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

HM Prison and Probation Service

Sep 10

Applications are closed

Job
Full-time
Junior & Mid Level
Government & Politics
People, HR & Administration
Milton Keynes

Requirements

- 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.
- 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.
- Must work within the aims and values of the PS and HM Prison and Probation Service.
- Demonstrating a commitment to equality and inclusion in line with PS policies and procedures.
- 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 main role of a Victim Liaison Officer?

The main 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 and enabling them to participate in decision-making regarding risk management.

What qualifications are required for this position?

The position requires knowledge and understanding of the criminal justice system, including the functions of courts, prisons, probation, and the Parole Board, alongside the arrangement for Mentally Disordered Offenders.

Is travel required for this job?

Yes, the job requires regular travel to maintain contact with victims, their families, and other professionals across rural and urban areas.

Are there additional work hours required outside of regular working hours?

Yes, some out-of-hours work may be required during the week and on weekends.

What responsibilities do Victim Liaison Officers have regarding victims and their families?

Victim Liaison Officers must keep victims and their families informed about key stages of an offender’s sentence, assess their risks and needs, and facilitate communication with relevant agencies.

Are ongoing training and development necessary for this role?

Yes, ongoing learning and development are essential to maintain up-to-date knowledge of current policies, legislation, and best practices, including mandatory training.

What kind of crimes will Victim Liaison Officers deal with?

Victim Liaison Officers will work with individuals and families who have been victims of serious crimes, including violent crimes, sexual offences, and stalking or harassment.

Is the position focused on supporting victims only?

While the primary focus is on supporting victims and their families, the role also requires consideration of the rights and needs of offenders as part of the risk management process.

What is the importance of confidentiality in this role?

The post holder must adhere to strict confidentiality policies due to the sensitive nature of the information handled while working in this position.

Will the post holder participate in inter-agency meetings?

Yes, the post holder is expected to participate in inter-agency meetings to represent victims and ensure their perspectives are considered in risk management and safeguarding practices.

HM Prison and Probation Service

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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.