Outreach Worker

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To apply, please submit your CV and a supporting statement outlining how you meet the person specification to Lauren Oakley, Operations Manager, lauren.oakley@justice.gov.uk.

Outreach Worker (Part Time)

Elizabeth Fry Charity – Supporting Women to Build Positive Futures

Elizabeth Fry Charity operates a Ministry of Justice Approved Premises in Reading, providing safe, supportive accommodation for up to 24 women within the criminal justice system. We are committed to empowering women, helping them navigate challenges, and create meaningful, lasting change.

If you’re passionate about making a real difference and want a role where your skills directly contribute to transforming lives, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Role

We are looking for a compassionate and motivated Outreach Worker to join our dedicated team. This role plays a vital part in supporting women as they transition from our Approved Premises into independent living—a time that can be both exciting and challenging.

You will work with residents who are moving into the Reading community, offering guidance before they leave the premises and continuing support for up to six months after move-on. Your work will help women build confidence, access community resources, and maintain stability as they settle into their new lives.

This is a 20‑hour‑per‑week part‑time role, with a proposed working pattern of Monday–Friday, 1pm–5pm. We are also open to alternative working arrangements.

We offer a competitive salary for this role, with the full time equivalent salary £29,421.69 - £33,762.59.

Key Responsibilities

• Build supportive relationships with residents preparing to remain in Reading, completing needs assessments and personalised support plans.
• Provide ongoing practical and emotional support for approximately six months after residents move into the community.
• Collaborate closely with partner agencies including Alana House, Reading Borough Council, and Thames Valley Police.
• Communicate with residents in a consistent, respectful and motivational way to encourage rehabilitation and positive outcomes.
• Work in line with all Elizabeth Fry Charity policies and procedures.

About You

Essential Skills and Experience

• Excellent verbal and written communication with strong attention to detail.
• Confident using IT systems, especially Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Strong organisational and time‑management skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Elizabeth Fry Charity.

Desirable

• Experience working with people facing social or personal challenges.
• Understanding of the criminal justice system, particularly the Probation Service.
• Awareness of barriers faced by women in the criminal justice system.

Personal Attributes

• Highly motivated, enthusiastic, and proactive.
• Able to work within professional boundaries while balancing care and control.
• Flexible, adaptable, and willing to take on varied tasks.
• Committed to safeguarding and equality of opportunity.

Why Join Us?

At Elizabeth Fry Charity, you’ll be part of a supportive, experienced team working together to make a genuine impact on women’s lives. We champion professional growth and value everyone’s contribution.

We also offer:

• Access to Perkbox, our employee benefits platform.
• A confirmation-in-post bonus after passing probation, plus long‑service awards at 3 and 10 years.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support.
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata), rising to 30 days with service.
• Freshly prepared meals on site from our in‑house Chef, with all dietary needs catered for.

How to Apply

This role is open to female applicants only, in accordance with Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

To apply, please send your CV and a supporting statement explaining how you meet the person specification to lauren.oakley@justice.gov.uk.

Closing date: 12pm on 19th March 2026
Interviews: 27th March 2026

If you are unable to attend the interview date, please mention this in your application and provide alternative availability.

Please note: This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and the successful candidate will require a Disclosure and Barring Service check.