Anett Uttley, HMP Wealstun
“A lot of the guys here are stuck because the system just isn’t working as it should be.
“We can all see there’s a massive gap. Recycling Lives fills that. It gives them the support they wouldn’t get otherwise.
“When Rick and Rob first visited the prison I showed them around and helped them to set up an open day. At the beginning people were cynical but the open day really helped. The [prison staff] can see the difference Recycling Lives can make so they’re much more open to helping people to engage with it.
“I help Rick with managing applications and helping him to get the information he needs.
“I find it really rewarding. Before this I couldn’t really help people. It wasn’t in my power to. Now I can.
“Some of the guys are nervous about getting out, but with Recycling Lives they go from being nervous to actually looking forward to it.
“It’s nice because now, through Rick, I can hear how they’re getting on after release. Normally I only know how they’re doing if they’ve ended up back in prison.
“Recycling Lives is exactly what people need.”