Natasha Mort (Voluntary Action Leeds) speaks about the innovative work of the HMP Leeds Volunteering Scheme at the Big Assist conference. Find out more about NCVO events: http://www.ncvo.org.uk/training-and-events

1. HMP Leeds Volunteering
Scheme
To work with HM Prison Leeds and the Leeds Volunteer Managers Network
in the creation of a volunteering programme specifically aimed at
prisoners:
- residing within prison
- on ROTL
- are about to be released, including ensuring they had a
volunteering opportunity to go into on release and on-
going support afterwards
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Volunteer Centres Programme

2. The problem we are trying to solve
Nearly half of prisoners themselves say they will need help to find a job
when they leave prison. .......
"When all we do is just take those people, release them on to the streets
with £46 in their pockets and no other support, why are we surprised that
they reoffend again quickly?'
Justice Secretary Chris Grayling, November 2012
The Volunteer Centre Leeds is trying to contribute to lowering the rate of
reoffending by improving the skills and confidence of prisoners and those
recently released.
Volunteer Centres Programme
HMP Leeds Volunteering
Scheme

3. The difference we are going to make
The project would work mainly with HMP Leeds C wing (Resettlement wing) One
of the aims of the project is to encourage those that have never considered
volunteering. We understand that not all will sign up to the project but hope that
there will be a ripple effect and the idea of giving time will be taken up at some
point.
'In the aftermath of imprisonment the stability of employment can promote ties
and connections in the community .....Accessing the labour market however, is one
of the biggest difficulties facing ex prisoners.'
Margaret Fitzgerald
Volunteering has been shown to help community cohesion, up skilling those who
take up opportunities and reducing stigma. This will help prisoners find routes into
employment and feel part of the community they are placed back into
Volunteer Centres Programme
HMP Leeds Volunteering
Scheme