Napo Podcast

Napo the Union

The official podcast from the trade union for probation and family court staff in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Join us as we dive into the real issues facing justice professionals and trade unionists today—on the frontline, in the workplace, and across the wider system. With interviews, insights and honest conversations, we’re here to champion public safety, fairness and professional standards

  1. 5d ago

    The Hardman Directory: A Practical Tool for Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hope

    The Hardman Trust is the UK's only charity dedicated to supporting people serving long prison sentences. One of its most valuable resources is the Hardman Directory, a comprehensive guide to funding opportunities, support services and practical information for people in prison, on probation and after release. In this episode, Tay speaks with Hardman Trust Chief Executive Annette So, Products and Partnership Officer Kirsty Hepburn, and Trustee Gareth Richards about how the directory was developed, what it contains, and why it has become an important rehabilitation and resettlement tool. The discussion explores how probation practitioners can use the directory to save time, widen access to support services, and help people build positive futures beyond the criminal justice system. The guests also discuss the importance of hope, second chances and community support in reducing reoffending and supporting successful rehabilitation. Whether you work in probation, prisons or wider criminal justice services, this episode offers practical insights into a resource designed to make support easier to find and easier to access.

    18 min

  2. May 27

    Navigating Probation with a Disability

    What is it really like to work in probation as a disabled member of staff? In this episode of the Napo Podcast, National Vice-Chair Charron Culnane speaks openly about her experiences of developing physical disabilities during her probation career, later discovering she was neurodivergent, and navigating workplace adjustments across more than 20 years in the service. Charron discusses the realities of visible and hidden disabilities, the emotional impact of adjustment reviews, workplace culture, discrimination, supportive colleagues, and the importance of union representation. The conversation also explores ageing in the workforce, mental health, neurodiversity and why disabled staff should be seen as valued assets — not problems to be managed. This episode offers an honest insight into disability and inclusion within probation, and why support, understanding and effective workplace adjustments matter for both staff wellbeing and public service delivery.

    19 min

  3. Apr 21

    After the Vote: Unity, Reflection, and the Road Ahead

    The results are in. With an 84% turnout, Napo members have voted to accept the latest probation pay offer — with 75.2% in favour and 24.8% against. It’s a decisive outcome, but not a simple one. In this episode, Ian and Ben reflect honestly on what the result means — not just in numbers, but in how members are feeling. From the strength of engagement to the frustrations of those who wanted to go further, this is a conversation about where we are now as a union. Crucially, it’s also about what comes next. How do we build on this moment? How do we bring members back together? And how do we make sure this level of energy leads to real change? A short, immediate response to a big moment for probation staff. Produced and Presented by Taytula Burke

    24 min

  4. Apr 13

    Numbers, power and the future of trade unionism

    In this extended episode, we bring together Sarah Woolley (BFAWU), Henry Fowler (GFTU), and Ranjit Singh (NAPO) to explore one of the defining questions facing the movement today: what really builds power? Is it membership numbers or active, organised workers? From historic decline and anti-union legislation to grassroots organising, strike action, and the risks of becoming a “service model”, this conversation goes beyond the surface. Presented and Produced by Taytula Burke

    38 min

  5. Mar 18

    When “Skilled” Isn’t Skilled Enough - new visa rules impacting probation

    New immigration rules are putting experienced probation staff at risk of losing their jobs — or even their right to stay in the UK. In this episode, Napo member Stefani explains how recent visa changes, including a £38,700 salary threshold, are affecting overseas colleagues working in probation. We explore the human impact behind the policy, the risks to an already stretched workforce, and why the union is calling for urgent action — including transitional protections for existing staff. This is a conversation about fairness, solidarity, and what it really means to value public service. Presented and Produced by Taytula Burke

    10 min

  6. Mar 5

    Writing from the heart: The essay prize celebrating probation’s reflective voice

    The Mike Guilfoyle Essay Prize was created to honour the legacy of a respected probation practitioner who believed deeply in reflection, professionalism and the human side of the job. In this episode, we explore how the prize came about and why it matters. Richard and Mimi from the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies explains the inspiration behind the award, while previous entrants Anne, Ben and Christine discuss what motivated them to take part. They share their experiences of writing about probation practice, the importance of reflecting on professional values, and offer practical advice for anyone thinking of submitting an essay this year. The discussion highlights something often missing in today’s busy probation service: the space to think, reflect and share the real experiences of the profession.

    12 min

  7. Mar 3

    Your Past Is Not Your Future: Lisa’s Story of Second Chances

    In this episode, we are joined by Lisa, a former accountant who found herself starting again after prison — unsure of what came next. With support from the Longford Trust, she secured a scholarship, gained a mentor, and began studying clinical animal behaviour. In this episode, Lisa talks openly about the importance of education, the impact of a supportive probation officer, accessing counselling through the National Health Service, and the pivotal moment when she realised she needed to forgive herself. A thoughtful and honest conversation about rebuilding confidence, finding purpose, and proving that your past does not define your future.

    14 min

  8. Feb 24

    The Family Court Journal: Where Practice, Debate and Change Meet

    What makes the Family Court Journal such an important professional space? In this episode, John and Catrina from the editorial board talk about how the journal brings together practitioners, researchers, judges and people with lived experience to reflect on practice, challenge assumptions and explore new ways of working with children and families. Read the Family Court Journal Presented and Produced By Taytula Burke

    16 min
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About

The official podcast from the trade union for probation and family court staff in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Join us as we dive into the real issues facing justice professionals and trade unionists today—on the frontline, in the workplace, and across the wider system. With interviews, insights and honest conversations, we’re here to champion public safety, fairness and professional standards

Information

  • Creator
    Napo the Union
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Napo the Union
  • Show Website
    Napo Podcast