HMP Gartree on lookout for key roles candidates

THE governor of a prison is on the lookout for new staff - and says the job “isn’t just about locking doors”.

Babafemi Dada, governor of HMP Gartree, is looking to hire a number of prison officers to help put inmates on the right path and maintain safety standards on the inside.

“This job isn’t about locking and unlocking doors – prison officers play an essential role in changing the lives of those in custody, as well as keeping the public protected,” he said.

“The role can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding and there’s no shortage of support and guidance. It’s the team at HMP Gartree that makes it such an enjoyable place to work - you can form friendships for life.”

As part of the key worker scheme, officers are responsible for helping to rehabilitate a small group of offenders. This might involve encouraging their participation in education and substance recovery programmes, as well as helping them to maintain vital family ties.

Tina Underwood has been a prison officer at HMP Gartree for 15 years.

She said: “This isn’t just a job, it’s a career. You can grow, develop and progress in the prison service, all while making a real difference to people’s lives.

“There’s no such thing as a typical prison officer or a typical day as one, but we’re all here because we want to help rehabilitate offenders and reduce their chances of reoffending.

“We need officers from all backgrounds who can build trust and be positive role models. Becoming a prison officer has given me the chance to learn new things and to push myself.”

No specific qualifications are needed to become a prison officer, as HMPPS (Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service) believes personal qualities are more important.

It says it is looking for people who can demonstrate good communication and influencing skills, commitment to quality, effective decision-making, care and understanding.

Training is available throughout a prison officer’s career. Officers can choose to specialise in working with vulnerable prisoners, become a dog handler or train as a physical education instructor.

Applications are set to close at the end of the week.