There are many reasons why a career as a probation officer can be rewarding.

We asked some of our current and former trainees what joining the service has helped them to achieve.

Jim

Probation officer

It sounds very grand but you are changing lives

Jim joined the PQiP later in life after roles in other industries, looking for a new challenge.

Jasmine

Trainee probation officer

Be prepared to learn to manage your case load

Jasmine talks about the realities of balancing case work, the vocational qualification and the university work.

Cheyanne

Trainee probation officer

I knew this is what I wanted to do

Cheyanne applied to the PQiP nine times because she knew it was what she wanted to do. She talks about how during this time she earned key skills which now help her as a probation officer.

Sam

Probation officer

I was diagnosed with dyslexia so I was given another 6 months to complete the programme

Sam discusses his experience receiving a dyslexia diagnosis while on the PQiP programme and the support he received.

Louisa

Senior probation officer

When you have people applying from different walks of life everyone brings something with them

Louisa encourages people to consider the role and talks about the benefits of having a diverse workforce.

Giordi

Trainee probation officer

Having that support around you is so vital

Giordi talks about the support he found from his team when he joined, his background in criminology and how he balances the different elements of the role.

Josie

Probation officer

So the way I see offending is something we’re all capable of – it doesn’t make you different

Josie talks about how her previous work in a prison has helped her to understand and help people on probation.