Quaker-chaplain sets up prison fund
‘If someone is self-harming or suicidal, it’s surprising how much a little teddy or plush zebra will help, even if you are fifty.'
A Quaker-backed new charity to support people at Wandsworth Prison was publicly launched last month.
Liz Bridge, Quaker chaplain at the prison, set up the Wandsworth Prison Welfare Trust to raise funds for recreational and practical items. She told the Friend that it was passed by the Charity Commission last March. ‘The fund allows us to buy cheap things that [prisoners] can do on their own or as a pair, such as playing cards, felt-tip pens, and colouring books. Our cells are very small and they are in for very long periods. We have very poor staffing levels, so lock-up is long. We print our own chess and backgammon boards and buy chess pieces. I buy DVDs and jigsaw puzzles from secondhand shops, as well as trainers and shoes. I often need laces, which are expensive.’
Liz said that she likes the chaplaincy to have ‘comforting objects’, such as teddies and soft toys. ‘If someone is self-harming or suicidal, it’s surprising how much a little teddy or plush zebra will help, even if you are fifty. The men often say, “I’ll take it for my children”. Human beings can get very lonely. They also make a cell, which is the barest of places, more “yours”.’
Comments
Can anyone share contact details for contributions to this fund. Thank you
By WendyH on 9th February 2023 - 14:20
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