Peer Support Worker – RECONNECT (Essex)

About the role

The Forward Trust is seeking a RECONNECT Peer Support Worker to support adults leaving prison or an immigration removal centre in Essex. You will help service users maintain health gains made during custody and connect them with community services.

Key responsibilities

• Provide a bespoke RECONNECT service, including advice, guidance and sign‑posting for health, substance use and wellbeing needs.
• Conduct assessments up to 12 weeks before release and develop personalised care plans.
• Facilitate GP referrals, mentor links, after‑care support and connections to the wider Forward Trust community.
• Work across HMP Chelmsford, probation offices and drug & alcohol services, both on‑site and remotely.
• Report to line manager, attend training and comply with enhanced DBS and HMPPS security vetting.

Required profile

• Experience working with adults in health, social care or criminal‑justice settings.
• Ability to build trusting relationships and deliver person‑centred support.
• Willingness to travel within Essex and work flexibly across locations.
• Clear DBS and HMPPS vetting (or ability to obtain).

Required skills

What we offer

• Permanent contract with a salary of £26,000 per year.
• Hybrid working model – a mix of remote and on‑site duties.
• Ongoing training, including organisational and prison‑specific programmes.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of people transitioning from custody.