Sunday 4 September 2016

Quod Erat Demonstrandum

It's over. The blog needs to be closed down. The blog has been a useful anger outlet for some of you but it's now time to move on. If anyone can name one big win we've had as a result of the blog I'll concede I'm wrong.

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I agree. The blog should be axed. We can't influence anything through this. Jim can I take over from you? I've a few ideas on marketing the blog. (love it - Ed)

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Jim this blog is toothless. It couldn't succeed in stopping TR. IL is still in post. The blog couldn't influence the Napo chair elections. Time to end the blog and accept what has happened.

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Valid points. It's over. The blog couldn't stop it and has no influence over anything. Not even Napo. The blog is just people rambling.

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There are only two reasons I can think of for anyone spending so much time and energy trying to stop comment and destroy this blog. 

1. They have a vested interest, and don't want information or opinion found on here to be presented in the public domain.
2. They're not intelligent enough to understand the value this forum holds for other people. 

With the continuous (haven't anything to say) postings, I'm of the opinion it's the second reason. Maybe you should do as advised earlier and get yourself a lollypop, and perhaps a copy of the Beano, and read something more suited to your abilities. And as for the blog having no influence? It's certainly got influence on you, and enough influence on you to continually log on and embarrass yourself by making really idiotic comments.

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I don't understand why you're having a go at Jim. Has he ever said the blog could change things? Go and start your blogs by all means I'm sure Jim wont lose sleep over it. Carry on Jim.

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Astonishing comments. When did the writing of a blog become the means of securing change when trade unions, professional organisations, political parties and media pressure fail to do so. The blog is what it is. Read it and comment or ignore it as you see fit but I think your expectations of the power or purpose of the written word need revising.


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They're not having a pop at Jim, they're raising the points of how this blog influences nothing. The Napo chair debacle was the last straw for me. It's not Jim. It's the blog. I agree a new marketing strategy is needed. This blog has lost more battles than Napo. Ian and Dean are victorious. Chivalry road is rocking. The TR TRAIN is at full steam ahead. E3 is rolled out. We're still here moaning about things.

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The sins of this blog may run deeper than the travails of Napo and TR. Rumours persist that JB was on the grassy knoll in Dealey Plaza, that he's hiding Shergar, and why, oh why, did JB fail to save Cock Robin.


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As far as I'm concerned the role of the blog has been as a tool to record the debate & document the reality of the omnishambles that the TR project is - and the blog continues to do that regardless of trolls, naysayers or fantasists. When the leeches have drained the public purse dry & there are no public services left, this blog will be a useful source of reference.

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I think it is a future record of the balls up that is TR. How society and government lost its way.

--oo00oo--
I have no idea what triggered the recent outburst as to the demerits or otherwise of the blog, but what I am pretty sure about is that:-
  • It continues to be read widely and by all the relevant probation players and at all levels
  • It still enjoys an almost complete lack of official recognition by Napo, PI, NPS, MoJ, Noms and CRC's
  • Its demise would be warmly welcomed by Napo, PI, NPS, MoJ, Noms and CRC's
As I was preparing todays blog post, I noticed the following contribution has elicited what purports to be an official response. It could be genuine because hardly anyone ever goes back that far to leave a comment:-

Anonymous 24 August 2016 at 20:40

Interserve are auditing casefiles any that fail then a larger sample will be checked to see if its a one-off or bad case management. It's draconian, if the sample proves the latter then we are being put on personal development plans which in other words is the 1st rung of the Capability Procedure. Are we not under enough stress and are Interserve deliberately trying to get rid of staff? If Yvonne Thomas reads this I would ask you to stop this now - we are audited to death what with targets for this that and the other. I absolutely despair.

Anonymous 3 September 2016 at 21:50

Which crc are you in? This isn't a 'central' directive but there are some quality issues in some very local areas, and we're damned if we uphold standards, and damned if we don't. Let me know where and I'll find out why.
Yvonne Thomas

--oo00oo--
As the charts show, readership has pretty much reflected the trials and tribulations we've all been going through as a profession over the last few years and there's no disputing that interest has been waning recently, both as people have been exiting or become increasingly demoralised. Nevertheless, daily readership is currently steady at 2,000 or thereabouts, but with noticeable surges when anything 'kicks off'.

Graph of Blogger page views

Graph of Blogger page views

For me the key issues are firstly, is there anything useful still to be said and secondly, why would all the key players be happy to see the demise of the blog? Could it possibly have anything to do with the fact they all have information they really would prefer was either kept secret or at least was not widely known? Stuff like the next Napo NEC meeting scheduled for September 8th being cancelled, I assume due to apathy because the previous NEC meeting was not quorate either. It would seem only the Napo hierarchy remain blissfully unaware of just how dysfunctional they have become.

Then there's the Probation Institute not being particularly forthcoming about its position regarding TR, but seemingly frustrated and annoyed at practitioners who, worried sick about their careers and livelihoods, have the temerity to keep expressing these feelings and refuse to join up. A glance at the accounts filed at Companies House helps explain the situation they find themselves in, departure of Chief Executive and move of premises, even if their website doesn't. 

In essence one of the almost unnoticed but pernicious aspects of TR has been the very convenient closing down of information channels with 70% of the profession now sheltered behind commercial sensitivity arguments and hence immune to the operation of FOI requests and 30% now safely protected by the full panoply of a state Civil Service. Just cast your minds back to yes, the good old days of Probation Boards and later Trusts, with open meetings and published minutes. They might have been sanitised to a degree, but at least we got to know the gist of what was going on.

In my experience, none of the current probation players are being open and honest about pretty much anything at the moment and all for varying, but worrying reasons. The blog goes on. 

QED  

36 comments:

  1. Keep the blog going Jim,it keeps me updated and helps my sanity in this crazy new world of ours.

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  2. JB for sainthood; how you put up with all the nasty, ill informed f***wits, is beyond me!

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  3. This blog allows me to rant if I need to without fear of repercussions. It keeps me informed of what's happening with other crc's and Nps. It is a record of the ongoing ridiculous events of TR. Not only does it supply a record of what's happening but it also gives a sense of feeling from others that are caught up in this shambles. I am in awe of your tenacity in persevering with the blog. I for one would be sorry to see it go.

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  4. Conversation on Friday and this little analogy about TR was offered. I would ask that everyone bear this in mind.

    TR is like someone throwing themselves from a 20 storey building and, as they are passing the eleventh floor, claiming that so far everything is ok.


    Keep the blog Jim, it will record this fall and the stupidity of those who leapt!

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  5. If this blog disappears we have been effectively shut up

    ReplyDelete
  6. What is a blog?

    Noun
    1.
    a regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversational style.

    No mention of revolution, overthrowing the government or changing political institutions, just simply a forum that's informative, thought provoking, and a platform for anyone involved or interested in the CJS to comment on or discuss issues that relate to that CJS.
    Why anyone would call for a closure of such a platform is beyond me. Censorship perhaps?
    Most days this blog is my preferred reading, although it's frustrating some days when the topic subject is one that I don't really feel I have enough knowledge to comment on.
    Never the less it's all inclusive whether you agree or disagree, like or dislike what's being discussed,
    It's just to keep going.

    'Getagix"

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  7. I think you have done your best Jim but it is time to call it a day. Probation is no more and now exists only in the memories and imaginations of those who were proud to serve. Those who think having a good rant changes anything are mistaken and in some cases done more harm than good to those actually trying to save at least something of value in what was once an honourable profession. Are the Rangers and complainers really worth saving or fighting for? Many as we know did nothing during the anti TR campaign and apart from the odd angry outburst still do nothing expecting others like yourself to do something for them. It is a hopeless cause and has become a blog for the hopeless and doomed to fiddle whilst Rome burns. Do them a favour and close it down.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What is a blog?

      noun
      1.
      a regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversational style.

      There's no mention of revolution or overthrowing political institutions in the definition.
      It's simply a platform for debate and discussion. I'm really amazed that someone would call for closure, that to my mind is just requesting censorship of a platform of free speech on the basis that 'I don't like it' or "I disagree with it'.
      Surely, if you don't like or disagree with this blog for whatever reason, then surely the answer is to choose not to read it or contribute to it, but calling for its closure I find a very bizarre position to take.

      'Getafix'

      Delete
    2. JB is is the Samuel Pepys of our times – Pepys couldn't put out the great fire but he was able to chronicle its spread. Shooting the messenger is as old as the hills.

      2,000 daily hits is not bad quoracy, if the PI and Napo websites were getting such attention, they would be dancing in the street, but instead they are fighting to remain relevant, as they compete to recruit from the same diminishing pool. The PI is beginning to look like a happy hunting ground for former Napo members.

      Having a good rant is no bad thing and ranting has an honorable tradition. One person's rant, is another's dose of commonsense. This blog's opinions are underpinned with facts and information and it really is misleading to try and dismiss it's contributions to debates around criminal justice as mere ranting. You don't have to close blogs down as Napo's forums show – they die of neglect when they cease to be relevant or are so monitored that free debate is stifled.

      Delete
    3. I'm still practicing and still fighting and still smiling. Old time practice is rebellion

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    4. That's what I do too! They haven't noticed yet :-)

      Delete
  8. I'm an avid follower of this blog and regularly make contributions for the purpose of sharing information with interested parties. If you are not interested don't read it just stay away your comments about closing the blog are patronising . When I read such comments I feel sorry for the individuals they may supervise with their "mummy knows best' attitude
    In my office colleagues appreciate this blog and have got more info than from anywhere else.

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  9. Is comment moderation active Jim?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No honest *smile* but 'Getafix' was caught in the spam filter.

      Delete
  10. I've overheard senior CRC managers (not former Trust staff) complaining about how, if they share any information with staff, it is "up on the internet" within hours - and about how this makes their jobs more difficult. No names mentioned but Jim, I think you're the particular thorn in the side that they're talking about!

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    Replies
    1. I suppose if you cannot get freedom of information through the front door, it comes out through the back.

      Delete
    2. Gosh - it would be helpful to know which CRC, or at least, which CRC owner....?

      Delete
    3. Wise up Jim all of them no doubt. On the freedom of information lets all think on here in fact if the bulk of your monies is derived from the public purse then YOUR COMPANY IS NOT EXEMPTED !

      Delete
    4. Doesn't change things, but there's growing pressure on private companies with public service contracts to come under the FOI act.

      http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/private-companies-spending-public-money-should-be-subject-to-freedom-of-information-law-watchdog-a7222641.html

      Delete
    5. Private companies spending public money should be subject to Freedom of Information law, watchdog says

      The new Information Commissioner also says she will crack down on public bodies breaking rules

      Private companies delivering public services or in receipt of public money should be public to freedom of information rules, the Government’s new Information Commissioner has said.

      Concerned citizens, journalists, and campaigners use powers granted to all residents under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to obtain information about the way their services are run and money spent by the Government.

      But people looking for transparency from the Government have long been frustrated by an increasing reliance on private sector contracting and outsourcing by public bodies.

      Private companies are exempt from the FOIA and when they are involved in delivering public services important information can often only be found on their books.

      Even when a public body holds data relevant to the a contract it can often be blocked on the grounds that it is “commercially sensitive” to contractors involved.

      However, Elizabeth Denham, who was named as the new Information Commissioner in April this year, said private companies which used significant public money should be open to scrutiny.

      “Private contractors above a certain threshold for a contract or doing some specific types of work could be included under the FoI Act,” she told the BBC.

      “The Government could do more to include private bodies that are basically doing work on behalf of the public.”

      Under the 2010 Coalition government ministers promised to write FOI provisions into future Government contracts, but signs of progress have been slow to emerge.

      The Information Commissioner has no power to force private companies to follow FOI; the Government would have to legislate to achieve this aim.

      Ms Denham, who was previously the information commissioner in the Canadian province of British Columbia, said she would be tougher on public bodies that broke rules.

      “Looking at this from the outside, most of the public would have the view that more than one in 10 not getting a timely response to a request is not a sign of success,” she said.

      The Government looked at severely curtailing freedom of information rules earlier this year but ultimately backed down after a campaign by newspapers.

      Delete
    6. Would that include being paid for a programme because it's on a licence condition even though the programme is not undertaken.

      Delete
    7. Surely this is cooking the books ?
      Most of us know crc's that do this.
      A very good reason to keep the blog alive.

      Delete
  11. This is nonsense. Jim does this every now and then to give him or her a cause. 10.02 is spot on. I ask what is the purpose of this blog. Why does Jim work so hard to keep it going. Is it do people can use this blog to just moan? TR has happened. The privateers are now lining their pockets at new opportunities activity bring pursued and we're left to pick up the pieces.accept how things are or move on. Let's celebrate good practice on here and promote whatever is good left instead of living in the past

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    Replies
    1. 12:55 I didn't start this 'lets close the blog down' debate - I find it boring and pointless, but the blog is for people to air their views, if a reasonable stab is taken to explain a point of view.

      I have no intention of stopping and am not looking for plaudits - I want f*cking action and the best way to get that in my view and in the conspicuous absence of effective leadership is supply the conduit for the sharing of information.

      "Let's celebrate good practice on here and promote whatever is good left instead of living in the past"

      Excellent - you start!

      Delete
    2. I helped a service user get a bank account in my through the gate work so they could take up a job I helped them get through the same work Is that a good enough start? m

      Delete
    3. How about getting rid of the middle worker - it used to be, OM's were asked to make a risk assessment on an address for HDFC - now we get a form, with no address, but a promise that a housing provider will be providing an address in Trumpton, Greendale or somewhere on the coast, but nowhere near where he comes from or where I work! You can't make it up!

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    4. Sorry HDC - Home Detention Curfew.

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    5. Annon 14:40

      You should feel good for helping someone get a bank account and maintain employment. However, I personally would not call that a celebration of good practice, I'd call that a bare minimum standard of practice.
      There is no doubt people in the service that go above and beyond and even stick their neck out (you may very well be one of those people), but I'd arguee that good practice in general has long left the building.
      I don't see it getting any better quickly either and therefore think there is a lot to moan about, and I wouldn't celebrate the few instances of good practice that can be found that may serve to endorse a service that's nose diving at a tremendous rate of knots.
      Good practice should be recognised where it's found, but poor practice should also be flagged up, and unfortunately, I think it's poor practice that has far more ball possession at the present time, and I don't necessarily think that's the work forces fault.

      'Getafix'

      4 September 2016 at 15:59

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    6. Piss off getafix. That banking business is the bollox. You do fool

      Delete
    7. That banking business is the bollox...

      Couldn't agree more. Any private company that gets paid by the government to reduce reoffending must, in my humble opinion, try to equip the individual with what basic tools they can to enable that person from reoffending, and the provision of those tools should represent a minimum standard of practice, a basic level of service if you like.
      But I do agree with you, "that banking business is the bollox".

      'Getafix'

      Delete
  12. Probation Officer4 September 2016 at 14:25

    This blog is bigger than you Jim, it belongs to us all. On Probation blog is the last trench for probation officers/practitioners and has to keep going while probation exists.

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  13. TR has seen my 'region wide' Team demolished. Those of us left are in isolated positions, with face to face contact with Team colleagues a rarity. Without this blog, I would have felt even more alone, as not being part of a localized Team, information channels are rather hit and miss - having free access to current national developments by posters here has helped me maintain my sanity.

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  14. Retired I maybe but that doesn't change my 'LOVE' for ALL things Probation and upmost regard for OUR Blog and Jim Brown. This blog ensures Probations light continues to shine on the worst excesses of TR and Privatization. Whilst, some are able to share frank/candid views about what's happening on the ground others, will continue to find refuge and some comfort in the knowledge they are not alone. My thoughts/prayers are always with you JB and thank you for being a stalwart for Probation. Take care everyone. iangould5

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  15. I read this blog every day, even though I left Probation nearly a year ago. It reminds me why I left and why I won't be returning any time soon (i.e. whilst the debacle continues). I made peace with the fact that Probation as I knew and loved it won't return whilst I am of working age but I remain outraged at the ways in which people are treated and at the ways in which many, within management and without, collude in the farce. I want to know what is happening because, as a tax payer, I want to know what is happening in my name. The TR outrage is offensive not just because I was a victim of it but because it is dumb being perpetrated by the incompetent at considerable expense to the public purse and I have a right to know the truth and not the spin. I cannot trust the Ministry, I cannot trust the management, I can trust the front line workers. As with the Junior Doctors, I know who is telling me the truth.

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  16. I've never before commented but submissions about closing this blog down as "what's the point" and "there were no big wins" have incensed me.

    This blog plays a very useful role in highlighting areas of practice concern from all around the country; publicising our concerns helps us to feel less alone, it easily facilitates our contact with each other, all staff members from around the country; allows us all to see what is happening and in some respects is the only purposeful/meaningful bridge between CRC and NPS staff. Good practice is celebrated on here and if you have good news stories I'm sure they will be published. But simply giving it up as it didn't halt TR is no reason to stop as that was never its intended purpose and now serves very different functions.

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  17. We need blogs like this as it allows all of us to chip in. They fear us as a collective. Jim I'd appreciate if you did a post on the pros and cons of Senior Probation Officer and ACO's. It would give us a chance to share and discuss our experiences.

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