What’s it like working in a prison?

[HardyPanda]

I have a job interview at HMP Belmarsh and was wondering what it’s like working in prison education. I would be working as a student support coach and was wondering if I should be scared as HMP Belmarsh houses a lot of dangerous criminals and is regarded one of the worst in the UK. Besides that what is it like working as a non uniform worker in general

I don't know anything about Belmarsh, but my husband was a prison officer for 10yrs. It completely changed him as a person, so much so, I am in the process of divorce after 32yrs. It's a tough environment. But maybe my husband wasn't cut out for the role?

But it might be different for non uniform staff. Congratulations though on your new job OP.

Thank you and sorry to hear about your divorce @Belladog1

There was an AMA last month which might have some useful information on it?

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/AMA/5531262-ama-worked-in-cat-a-prison

I worked in the medical centre for 7 years and loved it, mens prison. They give you full training before you go in.
It was a real opportunity to connect with people and make a difference.

And this one specifically about education from two years ago: https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/AMA/5097127-im-a-prison-teacher-ama

I work in prison education and love it. Prisoners are risk assessed before they come to education and are generally polite and reasonable if not always keen to learn. There's a high prevalence of neurodiversity and mental health issues among the prison population so many people will present with associated behaviours. Class sizes are small although as a support worker you probably won't be in charge of a class. You might be doing screening and assessment where you will work with groups.
If anything does kick off, there are alarm bells you can press which summon immediate help. I've worked in prisons for seven years and never had to press one. You might be issued with a radio too.
You'll have a security induction which will go through things like conditioning and how to reduce risk eg always sitting yourself closest to the door if working one to one with a prisoner.
It's not for everyone but you'll get a feel for the place during your interview. If you can, try to see what it's like with learners around to find out if you're comfortable with them.
Good luck with your interview!