Samantha Cowie, Head of Criminal Justice Services of St Mungo’s, has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours list.
Cowie has worked at St Mungo’s for 26 years, starting when she was only 17 years old. Cowie has experience working on the frontline; within services and always had an interest in the criminal Justice system. In 1999, Cowie took her first role in Pentonville Prison as a housing advisor. When she first took over as head of service 10 years ago, there were 14 staff based across 6 prisons. Today there are around 50 staff working across 10 prisons as well as responsibility for a subcontract arrangement where they deliver across 24 probation offices.
Cowie said, “When I found out I couldn’t believe it; I cried. It’s an indescribable mix of pride, disbelief, excitement, and, honestly, a sense of unworthiness.
“My thoughts immediately go to my incredible team at St Mungo’s Criminal Justice Services.
“For me, this MBE is not really about me. I accept it on behalf of my team, colleagues, and partners in the wider criminal justice system, and of course, for my dad—without whom I wouldn’t have followed this career path.”
