At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead literacy and numeracy programmes while assisting in the prison library.
- Company: Join Shannon Trust, dedicated to improving literacy in prisons.
- Benefits: 30 days holiday, pension contributions, life insurance, and paid volunteering days.
- Other info: Welcoming culture that values lived experience and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by inspiring others to love reading and learn.
- Qualifications: Experience in a prison environment and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy levels amongst people in prison? Shannon Trust are delighted to be working with His Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) to provide peer‑led learning programmes at HMP Ashfield.
Working closely with the prison and their staff, people in prison, Shannon Trust volunteers and mentors, this post will lead the delivery and development of our literacy and numeracy programmes at HMP Ashfield, maximising opportunities for people in prison to learn. This role also includes providing daily assistance in the running of the prison library and of library outreach including facilitation of activity groups.
Ideally you will have some experience working within a prison environment, underpinned by the ability to build relationships and personal qualities that include resilience, determination and a problem‑solving approach. You will have a love for reading and be able to help inspire others (including those who find reading difficult) to enjoy all of the benefits of reading for pleasure. The role is prison‑based.
Employee benefits include:
- a company contribution to pension scheme of up to 5%
- 30 days holiday plus bank holidays
- life insurance
- paid volunteering days
- discounts via Reward Gateway
- an Employee Assistance Programme
The biggest benefit though is our culture – our people really want to work for the organisation. We welcome job applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and do not routinely ask for details of any criminal convictions. These roles do require prison security clearance, so we will need to ask for details of any relevant criminal convictions before an offer of employment is finalised.
Prison Facilitator/Library Assistant - HMP Ashfield employer: Shannon Trust
Shannon Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming lives through literacy and numeracy programmes within the prison system. At HMP Ashfield, you will be part of a supportive work culture that values resilience and personal growth, offering generous benefits such as 30 days holiday, a pension scheme, and opportunities for paid volunteering. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying a workplace that truly cares about its people and their development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Facilitator/Library Assistant - HMP Ashfield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Shannon Trust and their mission to improve literacy in prisons. This will help you connect your passion for reading with their goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips on what it’s really like to work at HMP Ashfield and how to stand out in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about how you would handle challenges in a prison environment, especially around building relationships and problem-solving. Practising these scenarios can boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our mission to support literacy in prisons.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Facilitator/Library Assistant - HMP Ashfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Literacy:Make sure to highlight your love for reading and how it can inspire others. We want to see your enthusiasm for helping people improve their literacy skills, so share any relevant experiences or stories that showcase this.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We’re looking for candidates who understand the unique environment of a prison. Make sure to connect your skills and experiences to the specific requirements of the role at HMP Ashfield.
Be Authentic:We value authenticity, so don’t be afraid to share your personal journey or experiences, especially if they relate to the criminal justice system. This can really set you apart and show us why you’re a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shannon Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Prison Facilitator/Library Assistant. Familiarise yourself with Shannon Trust's mission and the importance of literacy in prisons. Being able to discuss how you can contribute to their goals will show your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Experience
If you've worked in a prison environment before, be ready to share specific examples of your experiences. Highlight any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your resilience and problem-solving skills.
✨Connect with the Role
Express your passion for reading and how it can inspire others. Think of ways you can encourage those who struggle with literacy to engage with books. Sharing personal anecdotes about how reading has impacted your life can make a strong impression.
✨Prepare for Security Questions
Since this role requires prison security clearance, be prepared to discuss any relevant criminal convictions openly. Honesty is key here, and showing that you're comfortable discussing your background will reflect positively on your character.
