Reflections on using compassion-focused methods within staff supervision in the prison setting

Purpose Compassion-focused therapy (CFT)-informed methods are being increasingly applied with individuals who access forensic services (Kolts and Gilbert, 2018). CFT-informed methods can benefit prison staff in terms of an increased understanding of prisoners’ presentation and behaviours. This paper aims to communicate the benefits of applying CFT-informed methods to prison staff directly within reflective spaces. The threat, drive, soothe system model (known as “three circles”) is one way to psychologically understand prison officers’ experiences of working in an environment that can be unpredictable and chaotic (a trigger for the threat system). Prison officers’ drive systems are often activated by choices influenced greatly by prison culture and processes. Equally, this model can promote discussion about developing soothe systems to maintain and develop resilience. Applying all three elements of this model to reflective spaces with prison officers could help to improve staff well-being, retention and overall lead to a more effective service. Design/methodology/approach This paper encompasses a review of relevant literature alongside anecdotal experiences and reflections of introducing the CFT model to operational staff working within prison settings and encouraging them to apply it to themselves. Findings Some specialist services in prisons offer psychological supervision to prison officers. Reflections are shared about including the CFT model within such provision and suggestions of how this can be further developed as part of future practice. Practical implications CFT-informed approaches can be beneficial when supporting prison staff as well as within prisoner interventions. Originality/value Although the literature base is starting to expand regarding the use of CFT with forensic populations, there is limited discussion about applying the same principles to staff working with forensic populations. This paper is intended to spark thought and discussion about how CFT-informed work could support staff in developing compassionate mindsets.