Amy’s message 27th May

Last night was not a typical Thursday evening for me! I was out and about shadowing Field Monitoring Officer Simon from the electronic monitoring team as he undertook his shift across South Wales fitting devices including a GPS and an alcohol monitoring tag.  I really enjoyed seeing first hand the important work undertaken by our electronic monitoring colleagues which is an integral component to how we protect the public.

Our approach to electronic monitoring continues to evolve with new technology to enhance how we manage people in the community and it was great hearing Simon’s enthusiasm for the difference this is making.  One new development to flag if you are not already aware is that we will be rolling out Alcohol Monitoring on Licence (AML) in England from 15 June following the initial roll out in Wales.  There are practitioner briefings being organised ahead of this where you can find out more on the 13 and 14 June (please follow this link to book onto a session ) and all the guidance and supporting materials are now live on EQuiP.

Staying on the theme of new developments in how we work with people, I was really pleased that we were able to announce the news this week of the government’s investment for a new Women’s Residential Centre – due to open in 2024.  This twelve bedroom centre in Swansea will provide intensive support for women in line with our Female Offender Strategy. We will keep you posted on this as it progresses.

This week we are launching a great initiative which I hope will introduce lots of new and potential future people to the Probation Service.  We are commencing a brand new recruitment campaign offering a part time route (minimum one day per week) into the Service. This will be a fantastic opportunity for students to undertake part time work during their studies, while learning more about what a rewarding future career in the Probation Service could offer.  The roles are also open for anyone to apply to and might also suit people looking to return to the workplace. Find out more here and do tell any of your friends and family who may be interested.

Nominations are now open for this year’s Butler Trust Awards.  Entries need to be in by the 30 June so please do take a look at the categories and think about nominating your fantastic colleagues. Details about how to nominate can be found at Butler Trust Awards.

Some dates to flag for your diaries:

June is Pride month – do look out for events taking place during the month hosted by our LGBT+ network colleagues.

Carer’s Week is taking place from the 6 to the 12 June.  We know lots of you have caring responsibilities which you balance with your jobs every day, or you may be managing or working alongside a colleague with caring responsibilities.  There will be a range of cross MoJ events taking place throughout the week to raise awareness which are open to anyone to join – find our more at:  Events – Ministry of Justice HQ Intranet

Our next all staff MS Teams live event is taking place on the 8 June at 10.30 and I hope lots of you are able to join us.  We have a range of important topics to update you on including our work on Safeguarding Children  – you can join by following this link: All Staff Event.

For those of you taking leave next week, I hope you have a well earned break and hopefully some sunshine.  For colleagues working over the bank holidays, thank you in advance.

As always, thank you for all you are doing.

Amy