P.105
Analítico de Periódico
FARROW, Kathryn
Still committed after all these years? Morale in the modern-day probation service
Probation Journal, London, V.51, n.3(sep. 2004), p.206-220
PROBATION OFFICER, PROBATION SERVICE, MOTIVAÇÃO, QUALIDADE
This artcle discusses research conducted in two probation service areas in the UK, which explores the extent to which experienced probation officers (POs), that is those with over 10 years experience, still feel committed to the probation service and its work with offenders. It became aparent that the POs interviewed for this research presented themselves as very demoralized and alienated. They remain committed to their work with offenders and also to colleagues, but not to the probation service as on organization. This is a small-scale study but if it is indicative of a wider malaise in the workforce, then the probation service can no longer rely on its experienced POs remaining coomitted and motivated, and this will have repercussions for the longer-term health and success of the organization. The aim of this article is to raise the issue of probation officer morale and promote discussion at all levels about the way the service needs to be managed, particularly in view of the advent of the National Offender Management Service (NOMS).