I work in a place used to swearing.  But it’s not for me. 

I set my personal standards on swearing years ago, long before I worked in a Prison.  I never let my children swear at me or around  me – a...

In Education we’re well aware of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.  Being loved by others and having a good self-esteem is key for our wellbeing. So when others demonstrate their appreciation for us, it’s ...

Few of us manage well in the heat and it’s been a scorcher in the UK these past few weeks.

Working at HMP the heat is just another element in a precarious environment. Anything can inflame the situat...

I’ve been away but I’m back now.

We’ve all had periods when we’ve had to take a breather. Life can hit us unexpected with the big  things. And it can wear us down with the small accumulated things th...

You’ll know I work in a challenging place.  People expect it to be noisy and disruptive. But our Education Landings are generally harmonious – because the teachers create respectful places in which to...

At this time of year we often look back.  In doing so, I came across an article I'd written some years back when I was new to Prison Education. It gave me hope - I hope it does the same for you.

I’d ...

I’ve felt out of flow recently.  I’m usually buoyant and upbeat and able to chug my way through most obstacles. But I’ve noticed it become more of a struggle these past few weeks.

I don’t know about ...

I’ve always had a problem with my weight.  I eat to praise myself.  I eat to fill the parts I see as unfilled. And of course, I gravitate to the sugar – natch!

Sugar’s addictive, as are many things i...

You know I work at an HMP Establishment.  Every day I meet people who show up in a state of frustration, despair, irritation, and detachment. And that’s not just the prisoners.

Sometimes I am greeted...

A while ago my son came to live with me when he lost his job, flat and partner.

The whole world was going through Covid complications and I felt the turmoil too as I started sharing my single space w...

Like you, I work in a busy environment.  Stress can creep up on us. One moment we can manage things and the next it all gets a bit too much.

Depending on our own levels of awareness, and how much we ...

I used to hate asking for help. I blame my Father.  No, I’ll rephrase that.  My Father taught me to be resilient. I was expected to be self reliant and to learn how to do things without needing the su...