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TitlePub. DateDuration
Introducing Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice11 Feb 202500:13:15

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 introductory episode, Megan and Ceri introduce themselves, discuss their backgrounds in probation training and academia, and outline what listeners can expect from the podcast. They provide an overview of the probation service, the Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP), and the importance of reflective practice. Future episodes will cover topics such as professional curiosity, domestic abuse, and public protection, with expert guests offering valuable perspectives.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of probation and community justice, whether you're a practitioner, student, or just curious about the field. Don't forget to subscribe and join the conversation!


Chapters


00:00 Introduction

01:30 Meet the Hosts: Ceri Halfpenny & Megan Thomas

06:45 Understanding the Probation Service

10:15 The PQIP Programme

12:00 Future Episodes & Topics


We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible:


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

  • Rob Hobbs – Technical support

  • Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development

  • Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support

  • All of our guests – For sharing their expertise and experiences


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.

Professional Curiosity - Helen Amor, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation (HMIP)04 Mar 202500:37:39

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 Helen Amor, Effective Practice Lead at His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Probation (HMIP), about professional curiosity and its key role in probation practice. Helen shares her insights into the skills, challenges, and benefits of being professionally curious and offers practical advice for probation trainees. Join us as we explore how professional curiosity can deepen relationships, improve risk assessments, and enhance practice.


Chapters

00:00 Professional Curiosity

02:40 Helen Amor & Inspectorate's Role

06:37 Grasping Professional Curiosity

14:20 Building Curiosity Skills

19:19 Applying Curiosity & Tackling Issues

31:30 Suggested Resources


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

  • Rob Hobbs – Technical support

  • Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development

  • Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support

  • All of our guests – For sharing their expertise and experiences


Further readings

Here are the details of the readings that were referred to within the episode:

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.

Domestic Abuse & Stalking - Dr Kerry Ellis-Devitt & Carl Hall, Interventions Alliance25 Mar 202500:41:58

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. Kerry Ellis-Devitt and Carl Hall from Interventions Alliance about domestic abuse and stalking. They explore the evolution of interventions, the importance of evidence-based practice, and strategies to support both victims and practitioners. Tune in for insights into trauma-informed approaches, the 5 typologies of stalkers, and how probation practitioners can foster meaningful change.


Chapters

00:00 Domestic Abuse & Stalking

02:24 Dr Kerry Ellis-Devitt and Carl Hall

06:26 Defining Domestic Abuse & Stalking

16:30 Trauma-Informed Approaches

26:10 Challenges in Rehabilitation

31:40 Probation Practitioner Strategies

37:50 Final Reflections & Key Takeaways


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

  • Rob Hobbs – Technical support

  • Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development

  • Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support

  • All of our guests – For sharing their expertise and experiences


Further readings:

Link to the Interventions Alliance website: https://interventionsalliance.com


Here are the details of the readings that were referred to within the episode:

Kerry recommended the following readings:

Gadd, D., Fox, C. L., Corr, M. L., Alger, S., & Butler, I. (2015). Young men and domestic abuse. Routledge.

Renehan, N., & Gadd, D. (2024). For Better or Worse? Improving the Response to Domestic Abuse Offenders on Probation. The British Journal of Criminology, 64(5), pp1171–1188, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/bjc/azae003

Renehan, N. (2024). Foregrounding Meaning and Motive in the Domestic Abuse Perpetration of and Response to Neurodivergent Men. Deviant Behavior, 45(12), pp1682–1697. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2024.2319638

Carl recommended the following reading:

McEwan, T. E., Galietta, M., & Underwood, A. (2024). Treating stalking: A practical guide for clinicians. John Wiley & Sons.

McEwan, T. E., & Pathé, M. (2013). Stalking. In G. Bruinsma, & Weisburd, D. (Eds.), Encyclopedia of criminology and criminal justice (pp. 5026–5038). Springer. DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-5690-2_535

Parkhill, A. J., Nixon, M., & McEwan, T. E. (2022). A critical analysis of stalking theory and implications for research and practice. Behavioral Sciences & the Law, 40(5), pp.562–583. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/bsl.2598


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.

Domestic Abuse - Noreen Wallace, His Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation (HMIP)15 Apr 202500:49:05

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, Noreen Wallace from H.M. Inspectorate of Probation unpacks the complexities of addressing domestic abuse within probation services. From defining abuse under the 2021 Domestic Abuse Act to highlighting challenges in inter-agency collaboration and practitioner training, Noreen provides actionable insights for probation officers and agencies working to protect victims and rehabilitate offenders. Tune in to learn about the critical role of professional curiosity, reflective practice, and targeted interventions in achieving meaningful change.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:00 Noreen Wallace

06:44 Probation's Role in Abuse Cases

19:27 Thematic Inspection Insights

23:43 Domestic Abuse Key Insights

26:08 Training & Practitioner Confidence

29:52 Professional Curiosity in Probation

38:02 User Feedback Importance

40:52 Future Directions in Abuse Prevention

44:12 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
  • Rob Hobbs – Technical support
  • Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development
  • Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support
  • All of our guests – For sharing their expertise and experiences


Further readings:

Here are the details of the readings that were referred to within the episode


HMIP Effective Practice Guide: Working with domestic abuse

Women's Aid Website: www.womensaid.org.uk

Safe Lives Organisation: www.safelives.org.uk


Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (UK): Legal framework and advancements in domestic abuse prevention. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2021/17

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.

Parole - Robert McKeon, Independent Member of the Parole Board07 May 202500:49:32

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 Robert McKeon, an Independent Member of the Parole Board, about the realities of parole decision-making and the vital role probation officers play in assessing and managing risk. Rob reflects on the evolution of the parole process, the framework used to assess whether someone can be safely released, and offers invaluable advice for trainee probation officers preparing for oral hearings. We explore key concepts such as risk, reflective practice, and professional curiosity, and discuss how transparency, fairness, and a whole-person approach are critical to public protection.


Chapters

0:00 Introduction

1:24 Robert Mckeon

4:35 Life in Probation

9:15 High-Risk Offenders

13:02 Role of Parole Boards

17:18 Parole Misconceptions

21:46 Success Stories

26:32 Systemic Challenges

41:21 Hopes for Reform


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

  • Rob Hobbs – Technical 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 readings that were referred to within the episode:

McKeon, R (2024) Parole: The Fate of Prisoners in My Hands and the High-stakes Risks of Getting it Wrong. Aurum

Gallant, S. (2023). The Road to London Bridge: How I went from a life of violence to stopping the terror attack Fishmongers’ Hall. Seven Dials.

Atkins, C. (2020). A Bit of a Stretch: The diaries of a prisoner. Atlantic Books.

Link to the Parole Board website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/parole-board

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.

Rehabilitation, Growth and Relationships - Dr Sarah Lewis27 May 202500:40:51

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 Sarah Lewis, Director of Penal Reform Solutions and Grow Transform Belong. Sarah shares her journey from PSO to reform advocate and researcher, reflecting on the power of therapeutic relationships, the influence of culture, and the role of hope in probation and prisons. She introduces the concept of “Justice 2.0,” a global campaign for cultural transformation, and offers practical insights on managing professional boundaries, ruptures in relationships, and reflective practice. With powerful messages on rehabilitation, lived experience, and emotional resilience, this episode is essential listening for PQiPs, probation officers, and anyone interested in meaningful and humane rehabilitation within the criminal justice system.

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

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:40 Dr Sarah Lewis

04:52 Therapeutic Alliance

08:40 Red & Green Spaces

10:50 Mending Relationships

13:00 Justice 2.0 Launch

16:45 Reforming Prisons

19:30 Advice for Trainees

32:00 Reflective Practice


Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode:

  • Penal Reform Solutions: https://penalreformsolutions.com/

  • Grow, Transform, Belong: https://www.growtransformbelong.com/

  • Albom, M. (2002). Tuesdays with Morrie: An old man, a young man, and life's greatest lesson. Crown.

  • Akerman, G., Needs, A., & Bainbridge, C. (2017). Transforming environments and rehabilitation. Taylor & Francis.

  • Rogers, C. R. (1995). On becoming a person: A therapist's view of psychotherapy. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

  • Wakeman, S. (2014). Fieldwork, biography and emotion: Doing criminological autoethnography. British Journal of Criminology, 54(5), 705-721.


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.

Trauma-informed and gender-responsive approaches in Probation practice - Dr Madeline Petrillo17 Jun 202500:43:39

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:



  • Herman, J. L. (2015). Trauma and recovery: The aftermath of violence--from domestic abuse to political terror. Hachette UK.



  • 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.



  • Shepherd, B. (2022). Women working with women–vicarious trauma in the probation service. Probation Quarterly, 24, 24-28.



  • 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.

  • Series 2 Trailer: Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice03 Mar 202600:03:14

    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.

    Rehabilitating Probation with Professor Matthew Millings and Dr Matt Tidmarsh10 Mar 202601:01:33

    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


    AI and Probation with Professor Mike Nellis and Louis Allgood31 Mar 202600:59:16

    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/ 

    Lived Experience and Desistance with Andi Brierley21 Apr 202600:45:41

    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

    Creative Rehabilitation and Partnership Working with Jennifer Walmsley from BearFace Theatre12 May 202600:41:36

    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

    Women’s Problem-Solving Courts with Dr Sarah Waite and Dr Alexandria Bradley02 Jun 202600:41:53

    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

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