The Stirling Interfaith Community Justice Group (SICJG) is a charitable organisation (charity no. SC042540), that works alongside the Scottish Prison Service to deliver support and assistance to families visiting those in custody. They are located in the Family Help Hub at HMP and YOI Cornton Vale and the Visitor Centre at HMP Glenochil.
The aim of the Family Help Hub is to provide a supportive, friendly and welcoming environment for families visiting relatives or loved ones in prison. Support is provided by staff and trained volunteers to ensure experiences of prison visiting are less stressful and more positive, thereby encouraging more frequent visits and maintaining family ties in order to reduce re-offending, increase the stability of children's lives and achieve positive long-term outcomes for all of the family.
What is the role of a volunteer?
· The group have many volunteers from various backgrounds and different levels of experience with the criminal justice system. However, training is given to all volunteers so no experience is necessary.
· You will be based at one of the centres and will be responsible for welcoming visitors before they head to their visits. You will usually provide teas and coffees.
· If someone is visiting for the first time, you will sit down with them and talk them through the processes and signpost them to any help from other services.
· Volunteers will be expected to help in building relationships with visitors and looking out for any signs that they may need additional help or support during the visit.
Children’s visits:
One of the main activities that SICJG coordinate is children’s visits. These are more relaxed and allow the children to interact with their parents freely. The group are even involved with organising parties throughout the year, such as Easter, Halloween and Christmas.
Who to contact
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or have any questions, please contact either:
Lauren - Laurensicjg@outlook.com, or Lyndsay - Lyndsaysicjg@outlook.com
The aim of the Family Help Hub is to provide a supportive, friendly and welcoming environment for families visiting a woman in custody. Support is provided by staff and trained volunteers to ensure experiences of prison visiting are less stressful and more positive thereby encouraging more frequent visits and maintaining family ties in order to reduce re-offending, increase the stability of children's lives and achieve positive long-term outcomes for all of the family. In April 2017, we opened our Visitors Centre at HMP Glenochil, with the same vision as our Family Help Hub at Cornton Vale. Creating a safe and welcoming space for those visiting the prison
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Experience required: No previous experience required.
Minimum age: 18
Support:
Named Contact For Volunteer
This opportunity is also advertised across Clackmannanshire.