Probation Officer

Summary

To assess and manage the risk posed by people on probation to protect victims of crime and the public by providing information and advice to courts and other agencies, supervising people under community orders, contributing to risk management, and working collaboratively to prevent crime.

• Provide professional advice and assessment, including written reports to courts, the Parole Board and other criminal justice agencies.
• Undertake the full range of offender management tasks with people on probation across all risk levels.
• Use computer‑based systems to produce, update and maintain records within agreed timescales.
• Ensure timely referrals and maintain relationships with court teams, intervention services, prisons and external agencies to enhance positive outcomes and reduce re‑offending.
• Attend professional meetings and represent the Probation Service at partnership forums.
• Collaborate with colleagues, maintain effective team relationships and provide guidance to Probation Service Officers.
• Provide cover within your team and to other teams as required.
• Conduct prison, home or alternate location visits as required.
• Deliver and co‑lead accredited programmes commensurate with the grade.
• Conduct mandatory alcohol and drug tests and follow prescribed medication procedures.
• Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with statutory responsibilities.
• Model pro‑social behaviour, reinforce positive attitudes and challenge anti‑social behaviour.
• Work within the aims and values of the Probation Service and HMPPS.

• Experience working with diverse communities and promoting equality and valuing diversity.
• Experience motivating and changing offending behaviour.
• Experience working with people who have committed offences.

• Hold a Probation Officer qualification or be a qualified Probation Officer.
• Hold a PQF Honours Degree/Graduate Diploma and Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice, or equivalent qualifications such as a Diploma in Probation Studies, Social Work with a probation option or CQSW.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and the Probation Service.
• Working knowledge of relevant legislation and national standards.
• Knowledge of evidence‑based practice and risk/needs assessment tools.

• Making Effective Decisions
• Changing and Improving
• Working Together
• Delivering at Pace
• Communicating and Influencing

All applicants will be assessed fairly in accordance with the Equality and Diversity statement and the role is open to eligible candidates regardless of nationality, gender, race, disability or other protected characteristics.

Hybrid working is available where business needs allow, with the option to work from a base location, MoJ sites or from home for UK‑based candidates.

Annual leave, pension scheme, training and development opportunities are provided.