What is a typical day? I meet informally with the prisoners to explain the programme. It's a voluntary scheme, and we make sure that they know they can be completely honest and say what they want to us in the strictest of confidence. However, the job can be emotionally draining since many have problems with family and experience bullying. By talking to them, we can help find out what can trigger reoffending and help them achieve their goals.
Do you link up with other professionals, agencies or organisations? Part of my job involves getting in touch with organisations such as drug agencies. It helps to have a street knowledge of drugs and alcohol. We also have links with community workers outside prison who they can meet. This way, the young people know someone when they leave who they can turn to for help. My job differs from a Connexions personal adviser in that we have the flexibility to spend a day with young people and take them places.
How did you get the job? I did a law degree, specialising in criminal justice. I then became an employment worker for adults at Strangeways Prison. I moved to this project to get experience of young people.
How do you measure the effectiveness of your work? The main thing is that they don't return. It's also important to keep in touch once they leave.
