Brenda Benchemhoun

Combines custodial safeguarding and case management experience with strong analytical skills and a sound understanding of criminal procedure, evidential preparation, and multi-agency justice processes. Experienced in managing sensitive case documentation, supporting vulnerable individuals, and ensuring procedural compliance within complex custodial settings. Possesses knowledge of PACE, CPIA, disclosure, POCA, AML, fraud indicators, and criminal case progression.

Committed to developing a career in criminal defence, with a particular interest in police station accreditation and financial crime advisory work.

Family Engagement Manager - Pact | HM Prison Wormwood Scrubs - London

(2023-01 - 2026-01)

Managed safeguarding and welfare casework across custodial settings, addressing complex family, behavioural, and rehabilitation-related issues affecting vulnerable prisoners. Produced evidential documentation including witness statements, intelligence referrals, behavioural assessments, and case summaries in line with custodial and investigative standards. Coordinated multi-agency collaboration with offender management, probation services, safeguarding teams, legal representatives, and external stakeholders to support effective intervention and continuity of care.

Handled sensitive communications with prisoners and families regarding safeguarding and legal matters, ensuring dignity, professionalism, and emotional stability. Conducted risk assessments to identify safeguarding vulnerabilities, behavioural concerns, and security threats, supporting timely escalation and safer custodial operations.

• Coordinated information-sharing initiatives supporting MAPPA processes, ACCT reviews, safeguarding interventions, and prison-wide welfare management frameworks to improve collaborative decision-making outcomes
• Championed prisoner welfare advocacy during high-level safeguarding and safety forums with custodial leadership teams, influencing support planning for individuals presenting elevated behavioural, emotional, or self-harm risks
• Collaborated with Chaplaincy and neurodiversity teams to deliver tailored support and interventions for prisoners requiring additional emotional, spiritual, and behavioural assistance
• Mentored operational and non operational staff, volunteers, and placement students through structured supervision, coaching, and performance guidance, fostering resilient, compassionate, and service-driven team environments
• Strengthened integrity and accountability across case management functions by maintaining meticulous records, audit-compliant documentation, and confidential safeguarding files within highly regulated prison environments
• Navigated volatile and unpredictable custodial situations with composure, emotional intelligence, and sound judgement while balancing operational priorities with prisoner welfare and safeguarding obligations
• Cultivated trusted professional relationships through empathetic engagement, active listening, balanced decision-making, and principled negotiation techniques, supporting constructive prisoner and stakeholder interactions including liaising with prisoners families and children
• Modelled exceptional ethical standards, impartiality, and professional boundaries while leading safeguarding and welfare responsibilities within high-risk and emotionally demanding custodial environments

Accountant - Farcastle Ltd - Golders Green - London

(2017-01 - 2023-01)

Analysed complex financial records and transactional data to identify discrepancies, fraud indicators, and mitigate financial and operational risks. Prepared statutory accounts, VAT returns, reconciliations, and financial reports in line with regulatory requirements. Strengthened financial governance by improving reporting accuracy, procedural consistency, and operational accountability.

Led transition from manual accounting processes to a computerised system, enhancing efficiency, data accuracy, and financial control.

• Optimised internal control frameworks and financial governance procedures across multiple entities to strengthen compliance, minimise reporting errors, and support informed business decision-making
• Streamlined financial administration activities through process improvements, structured documentation practices, and enhanced workflow coordination within the accounting function
• Contributed to operational effectiveness by maintaining organised financial records, supporting audit readiness, and ensuring adherence to established accounting and compliance procedures
• Demonstrated strong analytical capabilities and attention to detail while managing sensitive financial information within fast-paced and deadline-driven environments

Audit Associate (Temporary) - Venitt & Greaves - Hendon - London

Senior Accountant - Sumitomo Corporation Europe - Mansion House – City of London

Management Accountant - KBR - Leatherhead – Surrey

Accountant - Devereux Architects - Putney - London

SQE1 & SQE2 - SQE (Online) (2026-08 - 2027-01)

MA - Serious and Violent Crime - Arden University (2024-01 - 2026-01)