This week, we took part in our expert panel presentation for our prison release project, where we presented the current progress and development of our service concept. The session allowed us to communicate our research, branding, and proposed solution to a range of mentors, including Ruth Grey, Richard Good, Luke Dickson, Heather McFarlane, Chloe Walkingshaw, and Barry Rooney. It was a valuable experience that allowed us to receive constructive feedback, discuss future possibilities for the project, and reflect on how our idea could continue to develop further.
The feedback we received from our mentors gave us valuable insight into both the justice system and how our project could realistically develop further.
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https://www.figma.com/proto/dctZdFa9vE38Dms2ZuPmwd/prison-release-design?node-id=2-46&viewport=381%2C429%2C0.04&t=7b6Zc56FHL6kWNKK-1&scaling=contain&content-scaling=fixed&starting-point-node-id=406%3A2&page-id=0%3A1
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discussed his experience working within the justice sector, particularly around engagement, employment support, and helping individuals transition back into society after release. He referenced examples from England and Wales where prison-based social workers support parenting and family reintegration, reinforcing the importance of emotional and relational support within rehabilitation. A major point raised was the distrust many prisoners have towards the system, especially regarding family separation and child custody. This strongly supported our idea of creating a trusted community space where individuals feel safe and supported after release. Richard also encouraged us to consider partnerships with local organisations and companies that could provide workshops, training, and opportunities through our service. Existing support systems, such as Barnardo's parenting programmes, were highlighted as positive examples, while funding and location were identified as key challenges for developing community-based services.
reinforced these ideas from a public health perspective, discussing the difficulties people face when moving from institutional care back into the community. She highlighted the lack of emotional support and social workers within prisons, further validating our focus on wellbeing, peer support, and reconnection. Organisations such as Men's Sheds and Healthy Living Centres Alliance Northern Ireland were referenced as examples of safe community spaces that encourage communication, support, and reintegration.
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Overall, this week’s panel was a really valuable experience that allowed us to present the progress of our project and receive insightful feedback from industry mentors. It allowed us to clearly communicate our research, branding, and service concept while also gaining a better understanding of the practical and emotional challenges surrounding prison reintegration and family relationships. The feedback reinforced the importance of emotional support, trust, and community within our service, while also encouraging us to think more realistically about future development, funding, and implementation. As a group, I feel the panel helped strengthen our confidence in the direction of our project and provided useful guidance for how we can continue refining and developing the idea further.
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