Cheshire Probation Trust (CPT) welcomed the second annual visit of Norwegian prison officers and made sure that they got a giant reception.
The prison officers, who are currently in the process of completing their training studies, were treated to a day of presentations and visits to Cheshire Probation and it’s partners, culminating with an inspiring final session at Chester Giants HQ.
After a successful visit in 2012, Angela Cossins, CPT chief executive, was asked to host a further event.
Whilst the morning was spent with Angela and her team getting the visitors up to speed on current practice in probation services and what the future may hold for probation in Cheshire, the afternoon saw the intrigued students get out and about visiting projects across Chester.
A Church in Upton was the first stop on the whistle stop tour to see CPT staff supervising individuals undertaking unpaid work as part of their sentence. This great opportunity for the visitors to see the Community Payback teams carry out work to maintain graveyards across the area.
The afternoon ended with a trip to Giant’s HQ, a partner that Cheshire Probation works with through the Achieve North West Project. The project, funded by NOMS co-financing and European Social Fund money, is focused on extending employment opportunities in England by enhancing skills and job prospects. Giant’s HQ and their project director, Kristine Szulik are an integral partner in this.
In commenting on the visit CPT chief executive, Angela Cossins, said: “ I know from speaking to our guests that they thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the day and I would like to thank all my staff, and staff from our partner agencies, for their help and support in making the day such a success.”
