At a Glance
- Tasks: Facilitate arts-based group sessions to support men in custody and explore personal development.
- Company: Join a recognised organisation making a difference in the criminal justice system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, training opportunities, and mental health support.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while using creative approaches to empower individuals in challenging environments.
- Qualifications: Experience in criminal justice settings and group facilitation; passion for creative methods.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 32000 £ per year.
Location: Based within HMP Forest Bank, Greater Manchester. You may be expected to travel to other services as required, including to Central London Central Office, HMP Altcourse and for in-person meetings held off site. Hybrid working is permitted with an option of up to 2 days working from home when appropriate. Step Free access is not available at this service.
We're hiring a Safe Ground Programme Facilitator to join our team based at HMP Forest Bank. In this role, you will support men in custody by delivering arts-based, therapeutically informed group interventions that explore identity, relationships, and behaviour. As a Programme Facilitator, you will support the delivery of Safe Ground's core programmes, including Fathers Inside and Man Up which have received national recognition being delivered nationally across custodial and community settings. You will work closely with colleagues to facilitate structured group sessions, encourage participant engagement, and ensure sessions are well prepared and consistently delivered. You'll use creative approaches such as theatre, writing and participatory exercises to help participants reflect and engage in a meaningful way.
Responsibilities
- Previous experience within a prison or other criminal justice setting and/or within a similar role
- Support delivery of structured group programmes, including Fathers Inside and Man Up
- Leading in facilitating arts-based, therapeutically informed group sessions
- Build rapport and trust with participants, supporting consistent engagement
- Respond appropriately to group dynamics and behaviour in a custodial setting
- Bespoke training and active learning will be provided
- Support session planning, preparation, and coordination of delivery
- Contribute to creative practice through theatre, writing and participatory methods
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to support programme delivery and development
- Adapt to changing operational demands within a remand environment
Qualifications
- Essential experience of working within a prison or criminal justice setting, or in a comparable role operating in complex environments
- Experience facilitating or supporting group work
- Experience working with complex, challenging, or marginalised groups
- Ability to manage behaviour and maintain clear boundaries
- Great organisational skills and ability to support programme delivery
- Ability to engage with people from different backgrounds, build rapport, and empower them to achieve their personal goals; respond flexibly to their needs and working patterns of the participants
- Interest in working within the criminal justice system and with men in custody
- Ability to use, learn and adapt to IT at an intermediate level, including Microsoft and other software programs
- Interest or experience in creative/arts-based approaches (e.g. theatre, writing)
- Understanding of the different needs people with multiple and complex needs have and be aware of the social marginalisation that can be attached to people who face personal challenges
Benefits
- Salary: £32,000
- Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday 07:30 - 17:30. You may be required to work outside these hours as per service and organisational requirements, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays and forming part of the out of hours on call rota for managers.
- 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
- Employer Pension Contribution
- Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
- Access to discounted tickets for music events, shows, sports and more
- Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
- Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
- Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
- Life Assurance Scheme
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Annual Staff Awards
- EDI Ambassador programme
Safe Ground Programme Facilitator in Salford employer: Social Interest Group
Join us at HMP Forest Bank as a Safe Ground Programme Facilitator, where you will be part of a dedicated team committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of men in custody. Our supportive work culture prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, offering bespoke training, access to mental health resources, and opportunities for career progression. With a focus on creativity and inclusivity, we empower our staff to engage with participants through innovative arts-based approaches, all while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Safe Ground Programme Facilitator in Salford
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Social Interest Group. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Social Interest Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Safe Ground Programme Facilitator in Salford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Social Interest Group:Take some time to research Social Interest Group and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Social Interest Group
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Social Interest Group's values and approach.
