At a Glance
- Tasks: Support victims of crime and their families, providing vital information and guidance.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the Public Protection sector.
- Benefits: Permanent position with travel expenses covered and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage in ongoing training and development to enhance your skills.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of victims while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including English and Maths; experience with diverse communities is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The job holder will work with victims of crime and victims’ families who are participating in, or are being considered for inclusion in, the statutory Probation Service (PS) Victim Contact Scheme (VCS) or Victim Notification Scheme (VNS). The job holder will work in accordance with the PS VCS and VNS Guidance, relevant policies, and legislation to contribute to the assessment and management of risk posed by offenders in order to protect the public. They will liaise with victims and their families to provide them with information about significant developments during the offender’s sentence or order and enable victims and their families to participate by making representations to inform decision‑making around risk management. The job holder will also liaise with relevant professionals across organisations and contribute to inter‑agency meetings to ensure that the views of victims and their families have been considered.
Summary
- Provide information to victims and their families during the key stages of the offender’s sentence/hospital order and contribute towards the assessment and management of the risk of harm to victims and their families.
- Liaise with, provide, analyse information for, and give advice to criminal justice agencies and other partner agencies to ensure that the perspectives of victims and their families have been considered.
- Work in partnership with other agencies with the aim of preventing reoffending and meet the needs of victims, whilst considering the rights and needs of offenders.
The post holder requires knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice system, including the functions of the courts, prisons, probation, and the Parole Board, as well as Youth Justice Services and the arrangements for Mentally Disordered Offenders. The post holder will be required to travel on a regular basis to maintain contact with victims, their families, and other professionals who may be based across rural and urban areas.
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
- Liaise with the victims and their families to ensure they are informed about key stages and developments regarding an offender’s sentence or hospital order as set out in the VCS and VNS.
- Use computer‑based administrative systems to obtain relevant information and to produce, update and maintain records relating to victims, and other documentation, within agreed timescales.
- Assess the risks and needs of victims and their families and complete any required actions within appropriate timescales including home and/or alternate location visits as required in accordance with the PS VCS and VNS Guidance.
- Identify changes in risk or need and refer to senior managers and professionals in other agencies as appropriate.
- Carry out safeguarding children and safeguarding adult duties in accordance with the PS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
- Ensure effective referrals to, and communication with, other probation colleagues and professionals in other agencies.
- Participate in a range of interprofessional meetings to represent victims and their families (and/or the PS) to support risk management and safeguarding of victims.
- Carry out duties in accordance with policies and legislation governing parole proceedings, and to support victims and their families to write a personal statement and/or present their statement to the parole board in person or remotely.
- Provide training and mentoring support to new VLOs and other probation practitioners and educate professionals from other agencies about the VCS and VNS and their responsibilities.
- Engage in ongoing learning and development to maintain up‑to‑date knowledge and understanding of current policies, legislation, and best practice, including completion of all mandatory training.
- Provide cover within the victim liaison unit as appropriate.
Civil Service Success Profile Criteria
- Behaviours
- Making Effective Decisions
- Changing and Improving
- Delivering at Pace
- Communicating and Influencing
- Developing Self and Others
- Working Together
Experience
- Experience of working with people from diverse backgrounds who have experienced a range of social/personal difficulties, communicating effectively and sensitively, and working in a trauma‑informed way.
- Experience of working with diverse communities including promoting equality and valuing diversity.
- Knowledge and understanding of the assessment and management of risk in relation to offenders and victim safeguarding.
- Knowledge and understanding of the Criminal Justice system and related agencies.
Technical
- Minimum 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including English and Maths.
Hours of Work
- 37 hours per week.
Additional Information
- To be based in Southampton but to cover Isle of Wight cases as well. Transport costs will be covered to Isle of Wight.
Victim Liaison Officer - Public Protection - Southampton & IOW (South Central) in Newport employer: Ministry of Justice
As a Victim Liaison Officer with NPS South Central, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to supporting victims of crime and their families in Southampton and the Isle of Wight. Our organisation fosters a collaborative work culture that values diversity and promotes professional growth through ongoing training and development opportunities. With a focus on meaningful engagement and community impact, we offer a rewarding environment where your contributions directly enhance public safety and victim support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Victim Liaison Officer - Public Protection - Southampton & IOW (South Central) in Newport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the criminal justice field, especially those who work with victims. Attend local events or online webinars to make connections and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Get a friend to throw some common interview questions your way, especially around victim support and risk management. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s your turn.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for helping others! In interviews, share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting victims and their families. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Victim Liaison Officer - Public Protection - Southampton & IOW (South Central) in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of a Victim Liaison Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your work history, focus on experiences that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with diverse communities. We want to see how you've handled similar situations in the past!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the criminal justice system, especially the roles of courts, prisons, and probation. Familiarise yourself with the Victim Contact Scheme and Victim Notification Scheme, as you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of these processes during the interview.
✨Show Empathy and Communication Skills
As a Victim Liaison Officer, you'll be working closely with victims and their families. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. Think about times when you've had to handle difficult conversations or support someone in distress.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork
This role involves liaising with various agencies and professionals. Be ready to discuss your experience working in teams and how you’ve collaborated with others to achieve common goals. Highlight any inter-agency meetings you've participated in and how you contributed to those discussions.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making and risk management skills. Think through potential situations you might face in the role and how you would handle them. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
