Alliance MLA Chris Lyttle has said the introduction of support services for prison officers by the Justice Minister is a vital move.

It comes after Naomi Long announced former prison staff would benefit from the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust services, following a report commissioned by the Alliance Minister in January had made the recommendation. It is anticipated the support will be in place early in the new year.

“This is a significant step forward in support for former prison officers,” said Mr Lyttle, who has worked closely with a number of prison officers for several years to advocate for support.

“It will give people who have served on the front line access to first-class health and well-being services, which is incredibly important given the role they play. I thank the Minister for delivering on this review, to give prison officers the help they deserve.

“As a society, we ask a lot of prison officers, who are brave men and women working in dangerous circumstances on a daily basis. I have worked with many who deal with threats and harassment as a constant part of a the job, and yet they still go back to keep us safe.

“I am proud an Alliance Justice Minister has delivered this support for former prison officers.”