Joining the prison service young.
Hey guys. I’ve seen a few people posting here etc and just wanted to give my take on things as I think people don’t know what they’re getting themselves into.
So I joined HMPS at 19 and did 5 years. I’ve since left and I’m now a firefighter which I love being.
I joined as an officer, and purely joined as I needed a job and income.
So, here I am. 19 years old and on a wing full of people who had been inside for longer than I’d been alive. And I had to expect these lads to do as I said. It’s daunting, they test you and it’s truly difficult to get settled into the job, hence why so many people quit.
Now firstly I think 19 is too young. I think there should be a minimum age as the prison isn’t a nice place to be exposed to. And you’re not even old enough to be a prisoner at the jail you’re working at.
By the time I left I was I’d like to say a pretty respected seg officer and quite often acted up as SO. I did advanced C&R and was also a negotiator.
What helped me was being young and having a bit about me, I could have conversations but I could also deal with confrontation. You will have moments where you have to restrain, do not hesitate to do so.
Most important thing to do is build a rapport with your prisoners. Remember things about them, anything that’s going on in their family. For example, if they’ve got someone in the family who’s ill ask them how that person is etc. it goes a long way and can save your arse one day.
You’ll be tested every day. And no two days are the same. Most important thing is to look after yourself, especially mentally. I didn’t realise how much of an effect the service had on me until I left. Do I miss the job? Absolutely. Would i go back? No chance.
My advice if you’re 18,19,20 etc and thinking on joining? Have a serious think. I’d recommend spending a few more years just growing up and maturing. Getting life experience. The prison service played a massive part in who I am today, which I’m thankful for. But it also put me in a dark place.
I think this post is probably gonna be a messy read. I’m no Shakespeare why you think I ended up in the prisons at 19? 😂
Anyways, if you’re young and want a true perspective of what you’re getting into. Please feel free to message me.
Cheers all.