At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct surveys and analyse data to improve conditions for detainees.
- Company: Join HM Inspectorate of Prisons, a vital independent body in the justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of detainees while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Honours degree in social or statistical science with research methods experience required.
The predicted salary is between 35640 - 43560 £ per year.
About HM Inspectorate of Prisons We are an independent inspectorate led by HM Chief Inspector of Prisons. We scrutinise the conditions and treatment of prisoners and other detainees and report on our findings. We help to make sure that detention is humane, safe, respectful and helps to prepare people for release ahead of their return to the community. We do that by carrying out independent inspections of prisons, young offender institutions, secure training centres and courts in England and Wales and places of immigration detention across the UK.
About the role This post offers a unique opportunity to develop practical social research skills as part of a close-knit team working in a fast-paced environment. Much of the day-to-day work of the 12-strong Research, Data & Thematics (RDT) team involves conducting surveys in places of detention and analysing the results for use by inspectors. Reporting to one of our Research Officers, the post holder will also help to maintain HMI Prisons’ databases, provide analysis for thematic and other reports, and act as an ambassador for the Inspectorate while on inspections. The job involves regular travel and time away from home carrying out surveys in places of detention - on average one or two nights per fortnight.
Responsibilities:
- Organising and attending visits to custodial establishments on a regular basis to conduct detainee surveys
- Processing and analysing survey data
- Checking survey findings for publication in inspection reports
- Collating and presenting data to inform inspections and other projects
- Updating and maintaining HMI Prisons’ databases and providing analysis for governance meetings and annual report.
Essential criteria:
- An Honours degree or post-graduate qualification in a relevant social or statistical science (e.g. Sociology, Statistics, Psychology, Criminology or similar) with a substantial social research methods component.
- Analytical skills across both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
- Ability to deliver at pace and as part of a team.
- Ability to tailor research outputs to meet customer need and have impact.
Desirable criteria:
- Experience of using IBM SPSS or other statistical analysis package.
- Experience of using MS Office applications, specifically Word, Excel, OneNote and Outlook.
- Interest in the criminal justice system.
- Commitment to the values of HM Inspectorate of Prisons.
Physical requirements of the role:
The role of a Research Assistant at HMI Prisons can be physically demanding. While undertaking detainee surveys researchers are required to spend a lot of time on their feet, which will include ascending and descending multiple sets of stairs, crouching down to post questionnaires under doors if required, and carrying upwards of 70 paper questionnaires. Research Assistants also need to be able to respond quickly, if necessary, for example exiting a wing if there is an emergency.
Working Arrangements & Further Information:
The MoJ offers Hybrid Working arrangements where business need allows. This is an informal, non-contractual form of flexible working that blends working from your base location, different MoJ sites and / or from home (please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK and not overseas). All employees will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of their working time in an office, subject to local estate capacity.
Benefits:
- Annual Leave: 25 days on appointment and will increase to 30 days after five years’ service.
- Pension: The Civil Service offers a choice of pension schemes.
- Training: The Ministry of Justice is committed to staff development and offers an extensive range of training and development opportunities.
- Support: A range of ‘Family Friendly’ policies such as opportunities to work reduced hours or job share.
Diversity & Inclusion:
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found.
22343 - HM Inspectorate of Prisons (ALB of MoJ) - Research Assistant in London employer: Ministry of Justice
The Ministry of Justice is an exceptional employer, dedicated to transforming lives through education and vocational training. With a strong emphasis on supportive relationships and personal development, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that prioritises safety and security while offering opportunities for professional growth and meaningful impact in the community. Working in this role not only allows you to make a difference but also provides a unique chance to contribute to the rehabilitation and resettlement of individuals in a dynamic environment.
