Peer Mentor Co-ordinators - South

Overview

To manage and maintain systems to provide a comprehensive Peer Mentoring service in the local area. The role is regionally based and reports to the regional Engaging People on Probation (EPOP) manager. The postholder will manage and supervise up to 15 volunteer peer mentors, recruiting and coordinating peer mentors in Probation, with a keen understanding of risk and operational issues. Lived experience of the criminal justice system is desirable.

• Recruit, assess and train new Peer Mentors across the region.
• Manage and supervise Peer Mentors, providing wellbeing support, coaching, development and a development pathway.
• Develop, review and harmonise Peer Mentoring arrangements across the region, implementing "Peer‑Led Work:
  Conditions of Success".
• Deliver Peer Mentor‑led activities in various group settings including Probation offices, Approved Premises, Community Payback inductions, group sessions and external women’s service providers.
• Identify opportunities for Peer Mentor involvement and employment, liaising with Commissioned Rehabilitative Service Providers.
• Promote the Going Forward into Employment scheme across the region and with Peer Mentors.
• Support the regional Engaging People on Probation (EPOP) Plan, including maximising opportunities to capture PoP insights, establishing local PoP Focus Groups and a regional Lived Experience Panel.
• Collaborate with the EPOP Contract Supplier as required.
• Maintain systems to provide a comprehensive Peer Mentoring service in the local area.
• Assist in the development and delivery of the regional Peer Mentoring Delivery Plan.
• Attend team meetings with regional counterparts and contribute to the national Peer Mentoring picture.
• Champion the value of Peer Mentors and the Engaging PoP agenda to colleagues and partners.

• Experience in managing volunteer or staff teams, preferably in probation or similar environments.
• Strong understanding of risk assessment and safeguarding practices.
• Lived experience of the criminal justice system is desirable.
• Excellent communication, coaching and development skills.

• Standard full‑time working hours of 37 hours per week; part‑time, flexible and job‑sharing arrangements are considered.
• Annual leave of 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 days after five years of service.
• Covered by the National Probation Service Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Extensive training and development opportunities.
• Access to family‑friendly policies, voluntary benefits and maternity/paternity leave.
• Health and wellbeing benefits including free annual sight tests for employees using computer screens.

The Ministry of Justice is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including disabled individuals and those of veteran background. Reasonable adjustments will be provided throughout the recruitment process.