Service Manager

Service Manager / Buddy Lead – HMP Lowdham Grange

Location: HMP Lowdham Grange
Contract: Permanent | Full-time (37.5 hours, Monday to Friday)
Department: Specialist Support Services

About the Organisation

Our client is a specialist service provider working with older individuals who are engaged in the Justice system. Their mission is to support these individuals in leading healthy, dignified, and fulfilling lives by delivering advocacy, peer-led initiatives, and meaningful activities that promote wellbeing and independence.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and committed Service Manager / Buddy Lead to oversee the team based at HMP Lowdham Grange. This is a dual-role position that involves managing the local delivery team and leading a pioneering Buddy Programme, which trains prisoners to provide care and support to fellow prisoners in line with national care standards adapted for custodial settings.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to a multidisciplinary team, fostering a positive and inclusive working culture.
• Manage the implementation and ongoing delivery of the Buddy Programme, including training, supervision, and operational oversight.
• Liaise with prison staff, healthcare providers, external agencies, and older prisoners to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Ensure all safeguarding, risk management, and compliance responsibilities are met.
• Monitor performance and contribute to the development and innovation of services across the organisation.
• Prepare and submit reports, ensuring accurate data collection and sharing.

About You

Essential qualifications and experience:

• Educated to A-level, DipSW, or NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent).
• Experience working with older people, in criminal justice or social care settings.
• Proven ability to manage services and support staff.
• Strong written communication and report-writing skills.
• IT literate, with a willingness to use specialist systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and motivational skills.

Desirable:

• Degree or equivalent in a related field.
• Experience in training, coaching, or working within the voluntary sector.
• Understanding of offender management strategies.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

What’s on Offer

• An opportunity to lead a respected and impactful programme in a unique custodial setting.
• A supportive working environment where innovation and quality are valued.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.

How to Apply
If you are passionate about making a difference and have the experience to lead services that support older people in the justice system, we would love to hear from you. Please click apply or for more information, contact Oliver Jefferson on or email .uk.