VIDEO: Probation officers strike in dispute over privatisation

Probation officers in Calderdale will out on strike for a second day today in a dispute over plans to restructure the probation service.
By The Newsroom
Published 31st Mar 2014, 16:53 BST
Calderdale Probation officer strike.Calderdale Probation officer strike.
Calderdale Probation officer strike.

Napo, the Trade Union for Probation and Family Court staff, are in a formal dispute over government plans to privatise 70 per cent of the probation service.

Gavin Lee. senior probation officer at West Yorkshire Probation Trust and member of Napo, said: “I’m striking along with colleagues here at Halifax Probation Centre because I’m very concerned about the risky and unproven rehabilitation agenda the coalition has.

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“We already have a working relationship with NHS, social care and children’s services across Calderdale, as well as with charities and private companies - it’s fair to say they’re all concerned about the risks these changes will bring.”

Calderdale Probation officer strike.Calderdale Probation officer strike.
Calderdale Probation officer strike.

The West Yorkshire Probation Trust supports around 800 people at any one time - 80 per cent of those served live within the community.

Justice Minister Jeremy Wright said: “It is very disappointing that Napo has chosen to strike when we are making positive progress towards the implementation of these vital reforms.”

Related topics:CalderdaleNHS