For many probation staff, the job is about managing risk, protecting the public, and supporting rehabilitation. But for some overseas colleagues, a new challenge has emerged that has nothing to do with their ability to do the job.
As Stefani explains, recent changes to immigration rules have introduced a £38,700 salary threshold for skilled worker visas. The problem? Many probation roles simply don’t meet it.
The result is a stark contradiction. Staff who are trusted to manage complex cases and contribute to public safety are now being told their work isn’t “skilled” enough to justify remaining in the country.
At a time when probation is already under pressure, losing skilled and experienced staff is a risk the service can ill afford. While protections have been discussed for prison staff, probation has been left out, reinforcing a sense that the workforce is undervalued.
A motion at Napo conference has called for action, including transitional visa arrangements. But as Stefani makes clear, this is also about solidarity.
Because when one group of workers is treated as disposable, it affects the whole service.
