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The Prisoners’ Families Helpline provides support to loved ones of those affected by the Criminal Justice System across England and Wales. Purpose of this role To provide advice and information to family members, friends, prisoners and professionals by responding to incoming telephone calls. You will respond to queries by providing direct information, signposting to other relevant organisations and making referrals to Pact colleagues as well as other family support services such as Barnardos, Spurgeons and Nepacs. Below are a few examples of calls received on the helpline: • Trying to find out which prison someone has been sent to • Concerns regarding the wellbeing of a prisoner • How to keep in contact with someone in prison • How to send money to someone in prison • What to do after someone has been arrested • What support is available to someone after release from prison Time commitment & location This role is being offered remotely, so you will need to have access to a laptop/computer, a smart phone and an internet connection. A quiet working environment is also required. Time commitment: We expect volunteers to commit to working a minimum of one shift per week, for a period of at least 6 months. The helpline is open 7 days a week, 9am-8pm Monday-Friday and 10am-3pm on weekends. The shifts we have available are as follows: Monday – Friday: 9am-1pm,1pm-5pm or 5pm-8pm Weekends: 10am-3pm (If you wish to work multiple shifts, please let us know) What you will be doing • Answering daily telephone calls, providing information and guidance • Escalating any urgent/imminent safeguarding calls with the prison • Making referrals and signposting to Pact colleagues and other external organisations • Updating an Excel spreadsheet logging all calls taken • Communicating with other colleagues on shift as well as Shift Supervisors
• Listening • Empathy • Determination • Teamwork • Verbal & written communication skills • Good I.T. literacy • Non-judgemental • Can-do attitude • Flexible • Genuine desire to help people
What we offer Training You will be required to undertake our Safeguarding and Professional Boundaries training online, as well as attending our role-specific Helpline training via Zoom. You will also have access to various other training modules on our new eLearning platform. Checks This role is subject to: • 2 satisfactory references Support and Supervision We will provide a full induction and regular supervision to support you in the role. Benefits to you • Make a huge difference to prisoners and families • Gain valuable experience and a strong awareness of the Criminal Justice System • Gain practical skills and experience • Develop skills and enhance your CV for future employment / volunteering opportunities • Join a great team of supportive, respectful and caring individuals Next steps To apply for this role, please visit the following link: http://bttr.im/0pfqq For any questions about the role please email: david.bruccoleri@prisonadvice.org.uk For more information about Pact please see the following link: https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/
