A new facility that aims to prisoners prepare for life after release and reducing the risk of reoffending has been unveiled at HMP Lancaster Farms.
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, officially opened a new Safety Support Suite, funded through his Lancashire Violence Reduction Network (LVRN).
During the visit, the Commissioner met prison staff, partners and prisoners to see first-hand how the suite supports individuals as they approach release. The facility helps users become familiar with the support services available to them, including housing, employment and wellbeing support.
The Commissioner also had the opportunity to experience the innovative Virtual Reality (VR) headsets funded by the LVRN.
Known as ‘Terry’s Vision’, the project was developed following a collaborative workshop delivered by the LVRN in partnership with The Hope Collective and HM Prison and Probation Service.
The technology allows prisoners to practise everyday situations in a safe, immersive environment, helping them develop the life skills needed to successfully transition back into the community, reducing the risk of reoffending after release.
Following the visit, Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Ensuring that prisoners receive the right type of support prior to their release is crucial in reducing the risk of reoffending.
‘’Providing the right support helps individuals reintegrate into society, access new opportunities and make positive choices.
“This is a great example of how partnership working can be used to develop practical resources and it’s really encouraging to hear directly from people who have secured employment, housing and emotional support as a result.
“My Police and Crime Plan is clear that prevention must be at the heart of our approach to community safety. By investing in innovative projects such as Terry’s Vision and listening to those with lived experience, we can tackle the root causes of offending, support rehabilitation and continue working towards a safer Lancashire for everyone.”
Michelle Harrison, Head of Safer Prisons and Equalities, said: “Creating safer prisons and safer communities starts with giving people the right support at the right time. The Safety Support Suite has been designed to provide a welcoming and neurodiverse-friendly environment where individuals can access support, develop practical life skills and prepare for life beyond custody.
“Together with Terry’s Vision, it offers a unique opportunity to build confidence and create lasting change. Through strong partnerships and innovative interventions such as this, we can better support rehabilitation, reduce the likelihood of reoffending and help people build more positive futures.
“HMP Lancaster Farms is grateful for the continued support we receive from LVRN and we are looking forward to future collaborations.”
LISTEN: Photographer meets 'Alternative Kids' 46 years on for emotional reunion
Council deal with more than 4,000 fly-tipping incidents in Lancaster district since start of year
Police issue warning about cold callers in Carnforth
Free disabled parking to continue in Lancaster City Council car parks after huge response to survey
Lancaster district premises visited as part of hate crime awareness campaign
What's On: Our Halloween and bonfire/fireworks events guide
Man arrested after two-car crash in Morecambe
Lancaster MP welcomes plans to fine bus and train passengers for playing loud music
Fireworks seized after anti-social behaviour in Lancaster park
Lancaster district recognised for shaping the future of our food
WATCH: The moment Lancaster quizzers beat 'The Beast' from The Chase in Morecambe
Gym and drive-through coffee shop plan revealed for Morecambe business centre
11-year-old child arrested as part of crime crackdown in Lancaster city centre
New eateries set to open in heart of Lancaster shopping area
LISTEN: Chain of 800 bras along Morecambe Promenade to put spotlight on breast cancer
Owner calls for support after burglary at Morecambe cafe
Morecambe Halloween fundraiser gets star backing with help from Lancaster Ghostbusters
Families join annual candlelit vigil in Lancaster park in Baby Loss Awareness Week
Morecambe park reopens after £33,000 revamp
LISTEN: Morecambe DJ legend to bring new 'World of Pop' festival to town
