Officer reveals the reality of working in a high security prison

High security prisons can seem mysterious from the outside. But what is it really like to work behind the walls of HMP Whitemoor?

Prison officer Michael Brennan, 28, has worked in the Prison Service for nearly a decade. He says the reality is a calm, structured workplace where communication, teamwork and good judgement matter every day.

Calm, structured and supported

Myth: "High security prisons are dangerous and chaotic every day."

Reality: "It's not what people think," says Michael. "We work with some complex individuals, but most of the time the environment is calm."

HMP Whitemoor is a high security prison for Category A and B men, most of whom are serving long sentences. Clear routines, strong safety practices and specialist support help staff manage risk.

"We've got the resources and support we need," Michael says. "We work as a team, and specialist response teams are there when needed."

Communication matters more than stereotypes

Myth: "You need to be tough and shout to be heard."

Reality: "You don't have to shout - there are roles for everyone," says Michael. "It's about give and take and building professional relationships."

Officers use conversation, humour and consistency to build rapport. Strong communication can prevent situations from escalating, while varied roles - from key work and searches to therapeutic units - allow different strengths to shine.

Variety, training and progression

Myth: "It's repetitive, with little support or room to progress."

Reality: "One day you're responding to alarms, the next you're doing key worker sessions, searches or moving prisoners around the prison," Michael explains. "It keeps things varied."

New prison officers complete a two-week induction at HMP Whitemoor followed by a seven-week foundation training programme. Learning and support continue on the job, with opportunities to specialise in areas such as physical education, intelligence, search or therapeutic work, or to progress into leadership.

Michael has also been supported while training as an on-call firefighter outside work. "If you're volunteering or studying, this place will support you," he says. His Wing's Team of the Year award showed him what experienced and newer colleagues can achieve together.

The role is shift-based, including some nights, weekends and public holidays. 

Michael says the pattern can work well for family life: "I'm often there when the kids get home from school."

A role with purpose

Myth: "You're just there to lock people up."

Reality: "You're wearing so many hats," says Michael. "You're a teacher, a counsellor and a first responder. You don't always hear about the good things prison officers do because we're behind a big wall."

Prison officers protect the public while helping prisoners engage with education, work and support. It is demanding work, but Michael's message is simple: "It's a great team to be part of."

HMP Whitemoor is hosting a recruitment open day on 26 August 2026, where visitors can meet staff, learn about a range of roles and find out more about the application process. To register your interest, visit here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hmp-whitemoor-recruitment-open-day-tickets-1989390925812?aff=ebdssbdestsearch