At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in the justice system to reduce reoffending and promote positive outcomes.
- Company: Local authority's Youth Justice Service in Walsall.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, opportunity to make a real difference, and professional development.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help shape the futures of young people.
- Qualifications: Qualification in Social Work, Youth Work, or related field required.
- Other info: Temporary contract with potential for impactful work in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Contract: Temporary (Maternity/Paternity Cover)
IR35 Status: Inside IR35
Start Date: 10th November 2025
End Date: 10th February 2026
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Youth Justice Officer to join a local authority’s Youth Justice Service based in Walsall. The successful candidate will hold full case management responsibilities, supporting young people within the youth justice system to reduce reoffending and promote positive life outcomes. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled practitioner with strong assessment, intervention, and report‑writing skills to make a real difference in the lives of young people.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out assessments using ASSET+ and the Prevention and Diversion Assessment Tool (PDAT).
- Develop and deliver intervention plans to address offending behaviour and support positive engagement.
- Prepare and present Pre‑Sentence Reports and Referral Order Reports for court.
- Attend court hearings and represent the Youth Justice Service professionally.
- Participate in duty cover and contribute to joint decision‑making and referral panels.
- Work collaboratively with families, partner agencies, and community organisations to ensure holistic support.
Requirements
- Qualification in Social Work, Probation, Youth Work, Criminology, or a related field.
- Proven experience within a Youth Justice Team or similar setting.
- Sound understanding of youth offending legislation, safeguarding, and multi‑agency working.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and report‑writing skills.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a supportive team environment.
- Must be available for office‑based work on Mondays and Tuesdays (hybrid working otherwise).
Location Base: Walsall Civic Centre
Work pattern: Hybrid – office attendance required on Mondays and Tuesdays
Youth Justice Officer employer: Optima Staffing Solutions
Contact Detail:
Optima Staffing Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Youth Justice Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the youth justice field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of youth offending legislation and case management practices. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your previous work, like reports or intervention plans, to demonstrate your expertise during interviews. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can make a real difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing passionate candidates who are eager to join our team and make an impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Justice Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Youth Justice Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your assessment and report-writing abilities.
Showcase Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for working with young people in the youth justice system. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a difference in their lives.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so we can easily understand your qualifications and how you fit the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position without any hiccups.
How to prepare for a job interview at Optima Staffing Solutions
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with youth offending legislation and the specific tools mentioned in the job description, like ASSET+ and PDAT. This will show that you understand the framework you'll be working within and can hit the ground running.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific instances from your past experience where you've successfully managed cases or developed intervention plans. Be ready to discuss these examples in detail, highlighting your assessment and report-writing skills.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, prepare to talk about how you've worked with families, partner agencies, and community organisations in the past. Emphasise your ability to contribute to a supportive team environment while also being able to work independently.
✨Practice Courtroom Scenarios
As you'll need to present reports in court, consider practising how you'd articulate your findings and recommendations. This will help you feel more confident and professional when discussing your role in the Youth Justice Service during the interview.