Office of the Public Advocate – Geelong VIC
The role is located within the context of criminal investigations conducted by Victoria Police. Decisions regarding the conduct of an investigation are the responsibility of police members. An ITP participates in the process to actively facilitate communication and assist the person to understand. The ITP does not provide a professional opinion regarding a person’s mental state or capacity to participate in the interview but may express a recommendation about a persons ability to explain their caution and rights using their own words.
Role of the ITP
Effective ITPs make sure that a person with cognitive impairment and or mental illness is not disadvantaged during a police interview, statement or other process.
The core tasks of the role are to
- Facilitate communication by participating in the interview or other process to facilitate the exchange of information between the parties, without judgement of a person’s guilt, innocence or the relevance of information.
- Assist a person to understand their legal rights, the interview process and the questions asked by police in a way that is meaningful.
- Explain processes and procedures and their implications. ITPs assist a person they are supporting to understand what they are giving or refusing consent for.
- Raise immediate welfare needs by considering the person’s ability to participate in the interview, any immediate medical needs or request breaks when necessary.
Essential knowledge, experience and skills
- _ A professional or personal understanding of cognitive disability, or capacity to learn.
- Acknowledge the differences and individuality of each person.
- Excellent communication skills to engage with both police and people with disability and complex needs in stressful situations.
- Capacity to apply skills developed in training, and flexibility to adapt this learning to the variety of situations that arise.
- Assertiveness and confidence in raising issues and concerns on behalf of the person being interviewed.
Please note
- Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- Applicants must be over eighteen years of age.
- Lawyers and barristers admitted to practice are ineligible for the role.
- Applicants who are or have been a sworn or unsworn police member in the past 5 years are ineligible for the role.
- Applicants who are current Honorary Bail Justices are ineligible for the role.
- Applicants must be willing to commit for at least two years.
Category
Disability Services
Commitment
Regular - more than 6 months
Type Of Work
Disability Support,Mediation & Advocacy,
Time Required
The ITP Program is a 24/7 Program. Additional information is available from this agency.
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Independent Third Person in Geelong employer: Office of the Public Advocate
The Office of the Public Advocate is an exceptional employer dedicated to protecting the rights of Victorians with disabilities, offering a supportive work culture that values dignity, choice, and autonomy. As a Solicitor, you will engage in meaningful legal work while benefiting from ongoing professional development opportunities in a collaborative environment located in Melbourne. With a commitment to child safety and cultural respect, this role not only enhances your legal career but also contributes positively to the community.
Contact Details:
Office of the Public Advocate Recruitment Team
