional cover for other teams. The holder must promote diversity and anti‑discriminatory practice, observe all confidentiality policies and handle sensitive information with care.
Summary
Provide an effective and efficient first point of contact for visitors and telephone callers, and carry out administrative functions in accordance with service policy.
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
- First point of contact, greet visitors, log arrival/departure, notify staff, issue visitor passes and security fobs.
- Use situational awareness to diffuse potentially violent situations, recognize safeguarding or risk issues and take correct remedial action.
- Answer all enquiries regarding Probation Service provisions and refer complex queries to management.
- Manage all building logistics: mail, PPE, office stationery, meeting rooms, car parking; support events and registrations.
- Process bus fares, travel warrants, petty cash and transport of cash between properties.
- Maintain health and safety and security: act as key holder, assess fire/panic alarms, monitor CCTV, act as fire warden/first aider, support risk assessments.
- Log building faults and incidents, maintain maintenance records and escort contractors/visitors if required.
- Assist case administration of Probationers where necessary, providing confidential high‑level support.
Behaviours
- Delivering at Pace
- Communicating and Influencing
- Changing and Improving
- Managing a Quality Service
Ability
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent verbal and written communication.
Experience
- None required.
- Desirable Experience: Worked in criminal justice field. Experience working in high‑pressure or stressful environments. Experience in customer relations.
Qualifications
- Essential: GCSE A*–C grade (or equivalent) including Maths and English (and Welsh where applicable) or proven record in a comparable role.
- Desirable: IT qualification equivalent to ECDL/CLAIT or similar competency level.
Hours of Work (Unsocial Hours) Allowances
Additional payments are made for working unsocial hours.
Benefits
The MoJ offers a range of benefits: annual leave (25 days, increasing to 30 after five years, plus public holidays), a pension scheme (LGPS), staff development and training, employee networks, eligibility for child‑care and paid family leave benefits, free annual sight tests, and support for flexible working.
Diversity & Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attracting, retaining, and investing in talent wherever it is found.
Civil Service Nationality Rules
UK nationals, Nationals of the Republic of Ireland, Nationals of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK, Nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members with settled or pre‑settled status under the EUSS, Turkish nationals and certain family members with the right to work.
Reserve List
A reserve list may be held for up to 12 months from which further appointments may be made for the same or similar roles.
18967 - Receptionist - Wirral in Birkenhead employer: Ministry of Justice
Joining the Probation Service Directorate in HMPPS as a Receptionist offers a unique opportunity to be part of a supportive and inclusive work environment dedicated to public service. With a strong emphasis on employee development, you will benefit from comprehensive training, flexible working options, and a generous leave policy, all while contributing to meaningful work that promotes diversity and safety within the community. Located in Wirral, this role not only provides a stable career path but also allows you to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 18967 - Receptionist - Wirral in Birkenhead
✨Get Involved with Local Community Projects
If you're eyeing a role in the government or public sector, dive into local community projects or initiatives. These not only elevate your resume but also help you make valuable connections with people already working in the field. Plus, showing a genuine commitment to public service can stand out to employers!
✨Attend Public Sector Job Fairs
Make sure to hit up job fairs specifically tailored for the public sector. These events are gold mines for entry-level roles, and you can chat directly with recruiters from local councils or governmental agencies. It’s an excellent chance to show off your enthusiasm and maybe even score an informal interview!
✨Engage with Your Local Representatives
Reach out to your local MPs or representatives for informational interviews or to volunteer. This can give you insights into the working of government roles, and they might even inform you about upcoming vacancies that aren’t widely advertised yet. Networking within these circles can sometimes open unexpected doors!
✨Check Out Internship Programmes
Entry-level positions in the public sector are often tied to internship programmes. Keep an eye on internships offered by local government bodies or agencies, as they can serve as a perfect stepping stone into a full-time role. Applying through our website can help you stay updated on these opportunities, so keep your eyes peeled!
We think you need these skills to ace 18967 - Receptionist - Wirral in Birkenhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Motivation:In your cover letter, make sure to highlight why you're passionate about working in the government and public sector. Employers love to see candidates who are not just looking for a job, but who genuinely want to contribute to their community and make a difference. Let us know what drives you to apply to Ministry of Justice!
Emphasise Relevant Skills:This is the time to flaunt those transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking! Make sure your CV reflects any experience you have in volunteering or community service, as these are super relevant in the public sector. We want to see how your background can contribute to Ministry of Justice's mission!
Tailor Your CV for Entry-Level:For an entry-level role, let’s keep the focus on your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any internships or part-time roles that highlight your skills. Make it easy for us to see your potential – remove any unrelated jobs that might clutter your CV. Highlight how your background aligns with the work done at Ministry of Justice.
Follow Application Guidelines:Government roles often come with specific application requirements, such as forms or additional documentation. Make sure to tick all the boxes when applying through our website. Double-check that you’ve included everything requested – we wouldn’t want you to miss out on opportunities at Ministry of Justice because of a missing document!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know Your Public Sector Values
Understand the core values and mission of public service, especially as they relate to Ministry of Justice. Be ready to explain why you want to work in the government-public sector and how your motivations align with serving the community.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face situational questions that gauge your decision-making and problem-solving skills. For example, they might ask how you would handle a situation where a policy you support is met with public criticism, so think about your responses ahead of time!
✨Research the Specific Role You'll Play
As an entry-level candidate, demonstrate your understanding of the specific department or area you'll be involved with. Familiarise yourself with current projects or challenges Ministry of Justice is facing, as this will show your enthusiasm and preparedness.
✨Prepare to Discuss Public Accountability
Working in the public sector means being accountable to the populace. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure transparency and build trust as a representative of Ministry of Justice. Reflect on how you would communicate effectively with the public and stakeholders.
