"It is a difficult challenge, but I really love the job": Bedford probation officer backs recruitment campaign
New research suggests awareness of what probation officers do is low.
But many people are interested in becoming one once they understand what the role involves.
That includes Bedford probation officer Lorenzo Panetta who is encouraging others to join him as part of a huge recruitment drive in the county.
Applications are now open to become a trainee probation officer – and you can earn a salary from day one while completing a fully-funded training equivalent to a degree-level qualification.
Probation officers supervise people on probation, manage risk and support rehabilitation. They work across the justice system to tackle the root causes of reoffending, including substance misuse, housing instability and unemployment.
The job often attracts career changers from education, health, social care and the military.
And trainees complete the Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP) over 15, 21 or 27 months, depending on existing qualifications.
People join the probation service from a wide range of professional backgrounds – including Lorenzo Panetta.
The 28-year-old is a newly-qualified officer in Bedford. He did a maths degree at university but joined the service after realising he wanted a job where he could help people.
After part-time roles in education and rehabilitation, Lorenzo qualified using the 21-month PQiP route and is enjoying his career in probation.
He said: “I have ADHD so I found it difficult to study wordy subjects as it required a lot of focus. That’s why I preferred maths. I was thinking of programming or maths roles, but after a while I felt disconnected from people. I was alone with textbooks.
“I then had a job supporting people with learning needs which made me realise I liked helping people. It feels nice at the end of the day, I like being kind to people. It’s easier to do stuff I want when I’m helping people.
“I had to keep explaining to my friends and family what probation even is. They didn’t have a great awareness of what a probation officer does.
“Every time a new person comes to me their issues may be similar, but they can present differently. A big part of the job is managing your time and priorities. It is a difficult challenge, but I really love the job and there are plenty of career opportunities ahead.”
To apply for a PQiP, candidates must hold a minimum level 3 qualification in any subject, including A-levels, a diploma or a degree.