Hidden Heroes UK

Celebrating the #HiddenHeroes working in our prisons, IRCs, probation services and youth justice settings

Thank You #HiddenHeroes

Frank Bruno Xmas

A knockout Christmas greeting from Frank Bruno

From: Frank Bruno, MBE

Terry Xmas

A Christmas message to staff from founding Butler Trust Trustee, Terry Waite

From: Terry Waite, CBE

Trevor B Xmas

A Christmas message to staff from founding Butler Trust Trustee, Trevor Brooking

From: Sir Trevor Brooking

#HiddenHeroes message of support from One of the troops, HMP Guys Marsh

To work with an amazing bunch of misfits who keep smiling as they deal with their own lockdown as well as the men in this weird and new existence, is a damned fine reason to get up in the morning and muck in. The unified staff are utterly amazing and do a job I'm proud to be part of.
#teamguysmarsh
From: One of the troops, HMP Guys Marsh

#HiddenHeroes message of support from A proud mum, East Horsley

It is about time everyone working in the prison service got recognised for the work they do. It is every bit as challenging as working in health care and equally important. I work in a hospital and couldn't be more proud of my daughter choosing to be a prison officer working with young offenders.
From: A proud mum, East Horsley

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Jason Swettenham. Head of PSPI, Education, Employment and Industries Group

I am so proud of you all at PSPI for your unfailing dedication. Each of you has made a remarkable effort, supporting front line operations to make sure that the prisoners in our care have been provided with advice on exercise, meals, canteen and critical decency requirements. Well done all of you.
From: Jason Swettenham. Head of PSPI, Education, Employment and Industries Group

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Jason Errington, Head of Operations, Public Sector Prison Industries (PSPI)

A big thank you to those prisons who helped PSPI manufacture scrubs for the NHS. From May to August we completed orders for two NHS Trusts totalling 12,000 scrub sets and 5,000 scrub bags! We are exceptionally grateful for how quickly prisons mobilised, and how staff and prisoners pulled together.
From: Jason Errington, Head of Operations, Public Sector Prison Industries (PSPI)

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Steph Curtis, HMPPS

Happy #HiddenHeroesDay to all of my fantastic colleagues across the Youth Custody Service, Prison and Probation services. The work everyone does, both frontline and ‘back office’ genuinely makes a huge difference to those we care for. I appreciate every single one of you!!
From: Steph Curtis, HMPPS

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Carrie Peters, The Reducing Reoffending Partnership

A big thank you to all of my colleagues in probation and prisons – your ongoing commitment to keep people safe in a Covid world, given all the different responsibilities and challenges that involves, have been remarkable! Of course I include Volunteers and Peer Mentors. Proud to work alongside you!
From: Carrie Peters, The Reducing Reoffending Partnership

Noddy Holder Xmas

Merry Chriiiiiiiistmassssssss, #HiddenHeroes – from Noddy Holder

From: Noddy Holder

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Tracy, HMP Durham

To all of the staff that work in this establishment. You have all been absolutely amazing, even more so during the coronavirus pandemic. Your creativity, endurance, determination and professionalism in supporting the prisoners and their families prove you are the hidden heroes.
From: Tracy, HMP Durham

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Maura, HMPPS BCN Region

Finally the national public recognition every one in HMPPS, YCS, Probation l, deserves thanks to The Butler Trust. These past few months have certainly tested everyone, and we have proved what we already knew, we are a team, we work well in crisis; we do it every day #Be Proud # You are Brilliant
From: Maura, HMPPS BCN Region

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Adele Rae, SPS Fauldhouse

A special thank you to all the support staff at SPS Fauldhouse & their families: my true Hidden Heroes! The positivity & resourcefulness shown by staff across the SPS and partnering organisations never ceases to amaze me.

I am truly proud & humbled to be part of such an amazing team – Thank You!

From: Adele Rae, SPS Fauldhouse

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Mr Maza, Ollerton

LOWDHAM GRANGE!!!!!!!

I just want to say you are Superstars for the work you have done during these unprecedented times.
You have all worked so hard during these difficult times.
Keep up the good work……and especially Dan who comes in with a late run lol

We are proud of you!!!!!!!!

From: Mr Maza, Ollerton

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Amanda, HMP Wayland

A big well done to all #hiddenheroes across HMPPS ! Whatever your role, whatever your grade, it is the combined effort of all staff that makes the service what it is. We work in a place that is a mystery to so many, but let it never be forgotten how much patience, support and commitment you show.
From: Amanda, HMP Wayland

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Ian Lawrence General Secretary and Katie Lomas National Chair, Napo Probation and Family Courts

Our members in Probation, Prison and Family Courts have been working tirelessly to maintain vital public services during these unprecedented times and deserve a huge shout out for their efforts! We all look forward to better days ahead, but meanwhile our appreciation for all that you do for so many.
From: Ian Lawrence General Secretary and Katie Lomas National Chair, Napo Probation and Family Courts

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Brigadier Hughie Monro, Chair, The Scottish Prison Service Advisory Board

I would like to thank all Scottish Prison Service Staff for your incredible dedication to duty throughout this year. You have never wavered in your determination to look after those in your care whatever the challenges put in your way. Well done and thank you!
From: Brigadier Hughie Monro, Chair, The Scottish Prison Service Advisory Board

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Mr Maza, Ollerton

My lovely wife has worked all the time through this pandemic.

I never say this as much as I should, but I hope you know that I am proud of you. You have achieved so much, and I know that you’re only going to be achieving even more.

Love you,
Mrs M XXXXXX

From: Mr Maza, Ollerton

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Webbo, Serco

As we walk through the gates in a morning wondering what the day bring we don't day and day out with out thought we deal With issues as they arise until we walk out of the gates after a long shift SO STAY SAFE AND LOOK AFTER ONE ANOTHER AS BEHIND THE WALLS WE ONLY HAVE EACH OTHER
From: Webbo, Serco

#HiddenHeroes message of support from David, Dundee

All the staff at SPS who have continued working throughout the pandemic when others stayed at home safe. Thank you SPS for keeping us safe and providing a vital service to society.
A lot of people forget about the vital and difficult job that is is carried out by SPS come rain or shine.
From: David, Dundee

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Damon Corr, Ryde

In the memory of my late Dad, Terry Corr of HMP Albany, Highpoint and Channings Wood, the wonderful characters who were his friends and colleagues and like uncle's to me, and to the happiness and laughs we shared on 'the camp' – and to those who do the job today, I express my respect and thanks.
From: Damon Corr, Ryde

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Manon Roberts, Gwynedd Môn Youth Justice Services

I'd like to say a BIG thank you to the volunteer Panel Members of the Gwynedd Môn YJS for their continued input and support, even during these testing times. Many are facing their own daily challenges, though still want to help the community around them and the young people in our care. Huge thanks
From: Manon Roberts, Gwynedd Môn Youth Justice Services

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Colleague, Midlands

Thank you to all the prison officers, prison staff, probation and CRC staff across the country for everything you do. I see every day the difference you make in helping to change lives. Always have been the forgotten service, but it’s great to finally receive some recognition. Stay safe out there!
From: Colleague, Midlands

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Anon, Manchester

Thank you to the Recovery Team at HMP Forest Bank. You are an amazing team, you have continued to provide a brilliant service to clients throughout a very testing year. You do a fantastic job in a role that is often forgotten about. You are all amazing. Thank you all.
From: Anon, Manchester

Nicola Adams Xmas

Happy Christmas #HiddenHeroes from double Olympic champion boxer and all round superstar, Nicola Adams OBE

From: Nicola Adams

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Nikki Shave, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Youth Offending Teams

I want to say thank you to all of the staff in both Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Youth Offending Teams for their continued dedication, creativity and hard work during recent months. They have responded to everything which has been asked of them and more. I am very proud to work with you.
From: Nikki Shave, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Youth Offending Teams

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Smithy, HMP HULL

To my colleagues and friends at the big house at HMP Hull. You perform miracles day in day out without complaint and do wonders keeping a decent safe regime. You never get the credit you fully deserve but everyone inside and outside those walls should know how great you are. Especially the Flagship!
From: Smithy, HMP HULL

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Rachel O, HMP Doncaster

Big shoutout to all the amazing staff at HMP Doncaster who have worked so hard during these challenging times + have gone way beyond what is expected in their daily role. Non-ops staff deserve seperate recognition for holding the fort + providing vital services to keep staff fed + watered in the VT!
From: Rachel O, HMP Doncaster

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Anon, HMP Moorland

Big shout out to all the staff doing a cracking job at keeping our prison’s safe during this difficult time. You’re all doing an amazing job and I’m proud of every single one of you! You’ve all shown resilience in the face of adversity and it just shows how much commitment we all share! Well done!!
From: Anon, HMP Moorland

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Jo Sykes, South & West Yorkshire Resettlement Consortium

I’d like to thank everyone in custody and the community for the work they do to support the S & WY Resettlement Consortium – your work is vital to the young people and the families you support.
A shout out to all the volunteers including In2Out and their wonderful mentors. Thank you
From: Jo Sykes, South & West Yorkshire Resettlement Consortium

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Lord Ponsonby

I would like to pay tribute to the men and women who continue to serve with distinction in these troubled times. Some of the most vulnerable and dangerous members of our society end up in prison or under the supervision of probation and YOTs. The men and women who supervise and care for these offenders are putting themselves in harm’s way. I am grateful for the work they do and acknowledge the debt that we owe them.

From: Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede, House of Lords

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Lord Ramsbotham

I am most grateful for this opportunity to pay tribute to all staff working with prisoners, young offenders, immigration detainees, and those under supervision in the community, for all your dedicated work during this difficult period. I know how keen you are to be doing positive things for them, to ready them for life in the community, and can only imagine how frustrating current restrictions on such work must be.

From: Lord Ramsbotham, House of Lords

Bobby George

Thank you and Merry Christmas from darts player, Bobby George

From: Bobby George

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Joe, Prison Fellowship UK

Dear HMPS and G4S staff, just to say thank you for your hard work , courage an devotion to your sectors. You are making a big difference to society and the lives of those under your watch in custody. I visit some inmates on an informal basis and they have praised the staff.
From: Joe, Prison Fellowship UK

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Suzanne Butcher, .

It is true, you are the Hidden Heroes.
Keeping prisoners safe while they serve their time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, and we pray you continue to stay safe as you keep us safe.
God Bless each and everyone who works within the prison service.
From: Suzanne Butcher

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Svetlana, Milton Keynes

I would like to thank all prison staff at HMP Woodhill for their dedication and commitment during these difficult times, and particularly for my mum, who has thrown herself into her job, despite the circumstances and has contributed greatly into the safe and secure running of the establishment.
From: Svetlana, Milton Keynes

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Pat Wilton, Peterhead

I want to thank all those working through the pandemic, helping to keep us safe, and to maintain continued security during these difficult times. Knowing that you are all giving the same level of professionalism despite worrying about your own families is commendable.
From: Pat Wilton, Peterhead

Berwyn x1

I’d just like to say thank you to the officers on my wing for doing an excellent job at this difficult time, and to the nurses in Healthcare for putting themselves in danger to look after us. Thank you very much
From: A Prisoner, Berwyn

Belmarsh

I’d like to thank all Belmarsh officers, governors for standing by us, keeping us going. I’d like to really thank you from all the prisoners in Belmarsh, people don’t do it enough but thank you, and God be with you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Belmarsh

Jane Williams

“Thank you to all the hidden heroes – you exemplify the sentiments of Churchill’s 1910 speech, as Home Secretary, to the House of Commons”

[click to expand]

From: Jane Williams, London

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Sue, Kent

My daughter is a Snr Probation Officer in a prison. She puts in many extra hours for the benefit of her team and the prisoners. Prison staff deserve more recognition for the demanding and difficult job they do all the time, but especially now. Well done to all of them.
From: Sue, Kent

#HiddenHeroes message of support from John Guiney, HMP WAYLAND

I wish to thank every one of our colleagues, not only the HMPPS, but the other valuable services across the UK. We all helped get through this and will continue to help each other get through this crisis and the next, all of us should give that extra clap to show us "it is the least we all deserve"
From: John Guiney, HMP Wayland

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Anonymous, NPS Wrexham

To my amazing colleagues in Wrexham and Flint you are doing an incredible job in difficult circumstances. You show your strength resilience and dedication everyday. You make difficult decisions, deal with challenging people, keep the public safe and help to change lives you’re awesome thank you
From: Anonymous, NPS Wrexham

Emily Spademan

Thankful for those prisons who are doing an amazing job to handle this crisis in what has never been an easy environment, and one which is all too frequently forgotten #hiddenheroes
From: Emily S, London

Paul M

Respect to all my former colleagues stay safe behind the wall “unity is strength”

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Paul M, Liverpool

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Emma, Sittingbourne l

A massive thank you goes to all the staff working tirelessly at hmp Pentonville not only in these testing times but everyday of every year, especially my amazing brother who I miss very much.
Thankyou to all other prison staff around the country as well for all your hard work ?‍♂️
From: Emma, Sittingbourne

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Karen, Retford

Thank you to all the hidden heroes out there. My husband was an officer before an injury at work led to his retirement. You are all doing a very hard job under stressful circumstances at any time not just now. Stay safe and look after each other at work!
From: Karen, Retford

#HiddenHeroes message of support from John Bensted, Bristol

In my 40 years in Probation and Youth Justice I always knew Probation & Prison Staff were unsung heroes, changing lives and giving hope. I now watch from the sidelines, as a Trustee for Shannon Trust, in even more total admiration & respect for your commitment and professionalism . Thank you
From: John Bensted, Bristol

Berwyn x2

Hat off to all members of staff for not forgetting about us in these hard times when they could be with family, many thanks and you are appreciated.
From: A Prisoner, Berwyn

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Officers Partner, Romsey

The mantra stay safe is the new buzz # – Every text, email & message, & goodbye, but I along with many other officers other halfs, have been saying this every day they leave for work! It’s nothing new to us #hiddenheroes #forgottenservice. Stay safe & thank you all for your service x
From: Officers Partner, Romsey

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Malcolm Butler, The Butler Trust

The Butler Trust celebrates the extraordinary work done by those in the prison service and wider offender management. Your dedication and service at this time of absolute necessity shows what remarkable people you are. You guys are better than great – you're invaluable, thank you.


From: Malcolm Butler, Chair, The Butler Trust

Gail Hydon

I don’t have the words, to really convey the thanks owed to the prison, probation and youth service staff who are genuinely hidden heroes. I am proud and privileged to be part of this organisation and never more so than during these testing times. Thanks to you and your families for what and how you do what you do every day. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
From: Gail Hydon, HMPPS

#HiddenHeroes message of support from D.A., HMP Ashfield

Thank you all staff, from those who have made sure we got our canteen, finance, so we can get paid weekly, and to all management and PCO’s who are keeping us safe. I will be banging my door every Thursday, along with everyone else, to show appreciation for all who are working to keep us safe.
[via Inside Time]
From: D.A., HMP Ashfield

Sue Payea

Thank You all, doing an amazing job, all Heroes
????????????

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Sue P

Becky Adlington Xmas

Happy Christmas #HiddenHeroes, from double Olympic champion swimmer, Rebecca Adlington

From: Becky Adlington, OBE

International nurses day

On International Nurses Day:

The nurses in our prisons go above and beyond… Thank you for all you do… – Jo Farrar, HMPPS CEO

Our thanks to our fantastic nurses & other healthcare professionals. You are all superstars! – HMP Bullingdon

A huge thank you to all the nurses who are part of the team here – HMP Pentonville

Big shout out to all the nurses working tirelessly through these difficult times – HMP Garth

Read more…

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Sue OHara Chair, Shannon Trust

Thank you on behalf of the Board of The Shannon Trust to all those #Hiddenheroes in the Prison and Probation Service who have a difficult job at the best of times and who are going above and beyond all our expectations in these difficult times. Thank you so much for all that you do.
From: Sue O’Hara Chair, Shannon Trust

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Bob Lawless, London

To all those involved and especially those front – line workers in running HM Prisons, during this very difficult time. I offer my respect and thanks. It is difficult enough for the local community to deal with the challenges before them. On behalf of the local community. Thank You.
From: Bob Lawless, London

Kim W

Stay safe HMPPS. The work you doing is so, so important

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Kim W, Stourbridge

Joe Pattinson, Brinsford

Despite people’s own anxieties, the care and support I have witnessed has been truly inspirational. Compassion and humility have been in abundance. Brinsford’s community showing appreciation for key workers with rounds of applause and donations to local Health Trust shows what a truly fantastic group of people you are. To behave like this while living and working in such difficult times is a credit to you all.
From: Joe Pattinson, HoBA Brinsford

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Justin Russell, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Probation

A massive thanks to all the frontline staff in the probation service and working in local Youth Offending Teams who are working so hard at the moment in very difficult circumstances to check in on the welfare of the many thousands of people you supervise. We salute you!
From: Justin Russell, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Probation

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Ivy, HMP Ranby

It is without doubt that our staff do one of the most difficult jobs, with little reward and yet with minimal complaint. You stand with courage in the face of adversity most days and for that we applaud you. May you be proud of the work that you do, the person you are and the difference you make.
From: Ivy, HMP Ranby

Elmley x

I know we’re all struggling now, locked up in our cell, I just wanna thank all the staff, all the healthcare system, they’d doing a lot for us right now, risking their own lives, respect to all of them.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Elmley

Jack C, FS

A message from a staff family member at Full Sutton
[click to expand]

From: Jack C, age 11

Jean D

???????❤️❤️❤️❤️

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Jean D, St Helens

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Neil Thomas, HMP Stocken

I have the honour to work for the staff of HMP Stocken. My team constantly amaze me, they demonstrate the very best that the public services of our country have to offer, courage, teamwork, compassion and determination. Brighter happier days are coming, Im proud of you all. #teamstocken #hiddenheroes
From: Neil Thomas, HMP Stocken

Annette S

You are all doing an amazing job under such hard circumstances.x?

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Annette S

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Finola, Chisllehurst

I want to send a huge vote of thanks to to every single person who works within the prison service for their dedicated commitment doing valuable work on our behalf. When I am applauding all those people who work so hard to help us on a Thursday evening, you will be included.
From: Finola, Chisllehurst

Woodhill 2

I’d like to thank all the NHS workers and all the prison officers for all the great work they’re doing in HMP Woodhill and Swaleside. Thank you.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Woodhill

Shirely Ballas Xmas

A Strictly Christmas message from Head Judge, Shirley Ballas

From: Shirley Ballas

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Joanna Perkins, London

I want to thank all those who work within our prisons.

Key workers, doing amazing work in such challenging times; from the officers, chaplains, maintenance to nursing/mental health & education teams.

I'm looking forward to being back in as Prison Fellowship volunteer.

THANK YOU! x

From: Joanna Perkins, London

#HiddenHeroes message of support from Donna Meade, Cheshire & Greater Manchester Community Rehabilitation Company

As Director of Operations I wanted to thank and profile all of our fabulous staff involved in the delivery of probation services across Cheshire & Greater Manchester . They are Hiddenheroes – whose hard work and dedication to do the right thing and make a difference is truly appreciated and valued!
From: Donna Meade, Cheshire & Greater Manchester Community Rehabilitation Company

Susan F

Thank you to all prison staff

[via @UKPrisonService on FB]

From: Susan F, Leeds

Northumberland 3

I just wanna say a big thanks to all the staff who is working here and making sure that we’re still getting out of our cells on time and having time out on the exercise yard and out in the kiosks – so I just wanna say a big thanks to them.
[via National Prison Radio]
From: A Prisoner, HMP Northumberland

Ronnie Armour

I am honoured and humbled to lead the Northern Ireland Prison Service when I see the work Prison staff do in challenging and supporting those placed in our care to change their behaviours. Behind the walls and out of sight Prison Officers work with complex, demanding and often dangerous individuals in an effort to reduce the likelihood of them reoffending and make our community a safer. The professionalism, commitment and dedication of Prison Officers is demonstrated everyday as they keep on working with offenders when everyone else has given up. Prison Officers have always been hidden heroes, but never more so than now as in an unselfish and sacrificial way they face the unprecedented challenges of COVID19. We owe them an enormous debt of gratitude.
From: Ronnie Armour, Director General, NI Prison Service