Lead Practitioner

Lead Paractioner Role

Are you passionate about working with men and women involved in the Criminal Justice System?  Do you want to work in a residential setting that provides an opportunity to really get to know and make a difference to those released from prison and subject to supervision in the community

Progress to Change is a Leeds-based charity that operates two Independent Approved Premises (IAPs): Ripon House, a 22-bed facility for women, and Cardigan House, a 26-bed facility for men. These facilities serve individuals released from prison on licence, primarily those assessed as high risk, under the supervision of probation practitioners. The charity's mission is to assist and rehabilitate some of the most vulnerable members of society focusing on providing structured support and purposeful activities aimed at resettlement within the community. Progress to Change operates in close partnership with the Ministry of Justice and the Probation Service, and is a member of the National Approved Premises Association (NAPA).

The Lead Practitioner will play a key role in supporting the Approved Premises (AP) Managers in the day-to-day running of the service, ensuring high standards of care, safety, and rehabilitation opportunities for residents. This includes overseeing staff support, organising shift coverage, coordinating training, and maintaining strong relationships with external partners. The role requires a proactive approach to resident engagement, activity planning, and staff development while working a variety of shifts, including weekends and late shifts.

The candidate will be required to work across two sites in Leeds.

Key Responsibilities

Staff Support & Rota Management

• Assist the AP Manager in organising and ensuring appropriate rota coverage, including managing last-minute changes.
• Provide day-to-day support to support staff, ensuring clear communication and guidance.
• Disseminate relevant information to staff to ensure smooth service operation.
• Support AP manager to develop good practice across the teams.

Training & Development

• Ensure new team members receive appropriate induction and training.
• Deliver training sessions, including First Aid and other relevant development opportunities.
• Support continuous professional development for staff, ensuring a skilled and competent workforce.
• Co-ordinate the submission of Enabling Environments on-going award process.
• Support the AP manager in preparing for HMIP Inspections.

Meetings & Partnership Working

• Attend and contribute to Equality, Inclusion, and Diversity (EID) meetings and other relevant meetings as required by the AP Manager, within the MOJ
• Liaise with partner organisations, building and maintaining strong links with the local community to enhance support services.

Resident Engagement & Activities

• Liaise with the AP Manager and Activities co-ordinators to ensure a full calendar of activities is available for residents, promoting engagement and rehabilitation.
• Manage the activity calendar, coordinating and overseeing planned events and programmes.

Shift & Working Hours

• Work a variety of shifts to support service needs, including two weekend days per month and four late shifts per month.
• Provide hands-on support within the AP, ensuring a visible leadership presence.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Experience working within a criminal justice, supported housing or rehabilitation setting.
• Previous experience in a leadership or senior role within a similar setting.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to build effective partnerships with external organisations and community groups.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage staff and residents effectively.
• A flexible and adaptable approach to shift work, including weekends and late shifts.

Desirable Criteria:

• Relevant qualifications in criminal justice or social care or a related field.
• Knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Experience delivering training.
• Understanding of Equality, Inclusion, and Diversity (EID) in the workplace.
• Relevant qualifications in social care, criminal justice, or a related field.

Closing Date: 18th July 2025