By Sophie Payne
In this blog, you will learn:
What a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer is.
What the responsibilities of a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer are.
What qualifications a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer needs.
What skills a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer needs.
Who employs a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer.
The average salary of a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer.
Where the latest Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer jobs are and how to apply for them.
What is the role of a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer?
A Youth Justice Officer (also known as a Youth Offending Officer) is a professional who works with young people, typically from the age of 10 to 18 who are involved in the criminal justice system or at risk of offending. They provide support, supervision, and interventions aimed at preventing reoffending and promoting positive outcomes.
They may also work closely with other professionals, such as social workers, police, probation officers, and educators, to provide a multidisciplinary approach to youth justice. The aim is to provide young people with the tools and support they need to reintegrate into society as law-abiding citizens.
While the two terms can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "youth offending officer" specifically refers to a role within the youth offending service, while "youth justice officer" can refer to a broader range of professionals who work with young people involved in the criminal justice system.
What are the responsibilities of a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer?
While working as a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer, you will be required to:
Promote the welfare needs of children and young people.
Produce reports based on assessments.
Keep up to date with relevant legislation and effective practices.
Attend training courses and meetings when requested.
Make referrals to other agencies.
Visit young people in secure institutions.
Adhere to ethical practice and professional standards.
Encourage young offenders to take part in constructive activities.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of assessments and cases.
Carry out risk assessments.
Supervise young offenders on court orders when requested.
Help young offenders into work, training or education.
What qualifications does a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer need?
To work as a Youth Justice Officer or Youth Offending Officer you will need an NVQ Level 4 in community justice or qualifications by experience are generally accepted. Examples of this experience include experience in undertaking comprehensive assessments of children and young people, including assessments of risk and safeguarding needs.
You will also need to pass a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
What skills does a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer need?
Key skills of a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer:
Patience and resilience.
The ability to form and maintain positive relationships with individuals.
Flexibility, sometimes being expected to work weekends and bank holidays.
Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
Effective decision making skills.
Understanding and compassion.
Assessment and problem-solving skills.
Cultural competency and diversity awareness.
Knowledge of youth development and behaviour.
Organised and time management skills.
Resilience and self-care skills to manage the emotional demands of the job.
Knowledge of the criminal justice system, including relevant legislation, policies, and procedures.
Who employs a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer?
Youth Justice Officers and Youth Offending Officers are employed by local government or Local Authorities, which have responsibility for overseeing youth justice services and working with partners to ensure the effective delivery of these services.
What is the average salary of a Youth Justice Officer/Youth Offending Officer?
The average salary of a Youth Justice Officer in the UK is between £26,000 to £39,000 per year but this can vary depending on several factors such as the location, level of experience, and the specific Local Authority.