Episodes
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Life After Prison will be back with you soon but while we are finalising series 8 in the studio, we thought that we'd share some episodes of another podcast here. It’s called Hold or Fold and is made by our colleagues at the Prison Radio Association.
'Hold or Fold' explores gambling harm with an emphasis on the criminal justice system, your hosts Ben & Steve have both served time in prison as a direct result of their gambling.
In this episode we’re looking at betting shops and the role they play in the wider gambling culture. Ben & Steve let us know if betting shops played a part within their own journeys and we hear from two people who were impacted by betting shops for very different reasons…
David lost a large amount in a betting shop and fell into a cycle of robbing them, to claim ‘revenge’ - He ended up serving a 10 year prison sentence as a result of this. Meanwhile, Lady Unchained experienced this from the other side of the counter, working in a well-known betting shop for 5 years.
USEFUL LINKS:
David’s Channel 4 DocumentaryDavid’s YouTube channelLady UnchainedReframe Coaching GamcareGordon Moody GamfamGamlearnBet Know MoreBreakevenEpic Global SolutionsGambler’s AnonymousCall the National Gambling helpline, for free, on 0808 8020 133
If you would like to get in touch with Hold or Fold and ask us a question, suggest a topic or start a conversation, you can E-mail us at...
💬 DM us: @holdorfoldpod on Instagram & Twitter (X)
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
This episode is hosted by...
Ben Jones & Steve Girling
You can find out more about the work of the 'Prison Radio Association' and 'National Prison Radio' here:
https://prison.radio/
Thanks to GambleAware for the support
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Life After Prison will be back with you soon but while we are finalising series 8 in the studio, we thought that we'd share some episodes of another podcast here. It’s called Hold or Fold and is made by our colleagues at the Prison Radio Association.
'Hold or Fold' explores gambling harm with an emphasis on the criminal justice system, your hosts Ben & Steve have both served time in prison as a direct result of their gambling. In this first episode they are introducing themselves to you, a brand new audience.
They candidly share what got them into gambling, how it escalated and why this led to a prison sentence. What was that first night in prison like? How did they cope? And how were they able to turn their adversity into a positive?
Plus, Ben & Steve will be taking their first listener question in ‘Cards On the Table’ - We’d love to hear your questions too. To do this, use the links below.
USEFUL LINKS:
Reframe CoachingGamcareGambleAwareGambler’s AnonymousBreakevenGamfamGamlearnCall the National Gambling helpline, for free, on 0808 8020 133
If you would like to get in touch with Hold or Fold and ask us a question, suggest a topic or start a conversation, you can E-mail us at...
💬 DM us: @holdorfoldpod on Instagram & Twitter (X)
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
This episode is hosted by...
Ben Jones & Steve Girling
...And is funded by 'Gambleaware'
You can find out more about the work of the 'Prison Radio Association' and 'National Prison Radio' here:
https://prison.radio/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode Jules chats to Charlotte, who after years of self-harm, admissions to psychiatric hospitals, and a period of time in prison, is now in a really happy place. Charlotte has big ambitions for her future, and wants to be that support for others that she needed when she was younger, and she’s well on her way to achieving her goal.
Useful links and organisations:
Working Chance: https://workingchance.org/
Girls Get Social: https://www.instagram.com/girls.get.social/
Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/
Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Zak and Jules discuss dealing with the fear of the unknown and how this affected them when leaving prison. They also hear from people inside about some of the hobbies they’ve developed to help pass the time, and the small privileges they now recognise that they’re missing out on.
Useful organisations:
Mental Health and Emotional Support
Mind (Nationwide) – Offers mental health resources, advice, and support
https://mind.org.uk
Samaritans (Nationwide) – Provides a listening ear for anyone struggling or feeling overwhelmed.
https://samaritans.org
Second Step (Bristol and South West) – Provides mental health support and housing assistance.
https://second-step.co.uk
Housing and Homelessness
Shelter (Nationwide) – Offers housing advice and support.
https://shelter.org.uk
The Wallich (Wales) – Provides housing and support services for people experiencing homelessness.
https://thewallich.com
Crisis (Nationwide) – Assists individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of it after release.
https://crisis.org.uk
St Petrocs (Cornwall) – Supports individuals at risk of homelessness, including those recently released from prison.
https://www.stpetrocs.org.uk/
YMCA Derbyshire (Midlands) – Provides supported housing and life skills programs for ex-offenders.
https://ymcaderbyshire.org.uk
Employment and Training
St. Giles Trust (Nationwide) – Supports people transitioning out of prison, including help with employment.
https://stgilestrust.org.uk
Tempus Novo (Yorkshire) – Connects ex-offenders with employers and provides mentoring support.
https://tempusnovo.org
Northern Learning Trust (North East) – Offers education and mentoring for individuals in the criminal justice system.
https://northernlearningtrust.org.uk
Bounce Back (Nationwide) – Helps individuals leaving prison gain training and employment in construction.
https://www.bouncebackproject.com/
Mentoring and Personal Development
Spark2Life (London)– Offers mentoring and personal development for people navigating life after prison.
https://spark2life.co.uk
The Forward Trust (Nationwide) – Provides life coaching, addiction recovery, and reintegration programs.
https://forwardtrust.org.uk
The Footprints Project (Dorset, Hampshire, Isle of Wight) – Provides mentoring and support for reintegration after prison.
https://www.footprintsproject.co.uk/
Sacro (Scotland) – Offers mentoring and restorative justice services for reintegration.
https://sacro.org.uk
Legal and Advocacy Support
Unlock (Nationwide) – Provides advice on dealing with criminal records and rights post-prison.
https://unlock.org.uk
The Howard League for Penal Reform (Nationwide) – Campaigns for improvements in prison conditions and post-release support.
https://howardleague.org
Changing Lives (North East & Yorkshire) – Offers creative programs alongside housing, addiction recovery, and employment services.
https://changing-lives.org.uk
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode Jules chats to Scout, a poet, writer and broadcaster. Scout, who ended up in prison after experiencing a manic state of psychosis, explores themes of mental health, prison and sobriety in her work. She talks to Jules about rediscovering her ability to write, turning to faith in prison and learning to like yourself.
The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: (link)
Useful links and organisations:
National Prison Radio: https://prison.radio/national-prison-radio/
The Mad Art of Doing Time: https://www.brokensleepbooks.com/product-page/scout-tzofiya-bolton-the-mad-art-of-doing-time
Scout’s Guardian article (link to follow in January)
The Ballad of Scout and the Alcohol Tag https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00223pb
Alcoholics Anonymous: https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Zak and Jules meet Abdul Bangura. Abdul has served three prison sentences. He is now a successful entrepreneur running his own aviation business. Abdul talks to Zak and Jules about how a chance meeting with his mentor in prison set him on a path to see his own potential.
Useful organisations:
The Alac Group – Abdul Bangura’s aviation Company
https://thealacgroup.co.uk/about
Power The Fight – a charity that empowers local communities to end youth violence
https://www.powerthefight.org.uk/
School For Social Entrepreneurs – Supporting people ignite change in their communities
https://www.the-sse.org/
Social Ark (East London) – Social Ark is a charity supporting young people from under-resourced communities, including ex-offenders, to create social enterprises or community-focused businesses.
https://www.socialark.co.uk/
The Open University – Business and Entrepreneurship Courses (Nationwide) – The Open University offers a wide range of courses in business, management, and entrepreneurship, with many open to those with justice system involvement.
https://www.open.ac.uk/
The King’s Trust (Nationwide) – The King’s Trust offers a range of programs to support young people, including ex-offenders, in starting their own businesses.
https://www.princes-trust.org.uk/
The Longford Trust (Nationwide) – The Longford Trust offers mentoring and scholarships to prisoners and ex-offenders pursuing higher education.
https://www.longfordtrust.org/
Tempus Novo (Leeds) – Tempus Novo works with ex-offenders to secure stable employment, particularly focusing on the transition to self-employment or business ownership for those who want to pursue an entrepreneurial path.
https://www.tempusnovo.org/
Changing Lives (North East and Midlands) – Changing Lives provides support for those coming out of prison, including pathways to entrepreneurship and self-employment through vocational training.
https://www.changing-lives.org.uk/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode Jules is joined by trainee barrister Kiri, whose dreams of a legal career were shaped when she was remanded in prison under joint enterprise law. Kiri tells Jules about the abusive relationship that caused her downward spiral, and the hard work that’s got her where she is today. Together they talk about the power of lived experience, being on the other side of criminal justice system, and getting more women into law.
The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: (link)
Useful organisations:
Inside Justice https://www.insidejustice.co.uk/
Criminal Justice Alliance https://www.criminaljusticealliance.org/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Zak and Jules explore what it takes to start and manage a business after prison, sharing their own journeys and lessons learned. They discuss building confidence, taking opportunities, and how businesses can open unexpected doors.
This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.
Useful organisations:
Social Ark (East London) – Social Ark is a charity supporting young people from under-resourced communities, including ex-offenders, to create social enterprises or community-focused businesses.
https://www.socialark.co.uk/
The Open University – Business and Entrepreneurship Courses (Nationwide) – The Open University offers a wide range of courses in business, management, and entrepreneurship, with many open to those with justice system involvement.
https://www.open.ac.uk/
The King’s Trust (Nationwide) – The King’s Trust offers a range of programs to support young people, including ex-offenders, in starting their own businesses.
https://www.princes-trust.org.uk/
The Longford Trust (Nationwide) – The Longford Trust offers mentoring and scholarships to prisoners and ex-offenders pursuing higher education.
https://www.longfordtrust.org/
Tempus Novo (Leeds) – Tempus Novo works with ex-offenders to secure stable employment, particularly focusing on the transition to self-employment or business ownership for those who want to pursue an entrepreneurial path.
https://www.tempusnovo.org/
Changing Lives (North East and Midlands) – Changing Lives provides support for those coming out of prison, including pathways to entrepreneurship and self-employment through vocational training.
https://www.changing-lives.org.uk/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode Jules sits down with rapper, OneDa. Hot off the launch of her debut album, OneDa explains how she broke into the music industry. She also talks to Jules about experiencing the criminal justice system in her youth, her female rap collective HerChester, and the power of bringing others up with you.
Our listeners are the most important part of Life After Prison and we want to hear from you! Your feedback is really important as it lets our funders know what you think of the project, and helps make sure they continue to support Life After Prison.
So it would be a massive help if you could fill out this form and let us know what you think. Thank you so much!
OneDa’s headline tour starts on the 31st January 2025.
Useful organisations:
OneDa: https://formulaoneda.com/
HerChester: https://www.instagram.com/herchester/
Cultural Fusion: https://www.culturalfusion.co.uk/
Studio 88: https://www.studio88mcr.co.uk/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/ 📢 Complete our survey: https://forms.gle/1bi9vWKqBf2QSCTT6
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Zak and Jules sit down with Sobanan Narenthiran, CEO of Breakthrough, to discuss his journey from dreaming of being a doctor to navigating life after prison. Sobanan shares how his sentence impacted his family and why they’re his biggest motivation to stay out, as well as reflecting on his unexpected path to becoming a CEO, his plans for the future, and the changes he hopes to see in the criminal justice system.
This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.
Breakthrough are currently recruiting for their next bootcamp, more info can be found here: https://wearebreakthrough.co.uk/skills-bootcamp/
Useful organisations:
StandOut (London and Manchester) – Provides tailored support and mentoring for people leaving prison, helping them build confidence, secure employment, and successfully reintegrate into society.
https://www.standout.org.uk
Breakthrough (UK-Wide) – a pioneering organisation dedicated to empowering individuals from underserved and marginalised backgrounds, including those leaving prison and with criminal records, to transform their lives through education, skills development, and employment opportunities.
https://wearebreakthrough.co.uk/
ChatGPT (Online) – A tool for accessible knowledge and support, assisting people with research, learning, and personal development.
https://chat.openai.com/
Clinks Directory (UK-Wide) – A comprehensive online resource listing organisations working to support people in the criminal justice system and their families. It provides details on services, including mentoring, rehabilitation, housing, and employment support.
https://www.clinks.org/directory
Criminal Justice Alliance (UK-Wide) – A network of organisations focused on promoting fairer criminal justice policies and practices.
https://www.criminaljusticealliance.org
Catch22 Digital Skills Academy (UK-Wide) – Provides training programs to help excluded groups access digital and tech-enabled roles.
https://www.catch-22.org.uk/find-services/digital-skills-academy/
CodeAtt (UK-Wide) – Focuses on equipping individuals, including ex-offenders, with coding skills to transition into the tech industry.
Spark2Life (London) – A rehabilitation and mentoring organisation empowering young people at risk of offending or reoffending.
https://www.spark2life.co.uk
St. Giles Trust (UK-Wide) – Helps people facing severe disadvantage transition from prison with support in employment, housing, and rehabilitation.
https://www.stgilestrust.org.uk
Unlock (UK-Wide) – Supports people with convictions to overcome barriers, particularly in employment and financial services.
https://www.unlock.org.uk
The Paradigm Project (UK-Wide) – Tackles social inequality for young people through prevention-focused creative arts programs.
https://paradigmproject.co.uk/
Prison Reform Trust (UK-Wide) – Campaigns for fairer, more effective penal systems and supports people in prison.
https://www.prisonreformtrust.org.uk
Bounce Back (London) – Trains individuals in custody and after release to secure sustainable employment.
https://www.bouncebackproject.com
Clean Slate (UK-Wide) – Helps individuals rebuild their lives with opportunities in employment and digital inclusion.
https://www.cleanslateltd.co.uk
Switch Up (Nottingham) – Provides mentoring and sports programs to help young people and adults involved in or at risk of crime.
https://www.switch-up.org.uk
Framework (Nottingham and surrounding areas) – Prevents homelessness, offering support to people leaving prison who are at risk of housing instability.
https://www.frameworkha.org
The Growth Company (Greater Manchester) – Delivers training and employment services, including programs for people with convictions.
https://www.growthco.uk
Community Led Initiatives (North West) – Provides mentoring and recovery-focused programs to help individuals leaving prison reintegrate into society.
https://www.communityled.org.uk
Second Step (Bristol and South West) – A mental health and housing charity supporting individuals leaving the justice system.
https://www.second-step.co.uk
The Nelson Trust (Gloucestershire) – Offers trauma-informed recovery and reintegration support for people in the criminal justice system.
https://www.nelsontrust.com
Venture Trust (Scotland) – Provides personal development programs and employability training for people involved in the justice system.
https://www.venturetrust.org.uk
Turning Point Scotland (Nationwide in Scotland) – Tailored support services for individuals leaving custody, including housing and addiction recovery.
https://www.turningpointscotland.com
The Wallich (Wales-wide) – Provides housing and resettlement support for people leaving prison, helping to prevent reoffending.
https://www.thewallich.com
Northcoders (Manchester and Leeds) – A coding bootcamp helping individuals transition into tech careers, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
https://www.northcoders.com
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode Jules is joined by audio producer, Faye. While in prison, Faye found herself presenting regular shows on National Prison Radio. Now, together with Jules, she continues this work on the outside with the Prison Radio Association. Faye talks about her passion for fitness, being a parent in prison and her work on the Secret Life of Prisons podcast.
Our listeners are the most important part of Life After Prison and we want to hear from you! Your feedback is really important as it lets our funders know what you think of the project, and helps make sure they continue to support Life After Prison.
So it would be a massive help if you could fill out this form and let us know what you think. Thank you so much!
Useful organisations:
Prison Reform Trust https://prisonreformtrust.org.uk/
The Secret Life of Prisons Podcast https://secretlifeofprisons.libsyn.com/
Shannon Trust https://www.shannontrust.org.uk/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/ 📢 Complete our survey: https://forms.gle/1bi9vWKqBf2QSCTT6
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Zak and Jules explore what it’s like adjusting to life after prison, reflecting on their personal journeys, and the superstitions many people have when leaving. They hear from a listener who opens up about his entrepreneurial journey post-release and discuss the often-overlooked experiences of family and friends during this transition.
This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.
Useful organisations:
Tomorrow’s Women (Wirral/Chester) – A women-only charity that provides support for women leaving prison or those at risk of offending. Services include mental health support, skills training, and a safe space for women to develop personally and professionally.
https://www.tomorrowswomen.org.uk/
Apex Scotland – Provides services to reduce reoffending and support reintegration, including employment and training programs for early release individuals.
https://www.apexscotland.org.uk
Switchback (London) – supports young men aged 18-30 leaving prison by providing intensive, one-to-one mentorship and practical support to help them build stable and fulfilling lives. Their holistic approach focuses on personal growth, securing employment, and avoiding reoffending.
http://www.switchback.org.uk
Breakthrough (London) – Breakthrough Social Enterprise is a pioneering organisation dedicated to empowering individuals from underserved and marginalised backgrounds, including those leaving prison and with criminal records, to transform their lives through education, skills development, and employment opportunities.
https://www.wearebreakthrough.org/
Working Chance (London) – They help women secure sustainable employment by offering workshops, career coaching, and job placement services, aiming to challenge stigma and foster inclusion.
http://www.workingchance.org
Partners of Prisoners (POPS) (North West) – POPS supports prisoners' families, recognizing the challenges they face during imprisonment and release. They offer family support, resettlement programs, and advocacy for individuals leaving prison, ensuring they and their families have the resources to reintegrate smoothly.
http://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk
St. Giles Trust (Nationwide) – Provides individualised support for people leaving prison, focusing on practical needs like housing, employment, and managing financial issues. They have specialized services for those who may need extra guidance and stability after early release.
https://www.stgilestrust.org.uk
The Forward Trust (England) – Provides support for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. They offer services that include counseling and rehabilitation for people in and out of prison, particularly beneficial for those on early release who may be navigating complex mental health needs.
https://www.forwardtrust.org.uk
The Wallich (Cardiff) – A homelessness and resettlement charity that provides support to people exiting the prison system, with emphasis on stable housing and community reintegration.
https://thewallich.com
Extern (Northern Ireland) – Supports people with criminal records, offering mental health, addiction, and resettlement services, focusing on helping early release individuals adjust.
https://www.extern.org
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode Jules chats to Beatrice, who has very recently been released from prison. As an aspiring prison reformer, Beatrice talks about using her experience for good. Together, Beatrice and Jules discuss the mix of emotions that come with release, the current state of the prison system and Beatrice’s hopes for the future.
Useful links and organisations:
Beatrice’s Spectator Article https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/why-womens-prisons-dont-work/
Prison Reform Trust https://prisonreformtrust.org.uk/
The Longford Trust https://www.longfordtrust.org/
Open University https://www.open.ac.uk/
Our listeners are the most important part of Life After Prison and we want to hear from you! Your feedback is really important as it lets our funders know what you think of the project, and helps make sure they continue to support Life After Prison.
So it would be a massive help if you could fill out this form and let us know what you think. Thank you so much!
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
📢 Complete our survey: https://forms.gle/1bi9vWKqBf2QSCTT6
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Joel Dunn, founder of The Paradigm Project, shares his journey from prison to founding a charity focused on preventing youth involvement in the criminal justice system. He talks about his background, how it all started with a mentoring course in prison, and the support network that helped him rebuild his life. Joel also discusses the importance of understanding his own story, why he chose to work in prevention, and the impact of The Paradigm Project’s work. Plus, he shares insights from his research into the school-to-prison pipeline.
This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.
Useful organisations:
Mind (UK-wide) – Provides support and advice for anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
https://www.mind.org.uk/
Helpline: 0300 123 3393
Samaritans (UK-wide) – A 24/7 helpline for anyone feeling distressed, overwhelmed, or suicidal.
https://www.samaritans.org/
Helpline: 116 123
SurvivorsUK (UK-wide) – Provides support for men and non-binary people who have experienced sexual abuse.
https://www.survivorsuk.org/
Helpline: 020 3322 1860 (Text and WhatsApp support available)
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) (UK-wide) – Focuses on preventing male suicide but supports anyone in crisis.
https://www.thecalmzone.net/
Helpline: 0800 58 58 58
Shout (UK-wide) – A free, 24/7 text service for anyone in crisis, providing immediate support.
https://giveusashout.org/
Text: 85258
Spark2Life (London) – Offers mentoring and workshops to help young people and adults make positive life changes, often led by individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system.
https://www.spark2life.co.uk/
Exit Foundation (London) – Supports individuals looking to leave gang involvement and criminal lifestyles by providing mentoring, education, and employment opportunities.
https://www.exitfoundation.org.uk/
The Paradigm Project (National) – Tackles social inequality for young people with a focus on prevention and addressing the school-to-prison pipeline.
https://paradigmproject.co.uk/
Change for Good (London) – aim to empower those leaving prison and resettling in London to transform their lives through mentoring, advocacy, and peer support.
https://www.changeforgood.info/
Key4Life (Somerset and London) – Helps young men at risk of offending or who have been in prison to transform their lives through mentoring, employability programs, and emotional resilience training. Their innovative approach includes music, sports, and equine therapy to build confidence and create opportunities for lasting change.
https://key4life.org.uk/
Step Together (Bristol and Bath) – Works with offenders and ex-offenders, providing mentoring and volunteer placements to rebuild their confidence and skills.
https://www.step-together.org.uk/
Sacro (Scotland-wide) – Offers tailored support to prevent reoffending, including mentoring and housing advice.
https://www.sacro.org.uk/
Northern Ireland Alternatives (Belfast and Derry/Londonderry) – A restorative justice organization that supports individuals reintegrating into the community.
https://www.alternativesrj.co.uk/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Jules sits down with social impact entrepreneur, Barbara Burton. While awaiting trail, Barbara wrote a sixteen-page business plan, which became her first social enterprise during her twelve month prison sentence. Barbara talks about becoming an entrepreneur, the art of pivoting and being named as one of the BBC’s 100 Women of the World.
Our listeners are the most important part of Life After Prison and we want to hear from you! Your feedback is really important as it lets our funders know what you think of the project, and helps make sure they continue to support Life After Prison.
So it would be a massive help if you could fill out this form and let us know what you think. Thank you so much!
Useful organisations: Evolve Denim https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbaraburtonevolvedenim/?originalSubdomain=uk
Working Chance https://workingchance.org/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/ 📢 Complete our survey: https://forms.gle/1bi9vWKqBf2QSCTT6
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Life After Prison, Zak and Jules discuss the SDS40 scheme which facilitates early release from prison. They reflect on their own experiences and on the impact of families and friends of those being released. They discuss whether this scheme is a long-term solution and if not, what needs to change.
Have your say: There is a parliamentary inquiry into prison culture running until the 10th January. The inquiry wants to hear from people with direct experiences of prison, both as prisoners and staff. Your experiences and opinions are valuable and could help improve the situation for people in prison. Click this link to take part
https://committees.parliament.uk/work/8565/prison-culture-governance-leadership-and-staffing/
This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.
Useful organisations:
Switchback (London) – supports young men aged 18-30 leaving prison by providing intensive, one-to-one mentorship and practical support to help them build stable and fulfilling lives. Their holistic approach focuses on personal growth, securing employment, and avoiding reoffending.
http://www.switchback.org.uk
Breakthrough (London) – Breakthrough Social Enterprise is a pioneering organisation dedicated to empowering individuals from underserved and marginalised backgrounds, including those leaving prison and with criminal records, to transform their lives through education, skills development, and employment opportunities.
https://www.wearebreakthrough.org/
Working Chance (London) – They help women secure sustainable employment by offering workshops, career coaching, and job placement services, aiming to challenge stigma and foster inclusion.
http://www.workingchance.org
Partners of Prisoners (POPS) (North West) – POPS supports prisoners' families, recognizing the challenges they face during imprisonment and release. They offer family support, resettlement programs, and advocacy for individuals leaving prison, ensuring they and their families have the resources to reintegrate smoothly.
http://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk
St. Giles Trust (Nationwide) – Provides individualised support for people leaving prison, focusing on practical needs like housing, employment, and managing financial issues. They have specialized services for those who may need extra guidance and stability after early release.
https://www.stgilestrust.org.uk
The Forward Trust (England) – Provides support for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. They offer services that include counseling and rehabilitation for people in and out of prison, particularly beneficial for those on early release who may be navigating complex mental health needs.
https://www.forwardtrust.org.uk
The Wallich (Cardiff) – A homelessness and resettlement charity that provides support to people exiting the prison system, with emphasis on stable housing and community reintegration.
https://thewallich.com
Apex Scotland – Provides services to reduce reoffending and support reintegration, including employment and training programs for early release individuals.
https://www.apexscotland.org.uk
Extern (Northern Ireland) – Supports people with criminal records, offering mental health, addiction, and resettlement services, focusing on helping early release individuals adjust.
https://www.extern.org
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode Jules speaks to Catherine, a qualified personal trainer at Fitness Rush. Catherine and Jules share a love of fitness – but it’s something Catherine only recently discovered on her sobriety journey. After living through cycles of addiction, homelessness and criminality, Catherine talks about finding stability, being nominated for a National Fitness Award, and using her past as her purpose.
Our listeners are the most important part of Life After Prison and we want to hear from you! Your feedback is really important as it lets our funders know what you think of the project, and helps make sure they continue to support Life After Prison.
So it would be a massive help if you could fill out this form and let us know what you think. Thank you so much! Useful organisations:
Change Grow Live https://www.changegrowlive.org/
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/
Fitness Rush https://www.fitnessrush.co.uk/
Cambridge Cyrenians https://cambridgecyrenians.org.uk/
Winter Comfort https://wintercomfort.org.uk/
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
📢 Complete our survey: https://forms.gle/1bi9vWKqBf2QSCTT6
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Life After Prison, we’re joined by Kate Fraser, Head of Practice at Women In Prison, an organisation dedicated to supporting women impacted by the criminal justice system. Kate shares her journey through the prison system and into this work, exploring the unique challenges women face within the system. Kate also shares her vision of what real, systemic change could look like for women in the justice system and why inclusive, trauma-informed approaches are key to creating lasting solutions.
This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.
Useful organisations:
Women In Prison – Advocacy, housing support, and community programs for women affected by the justice system.
Crisis – Provides support and resources to end homelessness, including housing, education, and employment support.
Shelter – Offers housing advice and support to those facing homelessness, helping with housing rights and advocacy.
Birth Companions – Supports pregnant women and mothers in prison and in the community, focusing on the well-being of mothers and their babies.
Hibiscus Initiatives – Works with women in the justice system, particularly those from migrant and Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) backgrounds, offering support with resettlement and social integration.
Clean Break – A theatre company that works with women who have lived experience in the criminal justice system, offering training and community through arts and theatre.
Anawim – Provides holistic support for women involved with the criminal justice system, helping with housing, mental health, and employment.
Together Women – Focuses on reducing female reoffending by providing tailored support services for women in the justice system across Northern England.
Women’s Aid – Local support resources for women affected by domestic abuse.
Find local support via Women’s Aid: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/womens-aid-directory/
The Howard League for Penal Reform – Working for less crime, safer communities, and fewer people in prison, with a focus on women and young people.
Agenda – An alliance for women and girls at risk, advocating for systemic changes and offering resources on trauma and mental health.
Advance Charity – Provides support for women facing domestic abuse and those in contact with the criminal justice system.
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok
📧 Email: [email protected]
✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Jules is in conversation with Kirsty. Kirsty had a tough childhood, and was exposed to drugs and violence from an early age, she was also let down by the people who were supposed to care for her. She went on to battle with her own addictions, and while spending time in prison found a path to recovery. Kirsty now spends her time helping other people coming out of prison to do the same.
Useful organisations:
Ingeus https://ingeus.co.uk/ The Turnaround Project- Women's Work https://www.womens-work.org.uk/projects/the-turn-around-project/Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Zak and Jules chat through the challenges that come with leaving your old life behind after you’ve been in prison.
Zak and Jules discuss the strategies they have employed both while inside and on the outside to make sure they keep away from their old lives. They also hear from listeners who share some thoughtful advice on this topic and they share some inspiring words that they find helpful in keeping them grounded on their life after prison journey.
This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.
Useful organisations:
20/20 Levels https://2020levels.org/
Social Ark https://www.socialark.co.uk/
Catch 22 https://www.catch-22.org.uk/
This episode of our sister podcast, Money Mondays featuring Laudjah is also really relevant to this topic, where Laudjah talks about his experiences of coming out of prison and of the financial pull that can lead you back to crime.
Contact us:
If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.
💬 DM us: @afterprisonpod on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok
📧 Email us: [email protected]
✉️ Write to us: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF
🖥️ Website: https://lifeafterprisonpod.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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