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Forensic psychologist (prison and probation services): Salary and conditions

• Range of typical starting salaries for trainee forensic psychologists in the prison and probation service: £17,285 - £19,581 (new entrants start at the bottom of the training scale). The typical starting salary for psychological assistants is £14,444. A local pay allowance of between £1,100 and £4,000 may be payable for some locations depending on category of prison (salary data collected July 08).
• Chartered forensic psychologists (higher grade) can expect to earn between £26,280 and £38,082 (salary data collected July 08).
• Range of typical salaries at senior and principal grades (experienced positions i.e. 10-15 years in the role): £29,184 - £63,535 (salary data collected July 08).
• Working hours are typically nine to five, with some flexibility required. Evening and weekend work (often for work on accredited group programmes) is becoming a more common requirement.
• Job share and part-time working options are possible.
• Office accommodation varies. In prisons, acclimatisation is needed to noise, smells and lock-up procedures. Category A institutions impose camera observation and entry searches.
• Jobs are available across the UK. Some locations are difficult to access without your own transport.
• Self-employment/freelance work is sometimes possible, e.g. opportunities to progress into consultancy.
• More than 50% of prison psychologists are currently female.
• Career breaks can be self-managed.
• Travel for work and nights away are occasionally needed. Overseas work or travel is uncommon.

AGCAS

Written by David Henderson, University of Durham

Last updated:

October 2009

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