Public Services Students Gain Real-World Insight at Shrewsbury Prison Visit

Degree level students from across the Public Services department recently embarked on an eye-opening trip to Shrewsbury Prison as part of their Care in Custody module. 

The visit provided invaluable insight into the realities of the UK’s prison system, helping students on Higher National Certificate and Diploma (HNC/D) courses deepen their understanding of inmate welfare, rehabilitation, and prison operations.

During the trip, students explored the historic prison, known for its rich history and role in the criminal justice system. They were given a guided tour that detailed the experiences of both prisoners and staff, covering key topics such as mental health support, safeguarding, and rehabilitation programmes within jails, prisons, and young offender institutions. 

The experience allowed students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world settings, enhancing their grasp of the complexities surrounding care in custody and preparing them for future roles in the justice system.

Public Services lecturer Dave Corrigan praised the visit, sharing: “This trip to Shrewsbury Prison was an invaluable experience for our students. Seeing firsthand how a prison operates and hearing real-life accounts from those who have worked within the system provided them with a unique perspective that textbooks can’t offer. It was fantastic to see their engagement and enthusiasm throughout the day.”

The trip formed a crucial part of the HNC/D Public Services course, which equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for careers in law enforcement, the prison service, and other public sector roles. Alumni from the department have gone on to careers in the Police, Armed Forces, and community outreach.