Change is possible
When I am asked what television documentary portrays our prison system with the most accuracy, my answer always takes them by surprise. With no shadow of a doubt, the best documentary, which is not even a documentary, is the 1970s sit-com, Porridge. I’ve yet to see its accurate portrayal of prison surpassed. Don’t just take … Continue reading The history of ‘Porridge’
I recently read an article about prison and prisoners of which I don't want to say I was shocked or surprised by because that would be the wrong choice of wording to use. I suppose the best description, and I'm going back on myself slightly, would be that the article left me feeling pleasantly surprised. … Continue reading In-career-ceration
My Interview with Chris I had the good fortune of interviewing Chris Lambrianou for my first podcast, which discusses issues relating to our criminal justice system. We chat about his time in prison, reform, mental health and lots of other subjects. The link above is to the podcast, however, before you listen here is a brief … Continue reading Beware the ‘Ides of March’
Regular followers of my blog and Twitter account will be aware of what an incredible year I have had. There have been some fine highlights along the way: A guest of Dr Lewis Owens' at two events. One was at the residence of the Lebanese Ambassador; where I not only met Terry Waite but also … Continue reading Reflection – What can be!
It is remarkable how things turn out sometimes. I am not only able to celebrate my 100th blog, but I am also able to celebrate, and of course, promote ; ) my debut book 'A Father's Son.' I have banged on for ages and will continue to do so, about the importance of education, especially … Continue reading TON UP!
I wanted to write a blog yesterday about this experience, however, I became somewhat overwhelmed. Fortunately, I can count Michael Irwin and The Tartan Con as contacts and also as friends. It wasn't so much the advice more the silent understanding. So, before I begin I would like to say a massive thank you to … Continue reading Inspirationville
Being freelance with the addition of having my own blog allows me to write articles like this. Not only am I able to share someone’s remarkable journey, the someone is a colleague, business associate – all will be revealed – and someone, who, along with his good wife Maria, are more like family to me … Continue reading What’s your story?
Those who know me personally can confirm I usually have around 20 projects on the go at any one time in what may be considered a pretty hectic life. However it may look, I do in fact, have quite a lot of structure built in. Organised chaos as the saying goes. Living with complex mental … Continue reading Facts, fears and fables: Silent Battles: Reform!
“In light of history, experience and the present limitations of human knowledge, we find it quite impossible to say that committing to the untrammelled discretion of the jury the power to pronounce life or death in capital cases is offensive to anything in the Constitution" (as cited in, Wolfgang & Riedel, p.120). Wolfgang, Marvin, and … Continue reading Does it heal?
My featured image contains the name Yinka 'Lamboginny' Lawanson. Lamboginny is a recording/performing artiste from Nigeria. He is also a humanitarian, in fact, here's a YouTube clip of Lamboginny talking at the recent United Nations World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) conference in New York. Figures in the latest Bromley Briefings, published by the Prison Reform Trust, show … Continue reading The purpose of prison?
Journey of a reformed man 