Hi both,
Thank you for the replies and the kind words.
My first experience of the PPU was her ringing me, and she came around for the first visit a few days later as we pre-arranged it. The first impression I had off the PPU was indeed very much so if I play ball they most likely will as well.
I found her upfront, and honest, and to a certain degree blunt(which I don't mind, I would sooner have some be blunt with me than lie).
To some degree, I am quite glad not to have a SHPO, as PPU had advised me this had been drafted with the rough contents, but the prosecutor on the day decided not to go with it, and informed the Judge that my case is unique and they believe it not to be beneficial.
I'm pretty much going to try and turn my life around, and not dwell on the past. But instead understand what lead me to here, and then move on.