Breaking the Cycle Together
The journey after prison can feel overwhelming. Many people leave custody facing significant challenges:
- 20 average convictions before entering prison
- 47% of prisoners have no formal qualifications
- 13% have never held a job
- 63% of short-sentence prisoners reoffend within a year
But these statistics don’t define your future. The Oswin Project is here to help you write a different story.
How Our Mentoring Works
For Prison Leavers
Before your release: We’ll meet you inside to understand your goals, concerns, and the support you’ll need on the outside.
On release day: A familiar face will be waiting. Your mentor will help you navigate those crucial first hours and days.
Ongoing support: Your mentor stays with you for as long as you need—whether that’s months or years. We don’t set arbitrary time limits on your journey.
Your mentor will help you:
- Find stable housing
- Access benefits and practical support
- Develop your CV and interview skills
- Connect with training and education
- Build work experience through our social enterprises
- Address personal challenges that might hold you back
- Celebrate your achievements and build confidence
For Families, Friends and Professionals
Supporting someone leaving prison can be challenging. As a family member, friend, or professional working with prison leavers, you play a vital role in their success.
How we work with you:
- Regular updates (with the Oswinner’s consent)
- Coordination with other support services
- Practical advice on how to reinforce positive changes
- Resources to help you understand the challenges they face
- A shared approach that combines your personal support with our professional guidance
Real Pathways, Not Programs
Every person’s journey is different. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches or rigid timeframes.
Together, we’ll create a personal plan that:
- Builds on your strengths
- Addresses your specific barriers
- Moves at your pace
- Adapts as your needs change
- Connects you with the right opportunities
Employment as a Journey, Not Just a Destination
Getting a job matters, but we focus on sustainable employment that brings stability and growth. Through our partnerships with understanding employers, we can offer:
- Work experience placements
- Training with industry qualifications
- References and work history
- Ongoing support once you’re in work
Ready to Take the First Step?
For Prison Leavers:
- Speak to your resettlement officer about a referral to The Oswin Project
- Ask a family member to contact us on your behalf
- Write to us directly at [contact details]
For Families, Friends and Professionals:
- Call us on [phone number]
- Email [email address]
No judgment. No time limits. Just practical support when you need it most.