Vinay Chauhan, Community Payback supervisor in Greater Manchester is taking part in a national campaign to encourage those who enjoy the outdoors to consider a career in Community Payback.
As part of the campaign, allotments and community spaces across the country are offering a new range of seed packets, which include quotes from actual Community Payback supervisors and a QR code to help people find out more about relevant roles.
Inspired by the insight that most people recognise the importance of spending time in green spaces, yet just 5% of UK adults work outside*, ‘Seeds of Change’ has been launched by HMPPS as part of a new recruitment drive that encourages people to combine their passion with their career for something more fulfilling.
Part of the Probation Service, Community Payback roles offer the unique opportunity to lead a team in local restorative projects, supporting offenders to make improvements to their communities while they make positive changes to get their lives back on track. Often based outdoors, these projects can range from gardening and clearing, to decorating and woodwork.
With no qualifications or previous experience needed, Community Payback roles are suitable for anyone. Vinay Chauhan, Community Payback supervisor in Greater Manchester, says: “Every day I work with people from all different backgrounds. Together, we make a positive change in our local community – whether that’s by working to transform local green spaces or reviving a much-loved community centre. You’re always giving back in Community Payback, and that’s what makes the job so inspiring.”
Supporting the campaign is one of the UK’s best known career coaches, John Lees. John says: “From my experience, all jobs are a deal, and as an employee you need to make sure that the deal works for you. It’s very much achievable to find a job that makes you happy and give you a sense of purpose – even if it’s small, daily positive changes you’re making.
“It’s no secret that spending time outdoors can do wonders for our wellbeing, so if that’s an environment you enjoy, why not consider making it your workplace? Community Payback roles are a brilliant example of combining all these elements into a truly rewarding career. It’s a unique job that allows you to make a real difference in your community, whilst also enjoying more time outside. Of the 800+ Community Payback Projects currently in operation in the UK, many are based outdoors. You get to work with people from all walks of life – some of whom may be experiencing real challenges given their circumstances, providing the opportunity to play a key role helping them onto a more positive path.”
With typically more than 240 vacancies available each year across the country, and the next recruitment window opening on 16th September, HMPPS is hoping to reach gardening enthusiasts and lovers of the great outdoors by handing out these unique job-adverts in allotments and community gardens across the country.
Each seed packet features a short quote sharing the unique perspectives of real Community Payback staff, where they speak about their experiences and why they enjoy working in the Probation Service. They also feature a QR code for planters to find out more about the range of Community Payback roles available in their local area.
The Seeds of Change are available in three different varieties:
Wildflowers to boost biodiversity and help the bees during the final weeks of summer
Microgreens including cress for kitchen growers to access nutritious food items
Balcony-friendly sunflower / forget-me-not seeds for those without direct access to a garden
And will be available, free-of-charge, across a variety of community gardens and allotments*** from 29th August 2024.
Community Payback is just one of many available in the varied and rewarding probation industry. To find out more about the Probation Service and explore Community Payback roles in your local area, visit https://prisonandprobationjobs.gov.uk/.
