Job Description

Criminal Justice Recovery Worker (Better Lives)

Location: Multiple locations across Islington, London

Working Hours: 37

Contract Type: Permanent

Salary: £28,690 - £34,730

Make a real difference in your community

We have an exciting opportunity to join our established Criminal Justice Team at Better Lives Islington, part of our Drug and Alcohol Service, operating across three sites:

• 309 Gray’s Inn Road, London, WC1X 8QS
• 99–101 Seven Sisters Road, London, N7 7QP
• 28b King Henry’s Walk, London, N1 4PB

About the Role

Our aim is to develop new and strengthen existing Criminal Justice pathways into drug and alcohol treatment for people affected by homelessness, mental health needs, domestic violence, and experience of the Criminal Justice system.

We are currently seeking a Criminal Justice Recovery Coordinator to join us during an exciting period of development and transformation across our London services. This role will involve working across a range of established Criminal Justice settings, including Probation, Approved Premises, Prisons, Courts, and Police Stations.

You will be an integral member of one of our dynamic treatment teams, working closely with team leaders and partner agencies to develop and deliver tailored recovery support, including recovery planning and case management. Your work will support service users to make positive changes at all stages of their recovery journey.

What You’ll Do

• Provide targeted support ranging from brief interventions to structured treatment
• Develop and manage personalised recovery plans
• Deliver holistic, “whole-person” support that addresses wellbeing beyond substance use
• Work collaboratively with Criminal Justice partners and internal teams
• Support service users to achieve meaningful, sustainable outcomes

Our Approach

We take a holistic and person-centred approach, ensuring that each individual’s package of care reflects their unique priorities, strengths, and needs. We are committed to fair chances for all and to removing barriers so that everyone can access the support they need to realise their potential.

About You

• You are passionate about supporting people with complex needs and are motivated by making a positive difference in people’s lives.
• You bring a compassionate, non-judgemental, and recovery-focused approach to your work.
• You have experience of, or transferable skills relevant to, working with people affected by substance use, the Criminal Justice system, mental health, homelessness, or related vulnerabilities.
• You are confident working collaboratively with a range of partner agencies, particularly within Criminal Justice settings.
• You are organised and able to manage a varied caseload while working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• You are committed to person-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based practice, and are open to learning and professional development.

Please note: this vacancy may close prior to the advertised closing date if a suitable applicant is appointed, as interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.

Please note: The salary listed reflects the full earning potential for this role. Starting salaries depend on experience and progression within the band.

About Waythrough

Waythrough was formed in 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Together, we’ve created one of the largest mental health and social support charities in England.

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through nearly 200 services – and it’s all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

Make a real difference in your community

Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change.

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package:

• 27 days’ annual leave, rising to 32 after 1 year (plus bank holidays)
• Pension scheme with 4.5% employer contribution, matched up to 6.5%
• Life assurance (3× annual salary)
• Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly pay
• Birthday leave and the option to buy up to 5 extra days’ annual leave
• Professional fee reimbursement for relevant qualifications
• 24/7 online GP access and Employee Assistance Programme
• Recognition and long service awards via our Way to Go and Aspirations portals
• £500 Recommend a Friend bonus
• Cycle to Work scheme and Credit Union membership
• Discounts via Blue Light Card, Charity Discounts, Extras and Tickets for Good
• Free will writing service and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year

Inclusion and accessibility

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support.

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

If you need adjustments or support to apply, please email our recruitment team: recruitmentteam@waythrough.org.uk

Closing Date:

2026-10-09