Reader in Residence - Criminal Justice Group Lead (Staffordshire - Midlands)

This role offers a unique opportunity to merge a passion for literature with a commitment to breaking down barriers for individuals within the criminal justice system. 

At The Reader, we believe in the transformative power of Shared Reading, a practice where a trained Reader Leader guides a group through the exploration of great literature, fostering deep discussions along the way. 

At The Reader we call this ‘Shared Reading’. Shared Reading is a tool through which human life can be explored safely and - crucially – deeply. As part of our Criminal Justice Team, you'll be trained to lead Shared Reading sessions with individuals navigating the justice system. 

Your role will involve not only facilitating these sessions but also reaching out to those who may be hesitant to participate. By embedding Shared Reading into these environments, you'll create spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued, enabling individuals to engage in meaningful dialogue and personal exploration through literature. 

This represents a chance to contribute to a nationwide movement dedicated to providing access to the enriching experience of Shared Reading, particularly for those who may have limited exposure to such opportunities. 

Key Responsibilities

• Literary Skills: a demonstrable relationship with literature, an eagerness to learn and develop a strong understanding of Shared Reading and how literature can work to improve people’s lives, along with the ability to articulate this well. 
• Facilitating Shared Reading Groups: Lead weekly Shared Reading sessions in a safe and inclusive environment, engaging residents and fostering discussions on literature. 
• Building Relationships: Develop rapport with residents and staff to promote participation in Shared Reading groups, especially those who may be hesitant. 
• Mentoring and Development: Support partner staff in delivering quality Shared Reading sessions, providing feedback and guidance as needed. 
• Communication and Collaboration: Work closely with setting staff to embed Shared Reading into the culture and routine, while collaborating with colleagues to share best practices. 
• Planning and Organisation: Manage workload effectively to meet targets, including text selection, preparation, record-keeping, and contributing to project reports. 
• Problem-Solving and Initiative: Address day-to-day challenges collaboratively, contributing to solutions that enhance delivery and participant engagement. 
• Decision-Making and Adaptability: Make decisions within project parameters, demonstrating flexibility and alignment with Shared Reading principles. 
• Teamwork and Contribution: Actively participate in personal and professional development activities, while contributing to organizational goals through written contributions and engagement. 

Person Specification

• Facilitation Skills: Ability to effectively lead group activities and handle potentially challenging situations with sensitivity. 
• Self-Motivation: Demonstrated capacity to work independently and proactively without constant supervision. 
• IT Proficiency: Competency in using basic Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and willingness to learn new IT skills as necessary. 
• Record-Keeping: Strong organizational skills with a focus on maintaining accurate records of activities and participant engagement. 
• Engagement Strategies: Understanding of strategies to engage individuals who may initially feel disconnected from the concept of literature-based activities. 
• Literary Appreciation: Demonstrable passion for literature, including a wide range of personal reading experiences, especially poetry, and the ability to articulate its significance in an engaging manner. 
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and convey ideas authentically. 
• Emotional Intelligence: Capacity for self-reflection and the ability to engage in reflective practice to support emotional well-being, both for oneself and others. 
• Understanding of The Reader's Mission: Familiarity with the goals and values of The Reader organisation, and a commitment to promoting Shared Reading across diverse communities.

Please note:Successful applicants will be required to complete the relevant prison security vetting process before they can begin delivering groups. Vetting timescales can vary and may take several weeks or, in some cases, a few months. During this period, applicants will complete their induction, training and onboarding with The Reader so that they are fully prepared to begin delivery once clearance has been granted. 

The role is based within a setting in Staffordshire, with good access from Birmingham, Derby, Nottingham, Leicester and surrounding areas. As public transport options are limited, a full driving license and access to a vehicle are strongly preferred. 

The setting is a Young Offender Institution, so experience of working with young adults or within criminal justice settings would be advantageous, although not essential. Shared Reading groups are currently delivered on a Tuesday. While there may be some flexibility around the delivery day in the future, this has not yet been confirmed.