Young Criminal Justice Practitioner

Location: Lewisham, Winslade Way

Working Hours: Full-time (37 hours)

Contract Type: Permanent

Salary: £28,690 - £34,730

Waythrough is a specialist provider of mental health, substance misuse and related services, delivering evidence‑based, high‑quality support tailored to individual needs.

At Insight Lewisham
, we provide free, confidential support to young people under the age of 25, offering guidance around substance use, sexual health and relationships, as well as support to families across Lewisham.

The Young Person Criminal Justice Practitioner plays a vital role in supporting young people affected by substance misuse and involvement in the Criminal Justice System. Working within Insight Lewisham, the post holder will deliver targeted, evidence‑based interventions designed to reduce harm, address offending behaviour and support long‑term positive change.

The role involves working across the full journey of a young person’s engagement, from assessment and risk management through to intervention, recovery planning and onward support. You will work closely with young people, their families and a wide range of partner agencies to promote resilience, improve wellbeing and reduce reoffending.

This position requires a proactive, trauma‑informed approach, strong safeguarding practice and the ability to build trusted relationships with young people who may have complex needs. Flexibility is essential, including participation in evening clinics on a rota basis.

• Deliver tailored 1:1 and group interventions to young people affected by substance misuse and offending behaviour, using evidence‑based and harm‑reduction approaches.

• Undertake comprehensive assessments
  , develop intervention and recovery plans, and provide effective case management throughout the young person’s engagement.

• Lead on risk assessment, safeguarding and risk management planning
  , ensuring the safety of young people and others in line with local and organisational procedures.

• Work collaboratively with Youth Justice Services, social workers, education, health and community partners to provide coordinated and holistic support.

• Support positive family involvement by reducing the impact of substance‑related harm on family life and strengthening relationships where appropriate.

• Act as an advocate for young people, supporting access to treatment, education, training and employment opportunities.

• Maintain accurate, timely records using online case management systems, monitor progress and contribute to service evaluation and continuous improvement.

• Experience working with young people
  , particularly those affected by substance misuse and the criminal justice system

• Strong knowledge of substance misuse
  , harm reduction approaches and safeguarding practices

• Excellent communication, relationship‑building and advocacy skills

• Confidence working within multi‑agency environments

• A relevant qualification in social work, youth work, substance misuse, criminology or a related field, or equivalent experience

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.

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 portals

• £500 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

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.

Closing Date: 2026‑02‑02