Meet our CPS Direct colleagues
Hear from two of our CPS Direct colleagues and find out how you can apply for one of our roles.
Paula, Charging Workflow Manager
Paula, Charging Workflow Manager
My background
I joined the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in 2022 having worked at the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) in Swansea for over 30 years. From a young age I've had an interest in how the police and legal system work, having done work experience at Llanelli police station back in the late 1980s. When the CPS Direct vacancy was advertised, I applied, and was successful in joining the triage out of hours team. My work at the DVLA provided me with transferable skills – such as electronic casefiles and ensuring accuracy of information is captured, along with many years of experience in providing excellent customer service.
My typical day
The triage out of hours role is a home-based position which gives me great flexibility in balancing my home and work life. The day starts with checking my emails to make sure I am up to date on any changes or IT information that may have an impact during my shift. The charging workflow manager issues casefiles for triage, and it is my responsibility to ensure that all key case material: exhibits, statements and media evidence are correctly uploaded. This means that the prosecutor has as much information as possible to make a charging decision.
My inspiration
CPS Direct has enabled me to feel valued and a part of a team that truly supports and works together in a way that make us all feel equal. As remote workers, every member of the team takes time to keep morale going when it can be busy, sharing humorous moments and celebrating achievements as a big family. No one feels alone or unsure of what to do, there is always someone on hand to go through a new process or something complex needing further guidance.
The working hours for me are a huge bonus. Much of CPS Direct's work is out of hours covering 24/7 - working over a four week rolling rota enables me to have a work life balance that is far superior to what I have been used to. Most importantly, I am provided with everything I need to conduct my role from home.
My biggest learning
If you are considering a role within CPS Direct – you will be joining a team that supports the learning and development of all its employees. I joined as an administrative officer and have since progressed to become a charging workflow manager. I was only able to do this through the level of confidence and support I have gained since joining CPS Direct. I've been able to explore and continue the learning opportunities available to me. An example of this has been undertaking training on allocating cases for triage taking into account custody expiry times, to ensure it reaches the lawyer with as much time as possible to work on case.
My background
Prior to joining the CPS I worked in the private legal sector as a conveyancing paralegal. This role had a range of responsibilities from liaising with clients to conducting research on a variety of properties. It was a challenging yet rewarding position that led to me gaining solid experience within the legal field - but when I saw the chance to work for CPS Direct it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
My inspiration
Having studied law at university I was exposed to a variety of different legal areas but one that always piqued my interest was criminal law and the criminal justice system. Due to my studies, the CPS has always been on my radar as a forward-thinking organisation. A quality I admire most is the continual focus on staff development at all levels, allowing for personal growth but also meaning deliverance of a high quality service to the public.
My typical day
Now that I’m settling into the administrative officer role, my day usually starts with a cup of tea (the first of many), before checking my emails and assisting with any issues or queries that colleagues may have. This can vary from helping prosecutors with individual problems to assisting the learning and development team with scheduling training. The range of colleagues I get to interact with on a daily basis is one of the best aspects of the role.
My biggest learning
If I was to give any advice it would be to ask questions! My colleagues within CPS Direct are truly supportive and everyone is willing to help. I was made to feel welcome from the start, with this initial support ongoing. I am continually encouraged to learn and develop within the role.
Samir, Administrative Officer
Samir, Administrative Officer
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