Community Payback Supervisor - Workington - Full Time (Ref: 18888)

Role overview

This role is based at NPS Unit 32, Lillyhall Business Centre, Workington, CA14 4HA. It is an operational community payback position within HM Prison and Probation Service, focused on supervising groups of people on probation who are completing unpaid work for the benefit of local communities.

The work is active, varied, and hands-on. You will support service users to complete practical tasks safely and to a good standard, while helping them make positive progress and contributing to community improvement.

Main duties

• Supervise small groups of offenders carrying out community payback work.
• Lead and motivate people to complete unpaid work hours effectively.
• Oversee all site-based supervision duties and make sure tasks are completed properly.
• Work alongside service users to demonstrate good practice where needed.
• Carry out manual tasks with the group, which may include clearing overgrowth, litter picking, removing graffiti, planting trees, laying flowerbeds, and helping restore sports halls, playgrounds, and other community facilities.
• Use service vehicles to transport people or equipment when required, which may involve driving.
• Spend up to 7 hours in a typical day supervising a group on a community payback placement.

Working pattern

Community payback projects operate every day of the week, so the role includes regular weekend work and occasional evening cover. Post holders are expected to work one weekend day as part of their normal working pattern. Weekend days worked are paid at a 50% higher rate.

The pace of the work can mean that breaks are not always taken in the standard way; wellbeing support is provided when this happens. This role suits someone who enjoys a busy, varied environment and wants to make a direct difference while being supported.

Pay and progression

The starting salary for successful candidates is £28,064. New starters are expected to join at the minimum of the pay band. Pay progression is available annually through a Competency Based Framework, subject to eligibility and growing competence. Pay band ranges are also increased each year in line with Civil Service pay guidance, where applicable.

Eligibility and right to work

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and meet Civil Service nationality rules. This role is not eligible for a new Skilled Worker visa. HM Prison and Probation Service cannot sponsor this role under the updated visa rules unless the applicant held a Skilled Worker visa before 22 July 2025 and remains eligible under transitional provisions.

A full UK manual driving licence is mandatory for this post. Applications from candidates who hold only an automatic licence cannot be accepted.

What we are looking for

You should be empathetic, a strong communicator, and comfortable taking the lead. The role involves working with a diverse range of people, so the ability to build rapport, influence positively, and manage work effectively is important.

Recruitment process

To apply, you will need to complete a short application form and answer two Civil Service behaviour questions plus one experience-based question. The vacancy is assessed using Success Profiles, with behaviours, strengths, and experience forming part of the selection process. If there are many applicants, only the lead behaviour may be assessed at sift stage. Feedback is only provided if you attend interview or assessment.

Security and checks

Successful applicants must pass a criminal record check. Those working with government assets must also complete Baseline Personnel Security Standard checks.

Benefits

• Access to learning and development
• Flexible working options to support work-life balance
• An inclusive working culture
• Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
• Annual leave
• Public holidays
• Season Ticket Advance

Additional information

Artificial intelligence may be used to support an application, but all examples and statements must be truthful, accurate, and based on your own experience. Applications may be withdrawn if plagiarism or misrepresentation is identified.

This vacancy is broadly open to UK nationals, nationals of the Republic of Ireland, nationals of Commonwealth countries, and other groups permitted under Civil Service nationality rules.

The role is described as a meaningful, challenging, and secure career opportunity with a chance to make a real difference to individuals and communities.