Around half of Crown prosecutors are fed up with their working environment because of long hours, poor conditions and a lack of recognition for the work they do, research has revealed.

The annual survey of Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) staff showed that although there have been improvements in areas such as training and development and communication, less than a quarter of employees – 24% – felt valued. Some 44% did not feel they received fair or respectful treatment, and only four out of ten thought their pay and benefits reflected their responsibilities. More than two- thirds felt overworked, with 54% unhappy with their work/life balance. Just 46% said that health and safety issues were taken seriously, with around the same number dissatisfied with their working conditions. Fewer than one-third said they got effective feedback on their performance, while 69% said their views were not requested on changes to the CPS. Some eight out of ten did not understand the recruitment and promotion system.


However, the survey did indicate that CPS staff felt they had a greater understanding of what was expected of them, more team spirit and a better rapport with their line managers. They also felt that the CPS was playing a more influential role in the criminal justice system.


Kris Venkatasami, CPS convenor at prosecutors’ union the First Division Association, welcomed any improvements in working conditions and morale, but warned that the CPS could not afford to rest on its laurels. ‘There is little to celebrate and no room for complacency,’ he argued. ‘We expect the CPS to address [respondents’] concerns urgently.’


Mary Moore, CPS head of human resources policy development and special projects, said it would be ‘unrealistic’ to expect across-the-board improvements in all aspects covered by the survey. ‘However, some key areas that were highlighted as weak by respondents are already receiving attention,’ she added. ‘For example, recruitment processes have been completely revamped – a new induction process is currently being finalised – and an action plan to take forward these survey results will also include work on health and safety issues.’