Prison Program and BreatheSMART

The UK prison system is hampered by severe overcrowding, inadequate funding, and insufficient investment in rehabilitation services. These deficits undermine the overall success of prisons in delivering prisoner rehabilitation and effectively addressing issues of reoffending and positive reintegration into society. Addressing these problems is essential for building a more peaceful and safe society for everyone.

The Prison Program and BreatheSMART is a cost effective, yet proven program that addresses the underlying psychological and emotional causes of behaviour resulting from unresolved anger, addiction, low self esteem and anxiety. These are often at the root of an individual’s offending behaviour. Our goal is to contribute to the integration of this approach to reducing crime into UK Prisons and Probation Services in a cost effective and comprehensive approach.

Our long-term objective is to see the Prison Program and BreatheSMARTme fully implemented across all UK correctional facilities, including Young Offender Institutions (YOIs). A critical part of this plan is establishing comprehensive ‘through-the-gate’ support for all individuals released on supervision. This continuity of care is vital for providing support during the vulnerable transition period immediately following release, which is when reoffending risk is highest.

• In the UK, the Program has run successfully in a number of prisons, including Highdown Prison; HMP Lindholme; Les Nicolles State Prison in Guernsey and HMP Thameside, as well as successfully trialled for people on release into the community in Sussex Probation Area.
• Demonstrated true inmate rehabilitation across the world and offered tools for staff wellness.
• Rev. J. Mc Cready, Chaplain, HMP Lindholme Prison, Doncaster: “The courses have proven popular with a number of inmates. The course leaders are very professional in their approach. I would be pleased to welcome another course in the chaplaincy area.”

• Post program feedback for the program internationally
• Self Control: 81% said “I am better at controlling my temper”; 70% said “I feel a reduced desire for alcohol & drugs”
• Stress and Emotions: 84% said “I am relaxed”; 68% said “I am hopeful about my future”; 68% said “I am less despairing and hopeless”
• Behavioral Health: 64% said “I am less easily irritated”; 79% said “I feel able to cope with challenges”
• Explore impact data and feedback from our international websites – https://www.prisonprogram.org/ & https://prisonsmart.eu/
• Mr. D. Clark, Principal Officer, States Prison, Guernsey: “I have had nothing but positive feedback from prisoners saying how useful they found the week and how much they enjoyed the course.”
• Delivered the prison program training to over 800,000 persons in 100 countries since 1992

Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, every contribution makes a difference.

Contact Sheetal Banerjee to volunteer or for any further details – sheetal.banerjee@iahv.org.uk