At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families visiting prisoners, ensuring a welcoming and positive experience.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at HMP Whitemoor, making a difference in family support.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, competitive salary, and a chance to develop valuable skills.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique environment, helping families maintain strong relationships.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Access to transport required; commitment to safeguarding is a must.
The predicted salary is between 6552 - 6552 £ per year.
Permanent part-time post working 10 hours average over 2 weeks. We run the visit centre on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and the rota-based shift pattern for this post is as follows:
- Week 1: 5 hours worked on Monday (11:30am – 4:30pm)
- Week 2: 15 hours worked on Saturday, Sunday and Monday (11:30am – 4:30pm)
Although a degree of flexibility will be required at times to meet operational demand.
Salary £6,552 per annum pro rata based on 10 hours average per week (FTE £22,932 per annum based on working 35 hours per week) (Real Living Wage).
Based in HMP Whitemoor Visitors’ Centre, we have opportunities to join our experienced and dedicated Family Services Team working within the visitors’ centre at HMP Whitemoor, providing a personal welcome for first-time and returning visitors to help them access the services available to them. HMP Whitemoor is part of the HMP High Security Estate and offers a unique opportunity to work in this restricted yet high‑profile environment. You will be required to obtain and retain additional enhanced security vetting above that of the main HMP estate.
We are seeking a Family Support Worker to join the team in ensuring the effective and efficient running of the Visitor Centre, Tea Bar, Play Area in the Prison Visits Hall, and assisting on Family Days to ensure prisoners and their families have a valuable visiting experience. The role involves improving the quality of visits for children, young people and families, helping to maintain positive, healthy and supportive family relationships.
Ideally, you will have experience of dealing with people in a customer‑service based role and be able to demonstrate excellent communication and problem‑solving skills, sometimes under challenging circumstances, whilst embracing a non‑judgemental and empathetic work ethic.
Please note: You will need to have access to your own transport as HMP Whitemoor is not accessible by public transport.
To apply, please click on the Apply Online button. Closing date for applications: 5pm, Friday, 20th February 2026.
Safeguarding and DBS Requirements: Ormiston Families is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. We are an equal opportunities employer; we value diversity and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Family Support Worker – Prisoner Family Services – HMP Whitemoor in Cambridge employer: Ormiston Families
Contact Detail:
Ormiston Families Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Support Worker – Prisoner Family Services – HMP Whitemoor in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of family support or prison services. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet professionals and learn more about the role. Personal connections can often lead to job opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to family support work. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated empathy and problem-solving skills. We want you to shine, so rehearse your answers with a friend or in front of the mirror!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the role! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, share why you care about supporting families in challenging situations. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨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 candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So go ahead, hit that Apply Online button!
We think you need these skills to ace Family Support Worker – Prisoner Family Services – HMP Whitemoor in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We want to see how you can bring your unique background to the Family Support Worker role, so don’t hold back on showcasing what makes you a great fit!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves working with families and children, it’s crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication abilities. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've effectively interacted with people in challenging situations.
Emphasise Empathy and Non-Judgement: We’re looking for someone who embodies a non-judgemental and empathetic approach. Share instances where you’ve supported individuals or families in need, showing that you understand the importance of maintaining positive relationships.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ormiston Families
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Family Support Worker role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of families visiting HMP Whitemoor and think about how you can contribute to improving their experience.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
This role requires a non-judgemental and empathetic approach. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported individuals or families in challenging situations. Highlight your communication skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Since the job involves a rota-based shift pattern, be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to changing demands. Share any previous experiences where you’ve had to be flexible in your work schedule or approach.
✨Prepare for Security Questions
Given the nature of working in a high-security environment, expect questions related to safeguarding and security protocols. Brush up on relevant policies and be prepared to discuss how you would handle sensitive situations while maintaining confidentiality.