AWARD WINNER 2025-26: Claire receives an Award, as a Probation Services Officer in Wigan, for the kindness and support she shows her colleagues, and in particular for her exceptional work with women on probation, inspiring hope and changing countless lives through her boundless humanity, creativity, and dedication.
[Her Award is supported by the Scottish Prison Service.]

This nomination was drawn up by Bob Donald – Staff Engagement & Communications Officer, Greater Manchester Probation; and signed off by Chris Edwards – Regional Probation Director, Greater Manchester.

Introduction

Claire Stevenson, a Probation Services Officer in Wigan, is nominated for her outstanding innovation, compassion, and commitment to supporting women on probation. Her work on the Women’s Problem-Solving Court has been transformative—creating inspiring partnerships, delivering impactful events, and securing vital resources like laptops and winter clothing. Claire’s initiatives, including the “Elevate Her” course, blend creativity with practical support, improving lives and outcomes. She consistently goes above and beyond, offering safeguarding support, mentoring, and kindness to both service users and colleagues. Claire’s dedication, positivity, and humanity make her an exceptional asset to the service and a truly deserving nominee.

Reasons for the nomination

Claire Stevenson, Probation Services Officer in Wigan, is nominated because her work on the Women’s Problem-Solving Court (WPSC) has been nothing short of transformative. She successfully networked with Senior Lecturers at Leeds Beckett University to deliver a “Life After Conviction” session, bringing lived experiences to inspire women on probation.

The session was a resounding success, attended by service users, staff, and external agencies. Lynn, manager of the Wigan Women’s Centre, described the event as bringing a real “buzz” to the centre. Claire even used her own money to provide refreshments and set up a boutique so women could collect winter coats. Sarah, a researcher from Leeds University, described the session as one of her most rewarding days in academia, praising Claire’s ability to organise and unite people.

Claire also worked with partner agencies to secure laptops to help women complete ETE courses at the Well Women Centre—an opportunity not extended to any other PDU involved in the research.

Claire’s commitment to improving service delivery is tireless. She constantly generates new ideas to enhance support for women on probation.

In 2024, she partnered with a local beauty salon in Atherton to develop a six-week “Elevate Her” course. Once in place, this will allow women to complete Unpaid Work Hours while gaining beauty qualifications, wellbeing support, and mentoring. This initiative will give women the opportunity not only to fulfil sentence requirements but also improve employment outcomes — an outstanding example of Claire’s creativity and drive.

Her dedication extends far beyond her formal responsibilities. Claire voluntarily takes on additional work to support both colleagues and service users. She consistently achieves outstanding performance ratings and demonstrates a meticulous, proactive approach to risk management. Her safeguarding interventions are thorough and compassionate, and her communications with agencies such as Children and Young Person’s Services are detailed and impactful.

Claire’s empathy and kindness are evident in every interaction. She has supported women in crisis, identified safeguarding concerns, and ensured timely referrals to appropriate services. She has also stepped in to support colleagues, including facilitating complex appointments and translation services for newly released individuals with no English or accommodation. Her willingness to give her time, even on the busiest of days, speaks volumes about her character.

Within the team, Claire is a beacon of positivity. She lifts spirits with thoughtful gestures—bringing in breakfast, creating care packages, and always offering a kind word. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and her commitment to both her colleagues and the women she supports is unwavering.

Claire’s work is not only innovative but deeply human. She brings heart, intelligence, and integrity to everything she does. Her impact on the Wigan Probation Office and the lives of the women she supports is profound. Claire is an asset to the service, and I am proud to nominate her for this well-deserved recognition.

Support for the nomination

“Claire you are an inspiration to work alongside. You are an inspiration to the team and to the women you support. Your passion for helping people is amazing – you are a pleasure to work with!”
Amy Hilton – Probation Officer

“Claire is an asset to Atherton Probation; she genuinely cares about those she works with. I have never worked with anyone who goes to so much effort, above and beyond, always!”
Dayna Turner – Probation Officer

“Claire goes absolutely above and beyond for the women (and her colleagues) … I speak for the whole of Wigan PDU when I say that we are beyond honoured to know and work with her.”
Eden Hemmings – Probation Officer

Sign off

In conclusion, Claire’s nomination to The Butler Trust represents a significant recognition of her tireless dedication and impactful work within the criminal justice system. Her unwavering commitment to supporting and rehabilitating women has made a profound difference in the lives of many, providing them with the hope and tools necessary to rebuild their lives.
Claire’s innovative approach to rehabilitation has not only addressed the immediate needs of these women but has also laid the foundation for long-term success. A real asset to the service.

Chris Edwards, Regional Probation Director, Greater Manchester Probation