A 21-year-old prison officer who relocated hundreds of miles for the job has been recognised for his outstanding commitment to changing lives at this year’s HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) in Wales Awards.
Lewis Deverson, originally from Canterbury, Kent, joined the prison service at just 19.
Now, 18 months into the role, his dedication to supporting prisoners and creating positive change has earned him the Changing Lives award.
Lewis, who works at HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, was inspired to become a prison officer by a family friend’s stories about life behind prison walls.
Instead of going to university after his A-levels, he decided to take on the challenge - and hasn’t looked back since.
He said: “We’re more than just a set of keys. To some prisoners, we’re their go-to for life’s problems.
"One day, I might save a life without even knowing it, just by having a conversation with someone who needed it.
"My actions can have a huge impact, and I wear that responsibility on my sleeve every day I put on the uniform."
No formal qualifications are needed - just resilience, empathy, and strong communication skills.
More information is available here.
Adjusting to the job wasn’t without its challenges, particularly asserting authority as a young officer.
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But Lewis has embraced the role, learning how to navigate relationships with both colleagues and prisoners.
He added: "Being a young officer is tough. But 18 months down the line, I wouldn’t change a thing.
"It’s taught me how to express myself with confidence and how to build trust with prisoners, even when there’s a big age gap.”
This year’s HMPPS in Wales Awards celebrates the unsung heroes of the prison service, recognising those who go above and beyond to support rehabilitation and keep prisons safe.
Now in its seventh year, the awards include 23 categories across prisons and probation.
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