Name: Luke French
Job: Restorative Justice Programme Manager
Time with Nacro: 1 year 6 months

I joined Nacro because...

...I saw the role as a fantastic opportunity to join an exciting organisation with plenty of scope for career progression. It was a completely new and unique challenge for me and I liked the idea of working for a good cause.

My job involves...

...managing two projects and line managing four members of staff. My role involves spreading the word and growing the project through networking. I also maintain partner involvement and commitment to referrals. I sustain the future of our project by seeking funding and ensuring that its ethos and practices are in line with restorative justice policy. I also look after volunteer recruitment and management, and plan, organise and deliver peer panels and follow-up work. It’s a diverse job with many different areas of responsibility.

I enjoy...

...my job because it is highly challenging and provides lots of variety. I’m fortunate to work with a good team and am given good support from my manager, as well as from managers in my region. I learn something new every day and helping redirect people to a better future is very rewarding. The people here are also good-hearted, have a strong work ethic and will support you whenever you need it. In short, it’s a rewarding job that makes a difference in people’s lives.

My job offers a number of challenges...

...including managing team dynamics and conflict resolution, ensuring that tasks are completed to high standards and to deadlines, sustaining team motivation and knowing which areas to focus on at the right time. Ensuring the co-operation of partner agencies and maintaining good relationships with them is also a vital part of the job.

My success stories include...

...the story of three boys who set fire to a chemical yard. The trio were referred to us and attended a course put on by the fire service. Soon after, a relative sent us a letter thanking the restorative justice team and the fire service for how they had treated the boys. The letter highlighted how the boys had been frightened and shocked when they realised what they’d done, that they had since talked to their parents about what they had learnt and had vowed not to do anything like this again. This is a testament to the value of restorative practices, especially when delivered in partnership with key agencies relevant to the offence.

I’d say to any potential Nacro employee...

...to get your head down and to make sure that you consistently work hard. I’d advise employees to also make sure that they always support their colleagues, staff, managers and service users. If you do this then you’ll certainly be rewarded.