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| Hollesley Bay Open Prison |
First off, some background on the prison itself; Hollesley Bay is an open complex for Catagory D prisoners, they are young offenders, or guys who are nearing the end of their life sentences. The prisoners are given the opportunity to go 'off site' to work and are also allowed the occasional weekend home.
Right, the day itself.. I'll be honest, I was dreading the outreach event we had planned, I wasn't sure what to expect at all, and was filled with lots of misconceptions. After all, prisoners are prisoners aren't they? And they're all locked away for doing something awful aren't they?
Well, of course, they are prisoners, and they have done something wrong - in most cases - however, they are humans too, and they have as much right to be treated as humans as you and I do.. I spent the day talking to some of the most respectful and polite guys that I have ever come across. Many asked some really important and interesting questions and I left feeling like I had truely helped to educate some people on the importance of wearing condoms and preventing STI's, together with the techniques that they should be using for self examination. The day went FAR too quickly, and before I knew it we were packing up to come away. It was a strange feeling, not only to come away with the sense of having educated people, but also in a way to have people's stories lingering in mind, not necessarily their past, but those who are about to move on and have a future, and I have to admit, they played on my mind all evening. I only hope that once back out in the 'world' they remember the advice given to them by the 'No Risks' team.
So, my lesson was well and truly learnt, and next time perhaps I'll remember not to be so judgemental and to wait and see what events have in store before I decide I'm going to hate it!
Take Care,
No Risks x
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