Former prisoner hoping to continue to rehabilitate inmates during the coronavirus pandemic

Gethin Jones, 49, explained that to restrict the potential spread of coronavirus, inmates are currently ‘being locked in their cells for 23.5 hours a day’.

‘During their 30 minutes, people have to shower, do exercise and make calls home. Since lockdown, prisoners haven’t been able to have any visits for almost two months.

‘I’m also concerned that during this period the rehabilitation programmes which normally take place are unable to do so. The removal of a person’s freedom is the punishment part and this is something we’re all currently getting some experience of.

‘However, for society to succeed it’s vital that rehabilitation is at the heart of the prison service.’

To help fill the void, Gethin is hopping to create a video compilation of interviews with inspirational former prisoners which can be streamed onto inmate’s televisions.

‘I know a number of people who have been rehabilitated through the prison system and have turned their life round and are doing fantastic work in their communities. Despite lockdown, it’s important that inmates can see it’s possible to rehabilitate and reintegrate back into society,’ he said.

Having spent a combined total of eight years in prison after coming through the care system, Gethin turned his life round in 2006, gaining a degree level qualification and setting up a successful business – Gethin Jones Unlocking Potential. He hopes the video compilation will be used in Winchester and Isle of Wight prisons before being rolled out nationally.

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However, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic has put the programme in jeopardy as due to not being based at a business premises, Gethin is unable to access any of the interim support grants which have been put in place by the government.

‘Portsmouth City Council have said that if I can raise £5,000 then they will match it. It’s vital that inmates can see that they have a future and can turn things round,’ he said.

You can support Gethin’s initiative by going to his Crowdfunder page.

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