We have been in continued discussions with the employer around the issue of probation safety and the upcoming pilots in seven areas, and we are aware of the concerns and feelings expressed by the members
Measures which include:
Metal Archways, Security Wands, Thru vision Body Scanners, Security Guards, Body Worn video Cameras, Personal Safety Training
The ongoing induction/safe working parties that centre around the implementation of these proposals are a useful a way for Napo and our local health and safety Reps, link officers, and officials to raise any concerns that they may have with the Pilots with the regional health and safety leads and RPDs.
We can achieve this.
- By Attending all induction, safe working parties meetings around the Pilots
- Provide Local knowledge and information around risk management.
- Ensure that impact assessments are fit for purpose not tick box exercises.
- Ensure the employer provides clear communication.
- That clear communication around the implementation process is maintained between RPDS and PDU heads to ensure this is a robust operation and not a tick box exercise.
- That no decisions are made until proper consultation has taken place between local health and safety Reps and the RPD. Those attending the meeting will have an impact on shaping the process going forwards.
- This should relate to all areas including security staff recruitment and training and contingency plans for all the safety measures proposed.
Attendance is important.
We in Napo, recently had feedback from some of the inductions, safe working parties that have taken place. Which reflects a good opportunity to demonstrate how local trade union Reps can collaboratively work with regional health and safety leads and provide any feedback on concerns they may have around a particular project, and the impact on members and people on probation.
It is crucial that all our local health and safety Reps, link officers and link officials where possible attend these meetings and are actively involved as this will ensure the measures proposed are steered in the right direction and align fully with needs of our probation offices, court buildings, approved premises, or unpaid work sites. Health and safety is not optional. It is fundamental to every one of us working in the Probation community. Getting these right matters — for staff, for people on probation, and for public safety. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed to the Annex A process around the proposed security measures in the seven pilot areas.