Leading with PRIDE : Jamie is a vocal and proud leader in prison healthcare 

Meet Jamie, a proud LGBTQIA+ leader transforming prison healthcare at HMP Pentonville through authenticity, inclusivity, and compassionate care.

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At Practice Plus Group, we know that people thrive when they can be themselves at work. Jamie, Head of Healthcare at HMP Pentonville, is a fantastic example of this- a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and an authentic leader.   

He shares –  

 “It was during my training when I discovered about the opportunity to work bank shifts in prisons. That’s how I found myself at HMP Pentonville. And, honestly, I haven’t looked back since. 

I joined Practice Plus Group as a newly qualified nurse in 2019, and quickly found my passion in managing long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and hypertension. I later moved into leadership roles at HMP Brixton and, in 2025, returned to Pentonville as Head of Healthcare. It feels like a full circle I’m incredibly proud of. 

Why I chose a career in prison healthcare 

Prison healthcare is unlike any other setting. It’s a complex, rewarding mix of acute care, community-style nursing, and emergency response. 

What truly drives me is the opportunity to make a real, tangible difference to a population often underserved in healthcare. Providing non discriminating care to the patients here is the way to empower them not just medically but also behaviourally and socially. 

Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community 

I came out as gay at 18. Like many others, I was initially nervous about how my family and wider society would respond. Fortunately, they were incredibly supportive, and I’ve always felt accepted by those around me. 

My experience of being open at work about my sexual orientation has always been positive. At Practice Plus Group, I’ve never felt judged, excluded, or held back because of my identity. 

Leading authentically at work 

I progressed to a senior management role in under five years. Being in this position today, I can confidently say that visibility in leadership is vital. Growing up, I didn’t see many LGBTQIA+ people in leadership roles. Today, I choose to be visible and vocal about who I am because I know it helps others feel safe to do the same. Authentic leadership means not hiding any part of yourself, and it’s where I believe the most effective leadership begins. 

I am a strong advocate of inclusive workplace culture, and I work towards ensuring that my team here feels safe, respected and valued. 

Why Pride Month matters more than ever

Pride month is about being proud of who we are and is a time to reflect on how far we’ve come in such a short space of time. It’s not just about parties or big celebrations (though those are great too). It’s a time to reflect, to look back, and to make sure we don’t go backwards. 

It wasn’t that long ago that the first gay kiss was shown on television; same-sex marriage has only been legal for the past few years. That really shows you how recent some of our milestones have been. 

So yes, we should celebrate. But we should also use this time to think about what still needs to change — especially around important topics like trans rights and making sure society continues to move in the right direction. Pride Month reminds us that progress needs to be protected, and that visibility still matters.  

Advice to LGBTQ+ professionals starting their career 

If you’re early in your career and hesitant to be open about your identity— I get it. But in my experience, being open has only helped me thrive. You do your best work when you’re being your authentic self. Don’t let fear hold you back from bringing your whole self to work. 

And if you’re considering a career in prison healthcare, do it. It’s challenging, unique, and deeply rewarding. And at Practice Plus Group, you’ll find an inclusive, supportive environment that empowers you to grow, lead, and be proud of who you are.” 

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