The Prisoner
Being convicted of a crime you haven’t committed is an enormous burden to carry, some people lose everything in the space of a day. Bear in mind how the prisoner might be feeling.
Try be confident for the prisoner. Be strong and solid, use your friends and team to discuss your fears. Remind the prisoner that you believe them and that you will do all you can to change the circumstances.
Tell them that this is not uncommon and that people can and have been successful.
Be aware that the nature of the crime they were convicted of will have an impact on the prisoner’s day to day life in prison; support the prisoner in maintaining their innocence.
Prisoners have much to gain by admitting to their offence; help them to not be influenced by the system.
Prisoners will be offered to take part in rehabilitation courses to address their alleged wrong behaviour.
These are not compulsory although their taking part will have an impact on their progress through the system.
Remind them that they are not guilty and that they need to consistently stick to the truth.
Note: Talk to solicitors and the organisations for more legal advice on rehabilitation courses issues.
Always involve the prisoner as much as you can, show them that they still have some control over their lives and future. They have!
Send them copies of everything you do and everything happening with their campaign; show them that they matter and that they are not forgotten.
Contact their friends and ask them to write and visit, keep in touch, remember birthdays and Christmas, none of these happens inside…
Note: Some people may be frightened at the thought of visiting someone in prison, please bear that in mind and do not try to force people as it may make them run away, there are other ways for people to keep in touch.
Some prisoners will want to know what is happening with life on the outside, others won’t, always consider their feelings and do not try to impose your way because you think it’s best.
Remember that they are the people who have to cope with the isolation so always respect their wishes.
Note: Some prisoners will be on the ball and ready to fight with you; others may feel too beaten. This does not mean that you give up; it just means that you need more support for yourself on the outside.
Note: Remember that prisons have televisions and newspapers therefore anything which gets published and that is in the view of other prisoners and prison staff will have an impact on the prisoner and they will have to deal with the consequences. Always ask the prisoners for permission before you do anything.
Note: Although I was always unsuccessful, try and meet with the prison governor to explain the situation, you never know and it’s always worth trying.
