Scottish Prison Service Questions

Kerr1992

Good afternoon folks :-)

So, I started filling out the application form for the SPS the other day. I asked my uncle what it is like despite him working for the prison service down south and he really didn't recommend it. He described it as extremely understaffed and dangerous, he did it for almost 10 years. Can anyone advise if it is as dangerous as they make it sound? I understand that your locked in a building with some pretty dangerous people but is it more dangerous than the police etc?

I noticed on the job reviews online and the website they talk a lot about the progression opportunities which doesn't get mentioned much for other government based organisations. Is it a realistic goal to seek promotion within the SPS? I'm studying my degree in business management part-time and I know they recruit for graduate trainee managers but I feel I would prefer to learn the job and progress from there.

I've been working in admin roles for the last 3 years and really been struggling to stick with them due to the environment and boredom I guess. Before this I worked in a sports centre in a hands on role and stuck with that 6 years and only moved after finishing my HNC in business. I understand my goal of moving into management is quite admin based but can sometimes be quite hands on too.

Hopefully someone can provide advice.

Thanks
Craig Kerr

IAmWales

Listen to your uncle. Read the news. Prisons are overpopulated and understaffed, that's a dangerous situation. The recent smoking ban is making tensions even worse.

Why do you want to join?

Kerr1992

Fed up of working in offices if I'm honest. Looking for something more hands on where I can potentially move into a management role. The reviews made it sound like promotion prospects were good.

ohreally

I did some courses a few years ago and there were a couple of guys there from SPS, neither recommended a move there. Very high pressure and stressful. One commented the prisoners are there 24/7 and they have loads of time to contemplate ways to get at staff members.

Not for me in any way, shape or form.

sammyjammy

I think your reasons for wanting to apply are somewhat fluffy and you can probably wouldn't last five minutes. If its just the promotion prospects that tempt you then look elsewhere.