Volunteer with Sussex Prisoners’ Families
Who are Sussex prisoners’ Families?
What We Do
We work in courts, prisons, and communities, helping families navigate the criminal justice system by offering advice, advocacy, information, and emotional support. Read about how we have helped families here.
Our Mission
To listen closely to families, offer them emotional and practical support and to provide a platform for their voice.
Our Team
We are proud of our friendly, professional team, who bring a range of skills and experiences to their roles. Meet them here.
Who do they need?
• Has an interest in the needs of prisoners’ families.
• Professional and reliable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Compassionate.
• Displays excellent listening and verbal communication skills.
• Has the ability to communicate confidently with a wide range of people.
• Able to work well independently.
• Able to show respect for the traditions of the court.
• Able to take a non-judgemental approach.
• Willing to work within boundaries and in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Able to keep a basic record of information given out at court and return this information via an
online form.
When do they need you?
• Volunteers in this role must be available to attend crown court (in either Lewes, Brighton or
Hove) or Magistrates’ Court (in either Worthing, Hastings or Crawley) on at least one half-day
per week, for a minimum period of six months.
• Volunteers will be required for a morning (9:30AM-1PM) or afternoon (1:30PM-4PM) session
during court opening hours, which are Monday-Friday.
• Successful applicants will be required to attend an interview.
• Applicants who pass the interview stage will require an enhanced DBS check (arranged by
SPF), must attend 2 full days of training in Brighton and will be expected to complete an
online safeguarding course, before volunteering with us.
• Volunteers should also be willing to attend training, support and development sessions provided by SPF.
The closing date for applications is Monday 17th January Training will take place on Friday 9th and Friday 16th January
What do they need you for?
Volunteers in this role will attend court once a week on an agreed day. The purpose of this role is to
provide practical information, emotional support and signposting to people when someone close to
them is going through trial, is sentenced or remanded to custody. Volunteers will also promote the
charity and our services to court staff and legal professionals. In addition, volunteers will have the
opportunity to attend events and activities with Sussex Prisoners’ Families (SPF). Full training is
provided and the role offers a rare opportunity to volunteer in the criminal courts.