North East Recovery Navigator

Job Overview

We're looking for a Recovery Navigator to join Forward Trust's Dependency and Recovery Services. This frontline role works within probation delivery units across East London (Newham, Redbridge & Waltham Forest, Barking, Dagenham & Havering), bridging the gap between probation services and substance misuse treatment. It involves carrying a diverse caseload of men on probation, including prison leavers and those on community orders, to engage in recovery, reduce reoffending, and build more stable lives.

• Complete comprehensive assessments and create collaborative SMART action plans.
• Deliver 1:1 and group interventions, both in‑person and virtually, to empower individuals on their recovery journey.
• Provide practical support and advocacy – attending appointments, helping with referrals, and making calls on behalf of clients.
• Offer clear advice and information in accessible ways to enable informed choices.
• Support individuals with varying complexity of needs – from highly motivated clients maintaining recovery to those with dual diagnosis and low engagement.
• Build strong partnerships with probation staff, treatment providers and other agencies to ensure continuity of care.
• Maintain accurate and timely case records, ensuring all work aligns with commissioner targets.
• Develop as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in specific areas such as BAME communities or chemsex support (optional).
• Work primarily Monday‑Friday, 9‑5, with occasional flexibility and travel to Forward Trust's head office.

• Strong experience in substance misuse field or significant related support role.
• Proven ability to manage high caseloads, carry out comprehensive risk assessments and SMART action plans.
• Experience delivering 1:1 and group interventions using motivational and trauma‑informed approaches.
• Experience working with treatment and/or healthcare services.
• Strong organisational skills with ability to prioritise workload and meet targets.
• Excellent communication skills with sensitivity, professionalism, and the ability to work with diverse backgrounds.
• Experience working in partnership with probation, criminal justice or other statutory agencies.
• Ability to establish and maintain professional boundaries.
• Knowledge of continuity of care, holistic recovery needs, and community support services.
• A commitment to equality, diversity, confidentiality, GDPR, and safeguarding best practice.

• Flexible working
• Training and development opportunities
• Simply Health Cashback Scheme (optional)
• Season Ticket Loan Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Crisis Loan Scheme
• Electric Car Scheme
• 3 x Wellbeing Days (pro rata for part‑time employees)
• Access to Blue Light Card
• 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 with length of service)
• Contributory Pension Scheme – Employer matched contributions of up to 6% in first two years' service and up to 9% thereafter
• Death in Service Payment (2× annual salary)
• Critical Illness Insurance (subject to qualifying criteria)