Norfolk chaplaincy offers support for people leaving prison

Community Chaplaincy Norfolk (CCN) is a Christian charity that provides volunteer mentors for prison leavers of all faiths and none, supporting them to rebuild their lives after prison, as its team explains.

How does it work?
Based on a model established by the national Community Chaplaincy Association, CCN employs a small staff team: to recruit, train and support volunteer mentors; to assess potential clients; to liaise with the prison authorities, probation, and other relevant agencies; and to allocate clients to mentors.

We are based in Norwich city centre and often meet clients at St Stephen’s Church café.  We are very grateful for the relationship we have with the St Stephens’ staff team.

The Client Journey
Our work is not time limited.  Once a person has been accepted as a CCN client, a mentor will make contact with them while they are still in prison, to build up a relationship and identify the kind of support they will need to achieve their goals.

On the day of release, we try to meet each client at the gate and accompany them to probation, accommodation and any other appointments.  The first day can be particularly hard for those who have been in prison for a long time and those who are trying to break free from a cycle of re-offending, for different reasons, so having someone by their side is invaluable.  This is followed by regular meetings with their mentor to discuss progress and work through any challenges.

“This has been one of the best things I’ve found to help with rehabilitation…I don’t think I would have made it on my own if I’m honest.”
“My mentor is always there if and when I need them. I feel comfortable enough to be able to talk about anything and always receive the best advice.”
“They helped me with trying to overcome my social anxiety on public transport.”
“Since I have left prison they have helped me build a relationship with my kids.” 
CCN Clients.

Volunteer Mentors
Our mentors come from a diverse background of life experiences and beliefs. 

All mentors undertake an initial training course (pictured above) covering: the criminal justice system, communication skills, boundaries, personal safety, anti-corruption, goal setting, practicalities, record keeping, safeguarding and trauma informed mentoring.  This is followed by additional training and group support sessions.  All mentors are also supported by regular one-to-one sessions with the Mentor Coordinator.