Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice

Community Justice Learning
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Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice. This is the podcast where we explore the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice - diving into the key themes, challenges, and skills that shape effective probation practice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the ⁠University of Portsmouth⁠.

  1. 2 days ago

    Public Protection and Serious Further Offences with Dr Mike Nash, Dr Andy Williams & Dr Dominic Pearson

    In this episode, we examine public protection and Serious Further Offences (SFOs). Dr Andy Williams and Emeritus Professor Mike Nash discuss the challenges of managing individuals assessed as posing a high risk of serious harm, exploring how political pressures and organisational contexts shape probation practice. They highlight the importance of professional curiosity, reflective practice, and inter‑agency collaboration in effective public protection work. The episode also features Dr Dominic Pearson, who shares findings from his research on SFO reviews, examining what they reveal about accountability, organisational learning, and how probation can better support improvement rather than blame. This episode offers a thoughtful and evidence‑informed look at the complexities of public protection and risk management and is essential listening for PQiPs, probation practitioners, and anyone interested in serious harm prevention in community justice. Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences. Chapters 00:00 Intro to Probation Perspectives  02:02 Defining Public Protection 04:11 The Politics of Public Protection 08:00 The History of Public Protection Agenda 12:04 Learning from Serious Further Offence Reviews 18:01 The Role of Professional Curiosity 21:56 Improving Practice in Probation 25:46 Key Learning Points from SFO Inquiries 32:39 Understanding Modern Probation Workload Challenges 36:20 Key Readings for Trainees in Probation 38:04 Reflective Exercises for Trainees 41:36 Insights from Empirical Research on SFOs 46:22 The Role of Reflective Practice in Risk Management 51:26 Influencing Outcomes in High-Risk Cases 54:05 Building Confidence in Managing High-Risk Cases 57:12 The Importance of Offender Perspectives in Reviews 01:00:07 Final Reflections on Risk Management and Practice Show notes and readings We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experience Here are the readings that were referred to in the episode: Ansbro, M. (2010). The nuts and bolts of risk assessment: When the clinical and actuarial conflict. The Howard Journal of Criminal Justice, 49(3), 252-268. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2311.2010.00614.x Harrison, K. (2012). Dangerousness, risk and the governance of serious sexual and violent offenders. Routledge. Kemshall, H. (2008). Understanding the management of high-risk offenders. McGraw-Hill Education (UK). Nash, M. (1999). Police, probation, and protecting the public. London: Blackstone. Nash, M. (2006). Public protection and the criminal justice process. Oxford University Press. Nash, M., & Williams, A. (2008). The anatomy of serious further offending. Oxford University Press. Nash, M., & Williams, A. (Eds.). (2010). Handbook of public protection. Willan Nash, M. & Williams, A. (2024) Politics and Public Protection. Emerald Publishing Limited. Pearson, D. A., & Carey, G. (2025). Independent serious case reviews relating to serious further offences since 2005: A thematic review. Probation Journal, 02645505241301012. Pearson, D., & Molino, D. (2025). Probation staff reflective practice: Can it impact on outcomes for clients with personality difficulties? In J. Grant, L. Haggar, & M. McDermott (Eds.), Reflections on probation: A companion resource for developing practitioners (pp. 44–62). Policy Press.

    1hr 3min

  2. 2 Jun

    Women’s Problem-Solving Courts with Dr Sarah Waite and Dr Alexandria Bradley

    In this episode, we are joined by Dr Sarah Waite and Dr Alexandria Bradley from Leeds Beckett University to discuss their research on women’s problem‑solving courts and women’s experiences of the criminal justice system. They explore what makes these courts distinct, why gender‑responsive approaches matter, and how communication, meaningful participation, and strengths‑based, trauma‑informed practice can support positive engagement and change for women in contact with probation. This thoughtful and evidence‑led episode highlights what women’s problem‑solving courts can teach us about better supporting women in contact with probation, offering valuable insights for PQiPs, practitioners, and anyone interested in developing more responsive and humane justice practices. Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences. Chapters: 00:00 Intro to Probation Perspectives 02:04 Trauma-Informed & Gender-Responsive Practices 05:02 Exploring Problem-Solving Courts 09:47 Environment's Role in Court Experiences 15:06 Probation Officers & Women's Centres 20:00 Effective Communication in Courts 24:53 Collaboration for Better Outcomes 30:08 Reflective Practice Importance 35:13 Final Thoughts & Recommendations Show notes and readings: We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode: Padmanabhan, K. (2025). Thinking Intersectionally about State Power and Resistance in the Breddon Women’s Center in England. Social Politics: International Studies in Gender, State & Society, jxaf061. Waite, S., & Rutter, N. (Eds.). (2026). Women, Relationships & Criminal Justice: The Personal and Professional. Policy Press. Listening to Women, Learning for Justice: A Time to Reflect and Reimagine | Leeds Beckett University Co-authored by Dr Sarah Waite and Dr Alexandria Bradley

    42 min

  3. 12 May

    Creative Rehabilitation and Partnership Working with Jennifer Walmsley from BearFace Theatre

    In this episode, we are joined by Jennifer Walmsley, Co‑Director of BearFace Theatre, a Hampshire‑based organisation working exclusively in the local area through applied theatre. BearFace’s work supports people on probation, women in the justice system, and criminal justice practitioners within Hampshire.  Jennifer discusses how creative and participatory theatre approaches can open up new ways of understanding identity, agency, and change. The conversation explores how creativity can support desistance, build confidence and resilience, and create space for reflection, not only for people on probation, but also for the practitioners who work alongside them. This inspiring episode shines a light on the human side of rehabilitation and the value of locally rooted, creative practice. It invites PQiPs, probation practitioners, and local justice professionals to consider how creativity can support meaningful change and help people imagine more positive futures. Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Probation Perspectives 02:01 Jennifer Walmsley's Journey into Applied Theatre 06:41 Understanding Applied Theatre in Probation Settings 11:31 The Role of Creativity in Desistance 14:39 Transformative Moments in Creative Activities 20:16 Supporting Probation Practitioners through Creativity 26:07 Reflection, Self-Care, and Vicarious Trauma in Practice 36:06 Cultural Shifts for Better Rehabilitation Show notes and readings: We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode: Bearface theatre website - https://www.bearfacetheatre.org/  Brene Brown - details about her books and podcasts on this website https://brenebrown.com/  Maté, G. (2022). The myth of normal: Trauma, illness and healing in a toxic culture. Knopf Canada. Walmsley, J., & Haggar, L. (2025). Creating space for reflection and connection: learning from the creative arts and the third sector. In Reflections on Probation (pp. 134-154). Policy Press. Waite, S., & Rutter, N. (Eds.). (2026). Women, Relationships & Criminal Justice: The Personal and Professional. Policy Press. National Criminal Justice Arts Alliance website: https://artsincriminaljustice.org.uk/ Geece Theatre Handbook, details available here: https://www.geese.co.uk/the-geese-handbook/  Kasia Urbaniak (2021) Unbound: A Woman’s Guide to Power. Penguin Thompson, J. (2012) Applied Theatre, Bewilderment and Beyond. Peter Lang

    42 min

  4. 21 Apr

    Lived Experience and Desistance with Andi Brierley

    Most prison officers and probation practitioners overlook a simple truth: trust and genuine human connection are the real keys to reform. Andi Brierley, a former youth justice worker turned academic and editor of The Good Prison Officer, reveals how the most effective practitioners build trust not through protocol or robotic routines, but through empathy, authenticity, and understanding how their own behaviour impacts others. This episode challenges you to rethink the way justice professionals form relationships, because the difference is in how you make people feel. Andi’s own life story, rising from substance addiction and multiple prison sentences to becoming an influential voice in community justice, shapes his bold perspective on reform. He shares powerful insights on how lived experience deepens practice, why trust is the foundation of desistance, and how bureaucratic systems can hinder genuine connection. Discover practical ways to foster compassion in challenging environments, from prison corridors to probation meetings, and how small shifts in practice can reshape outcomes at every level of the criminal justice system. If you want to see systems through the eyes of those they serve and lead with compassion, this episode is for you. Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro to Probation Perspectives 01:45 - Andi Brierley's Youth Justice Journey 06:47 - Building Trust in Probation Practices 13:30 - Challenges in Developing Trust 17:37 - Impact of Prison on Individuals 20:52 - Insights into Justice Systems 27:04 - Adversity, Change, and Growth 32:58 - Reflective Practice in Probation Show notes and readings: We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode: Brierley, A. (2019). Your honour can I tell you my story?. Waterside Press. Brierley, A. (2023). The good prison officer. New York: Routledge. Brierley, A., & Dennehy, M. (2025). The rehabilitation industry: Lived experience and performance. Probation Journal, 72(3), 317-324. Brierley, A. (2026). ‘I sit somewhere in that sort of sweet spot’: Liminal legitimacy in criminal justice practice. Punishment & Society, 14624745261436432. Brierley, A., & Best, D. (2025). Desistance habitus: Strategically Using experience in practice. Incarceration: An International Journal of Imprisonment, Detention and Coercive Confinement, 6.https://doi.org/10.1177/26326663241310603 Foucault, M. (2019). Discipline and punish: the birth of the prison. Penguin Johns, D. (2017). Being and becoming an ex-prisoner. Taylor & Francis Group. van der Kolk, B. A. (2015). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Penguin Books

    46 min

  5. 31 Mar

    AI and Probation with Professor Mike Nellis and Louis Allgood

    Most discussions about AI in probation focus on automation, but what if the real opportunity lies in enhancing human connection and ethical practice? In this episode, we uncover how technology like electronic monitoring and generative AI can support, not replace, the vital relational work that defines probation. Join Professor Mike Nellis and Louis Allgood as they explore the evolution of probation technology, from GPS ankle bracelets to speech AI, and reveal how the future of community justice hinges on balancing innovation with moral responsibility. You'll discover the origins and limitations of electronic monitoring, and what lessons Europe offers for ethical implementation. Learn how generative AI like ChatGPT can support professional judgement, active listening, and relationship-building. We discuss practical frameworks for evaluating AI tools to ensure they serve public safety and human dignity, and why meaningful human control is critical in a rapidly digitalising environment. This episode argues that the most effective, ethical probation practice in the digital age remains rooted in human connection, professional judgement, and thoughtful implementation. Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 00:51 – Technology’s Role in Probation 04:02 – Electronic Monitoring Explained 07:54 – Artificial Intelligence in Probation 09:58 – The Human Element 12:54 – Ethical Concerns and Risks 29:21 – Challenges of AI and Monitoring 47:28 – Envisaging the Future of Probation Technology Show notes and readings: We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode: Alegre (2024) Human rights, robot wrongs: Being human in the age of AI Nellis, M. (2022). From electronic monitoring to artificial intelligence: technopopulism and the future of probation services. In Reimagining Probation Practice (pp. 207-224). Routledge. AI Action plan for Justice: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ai-action-plan-for-justice/ai-action-plan-for-justice  Justice AI Unit website: https://ai.justice.gov.uk/

    59 min

  6. 10 Mar

    Rehabilitating Probation with Professor Matthew Millings and Dr Matt Tidmarsh

    Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences. In this episode, we are joined by Professor Matthew Millings, who shares insights from his recent project, Rehabilitating Probation, and Associate Professor Matt Tidmarsh from the Probation Institute. Together, they explore what it means to rehabilitate not only those supervised by Probation, but the Probation Service itself. The conversation examines the evolving identity of Probation as a profession, the impact of continual organisational change, and the challenges facing practitioners working within a complex and pressurised system. Matthew and Matt reflect on the role of research, professional values, and collective voice in shaping Probation’s future, and consider how Probation can reclaim a sense of purpose, coherence, and legitimacy. This rich and reflective episode invites PQiPs, Probation practitioners, and anyone interested in Community Justice to think critically about Probation’s past, present, and future and what it means to imagine Probation as a values‑led profession with a clear and confident identity. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:50 - Matthew Millings & Dr Matt Tidmarsh 05:03 - Impact of Organisational Change 12:06 - Motivations for Rehab Project 25:50 - Defining Rehabilitation in Probation 37:30 - Continuous Learning & Reflection 45:23 - Building Relationships & Engagement 54:38 - Reimagining Probation: Health View Show notes and readings: We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode: You can find out more about the Rehabilitating Probation project on their website here: https://rehabilitating-probation.org.uk/ The Probation Institute offers professional membership, leadership, and evidence‑based resources for the sector. Find out more or join here: https://www.probation-institute.org/ Tidmarsh, M. (2025). Probation Governance, Identity, and Practice: Making, Unmaking, Remaking. Taylor & Francis. Dominey, J. (2019). Probation supervision as a network of relationships: aiming to be thick, not thin. Probation Journal, 66(3), 283-302. Public Health England (2020). Health and social care needs assessment of adults under probation service supervision in the community. A guidance document. London: Public Health England. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/adults-on-probation-health-and-social-care-needs-assessment

    1hr 2min

  7. Season 2 Trailer

    Series 2 Trailer: Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice

    Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice returns for its second series, continuing to explore the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, the podcast brings together voices from practice, research, and lived experience to reflect on the realities of probation work and the values that underpin it. In this trailer, Megan and Ceri introduce what’s ahead for Series 2, building on the reflective, practice‑focused conversations of the first series while widening the lens to consider some of the major developments shaping probation today. This season will explore topics such as the rehabilitation of the Probation Service itself, the opportunities and risks of emerging technologies and AI, the role of lived experience in professional identity, and how the service learns from serious incidents and public protection work. With contributions from leading researchers, practitioners, and thinkers, Series 2 invites listeners to reflect on probation’s past, present, and future and to engage with honest, thoughtful conversations about how the profession continues to evolve. Whether you’re a practitioner, PQiP, educator, student, or simply interested in Community Justice, we’re excited to welcome you back. We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences For more information about PQiP training at the University of Portsmouth, visit: https://www.port.ac.uk/study/studying-while-working/probation-officer-training.

    3 min

  8. 17/06/2025

    Trauma-informed and gender-responsive approaches in Probation practice - Dr Madeline Petrillo

    Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences. In this episode, we speak with Dr Madeline Petrillo, Associate Professor of Criminology at the University of Greenwich and former probation officer. Madeline shares her journey into trauma-informed practice, reflecting on the emotional impact of frontline work, the gendered nature of trauma, and the power of compassionate supervision. She explores the challenges and potential of embedding trauma-informed approaches within probation, offers insights from her work on the innovative Hope Street project, and highlights the importance of reflective practice and practitioner wellbeing. With powerful stories, practical examples, and critical reflections, this episode is essential listening for PQiPs, probation officers, and anyone committed to building a more responsive and humane justice system. Please be aware that this episode includes discussion of sexual violence and abuse, which some listeners may find distressing. Take care while listening, and feel free to pause or step away if you need to. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:15 Dr Madeline Petrillo 05:03 Realities for women 07:32 Trauma-informed meaning 13:13 Writing on trauma 17:00 Why trauma matters 20:25 Pathways to crime 25:48 Hope Street project 30:33 Trauma principles Show notes and readings: We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible. Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode: Corston, J. (2007) The Corston Report: a review of women with particular vulnerabilities in the criminal justice system. https://prisonreformtrust.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/The-Corston-Report.pdf Herman, J. L. (2015). Trauma and recovery: The aftermath of violence--from domestic abuse to political terror. Hachette UK. Ministry of Justice. (n.d.). Women’s Justice Board. GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/womens-justice-board Petrillo, M., & Bradley, A. (2022). Working with trauma in adult probation: HM Inspectorate of Probation research and analysis bulletin 2022/02. Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation. Petrillo, M. (2023). Women, trauma, and journeys towards desistance: Navigating the labyrinth. Routledge. Phillips, J., Westaby, C., & Fowler, A. (2020). Emotional labour in probation. https://hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/document/emotional-labour-in-probation/ Shepherd, B. (2022). Women working with women–vicarious trauma in the probation service. Probation Quarterly, 24, 24-28. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014)  Comment end SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach ⁠https://library.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sma14-4884.pdf ⁠ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Portsmouth, the podcast hosts, or any affiliated organisations or employers.

    44 min
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Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice. This is the podcast where we explore the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice - diving into the key themes, challenges, and skills that shape effective probation practice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the ⁠University of Portsmouth⁠.

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