On Tuesday 21 April, the Scottish Justice Secretary stated that he will be asking the Scottish Prison Service to consider the release of a limited number of short-sentenced prisoners towards the end of their time in custody.
The Wise Group welcomes this decision and – as the lead on the largest prison mentoring programme in Scotland – we have put in place measures to support those leaving prison as a result of this change.
The wellbeing of people leaving prison is a priority for the Wise Group and we are ready to support those leaving prison as a result of this emergency legislation. Those who find themselves released into a community, family and support system that has changed dramatically will need someone to navigate services that have seen a huge shift in delivery and demand.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 we have been working hard to ensure that we continue to provide a high level mentoring service to those who need us most, including a free mentor hotline and the provision of bespoke liberation packs on release. It is now more important than ever for us to step up to the plate to provide support and encouragement to those most affected by these changes to make sure that no one is left behind.
Let’s talk
If you’d like to work with the Wise Group to support people in the justice system and help make communities safer, then get in touch.
