Five prison leavers will get the chance to make a fresh start, thanks to our collaboration with Improving Lives Plymouth and our Peer Researcher, Patrick.
Putting the past behind
Without moral support, good connections and the right equipment, it’s difficult for any prison leaver. But now, Patrick will be on hand for five men leaving HMP Channings Wood prison/ HMP Exeter. Above all, he will work to keep them away from the justice system, putting the past behind.
Funding cuts
Patrick explains how funding cuts have caused many problems:
In Plymouth alone, four drug and alcohol centres have been closed. We used to have Broadreach for detox; Longreach residential for women; Closereach residential for men; and Ocean Quay ran a day programme and after care. With limited options, people are often sent to prison*. They need opportunities to work on the root causes of addiction. It’s just stalling the process by putting them away. Consequently, people fall by the wayside.
Therefore, we welcome the government’s plans for local rehab with the new NHS neighbourhood health services.
Patrick works with the Pre-release Probation Services Officer
Patrick recently met with the Pre-release Probation Services Officer at HMP Channings Wood. As a result, we hope to plug the gap. This picture shows Patrick handing over some vital equipment like laptops, tablets and headphones to assist. He also has smartphones and top up vouchers which will enable these men to stay on track, away from addiction and crime. If they can access emails, they will make the right connections and access support, training opportunities and / or work.
Making a fresh start
With Patrick as their one-to-one mentor and guide, these five prison leavers will have the opportunity to make a fresh start.
Role-model
Patrick is the role-model these men need. He has managed to turn his life around after years of crime and addiction. Ultimately, he wants to help others do the same. He is living proof that change is possible.
We asked Patrick to explain
‘Firstly, the prison pre-release team will find men who genuinely want to make a fresh start. After this, I will meet them in prison before release. We hope that their accommodation has been sorted. Next, we will make a plan. Finally, I will be their mentor, accompanying them to all appointments (with probation, for instance), welcoming them into the recovery community.
Community connections
I work with CASS+ inside Plymouth Magistrates’ Court. Above all, I ensure that the people who come through our door get the support they need. Each week, I’d say, over half of those people are dealing with past trauma, homelessness, substance use, and mental health. They are trapped in the justice system. However, we can help them because we have the connections to get them tailored support, thus reducing the risk of re-offending.
We believe in the possibility of change
We are driven by the belief that change is possible. With the right support, it’s possible to start over. Ultimately, this is what drives us.
Vision for the future
There is no need for anyone to go through this alone. Most importantly, I will be by their side as friend and mentor. They can rely on me.
My vision is that all these guys will start again, stay off drugs, stay away from prison, get their families back, and go to college or find work. It’s never too late. I was 46 when I went back to college. Most importantly, there is always hope.’
How this works
The Referral Pathway for Resettlement and Housing Journey Mapping is available to download here.
Alcohol & drugs treatment in prisons
*Official statistics show that there were 49,881 adults in alcohol and drug treatment in prisons and secure settings between 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024. Unfortunately, this is a 7% rise compared to the previous year (46,551). You can find out more about prison drug and alcohol treatment trends here.
Do you need support through court in Devon or Cornwall?
Finally, if you need support through court in Devon or Cornwall, contact your local hub for free, confidential, practical advice and emotional support.