At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals leaving custody by creating personalised plans for their reintegration.
- Company: Join a recognised charity dedicated to making a positive impact in criminal justice.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, enhanced pension, life assurance, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Apply easily online and expect a personal response within 72 hours.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with vulnerable individuals is preferred; no prior prison experience required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Are you a criminology graduate looking to start your career in criminal justice? Would you like to make a real impact on people's lives while working for a charity that's officially recognised as a great place to work (Investors in People / Best Companies Awards)? This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking organisation as they roll out a new, cutting-edge programme designed to support men leaving custody and rebuilding their lives in the community.
In this role, you'll manage a caseload of individuals based at HMP Bullingdon, a men's Cat B/C prison, and also support clients in the Oxford and Bicester areas after release. The people you'll work with are within 6–12 months of release, and your goal will be to help them prepare for life beyond prison. You'll meet with clients one-to-one, helping them develop clear, personalised plans covering everything from housing, healthcare and mental health to education, employment, life skills and wellbeing. You'll also signpost to relevant support services — both inside the prison and in the community — to make sure they don't fall through the cracks.
This role would suit someone with voluntary or paid experience supporting vulnerable people — perhaps in homelessness, mental health, substance misuse, or education. You don't need to have worked in a prison before. If you've volunteered with ex-offenders, supported people in difficult circumstances, or worked in services like supported housing, this could be your first full step into the sector.
You'll be part of a team that genuinely cares — backed by strong values, good training, and clear progression pathways.
Why apply?
- Be part of a national charity known for staff wellbeing and progression
- 25 days annual leave (rising with service), plus 2 days paid volunteering
- Enhanced pension scheme and life assurance
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Real chance to shape futures and reduce reoffending
How to apply:
Please apply via this advert. We aim to respond to every applicant. If you haven't heard back within 72 hours, feel free to complete the “Send Us a Message” form on the Red 5 People website — and we guarantee a real person will respond. Prefer to talk it through? Call the office and ask for James (you'll find the number on our website).
Criminology Graduate employer: Red 5 People
Contact Detail:
Red 5 People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminology Graduate
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the criminal justice field. Attend local events, workshops, or seminars related to criminology and rehabilitation. This can help you make valuable connections and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Consider volunteering with organisations that support ex-offenders or vulnerable populations. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your CV but also demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the charity's values and mission thoroughly. Understanding their approach to rehabilitation and support will allow you to tailor your conversations and show how your personal values align with theirs during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific scenarios where you've supported individuals in challenging situations. Be ready to share examples from your experience that highlight your skills in empathy, problem-solving, and resilience, as these are crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminology Graduate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with vulnerable individuals or in support roles. Emphasise skills that align with the job description, such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for criminology and your desire to make a difference in people's lives. Mention specific experiences that relate to the role, such as volunteering or supporting individuals in challenging situations.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills that are crucial for this role, such as case management, understanding of mental health issues, and knowledge of community resources. Use examples to demonstrate how you've applied these skills in past experiences.
Follow Up: After submitting your application, consider following up if you haven't heard back within the specified timeframe. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and can help keep your application top of mind for the hiring team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Red 5 People
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of managing a caseload and supporting individuals transitioning from prison. Familiarise yourself with the challenges they face and think about how your skills can help them.
✨Show Empathy and Understanding
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to empathise with vulnerable individuals. Share any relevant experiences where you've supported people in difficult situations, highlighting your compassion and commitment to making a difference.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. You might want to inquire about their training programmes or how they measure success in supporting clients.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Even if you haven't worked in a prison setting before, emphasise any voluntary or paid experience you have in related fields like homelessness, mental health, or education. Be specific about your contributions and the impact you made.