Preston stabbing sparks call for probation staff safety review

Frontline staff say security concerns are not taken seriously despite increase in contact with violent offenders

There needs to be a review of safety for probation officers across England and Wales after a stabbing incident that has deeply concerned frontline staff, a watchdog has told the Guardian.

The call from Martin Jones, the chief inspector of probation, includes a demand for walk-through metal detectors and security guards to help protect caseworkers as they interact with growing numbers of released offenders.