Victim Liaison Officer

Overview

The Victim Liaison Officer (VLO) works with victims of crime and their families who are participating in or considered for inclusion in the statutory Probation Service Victim Contact Scheme (VCS) or Victim Notification Scheme (VNS). The position supports the assessment and management of risk posed by offenders, providing information to victims during key stages of an offender’s sentence or order, and enabling victims to make representations to inform decision‑making around risk management.

The VLO also liaises with partner agencies, contributes to inter‑agency meetings, and ensures the views of victims and families are fully considered.

• Inform victims and families about key stages and developments in an offender’s sentence or hospital order.
• Use computer‑based administrative systems to obtain relevant information and maintain records relating to victims and documentation within agreed timescales.
• Assess the risks and needs of victims and families, complete required actions within appropriate timescales, including home or alternate location visits as necessary.
• Identify changes in risk or need and refer to senior managers and professionals in other agencies.
• Carry out safeguarding duties for children and adults, following statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
• Ensure effective referrals to and communication with other probation colleagues and professionals in related agencies.
• Participate in interprofessional meetings to represent victims and families in risk management and safeguarding discussions.
• Support victims and families to write and present personal statements to the parole board.
• Provide training and mentoring to new VLOs and educate professionals from other agencies about the VCS and VNS.
• Commit to ongoing learning and development, maintaining up‑to‑date knowledge of policies, legislation, and best practice.
• Provide cover within the victim liaison unit when required.

• Minimum 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including English and Maths.
• Experience working with people from diverse backgrounds who have experienced a range of social or personal difficulties, communicating sensitively and in a trauma‑informed way.
• Experience working with diverse communities, promoting equality and valuing diversity.
• Knowledge and understanding of the assessment and management of risk in relation to offenders and victim safeguarding.
• Knowledge and understanding of the Criminal Justice system and related agencies.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English; proficiency in Welsh is a plus where specified.

The role requires a full‑time commitment of 37 hours per week. Some out‑of‑hours work during the week or weekends may be required. Regular travel is anticipated to maintain contact with victims, families, and professionals across rural and urban areas.

The VLO must demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion in line with PS policies and work within the aims and values of the Probation Service.

All candidates will be subject to security and identity checks prior to taking up the post.