A FEMALE prison officer has lifted the lid on what it's like to work inside HMP Aylesbury.

Rebecca Ladds has revealed what she loves about her role and why she chose to work as a prison officer.

Her story comes as part of a recruitment drive to build a bigger and more diverse team as the Government announces significant pay rises for Prison Service staff.

Rebecca said: "My experience of working in special education has allowed me to be more patient and understanding of challenges faced by prisoners.

"A big part of my role is getting to know them and their individual needs so you can make the environment as rehabilitative as possible.

"The prisoners know that if I can help them, I will, and that good working relationships, understanding and trust is really important."

The 34-year-old enjoyed working with people having transferred to the service from her previous position within the special education sector for children and young adults.

She has worked as a prison officer for almost three years, helping to ensure an effective and safe day-to-day regime for prisoners.

Rebecca has recently become a new colleague mentor, providing support for new starters.

Rebecca is now urging local residents to join her in a role that keeps the public safe and helps offenders turn their backs on crime.

"I am very glad that I got an opportunity to become a prison officer as it is such an interesting and rewarding job," she said.

"I particularly love the camaraderie between colleagues in the prison and I have made friends for life within the role.”

HMP Aylesbury is a Category C training prison which accommodates up to 402 prisoners.

There are currently 158 prison officers working on site.  Officers help to maintain safety standards on the inside, while also ensuring ex-offenders leave with the skills and experience they need to secure a job.

The role allows employees to work with a diverse group of prisoners and staff, developing a wide range of practical and interpersonal skills.

HMP Aylesbury is looking for people with good communication and influencing skills, effective decision-making, care and understanding.

Governor at HMP Aylesbury Mark Allen said: "We have a fantastic team of staff at HMP Aylesbury and they do incredible work every day.

"Prison officers play an essential role in making a positive impact in vulnerable people’s lives.

"Working as part of a close-knit and supportive team, all helping to rehabilitate prisoners and reduce reoffending, is what makes this challenging, but rewarding, job so important.

"This job isn’t just about locking and unlocking doors – prison officers play an essential role in changing the lives of those in custody.

"That is why it is so important that we have officers from all backgrounds who can be positive role models for the prisoners here. This recruitment drive is an opportunity for you to invest in your future. The role can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding, and there’s no shortage of support and guidance.”

There are currently over 21,000 prison officers working across England and Wales but the service is looking for more recruits from a range of backgrounds.

Applications for prison officer roles at HMP Aylesbury are now open.