Apex Scotland is the leading employment and training organisation specialising in work with people with convictions.
Apex Scotland offers a diverse range of services for young people and adults to help them remove personal barriers to employment and engage in education, employment or community activities. We also work in partnership with many organisations and employers.
We are delighted to work closely with East Dunbartonshire Justice Social Work to deliver the Peer Navigator service. The service is designed to support people over 18 years of age and the aim of our Peer Navigator is to support individuals working with Justice Social Work services and alcohol and drug recovery services as well as other relevant support services during the difficult transition period from custody to the community. The service will focus on four main areas; Diversion from Prosecution; Structured Deferred Sentences; Community Payback Orders as well as custodial releases.
The Peer Navigator will have knowledge and, ideally, expertise by experience. Lived experience of the justice system is essential to this role. The post holder will provide a recovery-based approach to support that is person centred, strengths based and trauma informed. Using relationship-based practice to develop supportive and meaningful relationships with service users, many of whom can be difficult to engage.
The right candidate will have the ability to engage with our predominantly male service user group on a one to one basis to assist them to engage with the relevant services and take forward an action plan.
For this post you should be able to demonstrate good communications skills, be approachable and compassionate and have knowledge or experience of the issues affecting our service users. A keen eye for detail and understanding of good record keeping is essential as information is recorded in paper files and on our database. Networking, flexibility and organisational skills will be essential to make this role a success. Based in Kirkintilloch JSW office and covering the East Dunbartonshire area, some travel will be required therefore a driving licence or access to a means of transport would be an advantage. This position is funded by East Dunbartonshire Justice Social Work and is currently funded to August 2024.
In view of the nature of this post and the requirement to work with vulnerable adults, this post holder will be required to join the relevant PVG scheme.
Job reference: PN/KIRK
Rate of pay: Salary Scale £22,597 - £24,883
Hours of work: 35 hours per week. Part time/job share can be discussed (please state on application)
Closing date: 10.00am Wednesday 30 August 2023.