Community Payback (CP), previously known as Community Service, is an alternative to a prison sentence for people who have committed a crime. CP supervisors play a key part in supporting people on probation to do unpaid work to improve local communities and get their lives back on track. It’s varied, meaningful work with job security, a great pension and employee benefits. If you're a people person and looking for a rewarding career, find out more and take a look at our latest vacancies.
Lisa, who’s been a Community Payback supervisor for 3 years, tells us what the job’s like and why she loves it.
“I like a challenge and my job as a taxi driver wasn’t challenging enough. When I read the CP supervisor ad, I thought the work sounded interesting. I was used to dealing with people from all walks of life – including some exhibiting difficult behaviours – so I thought my experiences would give me a bit of a head start.”
“The thought of driving groups of people on probation to and from CP project sites and spending up to 7 hours a day supervising their unpaid work, didn’t faze me. But, at interview, I did ask what was in place to ensure my safety if anything should go wrong. And I was reassured that I’d get a GPS enabled device to call for help if needed.”
People skills are key
“In this job, you need to be able to read people – to assess situations and make quick decisions before they potentially escalate. We work with people who’ve committed offences, so know they’ve done bad things. But they’re not necessarily bad people. Many have troubled backgrounds, mental health issues, or struggle to express themselves and get easily frustrated. So, sometimes their conversations can get a bit ‘heated’. But, as supervisors, we get training to help us deal with a range of challenging behaviours. And 9 times out of 10, you can calm people down simply by taking them to one side and talking to them.”
“You need to be a people person, and how you get on as a CP supervisor has got a lot to do with how you come across to others. It’s important you don’t judge people. I treat everyone as a blank canvas, get to know them and gain their trust.”
“Respect works both ways. While they haven’t chosen to do Community Payback – and often resent being asked to do unpaid work – if people have done a good job, I think they deserve to hear it.”
A rewarding job
“Yes, CP is a punishment, but it’s also got a really powerful rehabilitation element. And it’s great to see individuals get something out of it. Often, people on my groups have never done a particular task or even worked before, and I love to see them learn new skills and grow in confidence. It could be as simple as learning how to use a hedge trimmer or wood working skills. It’s massively rewarding when people tell me how they’ve used what I’ve taught them in their private lives or gone on to find paid work as a result.”
“My job is so rewarding. I’ve finally found something I absolutely love doing. It’s so much more than just a job for me. I care about the people in my CP groups. I love to see the positive changes they’re making in their attitudes and behaviours. And I’m passionate about the impact CP can have on people turning their lives around, and the communities we work in.”
Find out more and apply today
If you’ve been inspired by Lisa’s story, visit our website to find out more about working as a Community Payback supervisor. Watch our videos to hear from more of our staff what the work is like, and apply today.
39 comments
Comment by Lucy Worthington posted on
Would be something I’d really enjoy doing how do I apply ? X
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Lucy. Great to hear you're interested. You'll find more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/. And here's a direct link to all our current vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor Good luck with your application. You might like to join our webinar on Thursday (7 April, 11am to 12 noon) to hear more and ask any questions you may have. You can register here: https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/KEeHxuZx_kGp4S6MNndq2A,pMcH5lhu0keyUxZuzdyc7A,hP4tuJNWikqnwIPHysdS0Q,VTCxPFPWB0GSpdG7HQPRkg,4bFM_7hxgkeyty3wLiJUgA,-A_xo1Ltu0yzqg6GC-gVBg?mode=read&tenantId=c6874728-71e6-41fe-a9e1-2e8c36776ad8
Comment by Martin Brookes posted on
I’m interested in becoming a community payback supervisor. I used to work has a rehabilitation supervisor at hockey port city farm in Birmingham which disabled persons horse riding centre set up to help rehabilitate young offenders and the disabled back into society through work related activities associated with caring for horses and other small animals. I was responsible for the daily running of the stable yard care of the horses and supervision and training of 35 staff.
Comment by vicky posted on
I'd really like more information on this please.somthing that interested me
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi. You'll find lots more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ And here's a direct link to our CP supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor
Comment by Viv posted on
This sounds such a good way of dealing with low level crime, and to read some progress to paid work is really good. How much actually progress and for those who don’t, what is the normal outcome for them.
As a construction training provider, I am always keen on supporting vulnerable young people and adults who without a decent education/ qualification, Could end up being repeat offenders or just stuck in a rut.
I would like to know how I could become involved?
Comment by Sally clark posted on
Worked within a prison for 3 years , would like to do something like this how do I apply please
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Sally. It's great to hear you're interested in the role. You can find more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/. And here's a direct link to all our current CP supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor Applications close on 19 April. Good luck. You might like to join our webinar on Thursday (7 April, 11am to 12 noon) to hear more and ask any questions you may have. You can register here: https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/KEeHxuZx_kGp4S6MNndq2A,pMcH5lhu0keyUxZuzdyc7A,hP4tuJNWikqnwIPHysdS0Q,VTCxPFPWB0GSpdG7HQPRkg,4bFM_7hxgkeyty3wLiJUgA,-A_xo1Ltu0yzqg6GC-gVBg?mode=read&tenantId=c6874728-71e6-41fe-a9e1-2e8c36776ad8
Comment by Terry posted on
Hi , I am retiring from the police soon after 22 years, I am currently in training, training new officers
I have spent 17 years front line. Are there any opportunities for self
Regards
Terry
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Terry. Really pleased to hear you're interested. You'll find more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/. And here's a direct link to all our current vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor. You might like to join our webinar on Thursday (7 April, 11am to 12 noon) to hear more and ask any questions you may have. You can register here: https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/KEeHxuZx_kGp4S6MNndq2A,pMcH5lhu0keyUxZuzdyc7A,hP4tuJNWikqnwIPHysdS0Q,VTCxPFPWB0GSpdG7HQPRkg,4bFM_7hxgkeyty3wLiJUgA,-A_xo1Ltu0yzqg6GC-gVBg?mode=read&tenantId=c6874728-71e6-41fe-a9e1-2e8c36776ad8
Comment by Angie Golden posted on
Hi I’m interested, is there an age limit?
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Angie. Thanks for your interest in applying to become a Community Payback supervisor. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society we work in. There is no upper age limit for applicants for this role.
Comment by Rebecca posted on
I’d love to know more about the his kind of job. I’m hoping to do a councelling course soon as well. How can I find out more information on this
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Rebecca. You'll find more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ And here's a direct link to all our current Community Payback supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor Applications close on 19 April. Good luck.
Comment by Peter Shaw posted on
I am currently working as a security guard this is something that I have been thinking of doing for a long time but as I have a criminal record but have not been in any trouble for over 25 years I do not know if I will be eligible to apply
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Peter. Thank you for your interest in applying to be a Community Payback supervisor. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society we work in. We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds, including those with lived experience. Due to the nature of the work, all successful candidates will need to complete pre-employment background checks, including criminal history checks. You can find out more about the work here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/, and here's a directly link to all our CP supervisor vacancies:https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor
Comment by Dawn Smith posted on
I’m a true believer of everyone is capable of making mistakes some worse than others yes but bad choices don’t make bad people.
Comment by Sarah Smith posted on
Hi this position is something I would be interested in doing.
I have worked in adult mental health in an inpatient setting and also community.
Would like more information please.
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Sarah. Take a look at our website to find out more about working as a Community Payback supervisor: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/. Here's a direct link to all our current CP supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor . You might like to join our webinar on Thursday (7 April, 11am to 12 noon) to hear more and ask any questions you may have. You can register here: https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/KEeHxuZx_kGp4S6MNndq2A,pMcH5lhu0keyUxZuzdyc7A,hP4tuJNWikqnwIPHysdS0Q,VTCxPFPWB0GSpdG7HQPRkg,4bFM_7hxgkeyty3wLiJUgA,-A_xo1Ltu0yzqg6GC-gVBg?mode=read&tenantId=c6874728-71e6-41fe-a9e1-2e8c36776ad8
Comment by Tracey posted on
Sounds interesting, similar to the job I do now
Comment by Graeme Bourne posted on
Im moving to the Chesterfield area ,are there any vacancys in that area ?
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Graeme. All our Community Payback supervisor vacancies are here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor
Comment by Thomasina Bale posted on
I’m interested in this kind of work
Comment by Thomasina Bale posted on
I’m interested in this kind of work I’ve worked with people all my life nhs
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Thomasina. Great to hear you're interested. You can find out more and apply on our website: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ And, you might like to join our webinar on Thursday (7 April, 11am to 12 noon) to hear more from some of our Community Payback supervisors and ask any questions you may have. You can register here: https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/KEeHxuZx_kGp4S6MNndq2A,pMcH5lhu0keyUxZuzdyc7A,hP4tuJNWikqnwIPHysdS0Q,VTCxPFPWB0GSpdG7HQPRkg,4bFM_7hxgkeyty3wLiJUgA,-A_xo1Ltu0yzqg6GC-gVBg?mode=read&tenantId=c6874728-71e6-41fe-a9e1-2e8c36776ad8
Comment by Lynne Murphy posted on
Hi i have been looking for something like this for a long time, i am from liverpool, but now live in wetherby(leeds) not got any qualifications in this area but plenty of LIFE experience would be really interested to talk with someone about this role. Thanks in advance lynne
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Lynne. You don't need any specific experience or qualifications to work as a Community Payback supervisor. You can find out more, and see all our current vacancies on our website. https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ And you might like to join our webinar on Thursday (7 April, 11am to 12 noon) to hear more and ask any questions you may have. You can register here: https://teams.microsoft.com/registration/KEeHxuZx_kGp4S6MNndq2A,pMcH5lhu0keyUxZuzdyc7A,hP4tuJNWikqnwIPHysdS0Q,VTCxPFPWB0GSpdG7HQPRkg,4bFM_7hxgkeyty3wLiJUgA,-A_xo1Ltu0yzqg6GC-gVBg?mode=read&tenantId=c6874728-71e6-41fe-a9e1-2e8c36776ad8
Comment by Denise Guiden posted on
Hi I would like to find out how I apply for the role please.
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Denise. Here's a link to our CP supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor And here's a handy hints and tips document you might find useful when answering the behaviour based questions on the online application: https://s3-eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/justicejobs-staging-storage-18waflkayjuoc/uploads/2022/01/Success-Profiles-hints-and-tips-HMPPS-Final-version_.pdf We look forward to receiving your application.
Comment by Aaron Watts posted on
Can you apply with a past criminal record
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Aaron. Thank you for your interest in applying to be a Community Payback supervisor. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society we work in. We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds, including those with lived experience. Due to the nature of the work, all successful candidates will need to complete pre-employment background checks, including criminal history checks. You can find out more about the work here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/, and here's a directly link to all our CP supervisor vacancies:https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor.
Comment by Jane jenner posted on
Can I have more information about it please as I'm interested
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Jane. You'll find lots more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ And here's a direct link to our CP supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor
Comment by Bill Johnson posted on
Hi there I’m semi retired but I have worked as Police Admin clerk at a busy Police Station in London in the 1980s and also within a busy Mental Health Trust in Devon.
I would be interested in offering my experience to the role
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Bill. Great to hear you're interested. You can find out more about the CP supervisor role here https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ and the vacancies in your area are here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor We look forward to receiving your application.
Comment by Shahid Malik posted on
I would love to do this job
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Shahid. You'll find lots more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ And here's a direct link to our CP supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor. We look forward to hearing from you.
Comment by Connor Angela posted on
How do I apply for this job.
Comment by lmorgan posted on
Hi Angela. You'll find lots more information here: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/role/community-payback/ And here's a direct link to our CP supervisor vacancies: https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/?s=Community%20Payback%20supervisor. Good luck with your application.