Michelle's Story

There's no one type of person who suits being a Prison Officer, but the one thing they all have in common is their commitment to doing the right thing, their ability to build a rapport with just about anybody, and their passion for doing this highly varied, challenging and rewarding job.

Michelle
Senior Officer

“I joined the service thirteen years ago. I’d been working as a Data Entry Clerk for a research company and, to be honest, had been going out of my mind with boredom and decided it was time for a change. I wanted to do something with more human contact; something more challenging, and, though I didn’t have anything particular in mind, when I saw an ad to join the service I thought I’d give it a go.

I like to think of myself as a pretty open-minded kind of person, and I think I did come into the service with an open mind. I think having two kids and the kind of life experience that gives you is invaluable – it’s a good grounding for dealing with people. The training is fantastic, and it was great being in such a big group – it meant you had lots of people to support you and share experiences with as you progressed.

Building a rapport with people really is a big key to working in this environment – and it’s what makes it rewarding. As a woman in a male prison I think I can have a calming effect on the men, but it’s also important they know I know how to handle myself – and they do! Funnily enough I also think you get a lot of respect from the men for doing what you do. There are stressful days, but you’re really supported and there’s great camaraderie here.

I think there are huge benefits to working in the service. I’d never want to go back to an ordinary nine to five, Monday to Friday job. I love having time off in the week and being able to go up to town or to the gym without the crowds. I also think the great thing about working in the service is that it really does offer you a career for life. It’s a secure job, and, if you want to aim for the top, there really is nothing to stop you and the opportunities are there.”