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When I attended my interview at HMP Wormwood Scrubs, I was asked what I wanted to gain from my placement experience. I distinctively remember replying that I wanted to shadow forensic psychologists, that I was hoping to have lots of prisoner contact, the chance to interview prisoners, the possibility of facilitating on programmes run by the psychology department and generally that I wanted to become involved in as much research as I could, and learn as much as possible.

During my placement I also hoped to discover a few things about myself. This experience for me was about gaining some direction in my life and choosing the right career path. When I first started my placement I was relatively sure that I wanted to go on to complete my MSc in forensic psychology and finally become a chartered psychologist after years of demanding training. However, my mind was open enough to know that I may not enjoy my time at Wormwood Scrubs and it may lead me in a whole new direction

In relation to my final year of study and future career I know that forensics is still the area I am most interested and passionate about, however, this placement has opened new doors such as counselling within forensic psychology or maybe forensic psychology but within the probation service opposed to the prison service. I have always been interested in forensics, but working alongside those studying for their Masters in counselling psychology at Wormwood Scrubs has enlightened me to another area of psychology that holds my interest. When making my module choices for my final year, these were the first two I requested.

In retrospect, I can say that my time here was fantastic; I have learnt so much and truly appreciate the opportunity I have had to meet and work with prison officers, probation staff, psychologists, psychiatric nurses, occupational therapists and so many more professionals, not forgetting the prisoners themselves!!

Many people find it hard to believe that I loved working in a prison in close contact with prisoners, but I really have enjoyed it and it’s one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences I have ever had. I am 100% sure that I want to carry on working in a similar environment, supporting those who are less fortunate and need help to turn their back on the criminal world.