Probation service pays undisclosed sum to ex-contractor after racial harassment | Prisons and probation

HM Prison and Probation Service has paid an undisclosed settlement to a former contractor who endured racial discrimination and harassment, including monkey chants.

Lloyd Odain, who worked for the probation service, was subject to incidents of racial discrimination by another contractor in 2019.

“I feel grossly let down by the prison and probation service. I worked in the Reading office for many years in different roles and took pride in my job helping people who were struggling to find a path in life,” he said.

“After being subjected to monkey chants and other racist behaviour, I followed the correct processes in making a complaint. I felt ignored and isolated as nothing appeared to be done.”

The co-worker was allowed to return to their role after an investigation and Odain, reluctant to face more racism and feeling unsupported, felt he had no option but to leave his position.

The case was settled three years after the initial complaint after a preliminary hearing found the probation service may be liable for the racist behaviour. With the support of Britain’s equality watchdog, the Equality and Human Rights Commission, a settlement was accepted before the final hearing.

The probation service did not dispute there were monkey chants.

“I have spent more than three years fighting for change so that others shouldn’t face what I faced. I hope that, by exposing the horrendous treatment I suffered, HMPPS learn lessons from this case,” said Odain.

His settlement does not include an admission of liability or a commitment from HMPPS to review its policy on how contractors are treated.

The EHRC chair, Kishwer Falkner, said: “Everyone going to work should expect to feel safe from harm and no one should suffer the shocking racism experienced by Mr Odain.

“It is disappointing that, in this case, HM Prison and Probation Service chose to defend themselves on the basis of legal technicalities rather than to commit positively to protect and support their own staff. Racism is never acceptable.”

The Ministry of Justice has been approached for comment.