Life After Prison

This week Jules speaks to Pri, whose negative relationship with alcohol lead to multiple convictions and stints in prison. Unwavering support from the charity ID Essence, a probation officer willing to go the extra mile to help support her with binge drinking, and being fitted with an alcohol tag, helped Pri get to the place where she is today. She's now working for ID Essence, supporting women coming out of prison, and prefers a takeaway and a Netflix binge to getting drunk on a Friday night. The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: (link) Useful organisations: ID Essence- ID Essence work with young adults aged 18-25 in women's prisons and after https://www.idessence.org/ Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Help and support for anyone with alcohol problems. https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/ Alcohol Change UK- Information and support options for people worried about how much alcohol they are drinking. alcoholchange.org.uk Change Grow Live- Find information and local support services for alcohol and drug use. changegrowlive.org Mind- making sure no one has to face a mental health problem alone https://www.mind.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.

This week on the Life After Prison Podcast Zak and Jules respond to some social media comments again, this time with the aim to dispel some myths surrounding prison. These comments are from a video of previous guest Nabil Abdul Rashid recalling his first moments being in prison. This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube. Useful OrganisationsPrison Reform Trust (UK-Wide) – Campaigns for fairer, more effective penal systems and supports people in prison. https://www.prisonreformtrust.org.uk Independent Monitoring Boards - Volunteer groups that monitor prisons and detention centers to ensure fair, humane treatment and report on daily life. https://imb.org.uk/ The Howard League for Penal Reform – Working for less crime, safer communities, and fewer people in prison. They aim to build more effective solutions to crime that provides justice to all and helps reduce reoffending. https://howardleague.org Shelter – Offers housing advice and support to those facing homelessness, helping with housing rights and advocacy. https://shelter.org.uk Mind (UK-wide) – Provides support and advice for anyone experiencing a mental health problem. https://www.mind.org.uk/ https://hmiprisons.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/publication_typeyear/annual-reports/ 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.

In this episode Jules speaks to 20-year-old Kerry, who's only been out of prison a month at the time of recording. They chat about how losing a friend in the Grenfell Tower fire at the age of 13 had a massive impact on Kerry, who later became expelled from school, and at the age of 17 received a 5 year prison sentence. For Kerry, being recalled back to prison after being released half way through her sentence was a big wake up call, and changed her outlook on moving forwards. The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: (link) Useful links and organisations: ID Essence- ID Essence work with young adults aged 18-25 in women's prisons and after https://www.idessence.org/ Action for Children- We help those in trouble to turn their lives around https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/our-work-and-impact/children-and-families/young-people/ Nacro- We see your future, whatever your past https://www.nacro.org.uk/ St Giles Trust- Turning a past into a future https://www.stgilestrust.org.uk/ Unlock- Building a fairer future for people with criminal records https://unlock.org.uk/ Working Chance- Unlocking Women's Potential 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.

This week Jules sits down with Molly Ellis, someone she met while they were both in prison. In 2017, after experiencing a family tragedy, Molly's life changed drastically, eventually ending with a five-year prison sentence for fraud. Just weeks before starting her sentence, she gave birth to her daughter and chose to raise her newborn behind bars. Since her release, Molly has dedicated herself to helping others rebuild their lives through her organisation Project Accountability. The two also reminisce on old times as former pad-mates and the incredible journeys they've been on since leaving prison. This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.Useful organisations: Support for Women in/Leaving Prison: Women in Prison (National) – Supports women affected by the criminal justice system with advocacy, housing, employment, and resettlement services. https://www.womeninprison.org.uk Birth Companions (London and the South East) – Provides support for pregnant women and mothers in prison, including help with resettlement and parenting. https://www.birthcompanions.org.uk Domestic Abuse & Trauma Support: Refuge (National) – Offers emergency accommodation and support for women escaping domestic abuse. https://www.refuge.org.uk Surviving Economic Abuse (SEA) (National) – Helps women rebuild financially after economic abuse. https://survivingeconomicabuse.org Employment & Entrepreneurship Support: Project Accountability – Founded by Molly Ellis and Ty Mitchell, this organization focuses on reducing recidivism and supporting ex-offenders and vulnerable youth through vocational training, employment opportunities, and rehabilitation programs. https://www.projectaccountability.co.uk Peabody Group - Aiming to provide great homes and housing services, making a positive impact in communities and creating an inspiring, inclusive place to work.https://www.peabodygroup.org.uk/Peckham Soup Kitchen - A community non-profit organisation formed in 2022 set up to give back to those in need in the Southwark community. Providing food provisions each week to support those in need.​ They also mentor young people and facilitate programmes to support young people to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.https://www.peckhamsoupkitchen.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.

In this episode, Jules chats to Sharon. Sharon's life on the Cornish coast is idyllic, but her life has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs to get to this point. From escaping an abusive relationship and serving a prison sentence for benefit fraud, to cycling around the world, battling serious health problems and publishing her own book.Useful organisations: Kaleidoscopic UK - Supporting Children and Adults who have been exposed to domestic abuse https://www.kaleidoscopic.uk/ Women's Aid - Building a future where domestic abuse is not tolerated https://www.womensaid.org.uk/ Refuge - For women and children against domestic abuse https://refuge.org.uk/ National Domestic Abuse Helpline - 0808 2000 247 PACT - Prison Advice and Care Trust- We build stronger families and safer communities https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/ POPS - Partners of Prisoners- Providing information and support for offenders' families from the point of arrest through to release and beyond. https://www.partnersofprisoners.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.

This week on the Life After Prison Podcast Zak and Jules respond to some of the comments they received on social media about a previous episode. That episode explores disclosing to potential future partners if you have spent time in prison, and how soon you would tell them. This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.The episode the comments came from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH5uK6WvvnQOur episode on disclosing your conviction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH5uK6WvvnQ Useful organisations: 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/ 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 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/ 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 Northern Ireland Alternatives (Belfast and Derry/Londonderry) – A restorative justice organisation 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.

In this episode Jules talks to Sarah, who after years of struggling with her mental health and substance abuse, found that the warmth, support and community found in a women's centre not far from her home, would help her transform her life. Useful organisations: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/ POPS (Partners of Prisoners) https://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk/ Women's Service Map https://www.womensservicesmap.com/ Mind https://www.mind.org.uk/ Trauma Breakthrough https://www.traumabreakthrough.org/ Adoption Matters https://www.adoptionmatters.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.

This week Zak and Jules welcome lifelong chef Nathaniel Mortley AKA Natty Can Cook to the Life After Prison couch. Natty shares his experiences of working in some of London's most high-end restaurants and how the environment there contributed to him going to prison. He also speaks about how seeing people excel while he was inside inspired him to start planning his future for when he was released. Now that he's out, he is on an incredible journey to take Caribbean cuisine to the heights of the culinary world.This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.Useful organisations: Social Pantry (London) – A catering company with a mission to employ and train ex-offenders in the culinary arts. They offer structured, supportive job placements for people with a criminal record, helping them build valuable skills and establish a work history in catering and hospitality. https://socialpantry.co.uk/Fat Macy's (London) – A social enterprise that provides training in cooking and event catering for people living in temporary housing or hostels, including those with past criminal records. They give participants culinary experience and help them save towards long-term housing. https://www.fatmacys.org/Sixteen Community Café (Bristol) – Part of the charity Second Step, this community café provides training and support for people with mental health issues or a criminal background. They offer a safe, supportive space for participants to gain experience in a working kitchen and hospitality. https://www.16cafe.co.uk/Social Bite (Edinburgh and Glasgow) – This social enterprise tackles homelessness by offering job opportunities and training in their cafes. They employ people with previous convictions or homelessness, helping them gain experience in food preparation and service in a welcoming environment. https://www.social-bite.co.uk/Freedom Bakery (Glasgow) – This artisanal bakery works with individuals in and leaving prison, offering training in baking and an opportunity to work in a structured, supportive environment. They focus on building employable skills and have strong connections within the hospitality industry for job placement. https://www.freedombakery.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.

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 133If 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...

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 AnonymousBreakevenGamfamGamlearn Call the National Gambling helpline, for free, on 0808 8020 133If 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...

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.

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 SupportMind (Nationwide) – Offers mental health resources, advice, and supporthttps://mind.org.ukSamaritans (Nationwide) – Provides a listening ear for anyone struggling or feeling overwhelmed.https://samaritans.orgSecond Step (Bristol and South West) – Provides mental health support and housing assistance.https://second-step.co.ukHousing and HomelessnessShelter (Nationwide) – Offers housing advice and support.https://shelter.org.ukThe Wallich (Wales) – Provides housing and support services for people experiencing homelessness.https://thewallich.comCrisis (Nationwide) – Assists individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of it after release.https://crisis.org.ukSt 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.ukEmployment and TrainingSt. Giles Trust (Nationwide) – Supports people transitioning out of prison, including help with employment.https://stgilestrust.org.ukTempus Novo (Yorkshire) – Connects ex-offenders with employers and provides mentoring support.https://tempusnovo.orgNorthern Learning Trust (North East) – Offers education and mentoring for individuals in the criminal justice system.https://northernlearningtrust.org.ukBounce Back (Nationwide) – Helps individuals leaving prison gain training and employment in construction.https://www.bouncebackproject.com/Mentoring and Personal DevelopmentSpark2Life (London)– Offers mentoring and personal development for people navigating life after prison.https://spark2life.co.ukThe Forward Trust (Nationwide) – Provides life coaching, addiction recovery, and reintegration programs.https://forwardtrust.org.ukThe 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.ukLegal and Advocacy SupportUnlock (Nationwide) – Provides advice on dealing with criminal records and rights post-prison.https://unlock.org.ukThe Howard League for Penal Reform (Nationwide) – Campaigns for improvements in prison conditions and post-release support.https://howardleague.orgChanging Lives (North East & Yorkshire) – Offers creative programs alongside housing, addiction recovery, and employment services.https://changing-lives.org.ukContact 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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.  

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. 

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  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 

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. 

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.  

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. 

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. 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:  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.  

  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. 

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.  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! 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.  

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. 

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. 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: 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.  

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.

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. 

In this episode Jules chats to Michelle, a real force to be reckoned with. Michelle is a huge advocate for people with lived experience of prison working within the criminal justice system, as she knows first hand how powerful that is, and how the right support can go a long way. Michelle experienced a lot of trauma as a child and has dealt with a lot of heartache over the years, which resulted in years of addiction. She now does everything she can to help other people make the changes she's made herself to improve their lives. Useful organisations: First Contact Clinical https://www.firstcontactclinical.co.uk/ Neca https://neca.co.uk/ Junction 42 https://www.junction42.org/ PACT https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk Ingeus https://ingeus.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.

Kieron Bryan is an author, entrepreneur and former prisoner.   In this episode, Kieron tells Zak and Jules how while serving a long prison sentence he discovered his passion for books, and read over 250 behind the door.    He also shares how he used the skills he learned while in jail to set up multiple businesses, write a chess book for kids called ‘The Pawn Who Wants To Be Queen', and how he has kept his mindset on track post release doing his Masters Degree and growing all his businesses.   The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: https://pod.link/1646949340    Useful organisations:  Open University https://www.open.ac.uk/  Suited and Booted https://suitedbootedcentre.org.uk/  The Longford Trust https://www.longfordtrust.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. 

In this episode Jules chats to Milan. Milan works as a careers advisor, alongside studying for a degree in criminology. She's a self confessed ‘geek', which is something she found out about herself while serving 8 years of a 16 year sentence in prison. Milan talks to Jules about the different obstacles she dealt with in prison, including the death of a loved one, and what it was like being released after 8 years inside. The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: https://pod.link/1646949340 Useful organisations: Prison Fellowship https://prisonfellowship.org.uk/ ID Essence https://www.idessence.org/ St Giles Trust https://www.stgilestrust.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.

  In this episode Zak and Jules discuss prison visits. They share their memories of visits they had while they were serving sentences, and talk about what they learned from people still inside about the things they like best about visits. They also talk about the prison walk of shame; what happens when someone ghosts you on a visit.  In part 2, Zak and Jules share more of their personal memories of visits and hear from some family members of people in prison about what they love about visiting their people inside, and also what they find difficult. They also break down what happens on a closed visit, and why you might get one of those.   Useful Organisations  Prison Phone https://www.prisonphone.co.uk/  Families Outside https://www.familiesoutside.org.uk/  Sussex Prisoners Families – https://www.sussexprisonersfamilies.org.uk/  Partners of Prisoners https://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk/  PACT https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/  Prisoners Families Helpline 0808 808 2003  National Prison Radio Family and Friends Request Show https://prison.radio/national-prison-radio/#songrequest    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. 

In this episode Jules talks to somebody who is working hard to make prisons more supportive places for people with autism. Kirsty has an autism diagnosis herself, and after many years of struggling to find the right support, and having spent time in prison herself, knows what needs to change. She is now using her voice to make changes in the criminal justice system for people who are neurodiverse. Useful organisations: Ingeus,  https://ingeus.co.uk/ Junction 42, https://www.junction42.org/ NHS https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/drug-addiction-getting-help/ The Samaritans https://www.samaritans.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.

In this episode, Zak and Jules sit down with former Prison Officer, Alex South to discuss her time working in some of the UKs most notorious prisons including HMPs Whitemoor, Wormwood Scrubs and Belmarsh.   Alex tells Zak and Jules about the main reasons she wanted to become a prison officer, and talks about the characters she met and the conditions she saw in the prisons she worked in.   Alex also shares what she thinks needs to be done to improve conditions for staff and prisoners living and working in the UK's prisons, and the importance of positive relationships between staff and prisoners.   This episode is also available as a video, just search Life After Prison in Youtube. Useful organisations:  Trailblazers https://trailblazersmentoring.org.uk/  National Association of Official Prison Visitors https://www.naopv.com/  Belong https://belongmakingjusticehappen.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. 

In this episode Jules talks to successful business woman, Tracy Mackness, who's had a huge transformation from a self-proclaimed ‘Essex Bad Girl' to a pig farmer.    Tracy runs the Giggly Pig Company, and has around 600 pigs, (as well as 18 dogs and 2 chickens!). Tracy first came into contact with pigs when serving a 10 year prison sentence. One of the over 50 courses Tracy took inside was pig husbandry, and that experience changed her life on a massive scale.   The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: https://pod.link/1646949340    Useful organisations:  Giggly Pig Company https://www.gigglypig.co.uk/ The Oswin Project, Farming Out https://oswinproject.org.uk/our-work/farming-out/ The Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/ Unlock https://unlock.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. 

In this episode, Zak and Jules talk about their experience of having their life on hold when they were in prison.   They discuss how they felt they were playing catch up in some areas of life while they were inside, and hear from listeners who share their own reflections.   Zak and Jules spend some time talking about some of the things they learnt from that time away including how to manage their money, and also about valuing time and finding patience.        This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.  Useful links:  Money Mondays Podcast - search wherever you get your podcasts   https://prisonreformtrust.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. 

In this episode Jules chats to Lilly about her incredible journey. After being abandoned as a child, spending two decades in abusive relationships, losing her children to the care system and spending nearly 4 years in prison, Lilly couldn't be any more content with how her life is now. She works tirelessly to help other women going through the criminal justice system live the kind of life she is now living. Lilly talks passionately about what has helped her get to where she now, where she has a great relationship with her children and is able to look in the mirror and be proud of the woman looking back. Useful organisations: Agenda Alliance https://www.agendaalliance.org/  Daddyless Daughters https://www.daddylessdaughters.co.uk/  One Small Thing https://onesmallthing.org.uk/  Changing Futures https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/changing-futures  Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/  The 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.

In this episode, Zak and Jules meet the film maker and host of the A Bit of A Stretch Podcast, Chris Atkins who was sentenced to 5 years for Tax Evasion. Chris talks to Zak and Jules about being on bail for 4 and a half years before he was sentenced and the struggles he faced in prison being separated from his young son. Chris also opens up to Zak and Jules about his experience of white privilege while serving time in HMP Wandsworth, and about the conditions he experienced in jail.    This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.  Useful organisations:  Storybook Dads https://www.storybookdads.org.uk/  Arkbound Foundation Writing Within Walls https://www.arkfound.org/writingwithinwalls.php  Families Outside https://www.familiesoutside.org.uk/  Sussex Prisoners Families – https://www.sussexprisonersfamilies.org.uk/  Partners of Prisoners https://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk/  PACT https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/  Prisoners Families Helpline 0808 808 2003   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. 

In this episode Jules meets Sunnie, a Prisons and Community Support Worker for ID Essence. Sunnie and Jules find many similarities between their own stories. They talk about the lead up to Sunnie being sent to prison, what she did to fill her time inside, and how it was being released from prison as a young woman, after going in as a teenager.    Sunnie talks about her passions, what motivates her, and how she has continued to have a positive mentality.   The full version of this episode can be found wherever you get your podcasts: https://pod.link/1646949340   Useful organisations:    ID Essence https://www.idessence.org/   CXK https://www.cxk.org/   Women In Prison https://womeninprison.org.uk/   

In this episode, Zak and Jules hear from listeners about the judgement they have faced because they have a family member in prison.   They also talk about how long they would wait before telling a potential partner they have been to jail, and the shame and judgement attached to having a sentence. Later, Zak and Jules spend some time discussing ways to deal with the judgement that comes from co-workers, strangers and even friends when you are supporting someone in jail.    This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.   Useful organisations:  Families Outside https://www.familiesoutside.org.uk/  Sussex Prisoners Families – https://www.sussexprisonersfamilies.org.uk/  Partners of Prisoners https://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk/  PACT https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/  Prisoners Families Helpline 0808 808 2003  National Prison Radio Family and Friends Request Show https://prison.radio/national-prison-radio/#songrequest    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. 

  The Spark is a brand new strand of Life After Prison, where Jules speaks to women who have been through the CJS about The Spark they found which set them on a path of transformation and change. In this episode Jules meets the actor, Jennifer Joseph. Jen talks about some of the work she's proudest of, such as the Donmar Shakespeare Trilogy, and Kae Tempest's Paradise. They also chat about some of the TV work Jen has been involved with, such as Netflix's Top Boy, and winning Come Dine With Me.  Jen and Jules chat candidly about prison, from initially being arrested and sentenced, to the impact prison had not only on Jen, but on her family too. We hear how Jen discovered theatre after prison, and the impact this has had on her life since release.   Useful organisations:  Clean Break https://www.cleanbreak.org.uk/  Synergy Theatre Project  https://www.synergytheatreproject.co.uk/  Cardboard Citizens https://cardboardcitizens.org.uk/  Women In Prison https://womeninprison.org.uk/  Talawa Theatre Company https://www.talawa.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. 

Zak and Jules catch up with comedian, Nabil Abdulrashid as he drops in to the studio in the midst of his Purple Pill tour. Nabil chats to Zak and Jules about arriving from Nigera and landing in one of London's most notorious estates, how he ended up in jail and what he did to pass the time while he was there.    He also talks about his comedy career, how his early love for comedy got reignited in prison, how people in jail recognised his comic skills and what happened when he realised he'd got the Golden Buzzer on Britain's Got Talent.   Due to demand, Nabil has extended his The Purple Pill tour. Tickets available at https://nabilabdulrashid.com/   Episodes of ‘Nabil Knows' available now at https://www.youtube.com/@NabilAbdulrashidComedy  This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.   Useful organisations:  Andrew Pritchard Foundation https://apfoundation.org.uk/  Red thread https://www.redthread.org.uk/  Forever Family https://www.foreverfamilyfund.co.uk/  I'm Possible State of Mind https://www.i-mp.co.uk/  Angel Comedy Club Trust https://www.angelcomedy.co.uk/angel-comedy-trust/  Goldsmiths University https://www.gold.ac.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. 

When you first get out of jail, managing your finances can be tricky, even opening a bank account can be difficult. Clean Slate is an organisation that helps people with their finances. In this episode, Emma, their head of programmes, joins Zak and Jules, to explain how to set up a bank account, how Universal Credit works and signposts to lots of useful organisations and resources that can help you manage your money.   Organisations mentioned:   Clean Slate – https://www.cleanslateltd.co.uk/  Clean Slate/Quids In Benefits Checker – https://quidsinmagazine.com/calculators/benefits-calculator/  HSBC No Fixed Address Partners – https://www.hsbc.co.uk/help/money-worries/no-fixed-address/  Turn2Us – https://www.turn2us.org.uk/  Entitled To – https://www.entitledto.co.uk/  Step Change – https://www.stepchange.org/  National Debtline – https://nationaldebtline.org/  Christians Against Poverty – https://capuk.org/  Citizens Advice – https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/  Citizens Advice   – Help To Claim Phoneline: England: 0800 144 8 444   Scotland: 0800 023 2581   Wales: 08000 241 220   www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators   Contact us: If you've heard something today that's encouraged you to get some support with your finances please let us know.  

  Zak and Jules are continuing to chew over the massive subject of relationships when one or other of the people involved are in prison. In this episode they focus on how it feels when you're inside but the person you love is on the out.   Useful Organisations: Prison Phone Limited https://www.prisonphone.co.uk/  Sussex Prisoners Families – https://www.sussexprisonersfamilies.org.uk/  Partners of Prisoners https://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk/  PACT https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/  Prisoners Families Helpline 0808 808 2003  Families and Friends of Prisoners https://ffops.co.uk/  National Prison Radio Family and Friends Request Show https://prison.radio/national-prison-radio/#songrequest    Contact us:    

This week on Life After Prison we're throwing it back to a really important episode about building your confidence up again when you've been inside. Whether it's navigating social situations, knowing what to say in a job interview, or feeling like people are judging you for your conviction, it can be really tough to get your confidence back after spending time in jail. In this episode Zak and Jules break it down with some help from other people who've been behind the door.   This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.  Organisations mentioned:   • CALM – https://www.thecalmzone.net/   CALM helpline – 0800 58 58 58 (open 5pm-midnight)   Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org/   Samaritans helpline – 24 hours a day all year round on 116 123   MIND - https://www.mind.org.uk/ MIND Infoline number – 0300 123 3393 (provides an information and signposting service. Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday except for bank holidays.)   SHOUT – text for free any time on 85258 – https://giveusashout.org/ NHS Mental Health Services – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/ Spark Inside - https://www.sparkinside.org/ Switchback – https://switchback.org.uk/ Contact us:  If anything you've heard in today's episode that has helped you, or if you just want to get in touch, please do. 

  In this episode, Zak and Jules sit down with Ian Thomas to talk about his experience of the care system, and his journey from care to addiction, prison and recovery. In the first part of this incredible conversation, Ian shares the story of how he was first arrested aged 10.5, and talks about how his addiction began.  If you're struggling with your mental health and you need support today, you can contact The Samaritans on 116 123 any time of the day or night.       Please know that you are not alone, you matter and there are people out there who can help you.  This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.   Organisations mentioned:   The Rees Foundation: https://www.reesfoundation.org/ Number to call Mon-Fri 9-5: 0330 094 5645  The Forward Trust  https://www.forwardtrust.org.uk/  The Care Leavers Covenant  https://mycovenant.org.uk/  The Care Leavers Association https://www.careleavers.com/    Other organisations that you may find helpful:  Support with Your Mental Health:  CALM – https://www.thecalmzone.net/  CALM helpline – 0800 58 58 58 (open 5pm-midnight)  Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org/  Samaritans helpline – 116 123 (24 hours)  MIND – https://www.mind.org.uk  MIND Infoline number – 0300 123 3393 (provides an information and signposting service. Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday except for bank holidays.)  SHOUT – text for free any time on 85258 – https://giveusashout.org/  NHS Mental Health Services – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/menta...  Together – https://www.together-uk.org/  Turning Point – https://www.turning-point.co.uk/servi...  Rethink – https://www.rethink.org/    If you're a woman, these orgs can help direct you to a women's centre which is a great place to find all kinds of support:  Women In Prison – https://womeninprison.org.uk/  Advance/Minerva – https://www.advancecharity.org.uk/    Support with Addiction and Recovery:  Humankind – https://humankindcharity.org.uk/drug-and-alcohol-recovery/  Breaking Free/Change Grow Live – https://www.changegrowlive.org/   Kaleidoscope – https://kaleidoscope68.org/   Turning Point – https://www.turning-point.co.uk/support-we-offer/drugs-and-alcohol  Nelson Trust – https://www.nelsontrust.com/  We Are With You – https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk/    Contact us: If anything you've heard in today's episode has helped you, or if you just want to get in touch, please do. 

This week we're throwing it back to a really useful episode about managing your health once you have left prison. Kate Morrissey from NHS England joins us to explain how to register with a GP, talk about the NHS Reconnect service and how to access it and provides information about where else you can go for support for different healthcare needs.  Organisations mentioned: How to register with a GP surgery – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/h... If you have problems registering with a GP surgery you can call the NHS England Customer Contact Centre on 0300 311 22 33 or contact your local Healthwatch (https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/) Groundswell GP Registration Toolkit – https://groundswell.org.uk/wp-content... Groundswell 'My right to healthcare' cards – https://groundswell.org.uk/all-resour... The NHS website – https://www.nhs.uk/ Get help for your symptoms - NHS 111 (https://111.nhs.uk/) or call 111 from your phone (calls are free). Call 111 to speak to someone if you need to: discuss complex medical problems, discuss worries about a long-term condition, get end-of-life care, or report a death, report child protection or vulnerable adult concerns Other ways to contact 111 if you have a hearing problem or need help in other languages – https://111.nhs.uk/Help/OtherWays Support from your local pharmacy – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/presc... Frank (Drug Helpline) Help & Advice – https://www.talktofrank.com/get-help Mental Health Charity MIND – https://www.mind.org.uk/information-s... Citizens Advice – https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ Contact us: If anything you've heard in today's episode has helped you, or if you just want to get in touch, please do.

Zak and Jules hear from listeners who have partners in prison and talk about how tricky it can be when your loved one is behind the door.    This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.   Useful organisations:  Sussex Prisoners Families – https://www.sussexprisonersfamilies.org.uk/  Partners of Prisoners https://www.partnersofprisoners.co.uk/  PACT https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/  Prisoners Families Helpline 0808 808 2003  Families and Friends of Prisoners https://ffops.co.uk/  National Prison Radio Family and Friends Request Show https://prison.radio/national-prison-radio/#songrequest    This season we want to hear what you think about Life After Prison, by completing this short survey https://forms.gle/de9a94MM3i3sujmC8   The feedback we collect from you guys, the Life After Prison community, will help us to make Life After Prison the best that it can be for everyone.    It should take around 5 minutes to complete and your responses will be stored anonymously, and only used for the purposes that we've outlined.    We really appreciate you taking the time to complete this survey. Thank you!!     Contact us: If you've heard something today that's encouraged you to get some support around your mental health please let us know.   

In this episode, Jules and Zak are joined by Wendy Robinson from CALM to talk about taking care of your mental health after you leave prison. We talk about how challenging it is when you first come out, and how reality can be different to what you expected. Wendy talks about how normal it is to struggle with your mental health after prison and the different ways you can get help. If you're struggling with your mental health and you need support today, you can contact The Samaritans on 116 123 any time of the day or night. Please know that you are not alone, you matter and there are people out there who can help you. Organisations mentioned: CALM – https://www.thecalmzone.net/ CALM helpline – 0800 58 58 58 (open 5pm-midnight) Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org/ Samaritans helpline – 116 123 (24 hours) MIND – https://www.mind.org.uk MIND Infoline number – 0300 123 3393 (provides an information and signposting service. Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday except for bank holidays.) SHOUT – text for free any time on 85258 – https://giveusashout.org/ NHS Mental Health Services – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/menta... Together – https://www.together-uk.org/ Turning Point – https://www.turning-point.co.uk/servi... Rethink – https://www.rethink.org/ If you're a woman, these orgs can help direct you to a women's centre which is a great place to find all kinds of support: Women In Prison – https://womeninprison.org.uk/ Advance/Minerva – https://www.advancecharity.org.uk/ This season we want to hear what you think about Life After Prison, by completing this short survey https://forms.gle/de9a94MM3i3sujmC8   The feedback we collect from you guys, the Life After Prison community, will help us to make Life After Prison the best that it can be for everyone.    It should take around 5 minutes to complete and your responses will be stored anonymously, and only used for the purposes that we've outlined.    We really appreciate you taking the time to complete this survey. Thank you!!  Contact us: If you've heard something today that's encouraged you to get some support around your mental health please let us know.

Steve Gallant was serving a life sentence for murder when he made headlines for tackling a terrorist on London Bridge. In part one of their conversation with Steve, Zak and Jules hear all about the events that happened on that dramatic day on London Bridge in 2019, and how it led to Steve receiving the Queen's gallantry medal for bravery. They also ask Steve how he dealt with receiving a life sentence, and what he learnt from doing such a long stretch in prison.  This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube. Useful organisations: The Howard League For Penal Reform  https://howardleague.org/ Own Merit CIC https://ownmerit.org/ The Shannon Trust https://www.shannontrust.org.uk/ Read Easy https://readeasy.org.uk/ This season we want to hear what you think about Life After Prison, by completing this short survey https://forms.gle/de9a94MM3i3sujmC8 The feedback we collect from you guys, the Life After Prison community will help us to make Life After Prison the best that it can be for everyone.  It should take around 5 minutes to complete and your responses will be stored anonymously, and only used for the purposes that we've outlined.  We really appreciate you taking the time to complete this survey. Thank you!! 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.

Continuing or starting education after leaving prison can be a challenge. Here, Scott from the Shannon Trust chats to Zak and Jules about the importance of education, what the challenges might be when you leave prison, and what options are out there after jail.  Organisations mentioned: Shannon Trust – https://www.shannontrust.org.uk/ Read Easy – https://readeasy.org.uk/ National Careers Service – https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/ National Careers Service Hotline – 0800 100 900 WEA – https://www.wea.org.uk/about-us Open University –https://www.open.ac.uk/ NACRO - https://www.nacro.org.uk/ This season we want to hear what you think about Life After Prison, by completing this short survey https://forms.gle/de9a94MM3i3sujmC8  The feedback we collect from you guys, the Life After Prison community will help us to make Life After Prison the best that it can be for everyone.  It should take around 5 minutes to complete and your responses will be stored anonymously, and only used for the purposes that we've outlined.  We really appreciate you taking the time to complete this survey. Thank you!!  Contact us: If anything you've heard in today's episode has encouraged you to pick up education again, or if you just want to get in touch, please do.