Probation officer from HMP Exeter wins national award

Angie Powell, a probation officer who works in HMP Exeter, has won the award for Partnership Working at this years’ Probation Awards.

Angie, who has worked for the probation service since the early 1990s, was nominated by her line manager for her work in developing successful partnerships with groups, charities and businesses.

The award for Partnership Working recognises the positive working relationships built with partners which have helped offenders in their care. This is not limited to formal partnerships but to work carried out in partnership with agencies such as the police or local councils or faith groups for example.

Angie has been particularly praised for her work with public sector bodies, including the local District Council, the County Council, police, and health service, where she represented the probation service on a ground-breaking initiative looking at different ways of supporting those on probation through to independent living.

The Probation Awards celebrates those extraordinary individuals who put in the extra dedication, passion and understanding to their jobs to ultimately change lives.

Angela Cossins, Probation Divisional Director at NPS South West said: “Not only does Angie have the vision to identify and peruse the most vital priorities for rehabilitation, but she has the drive and the determination to follow this through.

“She is a warm, caring, motivated and professional individual who is driven to achieve for those with whom she work, and her efforts have strengthened our reputation with partners, and outcomes for offenders and the public. If every team had Angie, our success would be enormous”

Prisons and Probation Minister, Rory Stewart, said: “I want to pay tribute to our prison and probation staff for their extraordinary service, commitment, and resilience.”

“They are true heroes and I have been staggered – day in, day out – by the quality and dedication shown by so many of our staff.”

“These awards give us the opportunity to reflect on their contribution, and to recognise those individual staff who have gone above and beyond. They are true role models, and show the impact officers can have in helping offenders turn their lives around, thereby reducing reoffending and protecting the public.”

Michael Spurr, Chief Executive Officer of HMPPS, said: “The staff working for our probation service do vitally important work every day but it often goes unseen so these awards are the perfect opportunity to recognise this work and to say thank you.

“Our nominees represent the best of a service where professionals are dedicated to changing lives and making their communities safer.

“I feel privileged to lead the service and I am extremely proud of the work our finalists are doing.”

There are eight categories in the Probation Awards which look to celebrate achievements in areas such as diversity, reducing reoffending and public safety. It is the opportunity to celebrate success, share best practice and shine a light on the great work being done across the country.

Working in the community presents daily challenges but it is a vital public service with great opportunities to make a difference and to prevent victims and better protect the public.