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Role of the British Prison-Based Probation Officer

NCJ Number
132019
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 14 Issue: 1-2 Dated: (Spring-Winter 1990) Pages: 73-82
Author(s)
M Carlie
Date Published
1990
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Interview data, official documents, and personal observations were used to describe the functions fulfilled by prison-based probation officers in Great Britain. British probation officers spend a portion of their time providing "throughcare" or services to prisoners prior to, during, and following their incarceration.
Abstract
The prison-based probation officer represents a link between the institution and the outside community. As such, the kinds of services provided include assisting newly arrived prisoners, meeting the prisoners' daily needs, helping prisoners who wish to modify their behavior, training prison personnel, writing reports and recommendations, providing throughcare, maintaining contact with prisoners' families, and working with other care providers inside and outside the facility. The prison-based parole officer must confront difficulties stemming from working in the prison setting, dealing with the clientele, and sharing responsibility for the inmates' care with prison guards. 7 references (Author abstract modified)