As a RECONNECT Practitioner, you will play a vital role in helping individuals prepare for release and reintegrate into society by providing health, wellbeing, and practical support. Working closely with clients 12 weeks prior to their release and for up to 6 months post-release, you will ensure they are connected to appropriate services, including substance misuse support, mental and physical healthcare, housing, and community networks.
You’ll offer a comprehensive, inclusive, and person centred service helping clients transition back into the community safely, confidently, and with the support they need to thrive.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct robust needs assessments and develop personalised care plans in collaboration with clients.
- Maintain regular contact and support post-release, addressing ongoing health and wellbeing needs.
- Manage a diverse caseload, supporting clients through resettlement and connecting them to community health services.
- Process referrals and keep referrers updated on progress and outcomes.
- Support the recruitment and training of prison peer supporters.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with external agencies and key stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including assessments, care plans, and risk assessments.
- Promote and develop clear referral pathways with prison and community-based services.
- Contribute to a safe and high-quality service by fully engaging in risk assessment and case management processes.
- Support clients with Meet at the Gate initiatives and ensure they’re linked with local services upon release
Please also note that flexibility will be required within this role & we are recruiting for a Worker to primarily cover our Basildon & Thurrock community areas as well as HMP Chelmsford (base) so travel to these areas will be needed.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a candidate with the following knowledge skills and experience listed below.
- Experience in working with complex or vulnerable individuals, ideally within criminal justice, health, or substance misuse settings.
- Strong communication, organisational, and administrative skills.
- Ability to build trust and rapport quickly with clients and partners.
- A proactive, compassionate, and non-judgmental approach.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a multi-disciplinary team
Please also see the job description added for more information about this role.