Finance, Benefit & Debt Mentor (NW)

The Wise Group, in partnership with the Ministry of Justice and third-sector organisations, delivers the Money Mindset service for people leaving prison across the North West of England.

This is about more than financial advice. It’s about helping people stabilise their lives, reduce crisis and build stronger foundations for the future.

Working across prison and community settings, you’ll support men facing financial hardship, debt and benefit-related challenges that can impact stability, wellbeing and long-term progress. 

You’ll work closely with probation services, prison teams and local partners to ensure people can access the right support at the right time.

Using our Relational Mentoring approach, you’ll build trusted relationships that go beyond transactional support - helping individuals make meaningful and sustained progress.

No two journeys are the same.

Many of the people we support are navigating multiple and interconnected challenges including unstable housing, poor mental health, addiction, family breakdown and long-standing barriers to reintegration. 

This role requires empathy, resilience and the ability to work confidently with complexity.

We’re looking for people who can build trust quickly, balance compassion with practical action, and are motivated by helping people move from crisis towards greater stability and independence.

Location Flexible working – home based, with travel across the North West in community and custodial settings

Salary £25,664 + excellent benefits

Hours 35 hours per week (flexible working)

Status Fixed term until 28th February 2027

What you’ll do

• Deliver one-to-one mentoring and advocacy support across custody and community settings
• Support individuals to address financial, benefits and debt-related challenges
• Build trusted relationships that encourage engagement, confidence and long-term progress
• Work closely with prison, probation and third-sector partners to coordinate effective support
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to service outcomes and performance reporting
• Support individuals during key transition points, including release from custody and reintegration into the community

What you’ll bring

• Experience working in a mentoring, advocacy, support or customer-focused role
• Confidence supporting people facing complex or challenging circumstances
• Strong communication, organisational and relationship-building skills
• A practical, grounded and solutions-focused approach
• Ability to work independently while managing a varied caseload
• Understanding of the barriers experienced by people involved in the criminal justice system is advantageous

Experience within custodial or community justice settings is beneficial, but not essential.

Essential requirements

• Full driving licence and access to a car for daily use
• Willingness to travel extensively across Merseyside/Cheshire and Lancashire/Cumbria
• Successful completion of enhanced Level 1 prison vetting
• Home broadband to support flexible working

Please note that, due to security clearance processes, there may be a short waiting period at the beginning of employment before full duties can commence.

Travel expenses will be covered by the Wise Group.

View the Role Profile for full details about this opportunity.