Published date:
As we reach the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Probation Board for Northern Ireland (PBNI) we are delighted to have collected a number of first-hand accounts to retell the history of working life within Probation over the last number of decades.
These contributions from former and current staff members are fascinating. Some personal reflections provide the political and societal context to the establishment of the organisation in 1982. The introduction of an evidence-based approach to practice and the innovation that took place during the 1980’s and 1990’s to contribute to building safer communities is also well documented. Staff members describe the introduction of new sentencing options such as ‘Community Service’ and the change in probation work from an organisation that worked mainly with young people to one working with higher risk individuals. They also describe the introduction of new technology and records management which has modernised the service.
In those early years, the new Board prioritised community engagement and represented the work and needs of Probation to a wide range of interest groups and partner organisations. As our current Board develops its Corporate Plan for 2023-26, we are mindful that the pioneering work commenced by that first Board continues to this day. We want to further progress this work so that Probation staff, and Probation more broadly become integrated into the community.
It is clear from these accounts that much has changed over the years but importantly the core elements of Probation’s work and its values of openness, accountability, integrity and respect have stayed the same.
Recognising everyone’s capacity to change is fundamental in the work of every staff and Board member of PBNI.
Download and read "Reflections at 40".