Clinks Light Lunch | Issue 865 | 24 January 2025

Light lunch

In this issue...

CLINKS NEWS: Women's Justice Board

Clinks is pleased to announce that Anne Fox, Clinks CEO, will be serving on the new Women’s Justice Board. Anne will be a strong advocate for women in contact with the criminal justice system (CJS) and their families. With Anne representing Clinks and our members, we will ensure that the voluntary sector’s specialist voice will be heard. 

Find out more about the Women's Justice Board. You can also discover more about Clinks' work with women in the CJS here.

CLINKS NEWS: membership renewals

As we kick off 2025, we want to take a moment to thank all our members for their continued support and the vital work you do to change lives across the criminal justice system. Whether you’re working in prisons, probation, or communities, your impact is invaluable, and we’re proud to support you in making a difference.  

Clinks membership renewals take place annually on 1 April, and we’ll soon be in touch to help you prepare for this process. To ensure we have the right information, we’ll be sending a short online form to membership contacts in each organisation. This will allow you to confirm your details, request an invoice (if required), and help us ensure the renewal process runs smoothly.  

In the meantime, if you have any questions or updates about your membership, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at membership@clinks.org.  

If you/your organisation is not yet a Clinks member, now is a great time to join our network and access the support, resources, and connections we offer. You can find out more and sign up at www.clinks.org/membership

CLINKS NEWS: vacancies on the Employment Advisory Boards (EABs)

Employment Advisory Boards (EABs) were launched to bring business expertise into prisons, and support prison leavers into employment. The Boards work with prison governors and staff to ensure that serving prisoners use their time in prison to gain the skills they need alongside links to job opportunities so that they can leave prison and move into sustainable employment.

The voluntary sector is represented on EABs across the country, and we are working with the New Futures Network and prisons to increase their presence and help EABs find the right voluntary sector representative for their board.

We’re looking for volunteers for the EABs attached to the following prisons: HMP Erlestoke (Wiltshire); HMP Leyhill (Gloucestershire); HMP Bedford; and HMP Wayland (Thetford, Norfolk). This would be to represent the wider voluntary sector and share expertise with their local prison. Meetings tend to take place within the prison, and either meet bi-monthly or quarterly. The frequency is determined by the EAB Chair and Governor.

Please note that, alongside the New Futures Network, we will connect you with your local prison, but each EAB Chair and Prison Governor chooses and elects the official membership of the EAB. Please do send through expressions of interest (name and organisation) to policy@clinks.org by 7 February.

MEMBER FOCUS: PTSD Resolution CIO 

PTSD Resolution provides free, effective, and prompt therapy for Forces’ Veterans, Reservists, and their families through a nationwide network of 200 therapists, including phone and online support.

Founded in 2009 and accredited by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the charity has handled over 4,000 referrals, with therapy completed in an average of seven sessions. It uniquely supports veterans with addiction issues and family members affected by trauma.

With no salaried staff or assets, PTSD Resolution operates efficiently, dedicating funds to therapy, research, and public information. Find out more about PTSD Resolution here

CLINKS MEMBER’S NEWS: the role of VCS women’s organisations in CJS policy change

Birth Companions’ Director, Naomi Delap, has published a new opinion piece exploring the critical role of voluntary and community sector women’s organisations in driving policy change within the CJS. The piece highlights the development of the Women’s Justice Board and the impact of collaborative work in this area. Read the full article here

CLINKS MEMBER’S NEWS: physical healthcare in prison

Nacro has produced a new report looking at the issue of physical healthcare in prison, in collaboration with Nacro's Justice ExChange. This report surveyed over a hundred people about their experiences of physical healthcare. It highlights the shortcomings in prison healthcare and the devastating impact on individuals’ physical well-being, affecting their chances to build positive lives post-release. Read the full report here

CLINKS MEMBER’S NEWS: lived experience of the law

Revolving Doors are working with researchers from the Institute of Crime and Policy Research (ICPR) at Birkbeck, University of London to explore people’s lived experience of the law and how these experiences have changed over time. They are interested in speaking with individuals who have been a defendant in criminal court proceedings from 2021 onwards. The research findings will directly feed into policy workshops to develop practical recommendations to support participation in and access to justice. Interview participants will be remunerated for their time with a £40 voucher, for a 1–2-hour interview. They will also reimburse organisations who are able to support in identifying participants in the study. For more information, please contact lived-experience@bbk.ac.uk

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: join the Women’s Justice Board Partnership Delivery Group (PDG)

The Government is inviting expressions of interest to join the Partnership Delivery Group (PDG) supporting the newly established Women’s Justice Board. The Partnership Delivery Group will bring together senior officials from key government departments and external experts to shape policies and address the distinct challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system.

The PDG will support the Women’s Justice Board by:

  • Developing policies to reduce the number of women in custody and promote community-based alternatives.
  • Addressing the root causes of offending, such as trauma, mental health, and domestic abuse.
  • Strengthening collaboration between voluntary organisations, statutory agencies, and other stakeholders.

This is your opportunity to influence strategies that ensure tailored, gender-specific approaches to improve outcomes for women in the justice system. Applications must be submitted by [12:00 noon, 31 January]. For full details and to apply, access the expression of interest form here.

FUNDING: HMPPS Small Grants Scheme

HM Prison and Probation Service is piloting a small grants scheme to fund voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations working within the criminal justice system. Grants of up to £10,000 will be awarded to organisations delivering activities that support rehabilitation and desistance. The latest opportunities are:

  • HMP Bullingdon: rowing activities to promote wellbeing, teamwork, and physical fitness
  • HMP Leeds: pen pal activities for prisoners without family or friend contact.

Applications are open 27 January – 9 February 2025. Search for opportunities and apply here

CLINKS MEMBER’S EVENT: Self-Employment & Welfare benefits

Transitioning from joblessness to self-employment can be complex. But for those aspiring entrepreneurs who rely on welfare benefits, what guidance and assistance can be offered to safeguard their financial support while they embark on their entrepreneurial journey? If you’re a career development expert assisting individuals in exploring their prospects, this course is tailored to your needs. [5 February, 10:00 - 14:00, online, £69+VAT] Learn more and book your place

CLINKS MEMBER’S EVENT: Getting to Grips with Universal Credit (an introduction)

In this comprehensive Universal Credit training programme, which has earned CPD accreditation, an engaging learning experience is offered. It is tailor-made to assist organisations engaged in diverse aspects of social welfare in gaining a strong grasp of Universal Credit. You will embark on a journey through the intricacies of Universal Credit, supported by an expert in welfare benefits. This learning experience combines interactive case studies, practical exercises, quizzes, and invaluable insights to ensure your understanding and preparedness. [6 February, 10:00 - 14:00, online, £89+VAT] Learn more and book your place

CLINKS MEMBER’S EVENT: Financial Fitness: "Get your money in shape"

Whether you’re grappling with financial challenges or simply seeking a new perspective on your finances, this course is custom-tailored to suit your needs. Moreover, if you’re interested in assisting your customers, employees, or community members in gaining control over their budgets and fostering a positive relationship with money, our Financial Fitness course is the perfect solution. [11 February, 10:00 - 16:00, online, £89+VAT] Learn more and book your place

CLINKS MEMBER’S EVENT: Carer and Caring Matters

This “Carer and Caring Matters” training programme is thoughtfully crafted to support individuals and organisations involved in delivering social welfare assistance. In the UK, there is an estimated 10.6 million caregivers, equating to one in every five adults. The challenges of being a caregiver are undeniable, with many grappling with poverty and lacking knowledge about available services. This course is designed to help you support caregivers effectively.
[19 February, 10:00 - 15:00, online, £89+VAT] Learn more and book your place

CLINKS MEMBER’S EVENT: Understanding Stress and Mental Health

Identifying stress indicators and effectively managing your responses can enhance your overall well-being. Are you certain of your grasp on the concept of mental health? Do you feel adequately prepared to provide support to individuals dealing with mental health challenges? If not, this course is designed to assist you in your journey. [26 February, 10:00 - 16:00, online, £89+VAT] Learn more and book your place

CLINKS MEMBER’S EVENT: What’s porn got to do with it?

Join the Lucy Faithfull Foundation, in partnership with NWG, for a webinar exploring how pornography influences harmful sexual behaviour in young people - and what must change. Gain exclusive access to expert-led, data-driven insights and research on preventing child sexual abuse. This is a vital discussion for anyone working to protect and support children and families. [4 March, 10:00 - 12:00, online, free] Book your place here

PUBLICATION: a problem-solving approach to the cycle of crisis and crime

The Ministry of Justice has published a process evaluation of the Intensive Supervision Courts pilot, exploring how problem-solving approaches can address the cycle of crisis and crime.

Revolving Doors is leading on the process evaluation in partnership with CFE Research. The report published examines the implementation, challenges, and early outcomes of the Intensive Supervision Courts in addressing the complex needs of individuals in the justice system. Read the full report here.

OPPORTUNITY: The Jasmine Project

The Jasmine Project is a literacy project that involves “Writing the Global Majority Experience”. Led by Kate, a writer, poet, and creative facilitator with years of experience in prisons and probation settings, this opportunity gives voice to people of the Global Majority who have experienced the criminal justice system. Supported by the Royal Society of Literature’s Literature Matters Award, this initiative will run creative writing workshops across England. Participants will produce poetry, short stories, lyrics, and flash fiction, which will be compiled into a published collection.

How you can help?

  • Organisations: can you provide workshop spaces or connect the project with interested individuals?
  • Participants: are you from the Global Majority with criminal justice system experience? Share your story - anonymously if preferred.

To get involved email thejasmineproject@outlook.com or view the Jasmine Project flyer for more information

CLINKS MEMBERS’ VACANCIES:

Executive Director with Open Clasp Theatre Company [£39,826 - £44,854, Newcastle Upon Tyne, full time]; Senior Youth Worker with Peer Power [£32,780, London and the South East, part time]; Senior Youth Worker with Youth Ink [£32,780, London and the South East, part time]; Programme Lead with 3Pillars Project [£39,000 - £44,000, Vauxhall, London with travel to prisons and Midlands office, full time]; Visits Services Play Worker with NEPACS [£22,971, HMP Frankland, part time]; Male Specialist Youth Worker with Spurgeons [£26,033 - £30,361, Feltham YOI, full time]; Targeted Youth Project Facilitator with Spurgeons [£26,033 - £30,361, Surrey, part time]; Targeted Youth Project Facilitator with Spurgeons [£26,033 - £30,361, Hounslow, part time]; Targeted Youth Project Facilitator with Spurgeons [£26,033 - £30,361, Rochester, full time].

For more information about these vacancies, and many more, click here

READS OF THE WEEK:

EXTRA INFORMATION:

About Clinks Light Lunch

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