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- Tasks: Support families visiting prisoners, ensuring a welcoming and positive experience.
- Company: Join Ormiston Families, dedicated to safeguarding and supporting communities.
- Benefits: Part-time hours with a competitive salary and rewarding work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for personal growth in a unique setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of families during challenging times.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 14687 - 14687 £ per year.
Salary: £14,687 per annum, (FTE £24,479) (Real Living Wage)
Based: HMP Wayland Visitors’ Centre
The post advertised is a temporary Maternity cover position, working part-time (21 hours per week).
Working Pattern: We facilitate visits on Mondays/Wednesdays/Thursdays/Fridays/Saturdays & Sundays. We are recruiting for a Family Support Worker to work the following:
- Monday 9:30am-4:30pm (6.5 hours with 30 mins unpaid break)
- Wednesday 1:30pm-4:30pm (3 hours)
- Thursday 9:30am-4:30pm (6.5 hours with 30 mins unpaid break)
- One day at the weekend, either Saturday or Sunday 11:30am-4:30pm (5 hours per shift) as per the agreed roster.
A degree of flexibility will be required at times to meet operational demand.
We have an opportunity to join our experienced and dedicated Family Services Team working within the visitors’ centre at HMP Wayland, providing a personal welcome for first-time and returning visitors to help them access the services available to them. HMP Wayland, part of the main HMP Estate, offers a varied and exciting opportunity to work in a busy yet rewarding environment where no two days are the same.
You will be required to obtain and retain enhanced security vetting for this role. We are seeking a Family Support Worker to join the team in providing effective and efficient running of the Visitor Centre, Play Area in the Prison Visits Hall, assisting on Family Days to ensure prisoners and their families have a valuable visiting experience, improving the quality of visits for children, young people and families, and 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. Experience in providing play activities for children of a range of ages would be advantageous.
Please note: You will also need to be able to have access to a car or be driven to the Prison as HMP Wayland is in a remote location and is not accessible via Public Transport.
For further information and to apply, please visit our website. Closing date for applications: 9am, Wednesday 27th May 2026.
Safeguarding and DBS requirements for your role: 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 Wayland in Thetford 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 Wayland in Thetford
✨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, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching HMP Wayland and understanding their values. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission to support families. We want you to show them that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves working with families and children, being able to convey empathy and understanding is key. Role-play common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our dedicated Family Services Team at HMP Wayland. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Family Support Worker - Prisoner Family Services - HMP Wayland in Thetford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Family Support Worker role. We want to see how you can bring value to our team at HMP Wayland!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves working with families and children, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication abilities. Share examples of how you've effectively interacted with people in previous roles.
Emphasise Empathy and Problem-Solving: We’re looking for someone who can handle challenging situations with a non-judgemental and empathetic approach. Include instances where you've successfully navigated difficult circumstances while supporting others.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you started on this exciting opportunity with our Family Services Team.
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. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, especially around providing support to families and improving their visiting experience. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
In this role, empathy is key. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated a non-judgemental approach and effective communication skills, especially in challenging situations. Highlighting your ability to connect with people will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of specific instances where you've had to handle difficult situations or provide support in a customer service role. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process and demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Plan Your Logistics
Since HMP Wayland is in a remote location, ensure you have a reliable way to get there. Mentioning your transport arrangements during the interview shows that you're proactive and serious about the role. It also alleviates any concerns they might have about your ability to commute.