58307 - Probation Service: Peer Mentor Co-Ordinator (Nottingham - East Midlands Region)
Post(s) available:
- 37 hours per week
We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society that we serve. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. To find out more about how we do this visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-justice/about/equality-and-diversity.
Overview of the job
The job holder will undertake the full range of work with offenders before and after sentence. This will include assessment, sentence implementation, offender management and producing reports. The job holder will provide case management support to a full range of offenders utilising service procedures and practice directions that underpin professional judgement.
Summary
To assess and manage the risk (including risk management plans and escalation) posed by offenders to protect victims of crime and the general public by:
· Liaising, providing information and advice to criminal courts, criminal justice agencies and other partner agencies
· Supervise and manage risk of those offenders subject to community sentences, during and after custodial sentences.
· Work with other agencies and groups to prevent crime and meet the needs of victims and offenders.
In line with NPS policies and procedures, the job holder must at all times demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion and an understanding of their relevance to the work they do.
The post holder must adhere to all policies in respect of the sensitive/confidential nature of the information handled whilst working in this position.
If relevant to the role, some out of hours working may be required (i.e. Courts, Approved Premises, programmes, evening reporting etc)
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
Probation Services Officers may be required to undertake any combination, or all, of the duties and responsibilities set out below.
· To undertake the full range of offender management tasks with offenders assessed as low or medium risk of harm and to support the Probation Officer grade in high risk cases.
· When providing case manager support, to contribute to the delivery of the Risk Management plan and report significant changes relating to risk of harm and/or of reoffending or any non-compliance within agreed enforcement procedures
· To use computer based systems to produce, update and maintain records and other documentation within agreed timescales
· Ensure effective referrals to services and facilities and communicate with offender management staff, interventions staff, service providers and external agencies to review progress and associated risks.
· To undertake prison, home or alternate location visits as required in accordance with service procedures and policies.
· To undertake work in the court setting, including the completion of appropriate reports on cases and prosecution of breaches.
· To provide cover within teams as required
· To deliver and co-lead accredited programmes commensurate with grade
· To conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests as required, and to follow prescribed medication procedures
· Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with the NPS statutory responsibilities and agency policies
· Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills by consistently reinforcing pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenging anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
· To work within the aims and values of NPS and NOMS
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Significant adjustments may require re-examination under the Job Evaluation scheme and shall be discussed in the first instance with the Job Holder.
Behaviours
· Making Effective Decisions
· Changing and Improving
· Working Together
· Delivering at Pace
· Communicating and Influencing
Essential Experience
· Experience of working with a diverse range of people who have experienced a range of social/personal difficulties and the need to use tact and discretion when dealing with confidential and sensitive issues
· Experience in planning and coordinating work
· Experience of working with groups or individuals in order to motivate and change behaviour
· An understanding of and commitment to equal opportunities and diversity good practice
An ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence through the medium of English or (where specified in Wales) Welsh
Technical requirements
· Minimum 5 GCSE's at Grade C or above, including English, Maths or the ability to evidence high level numeracy and literacy skills required to read, understand and interpret policies and the ability to write reports and correspondence for internal and external stakeholders
· Understanding of factors related to offending e.g. substance misuse, accommodation issues and being able to emphasise constructively with a range of people
· Understanding of and commitment to the principles of case management.
· Knowledge and understanding of risk management/risk assessment as pertaining to offenders and the impact on victims of crime
· Understanding of Health & Safety legislation in the workplace
· Knowledge and understanding of the work of the Criminal Justice System and Probation Service
· Knowledge of the aims and objectives of the Probation Service
Ability
· Ability to communicate verbally and in writing with offenders, professionals, courts and other public fora.
Purpose of the Post:
The Peer Mentor Coordinator has responsibility for:
- Recruitment and training of new Peer Mentors across the region.
- Ongoing management and supervision of Peer Mentors, including wellbeing support, coaching and development work to improve Peer Mentor skills and capability.
- Supporting the establishment of a Development and Progression Pathway for all Peer Mentors
- Working with Peer Mentors and colleagues to develop, review and harmonise the Peer Mentoring arrangements across the region, implementing “Peer-Led Work: Conditions of Success”.
- Delivery of Peer Mentor-led activities in a variety of group based settings to include where appropriate (list not exhaustive);
- Identifying further opportunities for the involvement of Peer Mentors .
- Liaising with Commissioned Rehabilitative Service Providers to identify opportunities for Peer Mentor involvement and employment.
- Promoting the Going Forward into Employment scheme across the region and with Peer Mentors
- Supporting the regional Engaging People on Probation (EPOP) Plan, including
Additional Roles & Responsibilities:
- To manage and maintain systems to provide a comprehensive Peer Mentoring service in the local area
- To assist in the development and delivery of the annual Peer Mentoring Delivery Plan;
- Assess the suitability and risk levels of referrals to the Peer Mentor training
- Recruit, train and supervise new Peer Mentors
- Recruit, train and supervise sufficient numbers of female Peer Mentors to support delivery of female specific activities and, where required, in partnership with Commissioned Rehabilitative Services and other external providers
- Work with colleagues from across the region to identify ways in which Peer Mentors can support other activities
- To manage Peer Mentors to ensure that
- Peer Mentors are able to cope with the demands placed upon them
- Peer Mentors’ health and wellbeing is not compromised
- A clear progression pathway is established
- Boundaries and expectations are clearly managed
- Training and support needs are met to maintain high standards of delivery
- Progress and risk is continuously assessed
- To attend Team Meetings with regional counterparts.
- To contribute to the development of the national Peer Mentoring picture as required.
- Champion the value of Peer Mentors, and of the Engaging PoP agenda, to colleagues and partners.
- Support the ongoing development of the PoP Focus Groups and regional Lived Experience Panel where required and as it relates to the Peer Mentoring service.
In carrying out the above duties, the post holder will:
- Work flexibly across operational sites as required.
- Work flexibly within an agreed number of hours of work to maintain the most appropriate level of service provision.
- Seek to improve their personal performance, contribution, knowledge and skills.
- Deliver and participate in appraisal, training and supervision processes.
- Keep abreast of development in services, legislation and practice relevant to Peer-Led Work, Engaging People on Probation and broader Service User Engagement.
- Ensure high standards of safeguarding and risk management are adhered to.
- Ensure the implementation of Probation Service policies.
- Contribute to maintaining safe systems of work and a safe environment.
- Undertake other duties appropriate to the grade of the post.
Essential Criteria:
- Experience of engaging with People on Probation (PoP) in a positive and encouraging way
- An understanding of the role that Peer Mentors can play in supporting PoP.
- Proven ability to build effective working relationships, both within a team and through networking with other organisations to achieve an aim.
- Experience of assessing individuals with multiple needs and of devising plans to meet those needs.
- Experience of maintaining high levels of standards within teams.
- Awareness of and a commitment to equal opportunity and diversity practices and policies, and ability to promote diversity and treat colleagues and clients fairly and with respect.
- Ability to work collaboratively with other staff to deliver organisational goals, and to resolve conflicts of interest professionally.
- Communicate confidently and effectively, verbally and in writing.
- Good written and communication skills, including familiarity with file keeping, letter writing and advocacy.
- Good IT skills including proven experience of using Word, Excel and Outlook in a similar work environment.
- Respond flexibly to the demands of the post.
- Work as a member of a dispersed team.
- Show a capacity to work independently and the ability to keep calm under pressure.
- Understand and have a commitment to the principles of equal opportunity and diversity.
- Employ an empathetic and non-judgmental attitude towards PoP.
- Show commitment to facilitating positive outcomes for PoP.
Desirable Criteria:
- Lived Experience of the Criminal Justice System.
- Experience of supervising volunteers
- Experience of working in a probation and/or prison environment
- Experience of training and/or service delivery in group settings
- Knowledge and understanding of issues around substance misuse, mental health and welfare benefits
- Understanding of nDelius
Working Arrangements & Further Information
The MoJ offers Hybrid Working arrangements where business need allows. This is an informal, non-contractual form of flexible working that blends working from your base location, different MoJ sites and / or from home (please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK and not overseas). Some roles will not be suitable for Hybrid Working. Similarly, Hybrid Working will not suit everyone’s circumstances. Arrangements will be discussed and agreed with the successful candidate(s) and subject to regular review.
For nationally advertised roles, the successful candidate(s) will be appointed to a MoJ office location, which may include their nearest Justice Collaboration Centre or Justice Satellite Office. This will be discussed and agreed on the completion of pre-employment checks.
Some of MoJ’s terms and conditions of service are changing as part of Civil Service reform. The changes will apply to staff joining MoJ who are new to the Civil Service. Staff joining MoJ from other civil service employers will transfer onto the new MoJ terms if they are already on 'modernised' terms in their current post or onto 'unmodernised' MoJ terms if they are on 'unmodernised' terms at their current post. Details will be available if an offer is made.
Standard working hours are 37 hours per week excluding breaks which are unpaid.
Benefits
The MoJ offers a range of benefits:
Annual Leave
Annual leave is 25 days on appointment and will increase to 30 days after five years’ service, plus public holidays. Leave for part-time and job share posts will be calculated on a pro-rata basis
Pension
The National Probation Service is covered by the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) run through the Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF). Please visit www.gmpf.org.uk for further information.
Please note: Any current Civil Servant who is a member of the PCSPS, by accepting an offer of employment to the National Probation Services will be opted out of the PCSPS and auto enrolled into the Local Government Pension Scheme.
Training
The Ministry of Justice is committed to staff development and offers an extensive range of training and development opportunities.
Networks
The opportunity to join employee-run networks that have been established to provide advice and support and to enable the views of employees from minority groups to be expressed direct to senior management. There are currently networks for employees of minority ethnic origin, employees with disabilities, employees with caring responsibilities, women employees, and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.
Eligibility
All candidates are subject to security and identity checks prior to taking up post
Support
- A range of ‘Family Friendly’ policies such as opportunities to work reduced hours or job share.
- Access to flexible benefits such as voluntary benefits, retail vouchers and discounts on a range of goods and services.
- For moves to or from another employer or moves across the Civil Service this can have implications on your eligibility to carry on claiming childcare vouchers. You may however be eligible for alternative government childcare support schemes, including Tax Free Childcare. More information can be found on UKor Childcare Choices. You can determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/.
- Paid paternity, adoption and maternity leave.
- Free annual sight tests for employees who use computer screens.
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles. Should you feel that the recruitment process has breached the recruitment principles you are able to raise a formal complaint in the following order
- To Shared Service Connected Ltd (0845 241 5358 (Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm) or e mail Moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@gov.sscl.com);
- To Ministry of Justice Resourcing team (resourcing-management-office@justice.gov.uk);
- To the Civil Service Commission (details available here)
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As a Disability Confident employer, MoJ are committed to providing everyone with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills, talent and abilities, by making adjustments throughout all elements of the recruitment process and in the workplace. MoJ are able to offer an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum selection criteria, except in a limited number of campaigns.
You will be able to request reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process within the application form. If you need additional help completing the application form, please contact the SSCL Recruitment Enquiries Team.
We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society that we serve. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. To find out more about how we do this visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-justice/about/equality-and-diversity.
30/05/2022, 23:55 hours.
Success Profiles will enable a fairer and more inclusive method of recruitment by enabling us to assess the range of experiences, abilities, strengths, behaviours and technical/professional skills required for different roles. This flexible approach to recruitment focuses more on finding the right candidate for the specific role. To find out more about Success Profiles to support your application please click here for further guidance.
We have provided detail of the assessment stages and areas being assessed to help you prepare for completing your application form, and to advise of what will be assessed following this, if you successfully pass the application stage.
Application form stage assessments
Interview stage assessments
A Great Place to Work for Veterans
The "Making the Civil Service a Great Place to work for veterans" initiative includes a guaranteed interview scheme to those who meet the minimum criteria to provide eligible former members of the Armed Forces with opportunities to secure rewarding jobs. Allowing veterans to continue to serve their country, and to bring highly skilled individuals with a broad range of experience into the Civil Service in an environment, which recognises and values your previous service in the Armed Forces.
For further details about the initiative and eligibility requirements visit : https://www.gov.uk/government/news/making-the-civil-service-a-great-place-to-work-for-veterans
Redeployment Interview Scheme
Civil Service departments are expected to explore redeployment opportunities before making an individual redundant. The MoJ are committed, as part of the Redeployment Interview Scheme, to providing opportunities to those who are 'at risk of redundancy'.
MoJ are able to offer an interview to eligible candidates who meet the minimum selection criteria, except in a limited number of campaigns. Candidate's will not be eligible for the Redeployment Interview Scheme if they are applying on promotion.
This job is broadly open to the following groups:
· UK nationals
· nationals of the Republic of Ireland
· nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
· nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window) https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families
· nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
· individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
· Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nationality-rules
This Vacancy is closed to applications.