Secure Care Officer

Review: Secure Care Officer - Making a Difference in Youth Justice

This opportunity as a Secure Care Officer at Oakhill Secure Children's Training Centre presents a unique and impactful career path for individuals passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of young people. For those seeking a role that combines challenging yet deeply rewarding work with a stable and structured employment package, this position warrants serious consideration.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Meaningful Impact: At its core, this role is about positively influencing the future of young individuals aged 12-18 who are navigating the youth justice system. You'll be instrumental in creating a safe and supportive environment that fosters personal development, teaches essential life skills, and promotes anti-offending behaviours, ultimately aiding in their successful reintegration into society.
• Structured Career Growth and Stability: The position offers a clear salary progression, reaching £38,480.00 per annum after a successful 6-month probation period. Furthermore, the role emphasizes a set monthly shift pattern, averaging 40 hours per week, which aids in achieving a healthier work-life balance. The availability of specific shift times (7:00 am - 3:00 pm or 2:00 pm - 10:00 pm, including weekdays and weekends) allows for planning and predictability.
• Comprehensive Training and Development: A significant advantage is the comprehensive 8-week induction and training programme designed to equip you with all the necessary skills and knowledge. This investment in your development ensures you are well-prepared for the complexities of the role, with extensive training and development opportunities continuing throughout your career.
• Attractive Benefits Package: Beyond the core salary, the role comes with a range of valuable benefits including a company pension, a family-friendly policy, free on-site parking, a free uniform, and free meals whilst on shift. Additional perks like access to high street shop discounts further enhance the overall compensation.
• Inclusive and Diverse Environment: The description explicitly encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and life experiences. This highlights a commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace where varied perspectives are valued, and where you are encouraged to bring your authentic self to work.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Resilience and Emotional Strength: Working directly with young people who may have complex histories and exhibit unpredictable behaviour requires significant emotional resilience, integrity, and strong communication skills. Candidates should be prepared for a high-pressured environment and possess the ability to remain effective and composed under challenging circumstances.
• Boundary Setting and Professionalism: The role demands a consistent, mature approach and the ability to set clear structures and boundaries while modeling positive behaviours. Maintaining professional authority and treating all individuals with dignity and respect are paramount.
• Commitment to Safeguarding: The primary focus of Oakhill STC is safeguarding children. Candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to the welfare of the child and align with the organization's values. This involves a thorough screening process, including an enhanced DBS check and providing detailed work and educational history.
• Adaptability and Teamwork: The dynamic nature of working with young people necessitates adaptability and a strong capacity for teamwork. While individual initiative is valued, collaboration and mutual support within the team are crucial for success and well-being.
• Eligibility and Residency Requirements: Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK and have been resident in the UK for a minimum of 5 years.

For those who thrive in demanding yet incredibly rewarding environments, and who are driven by a desire to contribute positively to society, the Secure Care Officer role at Oakhill STC offers a compelling opportunity to build a stable, fulfilling, and impactful career.