Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of forensic psychological services in the Scottish Prison Service.
- Company: Join the Scottish Prison Service, dedicated to building a safer Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and commitment to personal development.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on lives while shaping modern psychological services.
- Qualifications: Experience in psychological services and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 73410 - 80890 £ per year.
Drive the transformation of forensic psychological services delivery model in the Scottish Prison Service (SPS). This senior leadership role will work in close collaboration with the SPS Head of Psychological Services, to design and implement an evidence-based service model that translates strategic recommendations— including the recent Independent Review—into practical, sustainable delivery.
Working directly to the Deputy Director of Policy and in close partnership with the Head of Psychology, HR and trade unions, you will shape a modern, outcomes-focused service that improves workforce capacity, strengthens professional pathways and evidences impact across the SPS prison estate. This is a senior, system-shaping role with influence across SPS policy-to-practice.
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) operates in a fascinating, complex and rapidly changing environment. Our vision is to help build a safer Scotland by unlocking potential and transforming lives. To enable us to successfully deliver our vision, we are committed to nurturing and investing in our greatest strength and resource: Our People.
We are proud to employ a diverse range of people; each contributing their own unique experiences and skills to enhance the service we deliver. Whatever the role, you will find your SPS experience both challenging and rewarding. You will be committed to helping us to achieve our goals and in return we will be committed to helping you to achieve yours.
We employ approximately 5,000 staff across our prisons, headquarters, college, and training and storage facility. The hard work of our staff is the most critical component in the successful delivery of Scotland’s prison system.
We need professional, capable and motivated individuals who reflect Scotland’s diversity to deliver effective and efficient activities and services to achieve our Mission and realise our Vision. Whatever SPS profession you embark upon, you will be a valued member of the team, helping us build a Safer Scotland for the communities we serve. We are committed to your personal and professional development and offer a wide range of career progression opportunities.
Psychological Services Development Lead in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Prison Service
Contact Detail:
Scottish Prison Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychological Services Development Lead in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Scottish Prison Service. They can give you insider info on the role and the culture, plus it shows your genuine interest in the organisation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the SPS's recent initiatives and challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around transforming psychological services.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss examples of how you've driven change in previous roles. The SPS is looking for someone who can shape and influence policy-to-practice effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the SPS team and contributing to a safer Scotland.
We think you need these skills to ace Psychological Services Development Lead in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Psychological Services Development Lead role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially your ability to drive transformation and collaborate effectively.
Showcase Your Impact: When detailing your previous roles, focus on the outcomes you achieved. Use specific examples that demonstrate how you've improved services or processes in a similar environment, as this will resonate well with our mission at SPS.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value diverse experiences and perspectives, so don’t be afraid to share your unique journey and what motivates you to contribute to building a safer Scotland.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This ensures it reaches the right people and allows us to keep track of all applications efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Understand the Role and Its Impact
Before your interview, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Psychological Services Development Lead. Familiarise yourself with the recent Independent Review and how it shapes the service model. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their vision of transforming lives and building a safer Scotland.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Skills
This role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Head of Psychological Services and HR. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked in partnership with others to implement change or improve services. Highlighting your teamwork skills will demonstrate that you can thrive in their diverse environment.
✨Prepare for Evidence-Based Discussions
Since the position focuses on designing an evidence-based service model, be ready to discuss your approach to using data and research in decision-making. Bring examples of how you've used evidence to drive improvements in previous roles, and be prepared to discuss how you would apply this in the context of the Scottish Prison Service.
✨Express Your Commitment to Professional Development
The SPS values personal and professional growth, so be sure to express your commitment to continuous learning. Share any relevant training or development initiatives you've undertaken and how they have prepared you for this leadership role. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are invested in contributing to their mission.