Hear My Voice - How are we doing with our children?
In this blog, Sheriff David Mackie, a leading voice in Scotland's youth justice reform, explores how the country is transforming its approach to young offenders. Sheriff Mackie reflects on recent changes, including raising the age of criminal responsibility and embedding the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child into Scottish law. He highlights the importance of Scotland’s Children’s Hearings System, which focuses on the needs of children affected by trauma rather than their actions. Sheriff Mackie also discusses the potential of restorative justice and initiatives like the Bairns' Hoose to support victims. While acknowledging there is still work to be done, he expresses optimism that Scotland is on the right path toward balancing justice and care for young people and society.
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Audio Clip from Former Prisoner Alex
Alex a former prisoner shares a powerful message about digging deep and persevering. Everyone has a story, and every voice deserves to be heard. Listen and reflect.
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Navigating the Heartache: A Mother's Journey Through Imprisonment
This blog offers a heartfelt exploration of the emotional and practical challenges faced by families with loved ones in prison. Written by a mother from Shetland, it delves into the unique struggles of navigating incarceration from a distance, including the feelings of panic, loss, and isolation. Through personal stories, the blog highlights the importance of support networks, such as Families Outside, and advocates for designated resources for Island families.
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Audio Clip from Chaplain Beki from HMP Barlinnie
Chaplain Beki from HMP Barlinnie shares a powerful message about the importance of listening to the voices of those inside. Everyone has a story, and every voice deserves to be heard.
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Shadows and Light
Shadows and Light by Dr. Bob, a member of the Quaker Community Justice Working Group and the Quakers Society of Friends, reflects on his 30 years as a GP in one of Glasgow's most deprived areas.
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Hear My Voice – See Who I See
In this blog, Iain Smith, a Criminal Defence Lawyer and Partner at Keegan Smith Solicitors in Livingston, reflects on a transformative moment in his career. After viewing the documentary Resilience in 2018, Iain's perspective on his clients shifted profoundly. He reveals how understanding the impact of trauma led him to see his clients not just for their actions but for their deeper humanity.
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A Call for Compassion: Reflections on 'Hear My Voice'
In this blog, Barbara Dickson, a celebrated Scottish singer and the patron of Prisoners Week Scotland, shares her reflections on this year’s theme, “Hear My Voice.” Barbara’s powerful voice and deep empathy shine through as she addresses the importance of listening to those often marginalised within the criminal justice system.
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Hear My Voice: A Call for Empathy and Reform
In this insightful blog, David Strang, former HMIPS Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland and current trustee of the Prisoners' Week Trust, explores the theme of this year’s Prisoners' Week, “Hear My Voice.” Drawing on his extensive experience, David emphasises the crucial need to listen to those often overlooked within the criminal justice system.
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