Prison and Probation - Case Studies

Gary Noonan

Ranger Gary Noonan, 27, served in the Royal Irish Regiment from 1999 to 2003, becoming an anti-tank specialist, and now values the ‘interpersonal skills, team skills, high level of personal fitness and motivation to overcome all obstacles,’ that he developed in the Army. Leaving with NVQs in public services at levels 1, 2 and 3, his first civilian job was as a self-employed courier.

For the last three years, however, he has been a detention custody officer, looking after the ‘day to day welfare and activities of people detained at Colnbrook immigration removal centre whilst maintaining a secure and safe custodial environment. This involves interaction with detainees and overseeing their activities from encouraging them to attend the gym, education, visits and religious activities through to dealing with domestic issues relating to their property and family.

‘Colnbrook IRC, near Heathrow, is a secure environment dealing with the most challenging detainees whom the Border and Immigration Agency determine should be in a custodial environment. Many of those detained are awaiting removal. All officers must complete a six-week initial training course. There is annual refresher training and opportunity for career advancement for those who wish to pursue it.’

Noonan finds the job similar to the Army – ‘staff uniformity is important and abiding by rules and regulations is strict, team camaraderie is the same and strict time keeping is highly important’. He now earns a great deal more although some of the extra cash goes on increased living expenses.

Published June 08