Do you have lived experience of physical or mental ill health, substance use, or the criminal justice system? Are you ready to use that experience to support others as they prepare to return to the community? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

As part of our NHS-commissioned RECONNECT service, Forward Trust proudly recruits people with lived experience. Your insight, empathy and understanding are key to helping individuals reintegrate safely, confidently and with the right support in place.

About the Role

As a RECONNECT Peer Support Worker, you’ll provide personalised, inclusive support to individuals across HMP Norwich, HMP Wayland, HMP Bure, and the wider Norfolk community, with some remote working. From identifying health and wellbeing needs 12 weeks pre-release to offering ongoing support up to six months post-release, you’ll be a vital link between prison and community services.

Key Responsibilities

• Process referrals, complete needs assessments and co-create tailored care plans
• Provide ongoing pre- and post-release support (up to 6 months) around health, wellbeing and reintegration
• Manage a diverse caseload and help individuals connect with community healthcare and support services
• Assist with the recruitment and training of prison peer supporters
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with external agencies and stakeholders
• Keep clear, accurate case notes, assessments, care plans and risk documentation
• Support effective referral pathways across prison, healthcare and community services
• Contribute to team discussions, best-practice sharing and risk management
• Make referrals to the Meet & Greet service and support Meet at the Gate releases
• Ensure service users are fully linked with local services ahead of release

What You’ll Bring

• Your lived experience and the ability to use it positively to support others
• A compassionate, non-judgemental approach and strong communication skills
• The ability to manage a caseload and build effective relationships
• A commitment to delivering safe, holistic and inclusive support

If you’re motivated, supportive and passionate about making a real difference, we’d love to welcome you to Forward Trust as part of the RECONNECT team.

Please see attached Job Description for full details.