JOB DESCRIPTION
POST OF: Support Worker
RESPONSIBLE TO: Co-ordinator
GRADING:
SALARY : £23,500 fte
MAIN FUNCTION
To build relationships with visitors to HMP Barlinnie via assertive outreach within the public areas of the prison and with a dedicated focus to working with children and young people. In collaboration with others, identify areas of unmet need amongst visitors and work towards outcomes for funders.
- Initiate contact with visitors and offer support and advice as appropriate
- Work with a group of volunteers in providing support and guidance to visitors.
- Assist in liaising with prison staff to ensure the smooth operation of the Croft.
- Act as a signpost for visitors directing to other agencies as appropriate to need.
- Ensure that support offered is relevant to all visitors, particularly children and young people.
- In partnership with others, develop additional support provision for children and young people.
- EnsureCroft staff are available at the specified times and assist in volunteer deployment.
- Contribute to the administration of the Croft, including written reports, email and use of the internet.
- Ensurein your work practice that the security of the Croft and that Health, Safety, Security and Fire Regulations are adhered to.
- Understand and apply all policies, particularlySafeguarding policy.
- To participate in evaluations of the Croft provision, ensuring that the highest standards of support are implemented and achieved.
- To share responsibility for the quality of service delivery, having particular regard to:-
- values of confidentiality, integrity and impartiality
- the worth, rights and responsibilities of the individual
- the promotion of independent choice
- the protection of people who cannot protect themselves
- the promotion of equality of opportunity
- maintaining and improving practice standards
- supporting other staff and volunteers
- the achieving of objectives
- responding to visitors’ comments and opinions
PERSONAL
You will have the ability to work as a member of a small staff team as well as on your own initiative. You will have an open and pro-active approach and an ability to work collaboratively and constructively with a variety of individuals and agencies. An ability to demonstrate empathy with visitors is essential. You will also have good interpersonal skills and the ability to set boundaries in relationships and be able to identify an appropriate level for contact initiated through the position.
GENERAL
The post holder will be expected to undertake other relevant and reasonable duties as required by management.QUALIFICATIONS and WORK EXPERIENCE
Qualification in a relevant discipline and/or at least 3 years’ experience of working in a similar setting essential.
HOURS OF DUTY
Typical hours will be 12-8pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, with a break from 3-4pm, these hours may vary during your initial induction period. There will be occasional weekend work which will be agreed with you in advance. You may also be offered training opportunities outwith your usual hours, which can be taken as TOIL.
ESSENTIAL ATTRIBUTES OR EXPERIENCE
- Honesty, reliability and commitment
- A calm, considered approach
- Excellent interpersonal skills, sound communication and negotiation skills
- Experience of working with volunteers
- Ability to work within organisations
- Ability to work alone and on own initiative
- An active commitment to equal opportunities
- Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations
- A willingness to learn new skills
- Either a qualification in a relevant area: e.g. social care / advice provision / social work / counselling / working with children or young people OR at least 3 years’ experience of working in a similar setting
- Computer literate – confident with email, internet and use of Microsoft Office or similar
DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES AND SKILLS
- An understanding of the Prison system
- Experience of working with the public in a front-line setting
- Experience of working with children and families
- Local knowledge of resources for families of prisoners