Forensic Mental Health

ALT Effective Practice Spotlight Recruitment, training and retention. A need for a clear and robust training pathway for probation service officers (PSOs) has been acknowledged nationally. PSOs work in a range of complex frontline practitioner roles and require high levels of skills. Some regions have launched additional initiatives to equip PSOs with the necessary skills and support.

ALT Example of effectiveness. The Yorkshire and the Humber region have a mentor support programme for newly recruited PSOs. The programme utilises practice tutor assessors to mentor PSOs. To ensure new recruits feel prepared, cases are only allocated to PSOs once they have completed foundational learning modules.

ALT Mentors deliver workshops for new recruits with a focus on practical case examples peer learning. The workshops are designed to ensure training translates into practice, with mentors providing one-to-one and group support, encouraging shadowing and observation of other roles.

ALT Mentor support includes reflection sessions, and dedicated feedback on practice. The programme aims to nurture confidence and competence in PSOs, ensuring they are well prepared for their roles. Read our Effective Practice Guide: Recruitment, Training and Retention for more case studies and guidance.

ALT An inspection of probation services in East and West Lincolnshire. Overall rating: Inadequate. A picture of His Majesty’s Chief of Inspector of Probation, with a quote that says, "Despite a positive and supportive teamwork culture, we found regional and local governance arrangements to be driving staff and managers to prioritise performance targets over delivering a quality service. Unfortunately, the quality of work delivered to manage risk of harm was insufficient, which resulted in an overall rating of ‘Inadequate’.”