Chief Inspector of Probation, Justin Russell, reflects on the important work of probation and youth justice service practitioners this Hidden Heroes Day:

“Tumultuous, challenging, changing… just some of the words to describe the past year for those working in and around probation and youth justice services. So, the 29 September 2021 – Hidden Heroes Day – is a time to reflect upon the vital, and often unseen, work of those in this key area of the criminal justice system.

“I have made no secret of my admiration for those working in probation and youth justice who are continuing to deal with the devastating impact of Covid-19 at the same time as working through some major structural reforms. Staff are to be applauded for the resolve and innovation displayed during an unpredictable, at times seemingly unending, period of emergency delivery models and crisis management.

“It is starting to feel that a return to “normal” – in the varying forms that may take – is not too far away. This is credit to management boards, managers and practitioners who have worked, in many cases tirelessly, to ensure services run as smoothly as possible, with little or no fanfare.

“Finally, I would also like to acknowledge the work of all those in the wider criminal justice system – those working in UK prisons, IRCs, probation and youth justice – who are critical public servants doing difficult and demanding jobs. All are true hidden heroes.”

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