OBE-awarded prison governor appointed in Jersey

Jersey's government has appointed a new prison governor who was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) medal for his service to prisons in the UK.

Paul Yates OBE, the current governor of HMP Nottingham, was to take on the role in Jersey from 1 September for a three-year term, officials said.

Mr Yates, who began his career in 1988, was awarded the OBE in 2021 for services to prison and probation services, reducing reoffending and public protection.

He said he was looking forward to combining his skills and experience with senior staff at Jersey prison to "ensure the best outcomes for all prisoners."

Previous governor Susie Richardson stepped down in July 2024.

The government said Mr Yates was appointed to the role after a "detailed selection process".

Mr Yates said he was very pleased to take on the role in Jersey.

He said: "My priority is to build on the excellent work already in train by the team at HMP La Moye and I am looking forward serving the States of Jersey, and the people of Jersey.

"At HMP Nottinghamshire I have pursued a passion for building a rehabilitative culture, reducing reoffending and public protection."

Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Mary Le Hegarat said Mr Yates was chosen from a "very strong field of external candidates".

"I welcome Paul to the Justice and Home Affairs family in this important senior leadership role, and look forward to the skills and experience he has built in his diverse career benefitting the States of Jersey Prison Service," she said.

La Moye Prison has accommodation for up to 200 prisoners, but usually had an average of 140 prisoners at one time, the government said.

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