About the role

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Probation Officer to work within a court-based environment, preparing high-quality reports and supporting judicial decision-making.

The role will involve interviewing people on probation, conducting risk assessments and presenting reports in court, working closely with Judges and criminal justice partners.

The post is paying

• £22.10 per hour PAYE or £29.09 per hour Umbrella
• 37 hours per week (full-time)
• 47-week contract
• Start date: 11 May 2026
• Location: Snaresbrook Crown Court, London
• Parking available on-site

Overview of the Role

As a Court Report Writer, you will play a key role in the criminal justice process by producing timely, high-quality reports to support sentencing decisions.

You will be responsible for assessing risk, interviewing individuals and presenting findings clearly in court, ensuring all work meets National Standards and strict deadlines.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Interview people on probation to gather information for court reports
• Conduct risk and needs assessments using tools such as OASys, SARA and RSR
• Prepare and deliver oral and written court reports within required timescales (same day, 5-day or 15-day reports)
• Present reports confidently in court and liaise effectively with Judges and legal professionals
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records using systems such as NDelius and OASys
• Ensure all work meets quality standards, legislation and National Standards
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to manage risk and support appropriate outcomes
• Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of work
• Undertake additional duties in line with the level of the role

Person Specification

Essential Requirements

• A recognised Probation Officer qualification (PQF, Diploma in Probation Studies, Social Work with Probation Option, CQSW or equivalent recognised by the Secretary of State)
• Recent experience working within a recognised probation service (within the last 5 years)
• Strong experience working with people on probation in a court or report writing capacity
• Proven ability to assess and manage risk, including use of OASys, SARA and RSR
• Experience of writing high-quality court reports to strict deadlines
• Experience using NDelius and OASys to maintain accurate records
• Knowledge of the Criminal Justice System, current legislation and National Standards
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including confidence presenting in court
• Ability to work flexibly, including occasional weekends if required
• Commitment to quality, equality, diversity and inclusion

Due to the high volume of applications received, if you do not hear from us within 7 working days, unfortunately your application has not been successful.

RSR Justice is a market leading recruitment business dedicated to providing top quality candidates and services to the offender rehabilitation and supervision work sectors.

Red Snapper Recruitment is a member of the Red Snapper Group.

The Red Snapper Group acts as an employment agency (permanent) and as an employment business (temporary) – a free and confidential service to candidates.

The Red Snapper Recruitment Group is an equal opportunities employer.

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