Prison volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals and Count Me In numeracy manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading and numeracy skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Volunteers do not need to be teachers or qualified traininers, full training will be given. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals and Count Me In numeracy manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading and numeracy skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Volunteers do not need to be teachers or qualified traininers, full training will be given. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals and Count Me In numeracy manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading and numeracy skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Volunteers do not need to be teachers or qualified traininers, full training will be given. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Various locations (Cambridgeshire, Buckinghamshire, Nottinghamshire, Rutland)
SUMMARY
Prison volunteers are the backbone of Fine Cell Work. Supported by the Fine Cell Work programmes team and by other staff at the FCW office, they teach and administer FCW stitching groups in prisons.
Our prison volunteers work in teams to organise classes and teach our stitchers, as well as to provide information to the prison and to the FCW office. The precise mix of skills and tasks will vary slightly from prison to prison.
Volunteering in prison for Fine Cell Work ideally requires not only a good level of needlework skill but also some teaching experience and/or experience of working with socially-excluded groups. Volunteers must be patient and non-judgemental in order to work effectively.
This document describes the role of prison volunteering teams as a whole. Individuals who do not have all the skills described below may find a role alongside other volunteers who do.
PURPOSE
- Developing stitchers’ skills and confidence
- Acting as FCW ambassadors in the prison
- Building effective working relationships with prison staff, stitchers, and other volunteers
- Providing information to the FCW office for administrative and evaluative purposes
ACTIVITIES
Teaching and support
- Teaching prisoners to stitch FCW products using our premade kits
- Encouraging and supporting stitchers to take on responsibility as class coordinators and peer mentors
- Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake our accredited training courses with the Open College Network
Admin and liaison
- Ensuring a supply of kits and training materials appropriate to stitchers’ individual skill levels and learning needs
- Returning completed kits to the FCW office with invoices
- Regularly communicating with the Fine Cell Work programmes team
Monitoring and information-gathering
- Ensuring accurate record keeping of stitchers' pay, productivity and progress
- Occasionally gathering other information requested by the office
Meetings/training
- Participating in occasional volunteer meetings
- Participating in training and workshops as requested by FCW or the prison
SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS, AND EXPERIENCE NEEDED
Essential
- Support for FCW’s ethos
- Ability to observe boundaries in personal behaviour
- Teamwork
- Experience of tapestry and/or embroidery techniques
- Reliability, patience and flexibility
- Accurate record-keeping
- Access to the internet
- Able to use email and word processors to a basic level
- Ability to travel to prison
Desirable
- Teaching experience and/or experience of working with vulnerable and socially excluded groups
- Able to use spreadsheets to a basic level
- Access to a car
You must be over 18 to carry out this role.
COMMITMENT REQUIRED
Prison volunteers generally run classes for two hours every 2 weeks.
With travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set
aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.
We hope that most prison-based volunteers will be able to commit themselves to working with us for at least a year or two as this allows time for group participants to complete qualifications and develop their skills to a high standard.
LOCATION
Volunteers work in prisons around the UK dependant on where groups are based.
SUPERVISION AND COMMUNICATION
Each group has a lead volunteer who reports to the Volunteer & Programmes Manager at the Fine Cell Work office however we do encourage regular communication between the programmes team and all volunteers.
We also have regular reflective practice sessions for prison volunteers which take place on Zoom every other month.
BENEFITS
Fine Cell Work will cover your travel costs and out-of-pocket expenses related to posting kits to the office. We can also pay out-of-pocket expenses for purchasing materials and other items, but you must agree this in advance with the Production team at Head Office.
We provide induction training before you start volunteering in prison, and training thereafter at intervals throughout the year.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Fine Cell Work (FCW) is a UK-based rehabilitation charity and social enterprise. We are supported by an incredible team of prison volunteers who are the link between the charity and the stitchers we work with in prison. Our volunteers run fortnightly stitching groups in the prisons we work with to facilitate our stitchers’ production of high-quality needlework.
Our prison volunteers work in small teams to teach our stitchers’ embroidery and needlepoint, organise their group sessions, and liaise with the prison and FCW office.
What you will do as a prison volunteer:
- Teach people in prison how to stitch and support the completion of our premade kits in our cell groups, which consist of around 10-15 stitchers.
- Communicate with staff at our hub in Battersea to receive kits and supplies for your group and send back completed work for your stitchers to be paid.
- Encourage and help stitchers to complete our Open College Network certifications in creative needlework.
- Develop stitchers’ skills and confidence by encouraging them to take responsibility as peer mentors.
- Act as an ambassador for the charity and sharing our vision and values throughout your volunteering.
Who we are looking for:
- Skills in embroidery and/or needlepoint or a willingness to learn to stitch is essential for this role.
- Ideally some teaching experience or experience working with socially-excluded groups.
- Someone with a non-judgemental attitude and commitment to rehabilitation.
- Someone who is an excellent team worker.
- Someone who is good at observing personal boundaries.
Commitment: our stitching groups run for 2 hours every fortnight, so with travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.
You must be over 18 for this role with the ability to travel to the prison. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity.
Please take some time to read the role description to find out more details about the role and what we offer to our prison volunteers.
At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented amongst FCW’s prison volunteers. This includes applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and male identifying applicants.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Fine Cell Work (FCW) is a UK-based rehabilitation charity and social enterprise. We are supported by an incredible team of prison volunteers who are the link between the charity and the stitchers we work with in prison. Our volunteers run fortnightly stitching groups in the prisons we work with to facilitate our stitchers’ production of high-quality needlework.
Our prison volunteers work in small teams to teach our stitchers’ embroidery and needlepoint, organise their group sessions, and liaise with the prison and FCW office.
What you will do as a prison volunteer:
- Teach people in prison how to stitch and support the completion of our premade kits in our cell groups, which consist of around 10-15 stitchers.
- Communicate with staff at our hub in Battersea to receive kits and supplies for your group and send back completed work for your stitchers to be paid.
- Encourage and help stitchers to complete our Open College Network certifications in creative needlework.
- Develop stitchers’ skills and confidence by encouraging them to take responsibility as peer mentors.
- Act as an ambassador for the charity and sharing our vision and values throughout your volunteering.
Who we are looking for:
- Skills in embroidery and/or needlepoint or a willingness to learn to stitch is essential for this role.
- Ideally some teaching experience or experience working with socially-excluded groups.
- Someone with a non-judgemental attitude and commitment to rehabilitation.
- Someone who is an excellent team worker.
- Someone who is good at observing personal boundaries.
Commitment: our stitching groups run for 2 hours every fortnight, so with travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.
You must be over 18 for this role with the ability to travel to the prison. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity.
Please take some time to read the role description to find out more details about the role and what we offer to our prison volunteers.
At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented amongst FCW’s prison volunteers. This includes applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and male identifying applicants.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Prison in reach volunteers support members of the Armed Forces community who are in prison. They make a real difference by providing essential support during these incredibly difficult times.
Our volunteers work closely with veterans in custody support officers, attending veteran forums, and offering one to one support, including making applications for financial assistance. We also connect clients with organisations, to help support pathways for positive change.
Come and join our team! We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
We are keen to increase volunteer diversity, especially from under-represented groups such as young people, those of working age and individuals from minoritised groups.
What you will be doing
- Attend group forums for veterans within the prison environment.
- Complete individual assessments and complete one to one personalised support for veterans within the prison environment, which includes casework.
- Promote the services available to family members.
- Establish an agreement around the rate of visits with the VCJS team and the prison.
- Record the support offered to veterans accordingly and appropriately.
- Complete monitoring reports.
The skills you need
- Be over 21.
- Have a good level of fitness to able to move around a prison quickly - including stairs.
- Excellent listening skills.
- Awareness of boundaries and confidentiality.
- Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a range of people, including prison staff, other agencies, SSAFA colleagues and clients.
- Positive, committed and non-judgemental. Non-judgemental and empathetic attitude.
- Good IT skills.
- An enhanced DBS check is required for this role. Individual prisons will determine if they authorise individuals to be based in their facilities based on security considerations. Security Vetting by His Majesty’s Prison Service is often required. For further discussion, please get in touch.
- You will need to declare potential conflicts of interest, for example any family connection with the prison.
What's in it for you
- Full training provided with regular ongoing support.
- You gain criminal justice sector experience and build your CV.
- You can make a real difference to the lives of Veterans who are in the justice system.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost for you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Prison in reach volunteers support members of the Armed Forces community who are in prison. They make a real difference by providing essential support during these incredibly difficult times.
Our volunteers work closely with veterans in custody support officers, attending veteran forums, and offering one to one support, including making applications for financial assistance. We also connect clients with organisations, to help support pathways for positive change.
Come and join our team! We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
We are keen to increase volunteer diversity, especially from under-represented groups such as young people, those of working age and individuals from minoritised groups.
What you will be doing
- Attend group forums for veterans within the prison environment.
- Complete individual assessments and complete one to one personalised support for veterans within the prison environment, which includes casework.
- Promote the services available to family members.
- Establish an agreement around the rate of visits with the VCJS team and the prison.
- Record the support offered to veterans accordingly and appropriately.
- Complete monitoring reports.
The skills you need
- Be over 21.
- Have a good level of fitness to able to move around a prison quickly - including stairs.
- Excellent listening skills.
- Awareness of boundaries and confidentiality.
- Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a range of people, including prison staff, other agencies, SSAFA colleagues and clients.
- Positive, committed and non-judgemental. Non-judgemental and empathetic attitude.
- Good IT skills.
- An enhanced DBS check is required for this role. Individual prisons will determine if they authorise individuals to be based in their facilities based on security considerations. Security Vetting by His Majesty’s Prison Service is often required. For further discussion, please get in touch.
- You will need to declare potential conflicts of interest, for example any family connection with the prison.
What's in it for you
- Full training provided with regular ongoing support.
- You gain criminal justice sector experience and build your CV.
- You can make a real difference to the lives of Veterans who are in the justice system.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost for you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Prison in reach volunteers support members of the Armed Forces community who are in prison. They make a real difference by providing essential support during these incredibly difficult times.
Our volunteers work closely with veterans in custody support officers, attending veteran forums, and offering one to one support, including making applications for financial assistance. We also connect clients with organisations, to help support pathways for positive change.
Come and join our team! We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
We are keen to increase volunteer diversity, especially from under-represented groups such as young people, those of working age and individuals from minoritised groups.
What you will be doing
- Attend group forums for veterans within the prison environment.
- Complete individual assessments and complete one to one personalised support for veterans within the prison environment, which includes casework.
- Promote the services available to family members.
- Establish an agreement around the rate of visits with the VCJS team and the prison.
- Record the support offered to veterans accordingly and appropriately.
- Complete monitoring reports.
The skills you need
- Be over 21.
- Have a good level of fitness to able to move around a prison quickly - including stairs.
- Excellent listening skills.
- Awareness of boundaries and confidentiality.
- Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a range of people, including prison staff, other agencies, SSAFA colleagues and clients.
- Positive, committed and non-judgemental. Non-judgemental and empathetic attitude.
- Good IT skills.
- An enhanced DBS check is required for this role. Individual prisons will determine if they authorise individuals to be based in their facilities based on security considerations. Security Vetting by His Majesty’s Prison Service is often required. For further discussion, please get in touch.
- You will need to declare potential conflicts of interest, for example any family connection with the prison.
What's in it for you
- Full training provided with regular ongoing support.
- You gain criminal justice sector experience and build your CV.
- You can make a real difference to the lives of Veterans who are in the justice system.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost for you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
A court sentencing can be a very stressful time for families. Pact’s new Side by Side service provides wraparound support for families, starting at the court, progressing to the prison, and then supporting post-release.
As a Side by Side Court Volunteer, you will spend most of your time (ideally one shift a week) based at Maidstone or Canterbury Court. Here you will provide much needed practical and emotional support to families and friends who are experiencing a loved one going through the court process. Your presence and support will ensure families have the strength needed for their loved ones and that they have access to information and advice as required.
Additionally, you may be asked to support families on their first visit in the instance their loved one is sentenced to one of our partner sites (HMP Elmley or HMP Rochester) or make the appropriate introductions if you are unable to attend.
The vision of this project is that families are supported by Pact team members at all stages, so the consistency of support (either by yourself or via a successful and warm handover of information) is crucial.
What you will be doing
· Engaging with families in Maidstone or Canterbury Court, particularly those with loved ones transitioning to HMP Elmley or Rochester (either on remand or sentenced)
· Providing advice and support on what to expect when a loved one is in prison, particularly in the first few days, and how to navigate prison systems (such as booking visits, contact etc.)
· Referring on to other support services (such as benefits, financial aid, etc.)
· Supporting the family’s transition over to Pact’s Family Services teams at HMP Elmley & Rochester, who will provide additional support for both them and their loved one
· Developing good, working relationships with staff at the court (clerks, ushers, list-callers, and other professionals) to promote Pact's service to them
· Ensure there are sufficient materials about Pact's service available and visible, throughout the court
· Adhere to policies and practices relevant to this role: Confidentiality, Health & Safety, Child Protection and Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity, Court and Prison security rules, etc.
· Report any incidents and concerns related to Health and Safety or Safeguarding to a member of the Pact staff team
The skills you need
· Non-judgemental and empathetic attitude
· Ability to deal calmly and sensitively with individuals and families in a court environment
· Ability to work independently and alone within the courts, with the confidence to approach families and friends
· Ability to work well as part of a small team
· Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills
· Punctual, organised and able to use your own initiative
· Good understanding of safeguarding, professional boundaries and confidentiality
What's in it for you
· Feel connected to those you are helping in your local community
· Develop skills and enhance your experience for future volunteering / employment opportunities
· Develop experience and knowledge of the Criminal Justice System
· Full training and induction provided with regular ongoing support
· Out-of-pocket expenses covered in line with our expenses policy
Disclaimers
· This role is subject to the completion of Pact's mandatory training and checks which our staff will be on hand to support you through.
· As this role may require occasional travel to HMP Elmley and HMP Rochester, a vehicle is required.
Training
Online Safeguarding, Professional Boundaries, Equality and Diversity, Data Security, and Health and Safety training is required for this role, in addition to virtual and/or in-person induction training related to the role. We anticipate the initial virtual training will take between 10-12 hours to complete in total, of which most can be completed in your own time. You will also have access to a range of other training opportunities throughout the year.
Checks
· 3 years of employment history or other activities (e.g., studying, travelling)
· Enhanced DBS check (Disclosure & Barring Service)
Because of the recruitment process, which can take several weeks, Pact expects you will commit to volunteering with us for a minimum of 1 shift a week (3-4 hours) for at least 6 months from when you start.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
A court sentencing can be a very stressful time for families. Pact’s new Side by Side service provides wraparound support for families, starting at the court, progressing to the prison, and then supporting post-release.
As a Side by Side Court Volunteer, you will spend most of your time (ideally one shift a week) based at Maidstone or Canterbury Court. Here you will provide much needed practical and emotional support to families and friends who are experiencing a loved one going through the court process. Your presence and support will ensure families have the strength needed for their loved ones and that they have access to information and advice as required.
Additionally, you may be asked to support families on their first visit in the instance their loved one is sentenced to one of our partner sites (HMP Elmley or HMP Rochester) or make the appropriate introductions if you are unable to attend.
The vision of this project is that families are supported by Pact team members at all stages, so the consistency of support (either by yourself or via a successful and warm handover of information) is crucial.
What you will be doing
· Engaging with families in Maidstone or Canterbury Court, particularly those with loved ones transitioning to HMP Elmley or Rochester (either on remand or sentenced)
· Providing advice and support on what to expect when a loved one is in prison, particularly in the first few days, and how to navigate prison systems (such as booking visits, contact etc.)
· Referring on to other support services (such as benefits, financial aid, etc.)
· Supporting the family’s transition over to Pact’s Family Services teams at HMP Elmley & Rochester, who will provide additional support for both them and their loved one
· Developing good, working relationships with staff at the court (clerks, ushers, list-callers, and other professionals) to promote Pact's service to them
· Ensure there are sufficient materials about Pact's service available and visible, throughout the court
· Adhere to policies and practices relevant to this role: Confidentiality, Health & Safety, Child Protection and Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity, Court and Prison security rules, etc.
· Report any incidents and concerns related to Health and Safety or Safeguarding to a member of the Pact staff team
The skills you need
· Non-judgemental and empathetic attitude
· Ability to deal calmly and sensitively with individuals and families in a court environment
· Ability to work independently and alone within the courts, with the confidence to approach families and friends
· Ability to work well as part of a small team
· Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills
· Punctual, organised and able to use your own initiative
· Good understanding of safeguarding, professional boundaries and confidentiality
What's in it for you
· Feel connected to those you are helping in your local community
· Develop skills and enhance your experience for future volunteering / employment opportunities
· Develop experience and knowledge of the Criminal Justice System
· Full training and induction provided with regular ongoing support
· Out-of-pocket expenses covered in line with our expenses policy
Disclaimers
· This role is subject to the completion of Pact's mandatory training and checks which our staff will be on hand to support you through.
· As this role may require occasional travel to HMP Elmley and HMP Rochester, a vehicle is required.
Training
Online Safeguarding, Professional Boundaries, Equality and Diversity, Data Security, and Health and Safety training is required for this role, in addition to virtual and/or in-person induction training related to the role. We anticipate the initial virtual training will take between 10-12 hours to complete in total, of which most can be completed in your own time. You will also have access to a range of other training opportunities throughout the year.
Checks
· 3 years of employment history or other activities (e.g., studying, travelling)
· Enhanced DBS check (Disclosure & Barring Service)
Because of the recruitment process, which can take several weeks, Pact expects you will commit to volunteering with us for a minimum of 1 shift a week (3-4 hours) for at least 6 months from when you start.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.