18th EPTA Annual Conference

Call for Presenters

This year, the theme of the conference is:

How to Use Training to Improve Prison Staff Wellbeing: Building a Stable Workforce with Effective Leadership for a Safer Tomorrow

This event will highlight the vital role of training in supporting prison staff well-being, focusing on the connection between staff well-being, prison staff training, and effective leadership through participants’ interactions. Working in prison services is demanding, with staff regularly facing stressful and volatile situations that require resilience. The physical and emotional toll on prison officers can lead to burnout, anxiety, and impaired decision-making, affecting both staff and inmates. Ensuring the well-being of prison staff is therefore essential for maintaining a functional, humane, and effective prison system.

Training plays a pivotal role in helping staff manage these challenges by equipping them with the skills to cope with stressful situations. Effective training provides officers with the tools to de-escalate conflicts, manage their emotions in high-stress scenarios, and maintain a sense of control even in uncertain situations. These skills help reduce stress and anxiety, foster a greater sense of competence, and improve psychological well-being. When staff feel prepared and capable, they are less likely to experience the negative effects of stress, such as burnout or disengagement.

Training programmes that focus on emotional intelligence, communication, and resilience provide officers with strategies to manage workplace stress. This not only helps staff maintain their well-being but also promotes a positive work culture, reduces turnover, and enhances overall job satisfaction.

Leadership plays a crucial role in translating training benefits into real-world impact. Effective leaders create a culture of continuous learning, encouraging staff to seek professional development opportunities and share their knowledge with colleagues. Moreover, strong leadership ensures that the skills and knowledge gained through training are practically applied. Leaders who embody training principles—such as respect, fairness, and empathy—foster a supportive work environment.

The relationship between training and leadership extends beyond skill application. Effective leaders encourage open communication, creating a safe space for staff to discuss experiences, challenges, and concerns. This dialogue helps leaders identify areas where additional training or support is needed and address potential sources of stress or conflict. By actively listening to staff feedback and responding to their needs, leaders demonstrate their commitment to well-being and build trust.

By prioritising staff well-being, leaders create a positive cycle: well-trained and supported staff are more effective in their roles, leading to a safer and more humane correctional system, which in turn reinforces staff well-being.