The Mirror: Unlocked at HMP Belmarsh

“There are lots of opportunities for big and small wins, most of which come from treating prisoners with respect and asking how they are. It all makes a big difference in a challenging environment.”

Unlocked participant Officer Herman joined the Unlocked programme in 2021 and is working to make a positive impact on the frontline at HMP Belmarsh, one of eight high-security prisons in the UK. She recently spoke to The Mirror about her role at Belmarsh whilst on the Unlocked Graduates Leadership Development Programme:

“It’s not my place to judge people in prison – they have already been judged by the courts. I see my role as being supportive during their time in prison and building relationships so that I can act as a positive influence moving forward.”

“I’ve never felt in danger, I would say I’m aware of my size and gender in that environment, in which I think actually, sometimes it can be a massive asset. The presence of female staff is really, really positive.”

“Actually, to rehabilitate these individuals, to help them, it saves lives. It improves the quality of life and the safety of our society.”

Read the full article in The Mirror here.