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Become a probation services officer

Overview of the probation services officer role

Someone like you

Working in probation is a career like no other. You’ll work directly with offenders to help reduce reoffending.  

As a probation services officer you need to be able to analyse complex situations and make decisions, while being ready to listen and notice things about people that others won’t. You’ll also need to understand and connect with people from all backgrounds and different situations.   

The Probation Service supervises high and medium risk people on probation in the community and in custody. We’re here to support victims and prevent reoffending wherever possible. We believe everyone deserves a second chance, and we help offenders make the most of theirs. Our role is to support their rehabilitation and protect the public. 

It’s not an easy job, can be challenging, and may involve working with people with complex needs, so you will need to be resilient. But the role is a rewarding one with variety, training and the chance to help people change. 

Probation services officer – an extraordinary job. Done by someone like you.

  • GCSEs grade C or equivalent, or relevant work experience
  • Starting salary of £24k, plus a London weighting allowance of £4,125.84 where this applies
  • Skills you need:
    strong writing and communication skills
  • Must have experience of working with people with social or personal difficulties
  • Part-time working available (after initial training)
  • Training for every situation and support of a strong team

Working as a probation services officer

Pay and benefits

  • annual salary of £24,228, plus a London weighting allowance of £4,125 where this applies
  • 25 days annual leave, plus 8 public holidays and service days, increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service
  • flexible working
  • immediate access to an occupational pension scheme (Local Government Pension Scheme)

This is in addition to the great range of Civil Service benefits you’ll get as part of the Probation Service.

Find out more about the benefits of working for HM Prison and Probation Service