Newsletter – 27 MARCH 2026

MEMBERS WORKING TO HELP

From Mike Crofts Founder Three Pillars: 10 year anniversary: “I never believed 3Pillars would become what it is today.” From one pilot to hundreds of participants across the UK – the work has grown, but the mission hasn’t as we look back on 10 years of our organisation. Building confidence. Creating structure. Giving people a sense of belonging. Because what happens before someone leaves prison matters. Dive deeper into the journey, learning and impact of the past decade in a blog I wrote: https://lnkd.in/eE8dEZzU

From Penelope Gibbs Transform Justice/Fair checks: Great news on the reform of criminal records for children. Peers supported by us have tabled amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill and the government responded “We intend to publish a consultation setting out proposals for specific reforms on disclosure of childhood criminal records. Currently, the plan is to have that consultation published by the end of the year.” https://lnkd.in/exZfd77S thanks to the members of www.fairchecks.org.uk for advocating for this and we will continue to do so.

From Novus: Fantastic to see us featured in FE News following the recent Ofsted ‘Good’ outcome at HMP & YOI Low Newton. The education we provided was judged to be ‘good’ across the board and that the educational part of the inspection – carried out by Ofsted – noted that women ‘enjoyed learning in calm and orderly classrooms’ and that they were motivated by positive feedback. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e3RxMkRS

From David Morgan, Entrepreneurs Unlocked: Working with men at HMP Stafford to explore self-employment as a path to a crime-free future with brilliant conversations and innovative ideas. The group is exploring diverse sectors, including: Tech & Trade: PC repair, construction, and property development. Service: External cleaning and reselling pre-loved items and Advocacy: Criminal justice reform. For these men, success isn’t just about profit; it’s about stability. “Being selfsufficient… feeling safe and happy. “The goal is to ensure these ventures are both economically viable and fully compliant with probation and license conditions.

From Richard Rowley, Working Chance: Many people with convictions want to use their lived experience to support others in the criminal justice system. New rules could stop many from even being considered. Certain offences are now placed in a ‘fixed’ risk category, meaning automatic disqualification from prison-related roles—regardless of how long ago they happened. We remain concerned about the restrictive nature of the ‘fixed’ category. This approach risks disproportionately affecting people with lived experience, including those whose offences may be historic, contextual, or clearly mitigated by rehabilitation. https://lnkd.in/eVDfqDeY

From Beating Time: We’re delighted to have been awarded the Trailblazer Grant from Youth Music to develop and expand our ‘Choirs Beating Time’ programme at HMPYOI Swinfen Hall!

MEMBER HELPS 10,000 A YEAR

From James Levy: Director Socrates Software : We work to improve people’s lives through the provision of digital solutions to justice sector organisations. We collaborate with service users, staff, and partner organisations to ensure we meet needs as effectively as possible. With over 18,000 registered users across five countries, we are helping service users to take control of their journey, from prison and probation to sustainable employment and successful re-integration into society. Our Socrates 360 platform combines engaging content, simple set-up and an easy-touse management portal to provide a dynamic and effective way of helping some of the most disadvantaged people in society. We help over 10,000 prisoners/on probation every year. We joined this network to collate with fellow members and because we love the work CN does. james.levy@socrates-software.com

JOBS 30% UP

From Dan Whyte, Co-founder DWRM: As Chair of the HMP Belmarsh Employment Advisory Board, I recently joined fellow chairs at 10 Downing Street to meet Deputy PM David Lammy and Prisons Minister Lord Timpson to celebrate a major milestone: 30% of prison leavers across the estate are now finding employment within six months. This isn’t just a stat—it’s a testament to the power of second chances in reducing reoffending. The energy in the room was palpable. Hearing the DPM and Lord Timpson share their personal gratitude was a humbling reminder of our collective impact. The work continues. Our next goals: Target 50: Increasing sustained employment post-release to 50%. Innovation: Driving forward with Challenge 50 and Project 72. Through continued collaboration and advocacy, we’re turning ambition into reality. Dan@dwrm.org.uk

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

From Clinks: The State of the Sector session will include presentations from our research partners, NCVO, and our new CEO, Dr Summer Alston-Smith, with sector spotlights from fellow members Joy Doal (Anawim) and Joanne O’Connor (Junction 42).

The agenda:

10:00 – 10:15: How the research was carried out; financial analysis of sector, National Council for Voluntary Organisations

10:15 – 10:30: Key themes, challenges and positive practice from the report, Dr Summer Alston-Smith, CEO Clinks

10:30 – 10:45: The role of partnership working across the sector, Joy Doal, CEO Anawin

10:45 – 11:00: Stories of hope from voluntary sector work in prisons, Joanne O’Connor, CEO Junction 42

11:00 – 11:30: Clinks’ role going forward and recommendations for government

Register to our free webinar [Tuesday 31 March | 10:00 – 11:30 | Online | Free]. Click here to book your place Any questions: events@clinks.org

30% MORE FINDING JOBS

From Dan Whyte, Co-founder DWRM: As Chair of the HMP Belmarsh Employment Advisory Board, I recently joined fellow chairs at 10 Downing Street to meet Deputy PM David Lammy and Prisons Minister Lord Timpson to celebrate a major milestone: 30% of prison leavers across the estate are now finding employment within six months. This isn’t just a stat—it’s a testament to the power of second chances in reducing reoffending. The energy in the room was palpable. Hearing the DPM and Lord Timpson share their personal gratitude was a humbling reminder of our collective impact. The work continues. Our next goals: Target 50: Increasing sustained employment postrelease to 50%. Innovation: Driving forward with Challenge 50 and Project 72. Through continued collaboration and advocacy, we’re turning ambition into reality. Dan@dwrm.org.uk

From Pavan Dhaliwal, CEO Revolving Doors: “I opened up because they understood what ADHD feels like, not just what the textbook says. ”Navigating the justice system is hard, but for neurodivergent individuals, the barriers are even higher. Our latest Neurodiversity Forum highlights these lived experiences and the practical changes needed now. Read the insights: https://lnkd.in/eRhDiZDr Our organisation bridges the gap between lived experience and policy. Fellow members: Want to co-host a forum on a key justice issue? Let’s partner: https://lnkd.in/ehqEtySC pavan.dhaliwal@revolving-doors.org.uk

FUNDING WOMEN’S CENTRES WELCOMED

From Sonya Ruparel, CEO women in Prison: A major breakthrough for women in the CJS: the government has committed £32 million to women’s centres and services. This investment recognises what we’ve long championed — that addressing the root causes of women’s offending, including poor mental health, poverty and abuse, is essential to helping women rebuild their lives. Too many end up in prison due to poverty, homelessness, trauma and domestic abuse, with Black, Asian, racially minoritised and migrant women facing additional discrimination. The funding announcement coincides with the Women’s Justice Board’s latest report, which sets out key recommendations for reducing women’s imprisonment — exactly the direction we need. Sonya.ruparel@wipuk.org

From Natasha Finlayson, CEO Working Chance: This investment addresses the underlying causes of women’s offending and reducing reoffending. We are encouraged to see real change on its way for women who find themselves in the CJS. It is only through addressing each woman’s individual needs that we can set her up to succeed. But we must closely monitor how this investment is delivered, because women need practical and systemic change, not more rhetoric. Read the full statement on our website: https://lnkd.in/exA-wVjM

REFORMING CHILDRENS RECORDS

From Penelope Gibbs, Transform Justice: Great news on the reform of criminal records for children. Peers supported by our fairchecks campaign have tabled amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill and the government responded “We intend to publish a consultation setting out proposals for specific reforms on disclosure of childhood criminal records. Currently, the plan is to have that consultation published by the end of the year.” https://lnkd.in/exZfd77S

HELP AFTER PRISON …

From Lucie Russell, CEO User Voice: Launching soon at our London office in Vauxhall: The Bridge Hub, created by people with lived experience, it offers volunteering opportunities to build skills, confidence, and purpose for those leaving prison or on probation. Fellow members in London: Want to co-run the Hub with us? Apply and learn more here: https://lnkd.in/ey4YkiTr. Proudly supported by the City Bridge Foundation, bridging London and connecting communities

INSPIRATIONAL STATS

From Shannon Trust: Last year we delivered 142,185 learning sessions run across prisons in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and using our Turning Pages literacy and Count Me In numeracy programmes. Making a difference one learner at a time behind each number is someone now able to read letters from loved ones and better still, reply.

TAGGING WORRIES

As the government expands Electronic Monitoring, the new HM Inspectorate of Probation thematic inspection is more timely than ever. User Voice are investigating whether tags are used fairly and if they truly support rehabilitation. While monitoring can help maintain routines, work, and sobriety, it also brings significant challenges. The benefits are it supports structure, employment, and family ties. But it can cause stigma, disrupt home life, and lead to technical breaches for those with unstable housing. To ensure tagging supports lasting change rather than creating new obstacles, we must listen to lived experiences. Full inspection details here: https://lnkd.in/eY9smUtw

RJ TRAINING DATES

From Why-me: Fellow members: Want to master Restorative Justice? Our next courses are codesigned and led by people with lived experience. Foundation starts late September. Level 2 (Complex/Sensitive) May and June. info@why-me.org to grab a spot!

PROBATION SERVICE “ON BRINK”

The probation service is teetering on the brink. Public Accounts Committee report says staff are working under immense pressure in a seemingly toxic environment, in a culture built on emotional strain and trauma. Read the report: https://lnkd.in/dGFHtUrC

NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENTS

RCA APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON APRIL 15

Rewarding the best in prisoner re-integration. For the past several years, CN members have walked off with all three prizes (£5K, £3K, £2K), attended the scrumptious cream tea in the Peers Dining room at the House of Lords and been presented with the superb glass plaques donated by the Timpson Group. Let’s continue this tradition. Application form and info about previous winners: www.robincorbettaward.co.uk

CONFERENCE: April 29: All places snapped up. Email to be on wait list.

FOUNDER’S HELPING HAND: has ended. Report on who we helped coming soon

RENEWALS: If you’ve ignored emails you have until end of March and then we’ll have to unsubscribe

NEXT ZOOM: Wednesday April 14. Speaker: CEO New Futures Network

SEEKING SAFEDUARING SPECIALIST

From Dee Kalsi, Project Executive CIPPD (HR Professional body): Fellow members, we are currently seeking an adult-safeguarding specialist/expert to support us with a forthcoming audit. Ideally, we are looking for someone who has experience both within the volunteering sector and within the prison estate, as this context is central to our work. If you are aware of any colleagues or external contacts with the relevant experience who may be suitable for us to speak with, I would be very grateful for any recommendations you could share. Dee.Kalsi@cipd.co.uk

GROWTH FOR PRISON STAFF

From Dr Sarah Lewis, Grow,Transform,Belong: Last week, we wrapped up Residential 2 of the Growth Project with an incredible group of prison staff! It was three days of challenge, connection, and a lot of laughter. The feedback reminded us why this work matters: “Engaging, transparent, and thought-provoking.” A safe, fun, and open space.” “I feel reenergized to go back and push for change.” “You’ve reminded me why I’m grateful to be part of this project.” Thank you to our participants for your honesty and courage, and to our amazing hosts! The impact you’ll have back in your prisons will go far beyond these three days. sarah@growtransformbelong.com

LOUIS SPARKLES ON RADIO

From Prison Radio: Our patron Louis Theroux is sparking vital conversations about the “manosphere”—but for the Prison Radio Association, these aren’t just headlines; they are daily life behind bars. In an environment where 96% of the population is male, extreme ideas about “toughness” and masculinity can easily take hold, damaging mental health and future reintegration. We provide the antidote by broadcasting women’s perspectives into male wings; create safe spaces to discuss feelings and masculinity, what’s more 76% of listeners say NPR helps them understand others better. Thank you to Louis for shining a light on these issues outside, and to the men inside working to challenge them from within.

SUPPORTING FAMILIES AWARD

From Emma Wells, Founder Unseen Victims: We are incredibly honoured to have received an award from the High Sheriff of Cumbria in recognition of our work supporting families affected by the justice system. This award reflects the reality faced by many families when a loved one is arrested or sent to prison—an experience that can be sudden, overwhelming, and deeply isolating. From the moment of arrest, families are often left trying to navigate complex systems, emotional strain, and social stigma, frequently without the support they need. Our organisation exists to ensure that families do not face this journey alone. We provide support, advocacy, and safe spaces where families can feel heard, understood, and supported throughout every stage of the process.

DIARISE 2026 NETWORK DATES

NATIONAL NETWORKING MEMBER CONFERENCE:

Wednesday April 29, Leathersellers Livery Hall City of London 11.30 am – 4.30 pm

All places booked, email to go on waiting list for cancellations.

ZOOM SESSIONS

All Thursdays from 12.30-1.30 pm

April 14 : Speaker : newly appointed CEO of New Futures Network at the MoJ ; May 14: Speaker: Head of Prisoner Outcomes, MoJ; July 9: September 17. November 12 December 10

CONTINUE THE JOURNEY

Renewing your membership takes minutes while the £60 annual fee is a fiver a month. Same as a Starbucks coffee but with the added benefit of belonging to a supportive network. Don’t miss out on: Bi-weekly Newsletters. Interactive Zoom sessions. Regional meetings. National Networking Conference, and importantly, staying in touch with fellow members. We will keep your spot open until the end of this month. If we don’t hear from you by then, we’ll (reluctantly) move your membership to inactive. We’re here to help so if you are experiencing any issues with renewing, please contact: support@corbettnetwork.com