New Foundation project to support ex-offenders with resettlement on release
Saints Restart will work with people before and after their release from prison to support a positive reintegration into community life.
The new project will work with male offenders aged between 18 to 25 who are due to be released from HMP Winchester, helping them resettle into community life in Southampton.
A member of specialist Saints Foundation staff will work in partnership with the prison team to support offenders ahead of their release, preparing them to reintegrate into community life using 1-to-1 mentoring and group sessions.
Weekly workshops will educate participants on employability skills, managing mental and physical health, substance misuse and independent living.
Our engagement then continues beyond the gate, working closely with probation officers to help participants settle back into Southampton and find employment and stability in their new life.
It’s hoped this continuity of support will help break cycles of reoffending and ultimately provide a new pathway in life, away from criminality.
The project will be funded by various partners including the Third House Trust and the EFDN’s Football Works project, which grants money for football club charitable organisations to make their communities safer and more united. HMP Winchester will also support the funding of the project long-term.
Saints Restart is due to start delivery within HMP Winchester later this month.
