MORE than 70 Kent probation officers are poised to lose their jobs over the next three years as the service tackles a government freeze on spending.

Canterbury-based officers were called to special meetings at Kent University to discuss taking voluntary redundancy.

They were told that the service, like others across the country, will have their budgets frozen for the next three years.

Kent estimates that it is looking to shed 40 staff in the coming year and another 36 over the next two financial years.

Alan Dowie, the acting chief officer of Kent Probation, said: "The budget settlement for the next financial year means that we will have to employ slightly fewer people.

"We are working on the details and are seeking voluntary redundancies with a view to minimising the impact on staff and maximising the protection of the public."

Neil Lampert, Kent Probation's communications manager, added: "At the moment the number of jobs which might go are estimates, a ballpark figure which may change."

Kent Probation supervises 5,000 criminals and prepares around 5,500 reports for the courts.

It has 500 members of staff working in the community, courts, hostels and prisons and with other agencies.