Former soldier shares his journey from Afghanistan to supporting rehabilitation at HMP Feltham
As the nation marks Armed Forces Day on 27 June, HMP Feltham is celebrating the veterans who continue to serve their communities through careers in the Prison Service.
Former members of the Armed Forces play a vital role across prisons in England and Wales, bringing valuable skills developed during military service, including leadership, teamwork, resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
To mark Armed Forces Day, HMP Feltham is highlighting the story of Prison Officer Francis Narh, whose military experience now helps him support prisoners and contribute to rehabilitation efforts.
HMP Feltham Prison Officer Francis Narh, 35, is a former Coldstream Guard who served in Afghanistan. He said it was a chance encounter that led him to join the Prison Service:
“I joined the Coldstream Guards in 2012 and served until 2018, including a tour of Afghanistan. When I left, I didn’t think about the Prison Service. I just came across it whilst job hunting.”
Francis has said the skills he developed from his military career has put him good stead for a career in the Prison Service.
He said:
“The military prepared me in so many ways. It gives you discipline, the ability to handle pressure, and the necessary people skills needed. Every day here is different, and that’s something I was already used to from my time in the Armed Force.”
As HMP Feltham’s Veterans in Custody Support Officer at Feltham, Francis leads inductions for any offenders who might be ex-veterans and is their point of contact in the earlier stages of their sentence.
He said:
“What I find most rewarding is making sure people are heard. In my role at the prison I support veterans coming into custody by sitting down with them, going through paperwork, and making sure the right help is in place. There’s a real level of mutual respect because we’ve both served.”
Earlier this year the government launched Advance into Justice - a dedicated recruitment scheme for ex‑forces personnel and their spouses. The scheme fast‑tracks them into roles across prisons, probation and youth justice, offering tailored application support and mentoring from a veteran ally.
Francis is encouraging those leaving the military to explore consider careers in the Prison Service.
He adds:
“If you’re leaving the forces and wondering what’s next, I’d strongly recommend roles in prisons. The teamwork, discipline and sense of purpose are all here.”
“The Advance into Justice scheme wasn’t in place when I was making the transition, but it would have made the move into a new career much easier. I’d encourage anyone leaving the military to take advantage of it.”
Minister of State for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending Lord Timpson said:
"The skills and values that veterans bring from their time in service are genuinely second to none. Their sense of duty and discipline makes them outstanding colleagues in our prisons and probation service.
I am proud that so many choose to begin new careers in justice, and I couldn't be more grateful for the contribution they make in keeping our communities safe."
Amanda Shepard, Chief Executive of The Poppy Factory, a charity focused on helping veterans with employment opportunities has said:
“Our experience supporting veterans into employment shows that jobs in prisons are often a great for fit those who need a new direction in civilian life. Our specialist team is ready to work with HM Prison and Probation Service to find new opportunities for veterans that harness the skills they’ve developed in the Armed Forces.”
The qualities developed through military service — leadership, professionalism, sound judgement and teamwork — continue to make veterans valued colleagues across the Prison Service.
Armed Forces Day provides an opportunity to recognise the contribution of veterans working throughout the justice system and to inspire more service leavers to explore careers where they can continue making a positive difference to society.
Those interested in a career with the Prison Service can find out more about available roles and opportunities online. Photo by
