Receptionist – Full‑Time Permanent Role in Swindon

About the role

This is a full‑time permanent receptionist position within the Probation Service Directorate at HMPPS, based at 150 Victoria Road, Swindon. The role serves as the first point of contact for visitors, callers and email enquiries, providing a professional and welcoming service while supporting a range of administrative functions.

Key responsibilities

• Greet visitors and probation staff, log arrivals and departures, issue visitor passes and security fobs.
• Answer telephone calls and emails, provide basic information about Probation Service services and refer complex queries to managers.
• Maintain situational awareness, use tact to de‑escalate potentially violent situations and alert security or management when required.
• Manage building logistics: handle mail, order PPE and stationery, coordinate deliveries, and oversee meeting‑room, hot‑desk and car‑parking bookings.
• Process bus fares, travel warrants and petty‑cash transactions, ensuring accurate collection, transport and record‑keeping.
• Support health and safety procedures and assist with event preparation and registration as needed.

Required profile

• Commitment to diversity, equality and anti‑discriminatory practice.
• Ability to handle confidential information in line with organisational policies.
• Willingness to work core hours that may include evenings or weekends.
• Strong observational skills and the ability to recognise safeguarding or risk issues.

Required skills