Pacts peer support service consists of a group of people with similar experiences that come together to support each other within in a group setting. All members of the group will have had experiences of a loved one in prison or involved in the Criminal Justice System (CJS).
Purpose of this role
The role of a facilitator requires the individual to facilitatecommunication between members of the group. To guide and support and ensure that the group’s core values are upheld.
Facilitators are required to lead members of the group in a healthy and purposeful discussion that will help them address the issues for which thegroup is designed
Time commitment & location
All peer support groups are currently being held via zoom or conference call. We ask volunteers to commit to two hours every other week for a minimum of 6 months. This time will include around 1 and a half hours for the group meeting and then half an hour for administration. tasks.
What you will be doing
- Facilitating activities and discussions within sessions. For instance, leading the group in ice breakers and human bingo during first session.
- Answering questions and offering advice where able to about the CJS.
- Upholding Pacts Safety guidelines to ensure everyone in the group feels supported in a safe space.
- Uphold the group’s core values to ensure a mutual respect and empathy for every member of the group.
- Information sharing and signposting to other available support.
- Completing an end of session report after each group which will outline what has been discussed in the group and report on any safeguarding or data protection issues which may have arisen.
- To follow Pacts processes and procedures to report any safeguarding concerns or issues of data protection.
The type of person they are looking for
Experience
Skills / Abilities
Attitudes
Experience of speaking to members of the public either face-to-face or over the phone
Previous experience of supporting vulnerable people with complex needs is desirable but not essential
Prior knowledge or experience working within the CJS
Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills
Strong listening skills
Ability to respect confidentiality
Ability to work alone or in a team
Good IT skills
Non-judgemental, empathetic attitude towards prisoners and their families
Honesty and reliability
Warm and friendly approach to working with people
Be able to treat all staff, prisoners and their families with respect, dignity and courtesy
Good understanding of personal and professional boundaries
What they offer
Training
For this role you will need to carry out Pact’s core (online) training which includes Safeguarding, Professional Boundaries and Equality and Diversity. You will also be required to carry out specific role-based training run by Pact (approx. 2 hours).
Expenses
Travel costs, via public transport or private car (mileage) will be reimbursed including travel to attend training. Subsistence, i.e. lunch may also be reimbursed, according to our expenses policy. As groups are currently run remotely, this does not apply
Checks
This role will be subject to:
- 5 years of employment history or other activities (e.g., travelling or studying)
- Enhanced DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service)
Please be aware that these necessary checks need to be completed before you can start and can take several weeks to process
Support and Supervision
They will provide a full induction and regular supervision to support you in the role.
Benefits to you
- You’ll be able to make a real difference to a family member/friend who may be experiencing stress and anxiety about their situation
- Gain knowledge about the CJS and processes involved
- Gain practical skills in leading group support and experience in managing the dynamics of the Peer Support group, answering questions surrounding CJS and signposting to additional support agencies where able.
- Develop skills and enhance your CV for further volunteering or employment opportunities
- Join a great, welcoming, and helpful team
To apply, see here