Visiting HMP Bullingdon for a social day

Volunteers Michelle and Rebecca recently travelled to HMP Bullingdon to attend a social day, organised by the prison for people who don't usually get visits. Michelle has shared her reflections on the experience with us:

After a rather rainy trip down the M40 I was pleased to find what must have been the last space in the car park at HMP Bullingdon.

I showed my ID (driving license) which was kept by the prison visits reception for the duration of my visit, and I was given a visitors' lanyard to wear.

After an airport style security search, I joined the other New Bridge volunteer as well as a group of university students for the next search process – sniffer dogs. The officer in charge couldn’t have been more friendly. I spoke to him at length later in the session and heard more about how the dogs work, and some of the things they find.

We were led through to a visit hall, where the prisoners were already sat around tables with comfortable chairs. Some sat in pairs, others were on their own. Some were already playing cards. The volunteers were invited to get a hot drink from the kiosk and then pretty much picked a prisoner to introduce themselves to for a chat.

It was all very relaxed and friendly. The prisoners were a range of ages, some quieter and some very chatty but all seemed pleased and willing to be there.

I introduced myself to a chap called N, who told me it was his first month in this prison and first social day. He said how nice it was to speak to ‘normal people’ and to be in the informal environment. Others I spoke to echoed this sentiment, and all said they hoped these social days would be a regular occurrence. Prison Officers joined in some of the chats too, and it was evident there are some really good working relationships between these officers and the men.

When I explained that I was from New Bridge, there was interest from the prisoners about what the organisation does and several asked how they could apply for a befriender. As this cohort was Vulnerable Prisoners (VPs) many of whom are sex offenders, the men I spoke to were fairy open about feeling isolated and in need of some outside support.

There were a couple of therapy dogs visiting too, which proved very popular. Another man I spoke to said how much he would love to have a pet in prison and would feel a sense of purpose again through having something to look after.

The event came to a close promptly after 2 hours and it was a smooth exit of prisoners and then visitors. Thank you to Officer Josh Wainwright who organised the event. He seemed very pleased with the outcome and he could see the morning had boosted the men’s morale.

Our volunteers often have the opportunity to attend prison-organised social days, alongside their befriending.  If you are interested in volunteering with us then you can find out more here: https://www.newbridgefoundation.org.uk/volunteer