Volunteer Key Worker
What will you do as a Volunteer Key Worker?
You will:
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receive comprehensive training before you begin and on an ongoing basis.
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be matched with a prison leaver (your client) based on geography, risk assessment and your availability.
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receive full background on the case, careful handover, direct support in managing the case, and regular feedback.
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work in the community with a prison leaver who has reached out to us for help, providing a stable presence during a time of great anxiety.
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support your client to access the professional services they need to successfully reintegrate into society.
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meet with your client weekly in a public place, such as a café, or advocate for them at appointments with various agencies such as probation, housing, or benefits.
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maintain regular contact through phone calls and emails. A secure mobile phone and email address will be provided.
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log each meeting on our secure cloud-based case management system called ‘Lamplight’.
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receive ongoing support and feedback from our Volunteer Co-ordinator and Volunteer Support Network meetings where you can meet other volunteers and share case experiences.
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benefit from regular one-to-one discussions with a staff member on your work and professional development.
Is key working right for you?
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You are over the age of 18 years old with at least 4 hours a week to spare.
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You will undergo a DBS check.
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You are willing to support people who have been through the criminal justice system.
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You are happy to work within our established policies and procedures.
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You will complete a volunteer application form prior to an introductory interview.
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You are not required to have any previous knowledge of the criminal justice sector.
What happens if I’m a successful candidate?
You will be invited to attend our 3-day Sussex Pathways volunteer training. The training covers mentoring, boundary establishment, risk management, criminal justice system operations, and community services available for prison leavers. The training incorporates extensive use of case studies.