Footprints supports people released from prison in rebuilding their networks. For many, their conviction separates them from their friends, families and children, where visiting hours are not enough.
*Names have been changed
Mabel is a 38-year-old lady who was living at home with her mum and young son before her conviction. She was sentenced to 3½ years, which she served. Upon her release, she was referred to us via Making Connections in HMP Send. Mabel's only wish was to get safe accommodation for herself and her son.
Initially, Mabel was released to a property that housemates were using for sex work and drug use. To avoid engaging, she would lock herself in her room and report housemates she believed were involved to the owners. When she moved in, she was given three months to secure ongoing accommodation. She was informed that if she was unsuccessful, she would be placed in a Salvation Army Hostel, another location where she would not be able to bring her son.
We supported Mabel by accompanying her to her local council. We helped her secure a rent deposit and some agent's fees. We helped her look for accommodation and secured an offer for a two-bedroom flat; however, the offer was withdrawn when the company learned about Mabel's offence. She was consequently black-listed by them for three years. Mabel did secure a small, privately rented flat, but in an area unsuitable for her child. She was unable and unwilling to bring him there.
Mabel and Footprints continued to liaise with the council, who put her on the housing list. We helped her look for college courses and employment, and helped her with her CV and job applications. She applied for a local part-time job but again was turned down when she disclosed her convictions. Mabel didn't lose hope, and the council offered her a lovely two-bedroom flat in a nice area. This let her get her son back full-time, and he has started attending a good school close to where they live. She has also been offered a part-time hairdressing course at a college, which has given her a bursary that covers all her equipment, uniform, and travel, and provides £5 per day for food.
She has a bright new future, with work prospects and her family around her, in her own permanent place to live. She recently texted us 'Thank you for everything. I wouldn't have been brave enough for any of this without your support. Hope to see you soon, can't wait to show you this place. It's so lovely.'
*Photo released to Public Domain on https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=368119&picture=jurassic-coast
