Can learning new skills change a prisoner’s life forever?

Throughout history, education has been celebrated as a transformative force. It expands one’s perspective, nurtures critical thinking and opens doors to opportunities. Yet, for one particular segment of the population—prisoners—its impact can be even more life-altering. Could acquiring new skills truly revolutionise an individual’s life, especially when in prison?

The stark reality of recidivism

One of the main challenges faced by former prisoners is reoffending or recidivism. In 2021 Ministry of Justice (MOJ) reported that the proven reoffending rate was 24%. With figures fluctuating between 24% and 32% since 2008, it paints a grim picture. Many of these individuals find themselves back in custody. This is not necessarily from inherent criminal tendencies but due to a scarcity of prospects and support. Breaking free from this cycle is no small task, but education within prisons offers a glimmer of hope.

Education – the potential of constructive regimes

Educational opportunities for prisoners challenge the conventional view of prisons.  Traditionally, people viewed prisons as punitive establishments.  This perspective now shifts positioning prisons as centres of rehabilitation, where positive and constructive regimes enable prisoners to acquire new skills. Constructive regimes are diverse incorporating a balanced programme of activities, including work, vocational training, education, cultural activities, mental health programmes and more.

Digital technology is revolutionising this space too.  The 2021 MOJ white paper emphasised the transformative power of ‘embedding technology to support a reformed regime’ and a desire to put in place technology to allow prison officers to use their time most effectively and ensure that prisoners can use their time purposefully.

Reducing recidivism through education

Numerous studies corroborate the link between prison education schemes and lowered recidivism rates.

A study by the Shannon Trust found that over half of the prison population in the UK struggles with functional literacy, reading at an age level of 11 or below.

A worrying 70% of these individuals risk returning to prison due to inadequate educational support, but with proper assistance this figure falls to 16%.

Shannon Trust

When individuals are equipped with skills needed to find jobs and contribute to society, they are better placed to accomplish this once released. The rationale is straightforward: with newfound skills and education, former prisoners are better poised to secure stable employment and successfully reintegrate back into society.

A beneficial knock-on effect

The advantages of facilitating education in prisons extend beyond just the individual. As former prisoners reintegrate more effectively, communities become more secure, families are reconnected, and there’s a marked decrease in the economic strain of repeated imprisonments. Collectively, society begins to view prisons not as places of endless punishment but as centres where even the wayward can rediscover their path.

Echoing Nelson Mandela’s words,

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world

For prisoners, it might just be the tool that forever alters their lives.

At Lava Group we developed the Tephra product suite and challenge traditional prison systems with technology. This technology allows a greater focus on rehabilitation and help to encourage the positive mindset of “getting my life back on track”.

To hear how technology is reshaping prison environments, reach out to Lava Group today.