Why did you become a Prison Officer?
Because it’s something I have always wanted to do, I can’t really explain it, I have just always been wanted to take on the role.
The 29th of September 2021 marks #HiddenHeroesDay, where we celebrate and thank the often, unsung ‘Hidden Heroes’ across the custodial and community justice estate, who work tirelessly, especially during the covid-19 outbreak. It’s an opportunity to show them that, while they may be largely hidden from public view, they’re not forgotten, and that the people who know them best, truly appreciate all they’ve done, and continue to do.
Despite their huge contribution and incredible efforts in supporting those within our justice system, Prison Officers, Probation Officers and Staff often go unnoticed, so to recognise the amazing work they have done and continue to do, we wanted to put in some of these amazing people in the spotlight.
Bradley, who works as a Prison Officer, is a Hidden Hero. We’ve asked Bradley a couple of questions about working for the Prison and Probation service:
Because it’s something I have always wanted to do, I can’t really explain it, I have just always been wanted to take on the role.
Yes like it was yesterday. First off the smell, it’s such a distinctive one, and second off all the noise.
Talking to people and realising your voice is your best tool by far.
I look at every day situations differently, and things you shouldn’t have to see become so normal it is weird.
Probably defusing a situation with a particularly violent prisoner. I managed to calm him and escort him back to his cell without using any force, and he thanked me for this a few days later. Other staff members present also emailed my line manager to make them aware.
Give it a go, if it’s for you then you’ve got a job for life.
To pay tribute to those hidden heroes working within prisons, probation and youth justice services across the, you can donate money to Mental Health UK. With around one in four people experiencing significant mental health problems in their lifetime, the hidden heroes working within prisons, probation and youth services are coming together to raise money for this chosen charity https://mentalhealth-uk.org/donate.
Additionally, if you work in the sector, or would like to support those that do, you can take part in a #HiddenHeroes Charity Challenge! Find out how here: https://www.hiddenheroes.uk/CharityChallenge.
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