Probation Officers

Overview

To assess and manage the risk posed by people on probation to protect victims of crime and the public by providing information and advice to courts, other criminal justice agencies and partner organisations; supervising people on probation; contributing to risk management; and working with agencies to prevent crime and meet the needs of victims and people on probation.

In line with PS policies and procedures, the job holder must demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion and must adhere to policies regarding the sensitive/confidential nature of information handled. The duties below describe the post as it is at present and are not exhaustive; reasonable alterations and additional tasks may be required.

Responsibilities, Activities & Duties

• Provide professional advice and assessment, including written reports to courts, the Parole Board, other criminal justice agencies and partner organisations.
• Undertake the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation assessed at all levels of risk of serious harm, including high and very high.
• Use computer-based systems to produce, update and maintain records and documentation within agreed timescales.
• Ensure timely and effective referrals to and relationships between offender management, court teams, victim contact units, interventions, Approved Premises, prisons and external agencies to enhance positive outcomes, manage risk and reduce reoffending.
• Attend professional meetings and represent PS at partnership forums (e.g., MAPPA, MARAC).
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, maintain effective team relationships, and provide professional guidance and support to Probation Services Officers and other staff as appropriate.
• Provide cover within your team and to other teams as required.
• Undertake prison, home or other alternate location visits as required.
• Deliver and co-lead accredited programmes commensurate with grade.
• Conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests as required and follow prescribed medication procedures.
• Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with PS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
• Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills and challenge anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
• Work within the aims and values of PS and HMPPS.
• Engage with staff and residents in a PIPE (Psychologically Informed Planned Environment) setting where applicable, with appropriate training and support provided.

Requirements & Qualifications

• You must hold a Probation Officer qualification or be a qualified Probation Officer.
• Standard technical and professional requirements include:
  • PQF Honours Degree/Graduate Diploma and Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice; or Diploma in Probation Studies; or Diploma in Social Work (Probation option); or CQSW (Probation option).
  • Knowledge and understanding of the Criminal Justice System and the Probation Service.
  • Working knowledge of relevant legislation and National Standards.
  • Knowledge of Evidence Based Practice and risk/needs assessment tools.
• Ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role in English (or Welsh where specified in Wales).

Experience

• Experience of working with a wide variety of people who have experienced social/personal difficulties.
• Experience of working with diverse communities, promoting equality and valuing diversity.
• Experience of motivating and changing offending behaviour in individuals and groups.
• Experience of working with individuals who have committed offences.

Working Arrangements & Benefits

• Hybrid working arrangements may be available where business needs allow; some roles may require working from MoJ offices or other locations.
• Standard full-time hours: 37 hours per week (unpaid breaks). Part-time, flexible and job-sharing patterns are welcome where they meet role demands.
• Salary and terms subject to Civil Service reform where applicable; details will be provided if an offer is made.
• MoJ offers a range of benefits including annual leave, pension (LGPS through GMPF), training, employee networks, and flexible working support.

Security, Diversity & Inclusion

All candidates are subject to security and identity checks. MoJ is an equal opportunity employer and participates in diversity and inclusion initiatives, including disability confidence and veteran initiatives. Guidance on applying for roles and adjustments for applicants with disabilities is available.