Albany Regional Prison’s Activities and Canteen Supervisor, Jared, and Employment Officer, Jarvis, say there’s a role for almost everyone as a Vocational Support Officer.
“There are so many areas to work in,” Jared said. “Stores, cabinetry, mechanical, carpentry, maintenance – so many different roles that would appeal to a lot of people.”
“Any skills in the outside world will translate to something in the prison,” Jarvis agreed. “Pretty much any industry you can think of you can find it here.”
Jared runs recreational activities and sells approved goods to the prisoners from the canteen as part of his duties.
“The prison attracted me because I wanted to help people better their lives,” the former meatworks foreman said.
As an Employment Officer, Jarvis assesses prisoners to assign them to workshops, finding the best fit to give them meaningful employment within the prison.
After working in brick paving and for Australia Post he was looking for something different – and he found it.
“I thought this would be an interesting place to work and give back to the local community,” Jarvis said. “We're in a small town and it’s pretty meaningful if you can help even one person now and again.”
For both VSOs, the workplace environment is one of the biggest bonuses of the job.
“It's absolutely supportive, extremely safe and everyone's got each other's backs,” Jared said. “A lot of good people work here – we have a lot of laughs with the other staff, I really enjoy it.”
“It's a job that gives you lifestyle work balance, but also the opportunity to feel like you're doing something worthwhile, not just taking a paycheck and running,” Jarvis added. “You feel good about yourself when you go home.”
Print this page
