“Hidden Heroes Day has a very different feel this year. The pandemic lockdowns of our homes and workplaces are, thankfully, becoming a distant memory but it seems new challenges have taken their place.

“For the vast majority of probation and youth justice service staff this has been a difficult period I have seen for myself on the inspections I observe that frontline staff are faced with high workloads and very complex lives to supervise. It often comes down to the dedication of individual case managers and probation practitioners to solve issues and support those trying to move away from crime – efforts which too often go unnoticed and unacknowledged. So, on Hidden Heroes Day, I pay tribute to that dedication and commitment.

“Our mission is to shine a spotlight on good practice and high-quality services and ensure the work of probation and youth justice services is never hidden. We’ve had some difficult messages for probation and youth services over the past year and there is much to improve, but I’ve never been in any doubt of the commitment of staff and managers across the system to do the right thing and to help turn lives around. As our interviews with the people on probation show, a positive relationship with your probation supervisor can literally be life changing.

“There is so much more I could say, but it’s probably best said by some of those on probation and under youth justice supervision who we’ve interviewed over the past years who have benefited from staff at services across England and Wales…”

Praise for services from people on probation:

“She’s helped me focus on what I need to do to get to my future goals. She’s helped me with all sorts, always telling me ‘well done’ and encouraging me.”

“… I felt isolated, afraid and very vulnerable but she has helped me to access so many services that will help with my mental health problems and personal wellbeing, along with helping me out with housing as well. She has got all the agencies involved. She has been so helpful.”

“I enjoy that they understand me and are down to earth individuals. The conversations are optimistic.”

“My Probation Officer is my rock…her honesty and respect lifted me”.

“…since getting my probation worker who has worked so hard in building me up again and helping me find myself. I couldn’t have asked for anything more really. She’s the only person who has took the time to really get to know me and it’s been a pleasure to work with her.”

“Every time I go there, I learn something new. They teach me how to do better and help the community.”

ENDS