Criminal Justice workers Union, Saxon Avenue, Minster (2026)

10/06/2026

Statement from the CJWU

The latest figures showing a continued drop in experienced prison officers and ongoing shortages across probation should concern every member of the public. Behind every statistic is a frontline worker being asked to do more, with less support, in conditions that many politicians would never tolerate themselves.

According to the latest HMPPS workforce figures, public sector prisons have lost hundreds of frontline officers over the last year, with prison officer numbers down by over 700 full-time staff. At the same time, probation continues to operate with major staffing shortfalls against target levels.

From the perspective of the Criminal Justice Workers Union, this is not simply a staffing issue it is a direct consequence of years of political neglect, poor workforce planning, and a government that continues to ignore the reality faced by prison and probation staff every single day.

Our members work in overcrowded prisons, deal with escalating violence, self-harm, organised crime, mental health crises, and increasingly dangerous working environments - all while being expected to accept wages that fail to reflect the risks they take. Prison officers are often earning salaries comparable to, or in some cases lower than, roles in retail, warehousing, transport and administrative sectors where the daily threat of assault, trauma and abuse simply does not exist.

The government continues to celebrate small percentage pay rises, yet frontline staff know the truth: inflation, rising living costs and years of below-inflation settlements have left many officers and probation staff financially struggling despite working in one of the most demanding public services in the country. A recently confirmed 3.5% prison officer pay award has already been criticised as insufficient against rising costs and retention pressures.

Across the service, morale is collapsing because staff are exhausted from constant pressure, forced overtime, short staffing and a culture where operational resilience is maintained only through the goodwill of frontline workers. The reality is that many officers can now earn similar wages in jobs carrying significantly less personal risk, less psychological strain and far better work-life balance.

Reports continue to highlight dangerous levels of stress, recruitment problems and public safety concerns linked to underfunding and staff shortages across prisons and probation.

The Criminal Justice Workers Union stands firmly behind every prison officer, probation officer, OSG and support worker who continues to hold this broken system together despite feeling ignored by government. Our members are not asking for special treatment, they are demanding fair pay, safe staffing levels, decent working conditions and recognition for the essential public safety role they perform every day.

This government cannot continue expecting loyalty, professionalism and sacrifice from a workforce it consistently undervalues. If meaningful investment in staffing, retention and safety is not delivered urgently, the crisis across prisons and probation will only deepen, and both staff and the public will pay the price.

04/06/2026

Statement from the Criminal Justice Workers Union.

The death of Henry Nowak has become a defining moment in the growing public anger surrounding fairness, accountability and the clear double standards many now believe exist within modern Britain’s justice system.

An 18-year-old white working-class lad lost his life in horrific circumstances after being stabbed in Southampton by Vickrum Digwa. Yet what has fuelled national outrage is not simply the brutality of the attack, but the response that followed - a response many people believe exposed an uncomfortable truth about modern policing, politics and media narratives.

Footage and reporting surrounding the incident raised serious questions about why Henry was restrained and treated with suspicion whilst desperately trying to explain he had been stabbed and could not breathe. Had the circumstances been reversed, many believe the country would have seen immediate political outrage, wall-to-wall media coverage, protests led by public figures and demands for institutional reform within hours.

Instead, what many ordinary people witnessed was hesitation, caution and silence from those who are usually quickest to speak. That perception whether politicians like it or not, is now deeply embedded amongst large sections of the public. People are increasingly questioning whether some victims receive louder support, greater sympathy and more political attention than others depending on race or background.

For those working across policing, prisons, probation and the wider justice sector, this is becoming dangerously divisive. Frontline workers are expected to maintain public confidence whilst political leaders and commentators appear unwilling to acknowledge obvious inconsistencies in public discourse. The result is growing distrust, frustration and resentment amongst communities who feel ignored, dismissed or labelled unfairly simply for asking legitimate questions.

Nobody is suggesting hatred, disorder or racism are the answer. But neither can society continue pretending these comparisons do not exist in the minds of millions of people. Equality before the law cannot be selective. Compassion cannot depend on skin colour. Public outrage cannot be rationed according to political convenience.

Henry Nowak’s death should never have become a symbol of division, but many believe it already has. The real danger now is not simply public anger over one tragic case, but a growing belief that Britain no longer applies equal compassion, equal scrutiny or equal justice to all its citizens.

09/05/2026

CJWU Notice to Members
To ensure the very best value for members we have changed our phone contracts without upgrading the phones, we will continue to strive to provide the very best service for the membership ensuring we are keeping necessary costs to a minimum enabling us to invest in the union.

Attached are the new contact details for the team.

03/05/2026

🏉 BIG NEWS FOR THE NEW SEASON! 🏉

The Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU) is incredibly proud to announce our official sponsorship of the HMPPS RFC for the upcoming season!

This partnership is about more than just rugby; it’s a celebration of the shared values, resilience, and camaraderie that define our community. By supporting the HMPPS RFC, we are highlighting the vital collaboration between our organisation’s and reinforcing our unwavering commitment to every member of staff working across the justice sector.

Whether you’re on the landings, in the offices, or on the pitch, we stand together.

Aaron Stowe, CJWU National President, shared his excitement:

"The grit, teamwork, and dedication shown by the HMPPS RFC on the field perfectly mirrors the incredible work our members do every single day within the justice system. We are honored to get behind the team and support an initiative that promotes physical well-being and unity across the service."

🙌 A Collective Thank You

This sponsorship wouldn't be possible without the strength of our union. The CJWU Executive Committee and our entire membership would like to extend a massive thank you to the HMPPS RFC for the opportunity to collaborate. We are thrilled to be part of your journey this year.

We can’t wait to see the team in action. Let’s make this season one to remember!

28/04/2026

Tomorrow night we stand firmly behind HMP Rugby as they take to the field against the Welsh Ambulance Service in what promises to be a hard-fought and spirited contest.

On behalf of the Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU), we want to recognise the dedication, professionalism and resilience shown by both teams. These are groups of people who, day in and day out, serve our communities under immense pressure, whether that’s on the front line of our prisons or responding to emergencies across Wales.

Fixtures like this are more than just a game. They’re a reminder of the shared values that bind public service workers together: teamwork, commitment, and pride in what you do. They also provide a rare opportunity to step away from the demands of the job, build camaraderie, and showcase the positive side of services that are too often only highlighted in times of crisis.

We wish both sides the very best of luck, but especially HMP Rugby, play hard, play safe, and represent the service with the pride and determination we know you carry every day.

CJWU stands with you.

24/04/2026

Statement from the Criminal Justice Workers Union

“Refocusing Our Energy: A Strategy Built Around What Staff Actually Want”

Criminal justice workers across the country continue to face unprecedented pressure: unsafe staffing levels, rising violence, stagnant pay, and a system stretched beyond its limits. Our members deserve a union strategy that reflects their lived reality, their priorities, and their professional values.

For many years, the debate around the right to strike has dominated industrial discussions within the sector. While the legal restrictions remain a matter of principle for some, it has become increasingly clear that a great number of staff do not wish to engage in strike action even if the law were changed. Our union’s responsibility is to listen to those voices and build a strategy that delivers meaningful, practical improvements.

As National President Aaron Stowe states, “Our members are telling us loudly and clearly that they want solutions, not symbolic battles. They want safer workplaces, fair pay, and enough staff to do the job properly. That is where our focus must be.”

Why Many Staff Do Not Wish to Strike:

Feedback from members across the service has been consistent and compelling. Staff concerns fall into several clear themes:

1. A deep sense of professional duty:

Criminal justice workers understand that their roles are safety critical. Many feel that withdrawing labour, even symbolically could place colleagues, prisoners, and the public at risk. This sense of responsibility is a defining strength of the workforce.

Aaron Stowe emphasises this point: “Our people take pride in their professionalism. They will not walk away from their posts because they know the consequences. Their commitment is extraordinary, and our strategy must respect that.”

2. Striking is seen as incompatible with the realities of the job:

Unlike other sectors, staff cannot simply “down tools.” The nature of custodial and justice environments means that any form of industrial action risks immediate operational instability.

3. Staff want solutions, not disruption:

Members consistently express that they want:
• safer staffing levels
• better pay
• manageable workloads
• improved retention
• a functioning system that supports them

They do not see strike action as the route to achieving these outcomes.

4. The right to strike feels symbolic, not practical:

Even those who support the principle acknowledge that they would not personally participate in a strike. Many feel the debate has become detached from the urgent issues they face every day.

5. Staff want the union’s energy focused on achievable wins:

Members want their union fighting for improvements they can feel, safer shifts, fairer pay, more colleagues on the landings - not campaigning for a right they do not intend to use.

As Aaron Stowe puts it, “We cannot afford to waste energy on battles that don’t reflect the priorities of the workforce. Our members want real change, and they want it now.”

A New Strategy for Real, Measurable Gains:

Our union is committed to a strategy that reflects the priorities of the workforce and delivers tangible improvements.

1. Binding, Independent Pay Arbitration:

If criminal justice workers cannot strike, then the government must commit to a fair alternative. We will push for a legally binding arbitration system that ensures:

• pay awards cannot be ignored
• negotiations are transparent
• political interference is removed
• staff receive fair, timely settlements

2. A National Workforce Recovery Plan:

The staffing crisis is the root cause of many of the system’s failures. We will campaign for:

• Minimum safe staffing levels
• Recruitment incentives
• Retention packages
• Limits on excessive overtime
• Workload protections

3. A Pay Structure That Reflects the Reality of the Job
We will demand:

• A full review of pay bands
• Pay progression that rewards experience
• Allowances for highrisk and specialist roles
• A costofliving uplift that reflects inflation and the demands of the job

4. A Safer, More Sustainable Working Environment

Safety is non-negotiable. Our priorities include:

• Violence reduction frameworks
• Mandatory staffing ratios for high-risk areas
• Improved training and protective equipment
• Mental health support for staff exposed to trauma

Our Commitment to Members

We will continue to fight for:

• Respect
• Fair pay
• Safe staffing
• Professional recognition
• A justice system that values the people who keep it running

As Aaron Stowe concludes, “Our members deserve a union that fights for what matters to them. Not what looks good on paper, not what makes headlines, but what actually improves their working lives. That is the path we are taking.”

Our strategy is grounded in what staff have told us: they want progress, not posturing; solutions, not symbolic battles.

We will honour that message by focusing our efforts where they can make the greatest difference

23/04/2026

The Criminal Justice Workers Union is deeply saddened by the reported death at Feltham Young Offender Institution. Our thoughts are with the family of the young person involved at this incredibly difficult time.

In moments like these, it is vital that reporting remains responsible, factual, and measured. We are concerned by early narratives and speculation that risk misrepresenting the reality of what happens inside our establishments and the professionalism of those working within them.

Misleading or incomplete accounts not only distort public understanding, but also unfairly impact the dedicated staff who respond to such incidents.

Behind every emergency is a group of trained professionals, officers, healthcare teams, and support staff who act swiftly, compassionately, and with immense courage. First responders in these environments are not detached observers; they are human beings who carry the weight of what they witness and the responsibility to act in the most challenging of circumstances. They provide immediate care, often under pressure, and do everything possible to preserve life.

It is important to recognise that across the youth estate, staff demonstrate extraordinary levels of care, patience, and commitment every single day. They work with some of the most vulnerable individuals in society, young people who often arrive with complex needs, trauma, and significant challenges. The consistent effort to safeguard, support, and rehabilitate those in custody is a testament to their professionalism and humanity.

Incidents of this nature affect not only families, but also the staff involved, many of whom will carry the emotional impact long after the event itself. Their welfare must not be overlooked, and they deserve understanding rather than judgment during such difficult times.

We would urge restraint while the facts are fully established. It is only through proper process and evidence that the truth can be understood. In the meantime, we stand firmly in support of the staff at Feltham and across the wider service, whose daily work reflects care, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to those in their charge.

Aaron Stowe, National President of the Criminal Justice Workers Union, said:

“What people don’t see in these moments is the humanity of our staff. These are individuals who run towards crisis, not away from it, who provide care, dignity, and professionalism in the most challenging of environments. It is deeply concerning when misinformed narratives begin to take hold, because they risk overshadowing the reality: that our members do everything within their power to protect life and support those in their care. They deserve respect, not speculation, especially at a time like this.”

15/04/2026

Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU) - Statement on Ministry of Justice £82m Spending Decision

The Criminal Justice Workers Union condemns the decision by the Ministry of Justice to spend £82 million on systems designed to reduce mistaken prison releases, while continuing to ignore the dangerous, deteriorating reality facing frontline staff.

Let us be absolutely clear: this is not a funding issue, it is a political choice.

At a time when prison officers are being assaulted at alarming rates, when wings are running on skeletal staffing, and when experienced staff are walking away in droves, the government has chosen to prioritise administrative failure over human safety.

£82 million could have delivered:

• A meaningful, above-inflation pay award to halt the exodus of experienced staff;
• Immediate increases in staffing levels to stabilise failing regimes and prevent disorder;
• Investment in safety measures and equipment to protect staff from daily violence;
• A credible recruitment and retention strategy to end the constant churn of inexperienced workers being sent into high-risk environments.

Instead, we see yet another headline-grabbing announcement designed to manage reputational risk in Whitehall, rather than the real risk faced every day on prison landings.

This is the consequence of years of political neglect. Successive governments have stripped the prison service to the bone, ignored repeated warnings, and left staff to carry the burden of a system in crisis.

The reality is stark: you cannot run safe prisons without sufficient, experienced, and properly paid staff. No amount of technology or process reform will compensate for that basic truth.

The Ministry of Justice is attempting to fix symptoms while ignoring the cause. Mistaken releases are a failure, but they are a symptom of an overstretched, under-resourced system. The cause is chronic understaffing, poor retention, and a workforce that feels abandoned.

Aaron Stowe, National President of the CJWU, said:

“This £82 million announcement tells you everything you need to know about the government’s priorities. They are more concerned with avoiding embarrassment than they are with protecting the staff who walk into dangerous prisons every single day.”

“Our members are being assaulted, overworked and driven out of the job, and yet ministers think the answer is more systems and more process. You cannot spreadsheet your way out of a staffing crisis.”

“If even a fraction of this money had been invested in pay, staffing and safety, we would already be seeing safer prisons and a more stable workforce. Instead, we are watching experienced officers leave while inexperienced recruits are left to manage volatile environments with little support.”

“This is not just short-sighted, it is reckless. The government is gambling with staff safety and the stability of the entire prison system.”

“We are demanding immediate action: above-inflation pay rises, urgent recruitment, and real investment in protecting staff. Until that happens, these kinds of failures will continue - and the responsibility will sit squarely with ministers.”

The CJWU is calling on the government to stop governing by headlines and start governing in the interests of those who actually keep the public safe.

Invest in staff. Protect staff. Pay staff properly.

Anything less is a dereliction of duty.

30/03/2026

NEWS STATEMENT – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
From the Criminal Justice Workers Union (CJWU)

The Criminal Justice Workers Union is issuing an urgent warning following the latest published reports into the state of the UK’s prison and probation system. The evidence is now overwhelming: risk is rising, the system is stretched beyond safe limits, and frontline staff are being asked to carry an impossible burden without the pay, protection, or recognition they deserve.

Across both HM Prison and Probation Service and wider justice services, recent developments have exposed a system operating in crisis conditions. Overcrowded prisons, unsafe staffing levels, and increasing violence are now routine.
In probation, excessive workloads and unmanageable caseloads are leading to critical failures in risk assessment and supervision.

This is not a failure of staff, this is a failure of leadership, planning, and political will.

Frontline prison staff and probation practitioners are managing some of the most dangerous and complex individuals in society. They are dealing daily with violence, organised drug supply, mental health crises, and escalating instability inside prisons and across communities. At the same time, they are expected to absorb the impact of policy decisions that shift risk into the community without the infrastructure to manage it safely.

Despite this, CJWU members continue to demonstrate unwavering professionalism, courage, and resilience.

However, there is a growing anger across the workforce that this commitment is being exploited.

Pay has become a central issue in the crisis.
Years of below-inflation pay awards have left prison and probation staff significantly worse off in real terms. While other areas of the civil service have received more competitive settlements, justice staff continue to fall behind, despite operating in one of the highest-risk public sector roles in the UK.

Low pay is now directly fuelling the staffing crisis. Recruitment is struggling, retention is collapsing, and experienced staff are leaving the service in increasing numbers. This constant churn of staff is not just a workforce issue - it is a public safety issue.

You cannot manage risk effectively when you do not have enough experienced staff to do the job.

CJWU is clear:
• Pay must reflect risk. Frontline roles in prisons and probation are among the most dangerous in the public sector. Current pay levels do not come close to recognising that reality.
• Retention must be prioritised. Without competitive pay, the loss of skilled and experienced staff will continue to accelerate.
• Investment in staff is investment in public safety. Every failure to properly reward and support staff increases the risk to the public.

Recent reports highlighting failures in offender management, unsafe prison conditions, and overstretched probation services are not isolated incidents, they are symptoms of a system that has been underfunded and undervalued for years.

The government cannot continue to demand more from staff while offering less in return.

CJWU calls for:
• An immediate, above-inflation pay rise for all prison and probation staff
• A long-term pay strategy that reflects the risk, skill, and responsibility of frontline roles
• Urgent action to address staffing shortages and workload pressures
• A national commitment to staff safety, wellbeing, and retention

CJWU National President, Aaron Stowe, said:
“Frontline staff are holding this system together through sheer determination, but they are being pushed to breaking point. You cannot expect people to manage extreme risk, violence, and public protection on wages that do not reflect the reality of the job. Pay is no longer just about fairness, it is about safety.”

He added:
“This is a workforce in crisis. Experienced staff are leaving, new recruits are not staying, and those who remain are overwhelmed. The government must understand this: if you continue to undervalue justice workers, you increase the risk to the public. It is as simple as that.”

The message from CJWU is clear:
Frontline staff are not the weakness in the system, they are its last line of defence.

If the government is serious about public safety, it must start by properly valuing the people who deliver it.

25/03/2026

The Criminal Justice Workers Union would like to send our support and recognition to Sam Richards of Llangennech RFC, proudly competing in the WRU Premiership.

Sam represents the very best of dedication, resilience, and community spirit that grassroots and semi-professional rugby brings to towns and people across Wales. Players like him embody hard work, discipline, and commitment. Values we deeply respect within the criminal justice workforce as well.

We recognise the sacrifices made on and off the pitch, and the role rugby clubs like Llangennech RFC play in strengthening communities and providing positive pathways for individuals of all ages.

From everyone at the CJWU, we wish Sam continued success this season and thank him for being a role model both in sport and in the wider community.

Criminal Justice workers Union

10/06/2026

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09/05/2026

03/05/2026

28/04/2026

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30/03/2026

25/03/2026

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