HM Prison and Probation Service
Probation Officer Returners Campaign - West Midlands (Ref 16390)
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Returning Probation Officer – Fast-Track Re-entry Scheme (West Midlands)
Job Summary
This is a rolling campaign open exclusively to former, qualified probation officers who left the Civil Service within the last five years. Returning officers will be fast-tracked with no requirement to repeat training or assessment.
About the Role
Are you a former qualified probation officer who left the Civil Service less than five years ago and completed your probationary period? We’re inviting you to return to the Probation Service—helping rehabilitate individuals on probation and keep the public safe.
This scheme utilises Civil Service Exception 5, allowing eligible candidates a fast-track re-entry without needing to reapply through the full recruitment process. Your previous experience will be valued, and you’ll be supported through your individualised training needs assessment.
Key Points:
- Must have left the Civil Service ≤5 years ago (resignation/retirement).
- Must have completed probation and full training before leaving.
- Applicants cannot reapply within six months under this scheme.
- This offers a flexible opportunity to return on terms that suit your needs.
Eligibility & Civil Service Exception 5 Terms
Who Qualifies?
✔ Former probation officers who:
- Left the Civil Service within the last 5 years (resignation/retirement).
- Completed their probationary period and full training before departing.
✔ Must align with Civil Service Exception 5 criteria, which includes:
- Returning to a same-level or lower-grade role than previously held.
- No right to return is guaranteed—reinstatement is at the discretion of the Probation Service, based on business need.
- Temporary re-entry opportunities available.
Working Arrangements & Contracts
Flexible Options Available:
- Full-time or part-time contracts (permanent or temporary).
- Temporary contracts of 3, 6, or 9 months, extendable to a maximum of 2 years if needed.
- Flexible workingсетtings designed to support work-life balance.
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Temporary Contract Terms:
- Full access to Civil Service benefits (except permanent tenure).
- Automatic pension enrollment (opt-out available).
- 25 days’ annual leave (pro rata for part-time).
- Routine MaPS disponte security review required if away for ≥28 days.
Pre-employment Requirements
- Pass Enhanced Level 2 Security Checks, including DBS Enhanced and Occupational Health Review.
- Non-Police Personnel Vetting (NPPV) Level 2 required for access to ViSOR database.
Rewards & Benefits
Full Civil Service benefits, including:
- Competitive salary: £35,130 base (plus London allowance of £4,250 for roles in London, Staines, or Watford).
- BrightPen—financial and career guidance.
- Civil Service pension (28.97% employer contribution).
- Employer-subsidised gym membership.
- Flexible/award-winning childcare solutions.
- 25 days’ annual leave + public holidays.
- Season Ticket Advance (∈500) & Cycle to Work Scheme.
Explore full benefits at: Why work for HM Prison & Probation Service?
Qualifications & Professional Standards
Mandatory Requirements:
| Degree/Diploma | Acceptable Qualifications |
|---|---|
| Preferred | PQF Honours Degree/Graduate Diploma and Level 5 Diploma in Probation |
| Alternatives | - Diploma in Probation Studies<br>- Diploma in Social Work (Probation)<br>- CQSW (Probation)<br> |
Note: You must be a qualified probation officer as per the current Justice Qualifications Realisation Framework.
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Selection & Process
- Accessible through Success Profiles, assessing Experience + Technical Skills.
- Interviews conducted following application shortlisting.
- Security checks and checks completed during hiring process.
Security
- Enhanced DBS and Occupational Health Review required.
- Nationality requirements (UK nationals, EEA/EFTA/Commonwealth/或 EUSS status holders eligible).
Diversity & Inclusion
The Civil Service embraces a culture of diversity, disability confidence, and equitable opportunities, including:
- Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities meeting selection criteria.
- Temporary support available for employees at risk of redundancy.
Bearer Site & Support
No preference required during applications—rest assured that reasonable adjustments will be made to accommodate your return:
- Final work base determined after eligibility confirmation.
- Within a 60-minute commute of your home location preferred.
Next Steps & Contacts
- Register with the Probation Alumni Network if not ready to reapply now: → Join the Network.
- Apply if eligible—your past achievements will guide selection.
- Contact for queries: Recruitment Enquiries Email: moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk Tel: 0845 241 5358
Important Notes
- "Rolling campaign"—apply early; no reapplication allowed within six months.
- Limited applications accepted due to demand, but flexibility for supportive reintegration.
- No right of return is guaranteed, but suitable cases are prioritised under Exception 5.
This role requires self-assurance, practical judgement and is perfect for recent retirees passionate about reforming criminal justice—join the Probation Service again while shaping tomorrow’s societal advances.
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