CFINE established the HOPE Programme (Happily Optimistic Positively Engaged) in 2021 with the aim of supporting prisoners being released from HMP Grampian to reintegrate successfully into their local communities. The project was co-designed with input from prisoners approaching liberation and serving officers.
HOPE continues to grow and evolve, meeting prisoners, receiving referrals and supporting individuals with justice experience in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
‘I would have broken my cycle (of re-offending) years ago with this support. It’s fantastic that people actually want to help prisoners getting released’ – A HOPE Project Participant
In partnership with the prison and local and national organisations, a pre-release programme comprising five workshops, helps individuals prepare for release with guidance on topics such as benefits, housing and employability. The programme has been co-designed with staff at HMP Grampian and participants. Organisations including Alcohol and Drugs Action, Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, Pathways and Upside attend the workshops. At the request of the prison, a summative session runs for remand prisoners. In the smaller women’s section of the prison, that overview is also given to female prisoners approaching liberation.
Post-release, participants are invited to attend CFINE to join sessions in Aberdeen. The workshops continue themes from the pre-release programme, offer a safe space to talk about challenges being faced, and include activities that promote wellbeing.
We are able to utilise the facilities and services available at CFINE as well as benefiting from partnerships with local organisations. Additional support and signposting are tailored to an individual’s needs e.g. disclosure statements, employability guidance and volunteering opportunities. There is a significant community service component embedded in the schedule of activities as well as options for peer mentoring.
You can find out more about the HOPE Project by downloading the leaflet below.
Download the HOPE leaflet here
If you, or someone you support, has recently passed through the justice system and needs support, please contact us for more information. You can reach out to Angus from the HOPE team by emailing acarmichael@cfine.org
‘Thank you for your help, I have started believing in myself again and the possibility of a good life.’ - A HOPE Project Participant