For many graduates, the first few months after university are spent deciding what comes next. For 21-year-old Residential Worker Ellie Lester, that next step was joining Eden House Approved Premises in Bristol, where she now supports women as they rebuild their lives after prison.

 

Having graduated from the University of Portsmouth with a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice just weeks after starting her role, she has quickly discovered that the reality of rehabilitation is very different from reading about it in a textbook. 

 

“It has brought everything I studied at university to life. Learning about rehabilitation and desistance in the classroom was fascinating, but seeing it happen in real life – and being part of that journey – has confirmed that this is exactly where I want my career to be.” 

 

A passion inspired by people 

 

Her interest in criminal justice began while studying Uniformed Public Services at college, where a tutor encouraged her to pursue criminology and reminded her of the important role women play across the criminal justice sector. 

 

That encouragement stayed with her throughout university, where she also spent a year studying at Utica University in New York, gaining a different perspective on criminal justice and rehabilitation. Alongside her studies, she volunteered with a homeless outreach service, giving her first-hand experience of supporting vulnerable people in the community. 

 

“I’ve always wanted a career where I could work directly with people and make a genuine difference. My studies helped me understand the challenges people face, but I wanted to be part of helping people overcome them.” 

 

More than I expected 

 

Starting work in an Approved Premises was something of a leap into the unknown. 

 

Ellie says: “I came into the role with a completely open mind because I didn’t really know what to expect.” 

 

What she found surprised her. 

 

“It’s far more diverse and rewarding than I imagined. Every day I meet people from different backgrounds with different experiences, and I’ve learned so much from them. The role has exceeded every expectation I had.” 

 

One of the biggest misconceptions, she says, is that people assume Approved Premises are only about monitoring people on licence. 

 

“In reality, it’s about people. You quickly realise that everyone is human. Residents, colleagues, the police, healthcare professionals and partner agencies all have their own stories and experiences. This job gives you an understanding of people that you simply can’t get anywhere else.” 

 

She describes working in an Approved Premises as rewarding, unique and impactful. 

 

Small moments make a big difference

 

Although she has only been in the role for a short time, she has already seen how everyday interactions can have a lasting impact. 

 

“I’ve learned that I can make a difference, even as someone who’s new and fresh out of university.” 

 

For her, some of the most meaningful moments are also the simplest. 

 

“Being one of the last people to wish residents goodnight and one of the first to say good morning. Watching friendships form, seeing people overcome personal goals and knowing you’ve played a small part in that journey.” 

 

Working in a women’s Approved Premises has also made the role feel especially personal. 

 

“There have been times where I’ve supported women around my own age who are facing challenges that I can relate to. Being able to listen, offer encouragement and simply be there for someone has shown me that support doesn’t always have to be something big. Sometimes just being present is enough.” 

 

Keeping residents safe while helping them move forward has become one of her proudest achievements. 

 

Building a career with purpose 

 

When asked what advice she would give to someone considering a career in an Approved Premises, Ellie’s message is simple. 

 

“Keep an open mind. If you want a career where no two days are the same, where you’ll constantly learn and where you can genuinely make a difference to people’s lives, I’d definitely recommend it.” 

 

She believes the most important quality isn’t experience – it’s compassion. 

 

“You don’t have to know everything on day one. The willingness to care, to listen and to support people is what really matters. Sometimes the most important thing you can do is simply be there.”

 

• If you’re interested in finding out more about a career in an Approved Premises – get in touch enquiries@interventionsalliance.co.uk