Arts organisations have worked quietly behind prison walls for decades, but recent government endorsement and high-profile partnerships are helping them gain some recognition, says Dora Dixon.
At the National Criminal Justice Arts Alliance (NCJAA) our aim is to ensure the arts are used within the criminal justice system as a springboard for positive change. Research that can be viewed on our Evidence Library website consistently demonstrates that our members’ work enables people to move forward in their lives and engage positively with society.
It’s important to explore the opportunities for ‘normalising’ cultural activities for prisoners and pathways to education and... more
When prisoners are actually requesting more arts activities, why are we not giving them what they want, asks Jess Thorpe.
Working in prisons is some of the most challenging but rewarding work Dan Boyden does. He offers advice for artists and arts practitioners on getting started.
A music-making project within HMP Inverness is helping offenders develop skills for life, learning and work. Stacey Toner describes the challenges and its aims for the future.
Young offenders in Wales gained the Arts Award during a Summer Arts College – for some it was their first ever qualification. Angela Rogers tells how their success was realised.
Male prisoners at risk of suicide or self-harm may be apprehensive about signing up for a theatre project, but some finish Geese Theatre Company’s five-day course giddy with pride. Louise Heywood shares the story.
Helping prisoners devise and perform a piece of children’s theatre for their families may help reduce re-offending rates, but Selina Busby questions whether the evaluation of such projects is as effective as it should be.