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- Tasks: Lead a team and manage a Buddy Programme in a prison setting.
- Company: Join a specialist service provider dedicated to supporting older individuals in the Justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a pioneering initiative that promotes wellbeing and independence for older prisoners.
- Qualifications: A-level or equivalent, experience in social care, and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for innovation and quality service delivery.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: HMP Lowdham Grange
Contract: Permanent | Full-time (37.5 hours, Monday to Friday)
Department: Specialist Support Services
About the Organisation
Our client is a specialist service provider working with older individuals who are engaged in the Justice system. Their mission is to support these individuals in leading healthy, dignified, and fulfilling lives by delivering advocacy, peer-led initiatives, and meaningful activities that promote wellbeing and independence.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and committed Service Manager / Buddy Lead to oversee the team based at HMP Lowdham Grange. This is a dual-role position that involves managing the local delivery team and leading a pioneering Buddy Programme, which trains prisoners to provide care and support to fellow prisoners in line with national care standards adapted for custodial settings.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide leadership and direction to a multidisciplinary team, fostering a positive and inclusive working culture.
- Manage the implementation and ongoing delivery of the Buddy Programme, including training, supervision, and operational oversight.
- Liaise with prison staff, healthcare providers, external agencies, and older prisoners to ensure high-quality service delivery.
- Ensure all safeguarding, risk management, and compliance responsibilities are met.
- Monitor performance and contribute to the development and innovation of services across the organisation.
- Prepare and submit reports, ensuring accurate data collection and sharing.
About You
Essential qualifications and experience:
- Educated to A-level, DipSW, or NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent).
- Experience working with older people, in criminal justice or social care settings.
- Proven ability to manage services and support staff.
- Strong written communication and report-writing skills.
- IT literate, with a willingness to use specialist systems.
- Excellent interpersonal and motivational skills.
Desirable:
- Degree or equivalent in a related field.
- Experience in training, coaching, or working within the voluntary sector.
- Understanding of offender management strategies.
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
What’s on Offer
- An opportunity to lead a respected and impactful programme in a unique custodial setting.
- A supportive working environment where innovation and quality are valued.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about making a difference and have the experience to lead services that support older people in the justice system, we would love to hear from you. Please click apply or for more information, contact Oliver Jefferson on 01772 208962 or email.
Service Lead employer: Service Care Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
Service Care Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of older individuals in the justice system. Understanding their unique challenges will help you demonstrate your commitment to their wellbeing during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the social care and criminal justice sectors. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who share your passion for supporting older people, which can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you would foster a positive team culture. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams or implemented programmes, as this will showcase your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Buddy Programme and similar initiatives. Being knowledgeable about these programmes will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to their success and innovate within the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the Service Lead position. Familiarise yourself with the Buddy Programme and how it operates within a custodial setting.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in social care or criminal justice settings. Emphasise your leadership skills and any experience you have in training or managing teams, as these are crucial for this role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting older individuals in the justice system. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead and innovate in service delivery.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your documents clearly convey your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Service Care Solutions Ltd
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research the organisation's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to supporting older individuals in the justice system will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Service Lead, you'll need to provide direction to a multidisciplinary team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you've fostered a positive working culture, and any specific examples of how you've managed teams effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage challenges in service delivery or staff supervision, and be ready to explain how you handled them.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Strong written and verbal communication is essential for this role. Be ready to discuss your experience in report writing and liaising with various stakeholders, including prison staff and healthcare providers. Providing clear examples will showcase your capabilities.
