Support female prisoners in a process of change

This is our first report for this project and we are delighted to share with you some of the amazing artwork that the women on RESTORE have created this year!

Having recognised that female prisoners need more time to build trust with both fellow participants and facilitators, we have explored how we can create a safe space for reflection and sharing. In the last year we have worked to fully embed the use of visual arts and creative writing within the programme. These elements have become a very powerful tool for the women to use both during the programme, and within their own time in their cells.

“I have found supernatural strength, I realise I have found myself in prison and that speaking my story in RESTORE has really helped me to do this…” — Participant

As we enter the Christmas season, we also want to highlight how difficult this time of year can be for those in prison. Whether it’s the first year having Christmas inside or the tenth, spending this time of the year without friends and family can be isolating and disorientating. 

We are so grateful that you chose to donate to this project, but could we ask you for one more thing? Please share this report with someone and help bring awareness to this project this Christmas. Right now this project is supported by a small group of people, but with your help we can raise more funds so that we can continue to support women prisoners in creating positive futures.

“RESTORE switched the light on in my head, coming made me realise I had to face my fears, deal with my problems, and before I let my fears control me and now I control them - I deal with everything, personally, physically, mentally and emotionally. In the past I blamed myself, I felt guilt and now I feel love.” — Participant