Restorative and Mediation Service Co-ordinator

Job title: Restorative and Mediation Service Co-ordinator
Grade: SCALE 6
Role code: EOPCC0149
Status: Police Staff

Main purpose of the role:

The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service Co-ordinator will be responsible for the delivery and coordination of a range of restorative services delivered by the Essex Restorative and Mediation Service. The post holder will manage referrals and case information and oversee a team of volunteer facilitators, with the support of the Restorative and Mediation Service Manager. The post holder will work with criminal justice, local authority and voluntary sector partners to support the service and assist the Restorative Justice Implementation Group to develop and embed restorative justice practice across the county, building a scalable and sustainable service that is victim centred and accessible to local communities.

Main responsibilities:

• Work actively to promote the service and improve awareness of it through publicising information, attending meetings and delivering training where appropriate.
• Ensure that positive and effective relationships are built and maintained with relevant partners across the county in order to ensure that referrals to the service are appropriate and that effective risk assessments and support for participants are in place.
• Ensure safe and effective delivery of the service through stringent risk assessment; appropriate use of relevant case management and IT systems (in line with the Data Protection Act and General Data Protection Regulation); robust logistical planning; monitoring and follow up, and case supervision.
• Ensure a beneficial service by allocating cases to volunteers appropriately (taking into account factors such as their capacity and areas of expertise); providing effective support, feedback and supervision to volunteers, ensuring they feel valued and listened to, and holding a case load of cases.
• Monitor caseloads and assist in the recruitment and retention of volunteers as required to ensure that available resource balances demand.
• Work with the team administrator to ensure they have all the equipment and tools necessary to carry out the role, as well as providing flexible and ad hoc support when needed.
• Monitor and evaluate processes and procedures to ensure work is being carried out effectively, and provide feedback to the Restorative and Mediation Service manager, colleagues and volunteers as appropriate.
• Contribute to the maintenance of high standards across the service by attending supervision meetings and providing regular updates and reports to the Restorative and Mediation Service Manager.
• Understand and comply with national and local policies and legislation
• Liaise with the Restorative and Mediation Service Manager to identify and work on new opportunities and areas for improvement. Lead projects when required.
• Undertake such other reasonable duties as may be required, consistent with the overall purpose and grade of the post.
• Travel countywide will be required on occasions, for which access to a vehicle will be necessary.

November 2017, amended April 2020.

Vetting level:

Management Vetting required.

Necessary experience:

Strong organisational skills.

Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. This includes the ability to communicate complex issues effectively, using plain English.

Ability to multi-task, including coordinating many different areas of delivery and working with a wide range of stakeholders.

Ability to use initiative and to work with minimal supervision.

An understanding of the key principles underpinning delivery of effective restorative justice services.

Understanding and experience of Restorative Justice policy and practice.

Able to complete risk assessments confidently.

Strong analytical skills.

Strong customer-focused ethos.

Effective IT skills.

Experience of organising and facilitating training.

Experience of working within the criminal justice and/or community safety environment.

The post holder will be required to have prior experience of working with restorative justice projects and/or working with volunteers.

Qualifications in Restorative Justice would be desirable.

Behaviours:

Analyse Critically (Level 1)

I recognise the need to think critically about issues. I value the use of analysis and testing in policing. I take in information quickly and accurately. I am able to separate information and decide whether it is irrelevant or relevant and its importance. I solve problems proactively by understanding the reasons behind them, using learning from evidence and my experiences to take action. I refer to procedures and precedents as necessary before making decisions. I weigh up the pros and cons of possible actions, thinking about potential risks and using this thinking to inform our decisions. I recognise gaps and inconsistencies in information and think about the potential implications. I make decisions in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.

Collaborative (Level 1)

I work cooperatively with others to get things done, willingly giving help and support to colleagues. I am approachable, and explain things well so that I generate a common understanding. I take the time to get to know others and their perspective in order to build rapport. I treat people with respect as individuals and address their specific needs and concerns. I am open and transparent in my relationships with others. I ensure I am clear and appropriate in my communications.

Deliver, Support and Inspire (Level 1)

I take on challenging tasks to help to improve the service continuously and support my colleagues. I understand how my work contributes to the wider police service. I understand it is part of my collective responsibility to deliver efficient services. I take personal responsibility for making sure that I am working effectively to deliver the best service, both individually and with others. I am conscientious in my approach, working hard to provide the best service and to overcome any obstacles that could prevent or hinder delivery. I support the efficient use of resources to create the most value and to deliver the right impact. I keep up to date with changes in internal and external environments. I am a role model for the behaviours I expect to see in others and I act in the best interests of the public and the police service.

Emotionally Aware (Level 1)

I treat others with respect, tolerance and compassion. I acknowledge and respect a range of different perspectives, values and beliefs within the remit of the law. I remain calm and think about how to best manage the situation when faced with provocation. I understand my own emotions and I know which situations might affect my ability to deal with stress and pressure. I ask for help and support when I need it. I understand the value that diversity offers. I communicate in clear and simple language so that I can be easily understood by others. I seek to understand the thoughts and concerns of others even when they are unable to express themselves clearly.

Take Ownership (Level 1)

I actively identify and respond to problems. I approach tasks with enthusiasm, focusing on public service excellence. I regularly seek feedback to understand the quality of my work and the impact of my behaviour. I recognise where I can help others and willingly take on additional tasks to support them, where appropriate. I give feedback to others that I make sure is understandable and constructive. I take responsibility for my own actions, I fulfil my promises and do what I say I will. I will admit if I have made a mistake and take action to rectify this. I demonstrate pride in representing the police service. I understand my own strengths and areas for development and take responsibility for my own learning to address gaps.

Values:

Impartiality (Accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (Accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public Service (Accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (Accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical skills:

Customer Services (Level 3)

Responds promptly and effectively to requests for assistance from customers, establishing and checking their service requirements.Understands the importance of completing accurate customer records and provides them with accurate and up to date information. Works well with others to improve standards of service and gathers information on customer feedback both positive and negative. Confident in face to face and telephone encounters with customers, accurately gauging needs and feelings through observation of behaviour and sensitive questioning. Is helpful and courteous at all times and remains calm, minimising potential conflict situations.

ECYPM (Level 3)

Understands what is meant by safeguarding and the different ways in which children and young people can be harmed. Recognises when a child or young person may not be achieving their developmental potential and may require a service intervention. Identify appropriate sources of help. Aware of national guidance and local procedures, and own role and responsibilities within these for safeguarding and promoting children and young people's welfare.

Health and Safety (Level 3)

Has a basic understanding of Health and Safety issues affecting the current role and working environment. Takes responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others. Aware of hazards and reports problems identified to line manager. Understands and minimises the physical risk of injury through the use of proper manual handling procedures.

Information Gathering and Analysis (Level 4)

Is able to identify reliable and appropriate sources of information and select methods of gathering information which are efficient and effective. Has a working knowledge of legislation and policy relevant to the collection, recording, storage and distribution of information.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 1)

Current understanding of this technical skill is very basic and there is a need for considerable development if the post holder is to meet the requirements of the role in this area. Regular advice, reassurance and support is required for the successful application of these standards in practical situations.

Office Technology (Level 4)

Demonstrates advanced skills in the use of one or more office software products Able to use these packages to enhance the quality or presentation of work required within the role. Manages data files and file structures. Provides on the job training and guidance to other staff in the use of specific or specialist software, if required. Familiar with established IT rules and protocols and shows a good understanding of data protection requirements.

Project Management (Level 3)

Demonstrates an understanding of the key principles of project management. Able to assist in the management of projects within a Department or Division where the objectives, milestones and timescales have already been defined and manpower resources are limited. Will need project management support.

Risk Management (Level 3)

Demonstrates an awareness of personal risk management issues, challenges or difficulties likely to affect the post holder in the execution of their duties. Able to anticipate risks likely to affect their work and knows how to communicate the likelihood and possible impacts of such events to line managers or supervisors.

Training (Level 3)

Able to present and convey ideas and new/ revised procedures, on a one to one or group basis, to a logical and well structured plan. Aware of a variety of training techniques, tools and principles.

Vulnerable Victims (Level 3)

Has a working knowledge of the responsibilities of the police in respect of child protection, domestic violence and other vulnerable victims and persons in custody. Is aware of the basic person at risk procedure and knows how to begin the process. Is aware of the need for all vulnerable victims to be dealt with in a thoughtful and understanding manner and demonstrates the skill of being able to talk to people in distress. Has a working knowledge of law and procedure.