Dirty Work in Probation: The Breadth and Depth of Taint Amongst Specialist Roles

Abstract This article presents findings from a study exploring the implementation of the Reflective Practice Supervision Standards for the National Probation Service, in England and Wales. The paper considers the concept of dirty work in relation to specialist probation workers with roles in the Magistrates Courts, Prison, Approved Premises and Victim Liaison services. This analysis expands the application of the breadth and depth of stigma for occupational dirty work to these hidden probation workers. Specifically, we show that taint comes from inside and outside the organization, taint varies in terms of type and source of taint and in ‘breadth’ and ‘depth’ across roles inside probation. We conclude by describing the strategies staff use to manage occupational stigma.