A rounded approach: Riana Taylor on Circles UK

‘It is thanks to the Quaker belief that there is something of God in everyone that so many ex-offenders have been helped to change.’

We all agree that more must be done to end sexual abuse. For those who go on to ask ‘What can I do to make a difference?’, Circles of Support and Accountability (Circles) offers an answer. Our vision is ‘No More Victims’. We seek to prevent sexual abuse by engaging with those who are at the highest risk of causing it – and, uniquely, harness the skills and dedication of community volunteers to undertake this work.

Many of you will have heard of Circles, and some will already be supporting us – as volunteers, trustees and benefactors. Indeed, Quakers in Britain, under the guidance of Helen Drewery, first championed the introduction of Circles into the UK back in 2002. It is thanks to the Quaker belief that there is something of God in everyone that so many ex-offenders have been helped to change, and countless vulnerable people protected. 

Circles works closely with individuals on release from prison for sexual offences to assist their safe transition back into the community. Our key strength is our trained and supervised volunteers who work with these individuals (known as core members). Volunteers assist a core member in adjusting to life outside prison, providing emotional support in what can feel like a daunting and hostile environment. Meanwhile they hold them accountable for their behaviour, to prevent reoffending and further victims of abuse. Circles works closely with statutory agencies like the police, probation and mental health services to ensure that the person’s risk in the community is managed safely. The fact that ordinary members of the community are willing to give their time and skills to assist some of the most risky, labelled and ostracised individuals of society gives a powerful context to this working relationship.

Providers deliver Circles across much of England and Wales. But all need new volunteers. Good communication skills and a commitment to develop knowledge and skills are all that are required. Most Circles volunteers find the work extremely rewarding. They tell us the work has built up their passion to challenge themselves, and that it allows for a great scope of personal and professional development.

Due to the challenging nature of the role, prospective volunteers are carefully screened and selected. Individuals also attend a two-day training/assessment event. Once they are working as volunteers, they receive ongoing supervision, support and development.

If you are interested in this rewarding and valuable role, take a look at www.circles-uk.org.uk, where you will find details of all the Circles providers, and a contact form. On YouTube there is a special report by Sky News entitled ‘Inside the Circle’. It offers a comprehensive insight into the work and impact of Circles and contains good footage on how volunteers work with core members (www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8Hdcz_fXQk). Please do consider joining the Circles community. n

Riana is the chief executive of Circles UK.

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