A Reflection on 33 Years in the Prison Service
As International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, Wendy Stubbs, a senior prison manager from Wrexham, reflects on her remarkable 33-year journey in the prison service.
A Journey Begins
Wendy, 56, began her career at age 22 as a prison officer in Kent, following her previous work in factories throughout Wrexham. Today, she leads a dedicated team of officers and managers at one of the three house blocks in HMP Berwyn.
Changing Perceptions
Wendy points out that despite stereotypes of the profession being male-dominated, there are now more women than men working for His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). Currently, women make up 55% of the staff in HMPPS overall, including 41.7% of those employed in prisons.
Embracing Diversity
“The prison service has evolved significantly since I started,” Wendy shares. “HMPPS now prioritizes diversity, recognizing the importance of staff from various backgrounds and life experiences to effectively manage our diverse population of prisoners.”
Essential Skills for Success
Wendy emphasizes the importance of being a good listener and communicating effectively with individuals from all walks of life. “Working at HMP Berwyn can be challenging, but it’s the support from my colleagues that makes tough days manageable,” she affirms.
Encouragement to Future Generations
In her reflection for International Women’s Day, which this year encourages the call to “Accelerate Action” towards gender equality, Wendy advocates for women considering careers in the prison service. “I have had incredible experiences throughout my career,” she states, adding that being a prison officer is not only rewarding but also allows for lifelong friendships.
A Call to Action
Wendy believes that everyone has something valuable to contribute to the prison service and highlights the variety of roles available, from prison officers to psychologists and caterers. “I urge others to apply and find a team that suits them,” she encourages.
Join the Ministry of Justice’s Recruitment Drive
As part of their national recruitment efforts, HMP Berwyn is currently seeking compassionate individuals with strong communication skills. For those interested in joining the team, further information is available on the Ministry of Justice’s recruitment page.
