At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the future of HMP Welland Oaks as a Principal Registered Psychologist.
- Company: Join HM Prison & Probation Service, a leader in public sector healthcare.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of an exciting project from the ground up with great career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a new high-security prison environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a Registered Practitioner Psychologist with relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 73513 - 86082 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the team shaping HMP Welland Oaks, a new Category B Long Term High Security estate prison in Market Harborough. Publicly operated and currently under construction, the prison will provide capacity for 1,715 prisoners and play an important role in the future prison estate. Following the official naming announcement and ground-breaking on 6 November 2025, the project is now starting the process of planning, mobilisation and ramp-up ahead of opening in early 2029. Joining now means contributing to a major new prison from the ground up, helping to build the culture, systems and operational foundations that will support its safe and successful opening.
As HMP Welland Oaks is under construction, it is not possible to work from site at this time. Therefore, your base location will vary and could be any HMPPS (or other) location within a reasonable distance of Welland Oaks including other LTHSE establishments and may vary from time to time depending on the needs of the business. Mileage expenses would be covered for this travel. As soon as HMPPS is able to occupy the prison, you will be expected to attend site. Please ensure you consider this before making your application.
Person specification
- The job holder will be a Registered Practitioner Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council and eligible to use a protected title.
- They are likely to also be a Chartered Psychologist with Full member of the appropriate division of the BPS if the post requires it.
- They will have experience of delivering psychological services directly, and through a managed team.
- They will have been registered for over two years.
Qualifications
- Registered Practitioner Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council and eligible to use a protected title.
- Experience of delivering psychological services directly, and through a managed team.
- Registered for over two years.
Memberships
- Registered Practitioner Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council and eligible to use a protected title.
- Likely to also be a Chartered Psychologist with Full member of the appropriate division of the BPS if the post requires it.
- Experience of delivering psychological services directly, and through a managed team.
- Registered for over two years.
Languages
- Written and Spoken English
Behaviours
- Changing and Improving
- Communicating and Influencing
- Leadership
- Making Effective Decisions
- Managing a Quality Service
- Working Together
Benefits
- Alongside your salary of 73,513, HM Prison & Probation Service contributes 21,296 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
- Access to learning and development.
- A working environment that supports a range of flexible working options to enhance your work life balance.
- A working culture which encourages inclusion and diversity.
- A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%.
- Annual Leave.
- Public Holidays.
- Season Ticket Advance.
Selection process details
- This vacancy is using Success Profiles, and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths and Experience.
- Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
- Successful candidates must undergo an enhanced (or equivalent) criminal record check.
- Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed.
Nationality requirements
- This job is broadly open to UK nationals, nationals of the Republic of Ireland, nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK, and nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
Working for the Civil Service
- The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
- The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities.
Diversity and Inclusion
- The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found.
Contact point for applicants
- Name: SSCL Recruitment Enquiries Team
- Email: moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk
- Telephone: 0345 241 5358
Principal Registered Psychologist - Psychology Services - LTHSE - HMP Welland Oaks (Ref: 21004) in Sheffield employer: United Kingdom Government
HM Prison & Probation Service is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises flexibility and inclusivity. With a strong commitment to employee development and a comprehensive benefits package, including a generous pension scheme and opportunities for continuous learning, staff are empowered to thrive in their roles while contributing to the vital mission of enhancing the UK’s criminal justice system. Working across various locations such as Staffordshire and London, employees enjoy a collaborative culture that values diverse perspectives and fosters professional growth.
