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Victim Liaison Officer Reading and Milton Keynes (South Central) (Ref: 90280)

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HM Prison and Probation Service

10d ago

  • Job
    Full-time
    Junior & Mid Level
  • Government & Politics
    People, HR & Administration
  • Reading

AI generated summary

  • You need knowledge of the criminal justice system, travel flexibility, commitment to equality, confidentiality adherence, and strong English (or Welsh) communication skills. Out-of-hours work may be needed.
  • You will liaise with victims, assess their needs, maintain records, safeguard individuals, communicate with agencies, provide training, and ensure compliance with policies and legislation.

Requirements

  • The post holder requires knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice system, including the functions of the courts, prisons, probation, and the Parole Board, as well as Youth Justice Services and the arrangements for Mentally Disordered Offenders.
  • The post holder will be required to travel on a regular basis to maintain contact with victims, their families, and other professionals who may be based across rural and urban areas.
  • The post holder must work within the aims and values of the PS and HM Prison and Probation Service.
  • This includes demonstrating a commitment to equality and inclusion in line with PS policies and procedures.
  • The post holder must adhere to all policies in respect of the sensitive/confidential nature of the information handled whilst working in this position.
  • Some out of hours working may be required during the week and weekends.
  • An ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence through the medium of English or (where specified in Wales) Welsh.

Responsibilities

  • Liaise with the victims and their families to ensure they are informed about key stages and developments regarding an offender’s sentence or hospital order as set out in the VCS and VNS.
  • Use computer-based administrative systems to obtain relevant information and to produce, update and maintain records relating to victims, and other documentation, within agreed timescales.
  • Assess the risks and needs of victims and their families and complete any required actions within appropriate timescales including home and/or alternate location visits as required in accordance with the PS VCS and VNS Guidance.
  • Identify changes in risk or need and refer to senior managers and professionals in other agencies as appropriate.
  • Carry out safeguarding children and safeguarding adult duties in accordance with the PS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
  • Ensure effective referrals to, and communication with, other probation colleagues and professionals in other agencies.
  • Participate in a range of interprofessional meetings to represent victims and their families (and/or the PS) to support risk management and safeguarding of victims.
  • Carry out duties in accordance with policies and legislation governing parole proceedings, and to support victims and their families to write a personal statement and/or present their statement to the parole board in person or remotely.
  • Provide training and mentoring support to new VLOs and other probation practitioners and educate professionals from other agencies about the VCS and VNS and their responsibilities.
  • Engage in ongoing learning and development to maintain up-to-date knowledge and understanding of current policies, legislation, and best practice, including completion of all mandatory training.
  • Provide cover within the victim liaison unit as appropriate.

FAQs

What is the primary role of a Victim Liaison Officer?

The primary role of a Victim Liaison Officer is to work with victims of crime and their families, providing them with information about significant developments during an offender’s sentence or order and enabling their participation in decision-making around risk management.

What is the Victim Contact Scheme (VCS)?

The Victim Contact Scheme (VCS) is a statutory service that allows victims of crime to receive updates about the offender's sentence and to make representations that inform decisions regarding risk management.

What qualifications are necessary for this role?

The post holder requires knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice system and must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with victims and collaborate with other agencies.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, the post holder will be required to travel regularly to maintain contact with victims, their families, and other professionals across rural and urban areas.

Are there opportunities for training and development?

Yes, the role includes engaging in ongoing learning and development to maintain up-to-date knowledge of policies, legislation, and best practices, as well as providing training and mentoring support to new VLOs and other practitioners.

What type of support is provided to victims?

Victims and their families receive information about key stages of the offender’s sentence, support in writing personal statements for parole proceedings, and guidance on making representations regarding their safety.

Will I need to work outside of regular hours?

Yes, some out-of-hours working may be required during the week and weekends to support the needs of victims and their families.

How is diversity and inclusion addressed in this role?

The role emphasizes working within the aims and values of the Probation Service and demonstrates a commitment to equality and inclusion, in line with PS policies and procedures.

What kind of administrative tasks will I be responsible for?

The job holder will need to use computer-based administrative systems to obtain and maintain records related to victims and produce relevant documentation within agreed timescales.

How can I apply for the position?

Interested candidates can apply for the position through the recruitment link provided in the job advert. Further details on the application process and requirements can be found there.

HM Prison and Probation Service

Preventing victims by changing lives.

Government
Industry
10,001+
Employees

Mission & Purpose

The Prison and Probation Service in the UK is responsible for the management of prisons and the supervision of offenders in the community. Their ultimate mission is to protect the public by reducing reoffending and ensuring offenders are safely and securely managed. Their purpose is to support rehabilitation, provide opportunities for offenders to reform, and ensure they are prepared for successful reintegration into society. The service is committed to maintaining safety, security, and effectiveness in the criminal justice system.