Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice is a podcast exploring the world of probation, rehabilitation, and community justice. Hosted by Megan Thomas and Ceri Halfpenny from the University of Portsmouth, this series delves into key issues affecting probation practice, featuring expert insights, research, and real-world experiences.

In this episode, we speak with Dr Madeline Petrillo, Associate Professor of Criminology at the University of Greenwich and former probation officer. Madeline shares her journey into trauma-informed practice, reflecting on the emotional impact of frontline work, the gendered nature of trauma, and the power of compassionate supervision. She explores the challenges and potential of embedding trauma-informed approaches within probation, offers insights from her work on the innovative Hope Street project, and highlights the importance of reflective practice and practitioner wellbeing. With powerful stories, practical examples, and critical reflections, this episode is essential listening for PQiPs, probation officers, and anyone committed to building a more responsive and humane justice system.

Please be aware that this episode includes discussion of sexual violence and abuse, which some listeners may find distressing. Take care while listening, and feel free to pause or step away if you need to.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:15 Dr Madeline Petrillo

05:03 Realities for women

07:32 Trauma-informed meaning

13:13 Writing on trauma

17:00 Why trauma matters

20:25 Pathways to crime

25:48 Hope Street project

30:33 Trauma principles

Show notes and readings:

We’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made Probation Perspectives: Insights into Community Justice possible.

• Freddie Hunt – Podcast producer

• Jill Dealey – Podcast development and content support

• Lauren Meredith – Logo and jingle development

• Jenn Grant & Michelle McDermott – Management and support

• All of our guests for sharing their expertise and experiences

Here are the details of the resources and readings that were referred to within the episode:

• Corston, J. (2007) The Corston Report: a review of women with particular vulnerabilities in the criminal justice system. https://prisonreformtrust.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/The-Corston-Report.pdf

• Herman, J. L. (2015). Trauma and recovery: The aftermath of violence–from domestic abuse to political terror. Hachette UK.

• Ministry of Justice. (n.d.). Women’s Justice Board. GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/womens-justice-board

• Petrillo, M., & Bradley, A. (2022). Working with trauma in adult probation: HM Inspectorate of Probation research and analysis bulletin 2022/02. Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation.

• Petrillo, M. (2023). Women, trauma, and journeys towards desistance: Navigating the labyrinth. Routledge.

• Phillips, J., Westaby, C., & Fowler, A. (2020). Emotional labour in probation. https://hmiprobation.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/document/emotional-labour-in-probation/

• Shepherd, B. (2022). Women working with women–vicarious trauma in the probation service. Probation Quarterly, 24, 24-28.