Summer 2019 and the TimeInteam are on schedule with issue 14, a Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) initiative and publication. PAF’s commitment to supporting prison arts provides an ideal platform for art works by men and women currently inside the prison system, as well as those on non-custodial community sentences.
Why are creativity and art so important in any environment? It occurred to me as a teenager, many years ago, when reading 1984 by George Orwell that his dystopian world was our world without art. At that time, it was both a shock and an epiphany. I couldn’t endorse a world without art. It is within our capacity to create art in any environment. Many of our greatest works of literature have been created in prison. St Paul’s Letters to the Colossians, Miracle of the Roseby Jean Genet, Conversations with Myself by Nelson Mandela,
Contents
2. Editorial
3. Letters to the Editor
4-5. Creative Energy Prison Arts Foundation
6. Barbering
7. Koestler Presentation 2018
8. Art studio, Stephen Greer
9. Insomnia, Honest Jim
10-11. Mental Health Wellbeing Hub
12-13. Prison Library
14. Education New Age Traveller
15. Nature watch
16. Alcatraz, My Story
Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes, and ShortStoriesby O. Henry to name only a few. We communicate our interests, our stories, and our experiences. The PAF residency classes not only give the student a creative learning experience but the atmosphere of the class produces finished works with writings, paintings, music, ceramics, and other forms as a way to showcase achievements, enabling the augmentation and communication of ideas. Creativity offers a fresh viewpoint, a way to move beyond isolation, challenges and develop a method for learning that suits an individual. We become somebody we never knew we could be, somebody new through creativity.
TimeInowes a debt of gratitude to all who make a contribution to our Education and Arts Programmes, especially Governor Taylor for his continued support, and not least the artwork and cover art by Riko which helps toward a theme for
17. Music and Film
each edition. While creativity may inspire us to write a poem, complete a novel, invent an app, finish a canvas, compose a song, design new structures or objects, creativity is not a production line or a tick list. The creation of new work is achieved through imagination that is perceptive rather than monotonous or restricted. Creativity views each day as having artistic potential, even while reflecting our inner struggles. So, what do you get out of creativity and art? I quote cartoonist and writer Scott Adams, ‘Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.’ Prison Arts Foundation are to be commended for their prescience in hosting our creativity.
Pamela Mary Brown
28-29. Gym Overview & Sport in Prison
30-31. Poetry
32. Poetry, Quiz Answers, Contact Information
Creative Energy Exhibition
Mental Health
Roy Arbuckle
RAD EON YOUR FEET
DearTimeIn
My grandchildren were delighted to see the new tables and chairs in the visit hall and think Granda now lives in a sort of Tellytubbiesland with all the brightly coloured furniture.
The three chairs for my visitors are so close together that my guests find it more comfortable to sit on each other’s knee, yet are so far away from me, we have sore throats shouting across such a distance. I had quite a large friend on a visit last Saturday and he needed all three seats. The two outer one’s for each cheek and the middle one to weigh-bear the rest of him.
I’ve told my family not to visit me anymore until a solution is found, as I feel much closer to them over the phone.
TI M E I N
If you need to contact me, please do so at the following e-mail address. www.youcouldntmakeitup.com >>MMcG
Concerning Compassionate Temporary Release
Latest research findings by academics at Stirling University and Australian National University illustrate a decline in the wellbeing of people’s physical and psychological health when a friend has died. The study concludes, adverse health effects that can last for years.
Being aware of the long established association on immediate relative’s death has on general and mental health, I thought how much greater these scenarios must be for anyone incarcerated in a penal institution and what consideration is given to these matters when an assessment is made as to the suitability of a prisoner when applying for Compassionate Temporary Release (CTR).
Being in prison must in itself be detrimental to health. Accordingly, the death of a family member or friend must have an even greater effect on that person’s health (e.g. a heavy burden of stress levels). Considering the impact, a death in these circumstances may have on a prisoner I think it reasonable that a compassionate prompt decision be reached when an inmate applies for CTR and important that the prisoner be informed of the outcome as quickly as possible in order to keep to a minimum any health issues which may arise. >>anonymous
Listowel Writers in Prison 2nd Prize Poetry Advanced Category 2019
Lonely Oceans
Shabby suitcase at her feet, Bonnet on her crown Ship’s klaxon, Caribbean horizon Canopies quiver
As night drops with a sigh And sombre shorelines whisper Goodbye, Goodbye, Goodbye.
Are those teardrops on her cheekbones?
Or just the whipping of the wild and wailing wind As Kingston Town retreats to nothing more Than memories
Of heart, of soul, of mind.
Wind, Rush me over lonely oceans Bring me fortune, Keep me humble, Keep me safe. And happiness; Take this sorrow that my heart endures
As swelling, rolling wave Takes me further from this place. >>GS
Letters to the editor should be sentto Magazine, Education Centre, HMP Magilligan, Point Road, LimavadyBT490LR or placed in an envelope and marked Time in Magazine c/o Library,HMPMagilligan.
‘Creative Energy’ PrisonArts Foundation 28
March 12April 2019
‘Art is a medium for change, prison is just a venue’ (MikeMoloneyPAFfounder)
ThePrison Arts Foundation’s Exhibition ‘Creative Energy’ showcased an incredible body of multimedia work created by the men and women currently in the Northern Ireland prison system, as well as those on non-custodial community sentences. Along with exhibiting visual arts, the launch evening was enhanced through including work from the creative writing programme at Magilligan.
Established in 1996, as a charitable organisation, Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) was founded to work within the Criminal Justice System to assist the rehabilitation and resettlement of ex-offenders by engaging in pro-social, artistic activities including: music, ceramics/pottery, visual arts and creative writing. This engagement in turn works to reduce re-offending rates and help build safer communities.
The artwork on display was, for the first time, available for sale to the general public, with proceeds donated to Victims Support as well as reinvested back into the programmes managed by PAF. Among the artwork exhibited was works selling for upwards of £300.
Speaking at the launch of the exhibition Fred Caulfield, executive director of PAF,
explained that a sense of calmness can be achieved through engaging with arts while in prison. ‘There is a therapeutic, positive mental health and wellbeing aspect to creativity, but it's also about building self-esteem,’ Mr Caulfield said.
Representing the Irish Prison Service (IPS), arts officer Tom Shortt, travelled from Limerick, remarked that ‘The trip was worthwhile, it’s better to meet up and see the work and make new connections. I had a good chat with Bobby Matheson and kept the link alive with Stephen Greer.’
Shortt further talked about the IPS upcoming exhibitions and how ‘we hope to include pieces by Stephen at our exhibition in Dublin in both June and October 2019. Talking about the arts programmes in prison Shortt added ‘it is fascinating in a prison to see a prisoner record a song, build a ceramic sculpture, turn a wooden bowel on a lathe, or stitch up a soft toy on a sewing machine. Prison teachers work closely with their students helping them to realise their talent and discover their potential.’
PAF work with both adult and young offenders, many of whom have lived chaotic lives and never engaged with education. Few have any formal qualifications. Fred Caulfield highlighted the platform that PAF offer through the arts and how a prisoner can spend their time productively
‘honing skills while often becoming accomplished artists, and making a very valuable contribution.’
The art works on display, used different mediums, from oils to acrylics. The Prison Arts Foundation’s Exhibition ran until April 12, at The Duncairn, North Belfast’s first purpose built, cross-community, shared Arts and Culture Centre. >>PMB
Off With Their Hair!
Recently in Magilligan a new barbershop has been established offering haircuts to inmates; but also giving the opportunity to learn new skills in barbering. The North West Regional College provides accreditation for prisoners to gain a Level 2 in Barbering. The course has been added as part of Magilligan’s increased educational opportunities, almost a seven -fold increase in the courses available; from a mere 7 in 2014/15, to 50 in 2018/19. Demand for places in the class has been high; the new custom built facility has all the latest amenities and provide the perfect environment for inmates to hone new skills.
men’s hair and Health & Safety in the salon. After they finish the award they can move onto the ‘Level2Certificate’ in barbering techniques. The certificate involves shampooing and conditioning, styling men’s hair, cutting facial hair, and working in the barbering industry.
Whichisthemostdifficultstyletocut?
Under the expert guidance of the barbering tutor, Ciara, this reporter was given the full works: a haircut, shampoo and condition that left me feeling thoroughly revitalised. Ciara was happy to give us an interview, we compiled a list of questions and the results are as follows
Whendidyoubeginaninterestincutting hair?
When I was at school it was something I always had an interest in. I got satisfaction from making people feel good, you want someone to look in the mirror and say they love the look you’ve achieved.
Howdoyoudealwithanunhappyclient?
Remain professional. Consult with the client at the start to understand what they want so they don’t end up with problems. If they’re unhappy you would offer to redo it. For example, if someone got soaked or colour on their clothes they may have to be replaced. Being professional means things like that shouldn’t happen.
Haveyouevercutanyone’shair who is famous?
No but Lisa McHugh was once getting her hair done in a salon I was working in.
How do interviews for barbering jobs takeplace,orisitthroughpracticalorwordofmouth?
Get the candidate to come and have a trial, see what they are capable of, you may want them to bring a few models along to show their work. Qualifications are important, you want to have Level 2 in Barbering so they have the knowledge and skills required for the job.
A disconnected/undercut; which is shaved bald up the side with a layer piece on top. A lot of things need to be considered, hair growth patterns, the thickness of hair and the degree of curl the client has. The character Arthur from ‘PeakyBlinders’has this style of cut. Whatisyourbestskillasabarber?
I like styling hair after the cut, getting it to sit the way which most suits the cut. I came from a hair dressing background so I know how to create a certain shape, and achieve the finished look. When someone looks in the mirror I’d want them to feel that wow factor.
How has the barbering industry evolved in the time you’vebeencuttinghair?
Back whenever I started most people wanted a shave all over, or short back and sides. Over the last few years male grooming has really taken off. Fellas are more conscious of their appearance; some will go weekly for haircuts in preparation for nights out. It’s all about fades, sharp lines and precision.
Even with the tutoring I’m currently doing here at Magilligan it gives me a lot of satisfaction knowing I’m teaching the lads skills to be able to help themselves when they get released. Even when inmates come in for a cut it gives a sense of satisfaction to see they enjoy the experience, it seems to be therapeutic for them.
Whocutsthebarbers’hair?
There are not very many people I’d trust. As a barber/ hairdresser you tend to be fussier as you notice every action someone cutting your hair does, you want to be able to cut it yourself. Many times I wished I could take my head off my shoulders and cut it myself. It’s just the nature of the profession.
Whatdoesthebarberingcoursecurriculuminvolve?
If they complete the ‘Level2Award’they achieve cutting
It must be said that the standard of cut I received was no doubt the best I’ve had in my time in prison; so keep up the good work guys, and special thanks to JT & Ciara, who between them, produced what could only be described as a quality piece of barbering. >>AL
Talkback Host Presents Koestler Trust Awards
On the 7 December 2018 Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) celebrated the considerable achievements and progress of the writers and musician at Magilligan during 2018 and notably the award they received from the Koestler Trust Foundation.
The event, held in the library, was hosted by Carlo Gebler, with Governor Taylor, Governor Bowden, Adele Campbell and Tom McKeever (The Prison Arts Foundation), Paul Doran (Director of Rehabilitation) and special guest and speaker William Crawley in attendance.
The Hungarian/British author and journalist, Arthur Koestler set up the Koestler Arts Foundation in 1962. Koestler had been imprisoned many times before he moved to Wales in 1945. Firstly while working as a foreign journalist, covering the Catholicmilitary uprising in Spain against Franco’s Fascist forces. As a result of this Koestler was in jail under threat of execution. He later spent time at the infamous French political prison camp LeVernet, and also did time in the 1940s in London’s Pentonville after escaping from the Nazi regime. On each of these incarcerations, Koestler was not charged with any crime. It was under prison conditions that he developed his powerful prose style.
across many disciplines, which is a substantial achievement. We have writers who were new to the group when they submitted work, and in the last year they have developed a strong portfolio. The work created here in Magilligan teaches how powerful and humble the art of writing is, and the supremely positive impact that it can have on the writer, as well as the insight it gives to readers.
Creative writing and music in Magilligan, through the patronage of The Prison Arts Foundation supports the arts, and these writers and musicians in their achievements.
The line-up of writers and artists receiving awards was impressive.
Koestler believed that art should be judged outside all institutions, and ultimately by artists who have made an impact in their artforms. Over the years, the Koestler Awards have been curated by many well-known people including Anthony Gormley, Carol Ann Duffy, Benjamin Zephaniah, and in 2018 by Grayson Perry. The opportunity to have your work appraised by such artists is invaluable and significant.
The writers in Magilligan won a great number of awards,
William Crawley, Belfast born Journalist and presenter of Talkback on Radio Ulster, taking time out of his busy schedule to present the awards and speaking after the event said, ‘I felt immensely honoured and privileged to be invited to take part in this s Koestler awards ceremony. The line-up of writers and artists receiving awards was impressive, to say the Afterwards, I was able to share stories with a few very talented writers. Most inspiring of all that all of this was happening within a prison; that these writers and artists were rediscovering themselves in their own poetry, fiction, lyrics and personal narratives; that they were writing the next episodes in their own stories. I learned so much that evening about the potential of recreative writing.’ >>PMB
Stephen Greer
Art & Photography Studio
Ask anyone about art in prison and you will hear the name Stephen Greer. Yer man that painted the grim reaper. Well, at Time In we decide to find out a few more things about what inspired Stephen to paint.
When I was at school I would draw a lot. Due to my lifestyle after I left school I completely forgot I could draw, it wasn't until I was in Maghaberry in 2013, I realised I could draw again. Things went in a new direction from there.
Can you tell us how you came to haveyourownartstudio?
I attended a meeting with Visual Arts Ireland and met a lady from Boom Studios, she heard my story and later offered me a studio. You work closely with PAF, how havetheyassistedyouinachieving goals?
PAF have been brilliant, they helped with exhibitions, mentoring and have been there when I need advice. Can't say enough about them. I would also like to add that if it was
not for Alison Wilson I wouldn’t be where I am now, she was amazing, I miss her loads. The mentoring scheme was really worthwhile. Wouldyouagreethateveryonehas atalentand,ifso,whatwayscana personrealisethesetalents?
For me, my talent is in my drawing, and I believe everyone has a talent they just have to find it. You only have to look at how much the boys from the prisons have achieved in the Koestler Awards. They should all be proud. What I would say is just give things a go, ya never know what might be achieved.
Doyouhaveafavouritepiece?
I’ve done quite a few pieces ha, it's hard ta say. Probably the portrait of Ali or the one of Ragnor. The piece that means the most would be a portrait of my dad who recently died, and the piece of me playing a game of chess with the grim reaper.
Howhasartchangedyourlife?
Art has changed my life completely, it has given me hope of a career, crime free, and a new lease of life. It makes me happy having a job I enjoy doing.
Whattypeofmaterialsdoyoulike toworkwithbest?
I love drawing with graphite, I also enjoy painting with oils and acrylics. Whatareyoucurrentlyworkingon?
I have an exhibition coming up in May, plus doing an HNC in photography. Plus I hope to send work to the Koestler trust awards, so I’m up to my eyes.
Whatareyourhopesandyourgoals forthefuture?
After I finish tech I hope to get into tattooing, plus keep my art and photography going. God only knows what the future will bring. But I’m loving every minute. I would love to help some boys in the jails, like Bobby Mathison did for me. Ya never know, will just have to see.
Do you have a favourite artist, someone who inspires you, and why?
While in prison Fabian Perez was my inspiration, I love his work, also Terry Bradley. Perez works a lot with the human form, which I love doing. I attend life drawing regularly, its the best thing for drawing, saying that it was a bit of a shock drawing a man for the first time, ha. Since I've been doing a tech course in art, I’ve got to know a lot of artists. Caravaggio would be my all time favourite. >>GS
Honest Jim
As we live more and more in built-up areas, our lives seem to become more hectic by the day. As well as spending an average of about eight hours a day at work, many of us spend hours more commuting to and from our place of employment. Living with life's frantic pace in a big city isn’t easy. This fast and furious lifestyle makes it difficult for us to relax and unwind when working hours cease. Consequently, we seem to be getting less and less sleep.
WORST FEELING
The mind destroying curse of insomnia is on the increase. The worst feeling in the world is lying on your bed in the dark for hours on end desperate for sleep that just won’t come. But what are the causes of insomnia?
CAUSES
One major cause of insomnia is stress. Whether it’s stress from worrying about family problems, or work related stress, chronic lack of
sleep can take away your will to live. Maybe you’ve got health concerns, or perhaps financial worries on your mind? Whatever the reason, staring unseeingly at the ceiling above your head for many slowly passing hours can’t be good for your state of mind. Lying in the dark counting the minutes until daybreak can lead to insanity. Indeed, insomnia and stress are often inter-linked. Suffering from one can often lead to the other.
MODERN LIVING
We seem to be drinking a lot more caffeine these days too. Everywhere you look there’s a new coffee house just opened. Starbucks and Costa Coffee are all around us. Many people now order tea or coffee at fast food joints like McDonalds, where they once ordered cola. Street cafes and cafeterias do a roaring trade in pots of tea or coffee with every meal, sandwich or snack. So-called high energy drinks like Red Bull, which contain caffeine, are
Suffering from stress can cause chronic insomnia, but insomnia itself can be immensely stressful. These two conditions feed on each other in a symbiotic relationship that can destroy our mental and physical health like nothing else. A long-term lack of restful sleep night after night can seriously damage our quality of life. Some people resort to medication to get a good night’s sleep. Take a nightcap before retiring but sleeping pills and alcohol can be addictive and can cause more problems than they solve.
Honest Jim
the magazine. Given this increase in awareness of the role mental health play in a person’s wellbeing the newly established Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub in Magilligan seemed like a good place to gain a better understanding of the issues relevant to the topic. We arranged to speak with John the mental health nurse; and Kelly who is the addiction nurse within the Magilligan facility; the following is what they told us
Whydidyouchoosetobeinvolvedinthislineofwork?
Kelly: I always wanted to be in a caring profession and was interested in mental health and addictions. In a prison setting, it’s something different every day.
John: I had an interest in mental health; I could see lots of people needing help. During my university course there was a section on forensic mental health which relates secure environments with people who are offenders such as prisons. So I decided to pursue this line and enjoy it… most days!
How long have you been working in mental health in Magilligan—and what changes have you seen in that time?
Kelly: 7 years this July. I started off in mental health and then onto addictions after a year. It has changed from just one to now three staff. Also, there is a bigger need for mental health and addiction services; and an increase in people self-medicating. Opiates and the use of pregabilian
Mental health nurse input, addiction nurse, psychiatry, psychology, along with mental health occupational therapy. Other services, such as cooking classes, relaxation, anxiety management, depression management, art therapy, and the walking group. Group drug recovery starting soon and animal therapy. Also drug treatment plans. Whatdifferencewillthishubmaketomentalhealthin Magilligan?
It provides more structure and a safe therapeutic environment. Whereas before when it was dealt with; within prison healthcare there wasn’t enough space and resources available. People are more comfortable engaging in a more relaxed, informal environment, which is what the hub provides.
Howdoessomeonecomeforwardtoavailoftheservice?
Referral via house nurse i.e. primary healthcare team, G.P, or AD:EPT these are the usual routes. Although a crisis can be dealt with through SPAR (Supporting Prisoners At Risk).
Most of the stuff is low level issues such as anxiety and depression. Which can lead onto drug use and self-harm. Most of these things are related. It can be a vicious circle of anxiety and depression; to help deal with these issues
Talk to somebody; raise your concerns; come see the mental health team. If you have any mental health problems it can get worse if you don’t keep busy. Social contact, sleep, good diet and exercise are important and help reduce the stigma.
1 in 4 people suffer from mental health problems so confide in trusted friends and don’t build things up. Even landing staff can usually be found to help as a potential solution. Listeners, lifeline phone services, AD:EPT, Samaritans, CRUSE, or even chaplains can provide a listening ear and signal signposts to appropriate services if required in certain circumstances.
We would encourage anyone with concerns about a fellow inmate to speak to any member of staff they are comfortable with. As there could be someone who has
There will be more staff soon. Someone has been appointed and we are now waiting for them to fulfil their role. They are also currently advertising for more staff. It can take up to 6 months to get clearance from the health trust and then clearance from the prison.
We have always been playing catch up because as need out stretches the services we are able to provide. There is one mental health nurse, one addiction nurse and one occupational therapist for the whole Magilligan facility. There’s no way we can change that; the whole service depends on staffing and that issue is being addressed.
What role does medicationplay in alleviating mental healthproblems;andwhatroledotheyplayinmental healthwhentheyaremisused?
In severe mental illness medication has a major role in managing symptoms. Although medication has a role in lower level symptoms but medication won’t alleviate them altogether and are better dealt with through interventions like anxiety and depression management.
A Turn-Up for the Books
Budgetary constraints impact on the prison service and also in the film ShawshankRedemption (1994) when Andy Dufresne achieves a breakthrough having been assigned to library duties.
Despite the three prisons in NI meeting further budget cuts, Gov D Bowden and Gov L Bird authorised funding to Magilligan Library in 2018, as the yearly funding from Northern Ireland Library Service had been drastically cut to all three prison establishments.
Shawshank Penitentiary echoes the conditions that prevailed when Oscar Wilde petitioned Governor Isaacson in 1896 at HMP Reading Gaol for writing materials and a supply of books. Wilde was asking for access to between 20 and 30 books including TheConfessionsofStAugustine, TheRenaissanceby Walter Pater, other works by Baudelaire and Cardinal Newman. Wilde was eventually able to read the poetry of Keats and Wordsworth, Treasure Island by Robert Lewis Stevenson and The Divine Comedyby Dante Alighieri.
Wilde, commended as an obedient prisoner in his inimitable way, complained that the prison library did not have a complete set of Charles Dickens’ work. However, Wilde got all of the books he asked for, and in Victorian England this was remarkable, considering he had also requested a copy of the controversial French novel En Routeby J. K. Huysmans.
The dedicated librarian at HMP Magilligan added that ‘with approval from the Magilligan accountant we were given a much needed £5,000.’ She emphasised that, ‘a library is a statutory requirement according to Adult Prison Rules. Governors of individual establishments are responsible to the home secretary for the delivery of the library services in their particular prison. The library is a support to the Education Department and is at the heart of the prisoners learning journey. It is one of the few places they can feel human again and where they are just not a number.’ The funds granted to the library purchasing budget, enabled the updating of stock and the purchase of books requested by prisoners.
There is an element of consistency in the benevolence of prison Governors meeting the reading needs of prisoners. The Governor of Alcatraz, granted access to books on ornithology for Robert Stroud, resulting in the fullness of time his writing a book about medicines for birds.
The Irish stateswoman, Maud Gonne, foundress of prisoners aid, made it her business when donating books to prison libraries to always give two copies. Gonne believed prisoners are able to discuss literature more fully when facilitated by the availability of multiple copies of a book, in particular prisoners sharing a cell simultaneously reading and discussing the same books.
In California’s San Quentin, it was the availability of copies of Samuel Beckett’s WaitingforGodotwhich led to a famous prison production of the play. Beckett, at the time, disliked theatre directors producing his play because he felt they got it wrong. There is a famous letter from Beckett to prisoner Rick Cluchey, who directed Godotin San Quentin, where Beckett assured him, without having seen the production, through their correspondence, on his ability as a theatre director with experience of prison that he had got it right.
Critically, this prison production added a whole new dimension to Becketts’ play and a previous production of the play in Lüttringhausen Prison near Remscheid in Germany shaped Beckett’s link with prisons and prisoners. In his book LibrariesinPrison ABlendingofInstitutions the historian William J. Coyle states there is much debate about the origins of libraries in prison, and most scholars agree that books have been available in prisons in Europe and America since the 17th century, while others argue not in the proper sense, and that libraries in prison have only become the norm since the 20th century.
According to the history of libraries online, Nantucket in Massachusetts is hailed as the first prison in the US to establish a library in 1676, followed by the Philadelphia Prison Society furnishing library services to Walnut Street Jail in 1790. State prison libraries set up in the early to mid-1800s were mostly run by the clergy and the books available tended to be religious and temperance materials. In 1852, San Quentin Prison Library was established and gained a reputation for being liberal with the provision of books, and this reputation remains.
A major development in the provision of libraries in the US came during the 1870s; Prison Congress and the Prison Reform Movement wanted more focus on rehabilitation rather than retribution, therefore libraries became a key part in the movement to educate prisoners in most states of the US.
The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Professional Reports, No. 92 gives guidelines for library services to prisoners (3rd Edition Vibeke Lehmann and Joanne Locke) which tend to be endorsed internationally:
Rule 40 of the United Nations Standard Minimal Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (1955) reads: “Every institution shall have a library for the use of all categories of prisoners, adequately stocked with both recreational and instructional books, and prisoners shall be encouraged to make full use of it.”
The Charter for the Reader (1994) developed by the International Book Committee and the International Publishers Associations and published by UNESCO, states that “reading is a universal right.”
IFLA/UNESCO Public Library Manifesto (1995) calls for public libraries to serve prisoners.
The Education in Prison report, endorsed by the Council of Europe (Strasbourg, 1990) includes a chapter on the prison library. It recommends that the prison library “should function with the same professional standards as libraries in the community; should be managed by a professional librarian, should meet the interests and needs of a culturally diverse population; should provide open access for prisoners; and should provide a range of literacy and reading related activities.
Wherever there is literature and people engaged in reading, there are the same constituents that were present in the academy of Plato, and the academy of Alexander the Great which was in effect the first magnificent library at Alexandria. An academy isn’t solely the architecture or the location, it can be a group of prisoners in a prison who are actually and paradoxically an academy of literature, books and reading. Books have the potential to maintain mental health, to educate, to inform, to engage with the imagination, to show us the world from so many varying and alternative points of view, to open possibilities beyond the reality of prison life. >>PMB
With great pleasure I have taken it upon myself to compose this article about a traveller girl from Newcastle West, County Limerick. Sindy Joyce has, with hard work and dedication, broken barriers and stereotypes to become the first member of the Travelling community to graduate with a PHD in Sociology at the University of Limerick.
Also a passionate human rights activist she is paving the way for a brighter and better future for young travellers who want to break away from the perception that has been placed on members of the travelling community for generations. Perceptions can change and I am hoping with time and more education opportunities that we will see more PhD graduates like Sindy Joyce. More Playwrights like Michael Collins, more actors like John Conner’s. Maybe this is what we need to break the cycle of discrimination and stereotyping, more role models in our own community for the younger generation to look up to and become. Is this the beginning? >>SF
Win or Learn
Take every day as a lesson any situation can become a study session come out on top when you’re handed lows kill your ego the love grows
Really observe and listen make it your mission gain from hard times past everything has a message even you’re last
Absorb what surrounds the smiles and the frowns the laughs and the cries people’s truth and their lies
You can learn from a situation without debating don’t judge anyone in due time, knowledge is the destination
Learning or winning if you’re good or you’re sinning there’s always a lesson. >>BR
Nature Watch
Fruits of Summer
Summer
has come around once more and with it a chance to grow your own fruit and vegetables.
THE ENVIRONMENT
It doesn’t matter if you’re not keen on gardening, feel you can’t commit the time, or don’t have a garden. Vegetables and dwarf fruit trees can be grown on balconies and windowsills and do just as well in a recycled container as in a fancy expensive pot. You can purchase plastic moulded containers cheaply from bargain buy outlets, or make your own using an old bucket or some other throwaway receptacle. A cardboard egg box is ideal to sow seeds into, or nurture young seedlings. An empty yogurt pot can be used to grow a small plant in. It cost nothing and you’re also doing your bit for the environment, by reducing the
HOME-GROWN
There’s nothing quite like the taste of your own home grown food. Once you’ve treated your taste buds to the unique flavour of your own sun ripened tomatoes, crispy lettuce or fresh scallions you’ll never accept supermarket produce again.
Imagine growing your own fresh strawberries or cherry tomatoes in a hanging basket. Three to four plants will give you enough fruit for about
sorts of growth enhancers and chemical sprays to ripen them before they are ready. We have no idea what health risks are associated with these contaminates. The produce is wrapped in colourful packaging and sits on the supermarket shelves under colour enhancing lights, giving us the impression it’s fresh from the field. Nothing could be further from the truth.
FRESHNESS
s truly fresh food you’re after then grow it yourself.
IMPORTS
We spend millions of pounds each year importing fruit and vegetables from other countries that use all
Vegetables are grown in forced conditions in countries such as Spain, Italy and Holland; and are kept refrigerated from the time they are harvested, until they arrive in the shop. This can be anything from a few days to weeks, so it’s certainly not fresh.
If it’s truly fresh food you’re after then grow it yourself. You’ll know where it came from and won’t believe how good it tastes. >>MMcG
Falways had a fascination with Alcatraz so with some online research (factretreiver.com) here’s what I found out.
Alcatraz is thought to have been first discovered by Spanish explores, in 1775.
President Millard Fillmore, in 1850, built a fortress and placed 100 cannon’s on the island to protect the bay by the military.
Native Americans were the first prisoners there, due to refusing to attend the U.S forced education boarding schools.
The prison held some well-known figures. Al ‘Scarface’ Capone, spent 4 ½ years in the 1930s. Other prisoners of note include George ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly, spending 17 years for kidnapping. One of the longest serving prisoners was Alvin ‘creepy Karpis’ Karpowicz, serving 25 years.
Robert Stroud ’The Bird Man’ spent 17 years on Alcatraz. His bird studies were carried out at U.S. Penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas, where he was imprisoned 1914-1942. The prison authorities sent him to Alcatraz to divert public attention from his bird studies. At Alcatraz, Stroud was in solitary for 6 years, in D Block and a
tal. He had no birds on Alcatraz. Most prisoners sent there had a 2025 years sentence or were widely known as ‘trouble makers’.
Also on the island a 40ft lighthouse, first turned on 1st June 1854, and can be seen as far away as 14 miles.
History’s most Famous Escape
People believe that Alcatraz was the most secured prison in history and no one could escape. They also believe the bay is crowded with great white sharks, in fact they are mostly small species, Brown Smooth Hound sharks and Leopard sharks that have no interest whatsoever in people and are only a few feet in length. Some people have actually swam to the island with one a girl as young as 10 years old (Anya Khanzodé from Sunnyvale).
Over the 30 years it was in operation as a federal prison; there were 14 escape attempts, involving 36 inmates. 23 were captured, 6 were killed, 2 drowned, another 5 are recorded as missing, thought to have also drowned.
However, only 3 men have escaped. Frank Lee Morris, John William An-
glin and Clarence Anglin (brothers). Firstly, glue was stolen from the glove shop plus rubberized rain coats joined together and measured up to 6ft 14inches, were stored on their cell roof. Next, digging through the ventilation system in the their cells at 7:15am. The men used fake dummy heads fashioned from home-made cement. Soap, toilet paper, hair from the barbers, flesh-tone paint, are a few items from their ingenious scheme.
After months of preparation the inmates loosened the ventilator grill on top and made the 30ft climb up the plumbing to the cell house roof, navigated 100ft across the rooftop, then maneuvered down 50ft of piping to the ground near the entrance to the showers. This was the last anyone ever saw of Morris and the Anglin Brothers. Did they make it? Debate is ongoing and the subject of a movie with Clint Eastwood. I would like to believe they did.
The Way it is Today
Some day I would love to see the island and the Golden Gate Bridge. Alcatraz is open to the public, reputed to receive around a million visitors annually and part of the Golden Gate National Recreation area. >>GM
Music & Soundtracks
AOsoundtrack is an intricate part of any good movie, it holds the viewers’ attention, can affect mood while also creating a sense of anticipation. The best soundtracks are often inseparable from the movie narrative.
A movie score is the music which is used to accompany the on screen action. A soundtrack is a commercial release of the music within a movie and often includes the full versions of a song. The soundtrack does not include the underlying music played in scenes.
ur Musician-in-Residence Paddy Nash’s song ‘We are the Dead’ was the opening track in a movie called Requiemfora Fighter but according to Paddy his favourite soundtrack of all time isPatGarrett&BillyTheKid(1973)by Bob Dylan.
Paddy first saw the film when ‘I was 12 and it impacted on me so much that I did a school project on Billy The Kid. It wasn’t until later that I started to appreciate the music in the film. For those unfamiliar with the film here’s a bit of background.
It tells the story of Billy (Kris Kristofferson) and Pat (James Coburn) right from they were friends up until the time of the ultimate betrayal. Directed by Western legend Sam Peckinpah who, rumour has it, was drunk throughout the shoot.
Peckinpah wanted Roger Miller to write the soundtrack and when Kristofferson suggested Bob Dylan, old Sam had never heard of him. It’s written that when he heard the main title theme he wept uncontrollably. The music is beautifully understated throughout and in total contrast to the sweeping orchestral compositions of other western films of this era.
Perhaps most importantly this is the film that introduced the classic ‘Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door’ a song that’s played all across the world by beginner guitar players because of it’s simple chord progression and easy strumming technique. It’s a song I use regularly to teach my students in Magilligan and you might think that I must be sick hearing it. I’m not. The next time you hear the song or you’re trying to learn the chords, take a minute and look at the lyrics. Now think of a young man, 22 years of age, singing these words to his best friend who’s about to shoot him to his death. ‘
Mama take this badge from me
I can't use it anymore
It's getting dark too dark to see Feels like I'm knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
Mama put my guns in the ground
I can't shoot them anymore
That cold black cloud is comin' down
Feels like I'm knockin' on heaven's door
Knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door
As movie soundtracks was the theme for Issue 14 we compiled a TimeInpoll of 30 movie soundtracks asking staff, prisoners and members of the creative writing group to list some of the most memorable and iconic movie soundtracks; which was no small task, given the breadth and quality of some of the work. These songs transcend decades and genres and are unmistakably linked to the movie they feature in; movies like the Titanic(1997) and Celine Dion's soundtrack are inextricably linked. When you hear a soundtrack you can remember where and when you saw the movie it accompanies. After counting the votes we whittled our list down to ten, in order of preference. And before you start shouting what about this and that we are aware that there are many great movies soundtracks available and the Top 10 is a snippet of the plethora of options which the participants in this survey had to choose from.
Unforgettable movies such as; Braveheart (1995), Top Gun (1986), Grease (1978), and ToyStory(1995) didn’t even get near the Top 10. Other brilliant movie soundtracks, for example, TheGodfather (1972), PatGarret&BillytheKid(1973), and StarWars(1977) weren’t even listed in the options to choose from.
Tastes and preferences varied from decade to decade and across generations. Some of the most notable filmmakers such as Tarantino, Scorsese, and The Coen Brothers made the list. Although others such as the illustrious Ennio Marricone were nowhere to be seen...such is the world of varying tastes and multiple choice. >>AL
Something to Celebrate
On the 25 March 2019, the NorthWestRegional College (NWRC) held a certificate presentation in HMP Magilligan. Special emphasis was placed on the achievements of the creative writing class and the 13 students who achieved an Open College Network (OCN) Level 1 Award, with 8 students received Level 2 and 3 Awards in creative writing.
Other inmates gained certificates in Essential Skills Literacy and Numeracy, ICT, Food Safety, Horticulture, Carpentry and Joinery, MIG Welding and Open University Science, Technology and Maths Access. Many of the families of those receiving awards were also in attendance.
Among those who attended on behalf of the NWRC was Director of Finance Patrick McKeown. McKeown was ‘delighted to attend the presentation and the launch of the Anthology at Magilligan,’ adding that he was ‘fortunate to witness the high levels of creativity and high standard of work showcased by students. I got a real sense of engagement by students. NWRC is committed to supporting students at Magilligan with their rehabilitation into society, helping them realise their career potential and foster an appetite of learning.’
Also present, Paul Doran, Director of Rehabilitation, Avril Galloway, Head of Learning and Skills at NIPS HQ, along with Wendy Thompson and Joanne Goodfellow. Speaking after the event, Doran said ‘it was an honour to listen and reflect on the creative work produced by people in our care. I hope the impressive achievements awarded can assist students on their desistance journey back into the community.
Avril Galloway was pleased by ‘the quality of the poetry, story-telling and music – a credit to both the students for their hard work and the teaching staff from NWRC for developing the potential in our students and the positive
support from families, who also attended, and which made it a very enjoyable occasion.’ She concluded, ‘I hope the achievements of those who received awards will help to inspire others.’
Governor Dave Bowden represented No.1 Governor Richard Taylor with Governor Lesley Bird and Tracey Megrath. Executive Director, Fred Caulfield and Tom Mckeever from Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) attended. Caulfield commented on the great working partnership between PAF and NWRC and the students writing benefits from the merging of skills delivered by both organisations.
Anne Marie Thompson and Max Beer represented The Playhousein Derry, and Anne Rowe the Board of Visitors.
Guest Speaker on the day was one of the Northwest’s most accomplished singer-songwriters, Roy Arbuckle.
Following readings by the students from their anthologies, Arbuckle, famous for his moving narratives and witty commentary spoke about his writing, touring countries such as Japan, Canada, Poland, the US, and even stopping off at The White House to play for Bill Clinton.
Roy has been at the heart of cross decades and we met up with him afterwards to ask about his life and art.
Who was the greatest influence in your becoming the person you are todayRoy?
Must be my father initially, he showed me that I could do stuff hang wallpaper, fix things. he modelled how to be as independent as possible in the poverty suffused place we lived. He made my first guitar out of an old cooking pot and a lump of wood. Here it is with my wee
(left to right) Patrick McKeown, Fred Caulfield, Dave Bowden, Damian O’Kane and Paul Doran.
He never had a steady job after he left the army, only temporary, such as being a storeman during the building of Altnaegelvin Hospital. When he was working he was always in great form. The house was decorated, garden planted, spuds, lettuce, fresh veg. When he didn’t have a job he was withdrawn, silent, depressed.
When he was in good form he used to sing wee parodies, nonsense words to familiar tunes. I wish I knew where they came from, maybe from his army days, or maybe he made them up. One that sticks in my mind is to the tune of the children’s hymn, ’Jesus Loves Me.’ His version goes,
Oh, big question! I reckon my path to community work started when I was in Canada and the States. Christine Lynn Courschene, the woman I was in love with, died from Leukaemia at the age of twenty nine. Maybe a couple of extracts from my unfinished memoir will help.
"I headed back to Canada in March 1981 in time for the Paddy’s Day madness….a plane to Montreal where Chris was waiting to drive me to Ottawa, four hour gig, welcome home party afterwards. We settled in together in the basement apartment of 28 McLaren Street, a leafy residential street not far from downtown Ottawa. Life was pretty good. A month or so later Chris noticed her gums were bleeding and went to the doctor. Many tests later and the verdict was Leukaemia. She died on May 20th 1981. She was twenty nine.”
"I was pretty shattered, emotionally and physically. Couldn’t work, every time I tried to sing the emotions would spill over and I would cry. Marilyn, a friend of ours suggested I go to Newfoundland to get away from things. Our flatmate Barbara, had a brother who owned a bar in St John’s where I could work and earn a bit of much needed cash. So off I went and stayed a month or so, gradually coming round so I could do some gigs.
By then it was full summer and I headed back to Ottawa, still fairly fragile. I decided to stop drinking and try to get physically fitter. The Ottawa river had a roped off swimming area with a lifeguard and a small beach. The first day I decided to swim out to the rope, about seventy five yards I reckoned. By the time I got there I was totally breathless, struggling to keep afloat. I grabbed the rope and hung on for dear life.
“LET GO THE ROPE!” came the megaphoned voice of the lifeguard.
“Let go the rope? Is there nothing to hold onto here?”
I did what I was told and somehow made in back to land where I lay like a beached whale. As I lay there I had this realisation. A voice inside me said. “This is what you’ve got, what you can depend on in this life, the earth beneath, the sun above, the air you breathe and the water beside you.” Earth, Air, Fire and Water, the four elements.
“So now what are you going to do?”
The big questions yelled at me. Who are you? Why are you here? Where did you come from? Where are you going? Where are you going after this?"
Eventually I found my way to the Findhorn Foundation, a holistic spiritual community in Scotland. This led to me becoming a founder member of similar intentional community in Donegal which led to me becoming involved with the Holywell Trust in Derry.
One that sticks out is at the Milwaukee Irish Fest around 1999 or 2000. The band was in great form and had been playing together for a few years. The crowd of 6,000 was in great form too. We finished the set with our version of Folsom Prison Blues which I had married with an Irish tune, Mrs Mcleod’s Reel. We had fun with it, getting faster and faster and faster and the crowd loved it.
We did the bow and went off, the crowd on their feet calling for more. I hadn’t a clue what to do, we couldn’t have taken it any higher. We went back out and I said to the band “We'll do Gentle Days," the quietest song we had. The crowd went silent and the song, which was about TheTroubles, seemed to weave a spell. We finished and there was silence for what seemed like a minute, probably wasn’t, and then it was as if the crowd had been holding their breath and we heard a collective sigh before they started applauding.
Do you thinkcross-community relations have changed overthelastfewdecadesRoy,andifso,how?
The absence of violence has made a big difference, people find it easier to talk and socialise in areas they wouldn't have done before. People feel safer. This also means that the crisis isn’t there anymore so maybe people don’t feel the same need for CR events. However the fault lines are still there. Brexit is not helping. No Stormont is not helping, in a political vacuum the return to violence is more likely. I’m feeling more and more uneasy. >>PMB
Roy Arbuckle
Prison Arts Mentoring Programme
After the unquestionable success of the Prison Art Foundation (PAF), mentoring programme, it is hoped that funding will be secured to establish the scheme as an ongoing part of PAF’s arts programmes.
The pilot began in June 2016 with the establishment of monitoring systems, recruitment of mentors and mentor training. The first mentoring relationship commenced in December 2016 and by the end of the pilot in June 2018, 33 mentoring relationships had been completed. PAF had two Mentoring pathways, First Steps and Creative Futures, each offering bespoke support to people who have been involved in the criminal justice system and who would like to continue with their arts based practice.
First Steps was open to anyone who has been involved in the criminal justice system.
13 mentees successfully completed their First Steps pathway completing three to ten sessions with their respective mentors
One mentor-mentee match session which lasted a full day i.e. 7.5 hours, with the majority of sessions lasting 2 hours
The majority of matches took place between 4-9 months with one match lasting 12 months.
Creative Futures was designed to support Koestler or Listowel Award winners develop their practice in the community, in custody or those who had an existing body of work.
10 mentees completed Creative Futures pathway.
The majority had thirteen sessions with their respective mentors. One mentor-mentee match had 20 sessions, whilst two mentees completed their pathway in less than eight sessions.
The length of sessions varied from one to six hours.
The majority of matches lasted between 4-12 months with one lasting 18 months.
The pilot produced valuable outcomes for some mentees as professional artists. All mentees who completed an exit survey said their mentor made a difference in their life.
‘We had a great working relationship with a mutual passion and interest for literature and arts. My mentor was very pro-active in the development of the project and providing research materials.’ Mentee, Exit Survey
Paul Hamlyn Foundation funded the mentoring project. Mentee satisfaction was further attributed to ongoing support from PAF, in relation to goal-setting, choice of mentor and the quality of PAF mentors engaged on the programme.
Mentoring in the context of criminal justice is complex, and required a broad range of skills. PAF mentors, selected through a rigorous application process, had expertise and knowledge in the fields of art, creative writing, music and preparing work for publication, performance or exhibition; communication skills; experience of working in the criminal justice system; business expertise and experience working with vulnerable groups and individuals with mental health issues.
Due to the limited time frame of the pilot, it was not possible to determine the long-term impact. However, there are indications that the PAF mentoring programme has already addressed some of its objectives in relation to the following: reduced isolation, continued interest in the arts and improved self-esteem. Mentees have gained a sense of achievement through realising their goals for the programme, through participation in exhibitions and through achieving a high success rate in the 2018 Koestler Awards, annual awards for achievement in prison arts in
Work selected for ‘I'm Still Here’ Exhibition at Southbank Centre London 2018
Hands of Time Zelda Cheatle Commended AwardforPhotographySG
Support Matthew Cornish Highly Commended AwardforTextileArtRZ
A number of mentees got the opportunity to travel to the world-famous, South Bank Centre in the heart of London to see their work displayed with other recipients of Koestler Trust Awards.
‘I thought this might be the start of something good in my life and it was.’
‘PAF tries and encourages us to develop ourselves as well as our art. They see the talents we have but just never knew about.’
Prison Arts Foundation are grateful to Dr Shelley Tracy who undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the programme. It is hoped that the documentation of the programme will secure funding in the near future.
Mentee GR received a Gold Award for his cover version
of Stuck On you which was selected by families supporting someone inside for inclusion at the Koestler Trusts ‘I'm Still Here’ exhibition at Southbank Centre London 2018. >>PMB
Award Winning Koestler Trust Art Work
‘They call it a Royal with cheese’
PulpFiction1994
We all love a good movie – but what exactly is it that makes a good film, (you know – the one where you can’t wait to tell your mates about and would watch over and over!). I personally think it is a blend of plot (something you can relate to helps!), convincing acting, soundtrack and believability, and yes there maybe is a multitude of other stuff that you think would make a good film but this is a personal opinion! As I am an artist I have a vivid imagination and it takes a film with all the above to ‘float my boat’.
My favourite directors would be Quentin Tarantino and the Coen brothers, although there are a lot more that make the odd good show, these two seem to make good ones consistently. I mean take Tarantino, every film seems to have that WOW factor, a perfect blend of all I mentioned and then some! He started out working in a video store and used to ask people for their feedback on the films, asking what made it good or bad and always had a passion for films and comics and it was during this time that he wrote the screenplays for True Romance and NaturalBornKillers– two great films. But it was his directorial debut (ReservoirDogs) that put him on the radar as an innovative filmmaker. His next film that really did make him who and what he is today…
PulpFictionis a classic which received widespread critical (and commercial) acclaim and also a ton of awards. It seems that every film he made after that was compared to PulpFictionin a sense but each one he kept his trademark style but with subtle changes—JackieBrown, Kill Bill, DjangoUnchained,etc., and at the time of writing is bringing out a new one called OnceUponaTimeinHollywoodbased around the Charlie Manson era.
Well back to the original subject of a movie being good
and yes, I know its personal taste, but when you have a blend of solid storylines, good cinematography, soundtrack and visual effects then you have a recipe for a good show! The aforementioned directors do this in spades but then you do get other films directed by littleknown directors that turn out to be classics as well….Scarface, Trainspotting, Usual Suspects, Lock, StockandTwoSmokingBarrels(to name a few) all were made by first-time or little knowns at the time.
So, in a nutshell people….no I can’t tell you what makes a good film as it all depends on your personal tastes but what I would recommend is the same in any walk of life…variety!!! Yes, the spice of life! So watch as many as you can and branch out, don’t be afraid to watch films that don’t appeal to you because if the film critics say it’s a good film, nine times out of ten it WILL be good, and they would be a wee bit more qualified to speak on the subject than I would!!! >>RM
Do you feel you’ve been treated unfairly? Not sure what to do next or where to turn? We at TimeInare here to save the day with a handy guide on all things complaints – how to make them, what to do if you have one and where to turn if you’re unhappy with the response.
FIRST THINGS FIRST
Prior to lodging a formal complaint, you may make an informal complaint to either a member of prison staff or a member of The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB). Most issues can be resolved at this point so certainly try this avenue first.
THREE STAGES
If you need to go down the official channels, you may make a formal complaint by completing a Complaints Form and submitting it to your Class Office or posting it in the complaints box. The form must be submitted no more than 21 days after the event. This is known as stage1
If you are not satisfied with the outcome of stage 1 you may ask the Class Officer to pass your complaint to the supervisor of the person who replied to your complaint. You must state your reasons and return the form within 7 days. This isstage2of the process.
If you are still not satisfied at stage 2, you may ask the Class Officer to pass the form to the line manager. Again you must state your reasons and return the form within 7 days. This is stage 3 of the internal complaints procedure.
Following stage 3 if you are still not satisfied, you may forward your complaint to the Prisoner Ombudsman. You may hand in your Prisoner Ombudsman complaint form sealed, provided the envelope is marked “Privileged Correspondence”.
OFFICIAL CHANNELS
Whatever your complaint is about, you should use the Prison Service complaints service first to try and deal
with the problem. However, the Prison Ombudsman is there if you need them.
If you do go down this path, a friendly word of advise have patience and be realistic with timeframes, it can often be a slow process. >> AF
Who are the Independent Monitoring Board (IMB)?
The IMB are a group of people independent of the prison service. Their role is to satisfy themselves regarding the treatment of inmates, the state of the prison regimes and the facilities available to inmates to allow them to make purposeful use of their time. They also consider requests and complaints made by inmates.
You can speak to them on one of their visits or make an formal application to see them through your residential officer.
INFORMATIONSERVICES
Support services are available for all in custody and their families. Speak to your Class Officer or the Family Support team for further information
drug and alcohol abuse.
AD:EPT work across the 3 prisons in NI and have vast experience in helping people in custody. All AD:EPT workers are trained professionals who offer a sensitive and confidential service.
If you would like help and support with a drug or alcohol problem, there are several ways you can contact AD:EPT :
● Ask an officer on the landing to arrange an appointment.
● Ask your medical officer or probation officer to refer you or at your resettlement meeting.
● Ask at your Induction/Core Harm reduction meeting.
Church Services
The spiritual needs of inmates are catered for in prison as well as on the outside.
The main denominations have chaplaincies but others are also accommodated. You can contact a chaplain by asking your class officer to phone the office and leave a message. You can also have a request put on the computer system or you may speak to a chaplain at the Sunday Service and make appropriate arrangements.
Roman Catholic, Combined and Free Presbyterian services are held on Saturdays and Sundays. Check notice boards on wings for relevant times.
Foyleview services are on Wednesday (Free Presbyterian) and Thursday (Roman Catholic and Combined) from 4 – 4.30 p.m.
Cruse Bereavement
When someone dies we can feel a host of emotions including being abandoned, angry, guilty, shocked and sad. The death could have happened recently or a long time ago. Talking about how you feel when someone has died can help. Cruse Bereavement Care are volunteers from the community and do not work for the prison service. Cruse will offer you a weekly hourlong session with a volunteer.
When you meet you can talk as much or as little as you want and the volunteer will listen and provide support.
All you need to do is to fill in a Cruse referral form, or ask your Class officer to contact Cruse. An appointment will be made to do an assessment, after which you will be allocated a volunteer who will see you each week on the same day.
If someone close to you has died, you can feel sad or upset. Cruse Bereavement Care is here to help.
Turning Pages
Shannon Trust is a reading programme specifically designed for adults who struggle with reading.
It’s a peer led, confidential, one to one programme that can be worked through at the pace of the learner in short bursts of 20 minutes a session, with completion certificates earned at the end of each manual.
If you are interested in improving your reading or becoming a Mentor, there are several ways to get involved in the programme:
● Ask an officer on the landing to arrange an appointment.
● Ask an existing Shannon Trust Mentor or Learner to refer you.
● Fill in a sign up sheets posted around the blocks.
Samaritans Listeners
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer support to inmates who are having a difficult time. The service is available to everyone regardless of their age, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. To make a request ask an officer on the landing. The scheme is independent of the prison authorities and completely CONFIDENTIAL.
Listowel Writers in Prison has become a regular event in the calendar of the writers here in HMP Magilligan. The writers’ group have consistently performed well, and 2019 was no different. There were more prize categories available, and, 2019 was the first year that the Northern Ireland Prison Service contributed to the prize fund.
Listowel Writers’ Week is one of Ireland’s prominent literary and arts festivals. Founded in 1970, it gathers together writers and book-lovers. The festival is based in Listowel, a small town in County Kerry, renowned for fostering talent while celebrating the works of more seasoned authors. The festival originally championed John B Keane, Bryan MacMahon and Brendan Kennelly. First prize in the Short Story Advanced category was won by a writer at Magillligan, as well as the Third prize Short Story Intermediate. Other winners included second place in the Poetry Advanced category and Second prize in Poetry Getting Started. Here is the Intermediate Short Story and the Poetry Getting Started winners....
Listowel Writers in Prison 3rd Prize
Short Story Intermediate Category 2019
THE DAY AFTER THE NIGHT BEFORE
Monday night, around eleven thirty, stars illuminated the sky and the coldness setting in, Jono was going to bed. He felt at ease with the world after his last fix but would need to be out early to get his drugs sorted. Lying back in bed he started to drift, thinking how addiction blighted his life and taken so much from him.
He was lost, alone and forgotten. He never asked to be like this but somehow it found him. He was bound by addiction. At times without a care in the world, but often he wanted to fall on his knees and scream for someone to save him, to give him a cure or to help find a way to redemption. It was playing on his mind, driving him crazy, making him feel insane. He had done things he regretted and pushed away the ones he needed most. Jono was out of control and striving for a way to regain it. Why would God punish him like this? What was the purpose? He wished that just for one day, one hour, one minute, even a second, that somehow he would be free of addiction. Jono recalled the talent he had, going through catering college with distinctions and top honours. He loved the relationships he had at work. How good a friend he once was and how trustworthy but now addiction tarnished his entire life. It was in every action, every thought, every movement, every area of his life, even every breath was taken away from him with addiction in mind. Eventually, Jono fell asleep with a heavy heart.
Tuesday dawned, the amber haze of the sun burst through the slit in the curtains, enticing Jono from his slumber. He pulled himself from his pit with the realisation that he needed a fix. The sickness started, his heart pumped like a jack hammer and sweat poured, hot cold, hot cold, his body shuddered. For a fleeting moment he regretted the day he ever took heroin. When he found his clothes; every move involved a massive effort and some pain. His mind made everything ten times worse, playing psychological games.
Sweat rolled from his brow like pouring rain. He caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror, he was gaunt and skinny. Fixing his hair he smiled to see his once beautiful teeth in total disrepair. He recalled how fit and healthy he once was. As a distraction he went to the bedside
locker, put on his watch and picked up the house keys.
Stomach cramps hit and he ran straight for the toilet. The contents of his stomach released over the bathroom, stomach bile everywhere. I don’t have the time to fix this, I’ll clean it later, he thought, as a frantic search began for his mobile phone and wallet. His sickness growing by the minute. He found his phone, wallet and counted his money. Sweet, enough for an eight, which would take him through until Friday payday. He left his flat, took out his mobile phone and called his dealer. ‘Alright, its Jono here, you around? I need a garden gate ASAP, I’m clucking badly here.’
‘I’ll meet you in the same place as always, 10-15 mins.’
‘You’re a life saver, see you there.’ Jono hung up.
‘Jono is that you?’
Looking up he saw and old friend staring at him. Yes, it’s me Lynn. Jaysus you look terrible. What’s happened to you?’
‘I’m just down on my luck, you know how it is.’ Jono felt remorse and guilt for the way he was had become.
‘Jono, want to go for a coffee. A catch up? My shout.’
‘Lynn I’ve to be somewhere, I can’t be late.’ His stomach cramps were worse. ‘Lynn I really have to go here.’
Jono walked to meet his dealer. Every step sent shudders of pain over his body. His t-shirt now soaking with sweat. Through a mass of people he could see his dealer sitting on the bench. ‘Jaysus it nearly kilt me walking down.’
They made their usual exchange.
‘Is the money all there?’
‘Every penny fella, have you a clean works on you clucking badly.’
‘I don’t touch the shit.’
Jono needed to get to the needle exchange and quick. His sickness at fervour point, knowing he had the gear his body starts to empty reach, cramps tighter and sweats rolling faster. In his panic, he went to the corner of a bus shelter, took out the gear, opened it and dipped a coin into the powder, sniffing it up in one go. He dropped to his knees instantly feeling better, all the symptoms eased enough for him to register that it was really strong gear. He felt brand new again and forgot just how sick he was five minutes earlier. He dusted himself down to finish the journey to the exchange. He was going to make some changes and couldn't go on living this way. The closer he got to the exchange the more people he knew and as he arrived at the door he heard his name being hollered out.
‘Jono, wait up, Jaysus mate, I haven’t seen you for weeks, what you been at?’
‘Same auld, same auld, grafting, scoring, getting high, you know Davie same as you.’
‘Jono can you sort me out? I’m dying, sick, and I can’t tap when I’m like this.’
‘Davie I’m in the same boat. I’m only here to collect a starter pack, then I’m heading tapping myself, sorry you will have to look elsewhere.’
As he walked into the exchange he was third in the queue. He started to day-dream about how he hated coming down to the exchange, every time someone was on the mooch for a free hit. He was fed up with the whole situation, it weighed him down. He would love to be able to just drop into his Mum’s house and spend time with his brother and sisters.
‘Next,’ A voice called. ‘Morning. D.O.B, postcode, any returns? And what is it you need?’
‘21/12/79. D.W.6, no returns please, and thanks.’
‘There you are, safe injecting.’
He stuffed the starter pack into his coat, left the exchange so no one could latch on and use him for a free hit. It was nearly lunch time. The streets crammed with people. He walked back to his flat, the rays of sun blinded him and he thought about a pair of sunglasses. He was eager to return to his flat. First he needed to go to the newsagents for smokes, a new lighter, a few tins of Boostand some munchies. He decided to grab a DVD to help pass the day and checking his money he thought better of the idea. After buying groceries he walked home, opened the front door and was overcome with the smell of vomit. The vomit he left behind that morning. He went into the kitchen, got bleach, boiling water and a mop bucket. He cleaned the bathroom and it was soon gleaming, completely spotless and the smell of bleach overwhelming. It was now time for a fix. He got the starter pack, his lighter, smokes, the Boosttins and munchies. He went into the sitting room, turned on the TV and set up the table and clicked into autopilot. He was now doing his ritual. It was a ceremonial process for him.
Opening the starter pack he reached for one needle, a
steel pot, water, one sachet of citrus, alcohol wipes and his tourniquet. The most important ingredient was the heroin and secondly, a McDonaldsplastic stirring spoon. He opened the citrus sachet, lifted the plastic spoon and put some citrus into the small steel pot, then the heroin with some water. He got the lighter and heated the solution. When it was ready he lifted the needle and sucked up the mixture. Taking the tourniquet, he strapped it around his arm, tightened it and set about finding a vein. He found a good vein, lifted the needle and plunged it into the small pulsing vein, plunging the handle of the needle downwards until the mixture was away. Instantly, feeling the warmth of the heroin pulsing all over his body he fell into a slumber. Jono slid deeper into oblivion, falling forward and hitting the volume button on the remote control, pushing it up full. The noise reverberated throughout the building. Jono oblivious to it, stationary in his slumber.
In the flat above the thunderous noise woke his neighbour; he jumped out of his bed and wondered what was hedoing downstairs having a party, no parties allowed in this building. He arrived at Jono’s door and rapped it with venom, but to no avail. He checked the handle and the door opened. He poked his head into the hallway and shouted for Jono. There was no response. He went into the sitting room and saw Jono on the couch. He noticed the needle; he turned the TV off, again called Jono, but still no response. He looked closer, noticing his blue lips. He checked for a pulse, there was one, but it was weak. He frantically looked for a mobile phone and called 999.
‘My friend, I think he has overdosed. >>KB
Listowel Writers in Prison 2nd Prize Poetry Getting Started Category 2019
CATCH 22
A noose on the neck, a gram on the foil
Devil’s caramel, a light brown soil
The heroin of the story, a frightening tale
Sweat on the forehead, extremely pale
Fifty per cent, that he’ll die
His last supper, a bit of a fry
A puddle on the floor, a flat with no heating
Ironically, next door to a NA meeting
A lighter strike and the beetle takes off
Holden’ it in, trying not to cough
Running like a pair of NikeAirMax
Three sixties and no tracks
The sickness gone, a hit creeps in
Life on the foil
He takes on the chin
Catch 22, he can never win. >>CH
As someone who has had a long term interest in playing sport the gym has provided the perfect opportunity to engage in this while in custody. Prison life is one of solitude and sedentary existence therefore many inmates make attending the gym an integral part of their prison experience; for myself it has aided me in rekindling my participation in sport after becoming involved in drugs and losing interest in pursuing it as a past time.
The gym regime has been changed to reflect real life and how people work; fair enough, however, the new changes do have an impact on those who would have had access to the gym for longer and more frequent periods of time. As Magilligan has grown and more positive results have been gained through Learning and Skills, this in many ways has impacted on those who had greater access to the gym. Governor Taylor has said that ‘it is our aim to work with the managers and suggest some solution for consideration.’
Anyways, the gym still is a hugely positive aspect of prison; and I have recently enrolled on the Level 1 gym instructor course and taken the opportunity to add to my educational qualifications. With this said an interview with the gym staff, Physical Education Instructor (P.E.I) Cochrane was happy to answer questions regarding the gym…
Whataccreditationscaninmatesgain?
Level 1 and 2 Focusgym instructor awards. These courses involve participants learning the principles of exercise and how to teach them to others; and thus be able to take up the role of a gym instructor as a profession. In terms of employability the level 1 course allows those who complete it to work as an assistant to a qualified gym instructor. The level 2 award allows those who complete it to work as a gym instructor in any gym in the U.K. Both level 1 and 2 are recognised qualifications and are some of the only qualifications which the prison offers, providing inmates with skills which can directly lead to employment upon release.
Whatactivitiesdoesthegymrunforinmates?
There are a lot of activities; it’s not a short list. There’s indoor and outdoor football, the weekly 5K Parkrun which takes places around the facility here at Magilligan, part of the Parkrun scheme that takes place around the UK every Saturday at 9.30am, we have weight training 7 days a week where inmates can use the many different free weights and cable weight machines. Then there are things like badminton; basketball; bowls; chair based activities for older inmates; table tennis; and indoor tennis. Some other things run by the gym which also contribute to prison life are: The Duke of Edinburgh, Mental Health Walking; Accompanied Town Release (ATR) Cycling; Older Adult Rambles; First Aid; Spin/Circuit Classes; Weight Management; and Health & Fitness assessment. So all in all there should be something everyone could connect with.
The gym also runs UEFA coaching badge Level 1 through the Irish Football Association (IFA). As well as the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) who also provide inmates with level 1 in Gaelic Football coaching certificate. Ulster Rugby have recently come into the prison and provide a day of coaching for inmates; the sessions were well attended and most inmates seemed to enjoy it. These courses give prisoners an opportunity to pursue
Doyouthinkthegymcanbeimproved?
Yes definitely, although the facility we have here is good it could be better if there was an exercise studio. Also, Magilligan is the only establishment which doesn’t have an outdoor multi-purpose 3G pitch.
Doyouthinkthegymhasaroletoplayinrehabilitation?
It can do; as improved physical health means better mental health which hopefully would lead to better decision making upon release. And, as I’ve mentioned the Level 2 gym instructor award, inmates can attain certifies to work as a gym instructor which can directly lead to employment opportunities.
Using the gym has a big impact on wellbeing that fact has been established for a long time. Certainly in a prison environment this holds true. Firstly, it helps relieve stress; there’s a link between physical health improving mental health. It also helps encourage weight loss, as well as curing boredom and passing the time. For others it can be about achieving goals and that would mean a person increasing confidence and belief in themselves.
Having an interest in sport and exercise obviously would be important. There are also fitness tests involved with working in the gym, so having the ability to complete them is crucial. Being able to carry out presentations is a part of the job as every new committal to Magilligan is inducted to the gym and must be shown the facility and have the rules and processes of the gym explained to them. Obviously being successful in the interview is important.
First of all explain the health benefits, and then encourage small steps towards improving their fitness. Providing them with a personal fitness programme that is achievable which would then hopefully encourage them to get into the habit of using the gym.
Areallprogrammesandactivitieshighimpact?
No. There are activities such as bowls; and other older adult chair activities. Then there are things like older adult rambles, and mental health wellbeing. Really the activities are specific to the individual which are determined by things like age or ability, etc.
Whattypeofequipmentisavailableatthegym?
There are a variety of different things available, for example; free weights, cardio equipment (treadmills, crosstrainers, rowing machines, and bikes), bodypump equipment, resistance machines, barbells, spin cycles, badminton, tennis, football, bowls, basketball, and even a filtered watercooler.
Howcanusersbeconsistent,exercisingasalifestyle?
Pre-contemplation, this could mean understanding that you’d like to improve something with regards to health;
Ulster Rugby Kicks Off in Magilligan!
Ulster Rugby visited Magilligan in May and put on a taster session of rugby for interested inmates. Four coaching representatives from the club coached the participants in basic rugby skills and refereeing points; they were complimented by officers Price, Young, and Nesbitt.
The sessions helped build an affiliation between the prison service and Ulster Rugby; with hopes of establishing a 10 week course in the future.
for example losing weight. Contemplation; thinking that to achieve the weight loss you would need to use the gym. Action; taking the final step, attending the gym and working towards the goal a person has in mind. Once a habit has been established the goals become apparent. Healthy body = healthy mind = good choices! Exercising as a lifestyle impacts all areas of the person’s life and means things like getting better sleep. Really it’s a matter of reinforcing all of the above.
Canpeoplereturntoexerciseatanyage?
Yes, age doesn’t matter, it’s about finding exercise activities that are suitably challenging to a person’s ability. Medical conditions can be managed by the gym staff as required, remedial gym sessions are helpful for inmates who may be recovering from injuries or who have a particular medical conditions affecting their physical abilities. The gym can provide targeted programmes to aid in recuperation for whatever injuries a person may have suffered.
There’s the North West 200 motorbike racing which takes place in May every year. Also, the annual Milk Cup competition for youth football teams; the teams usually come from far and wide. That takes place in August and has been the case since 1983. Then this year there’s the by no means small matter of the OpenChampionshipof golf which will take place in RoyalPortrushGolfCourse in July. It’ll be the first time in 68 years it has been in Northern Ireland. So we can look forward to the like of Tiger Woods visiting. >>AL
Commencing just after 10.30am the indoor session took place with emphasis on ball skills and some full contact games (with the aid of safety mats). The afternoon sessions took place on the outdoor pitch, which, due to the surface, limited the session to non-contact tag rugby. These sessions focused on player awareness, with a basic explanation of the rules. Despite the gravel pitch limiting the session it didn’t seem to dampen the enthusiasm of the participants, and the games were well contested. A variety of different games give the participants a more in -depth understanding of the rules and tactics of rugby. As a participant myself, and someone who has never played rugby before this, I can testify that it was a thoroughly enjoyable day. >>AL
Didyouknow?
The Rugby world cup trophy is named after William Webb Ellis ; who in 1823 picked up and ran with the ball during a game of football. And thus the game of Rugby was born.
poetry
CONCERNING MENTAL HEALTH (IN THE STYLE OF BRECHT)
Struggling, floundering in despair no matter how dejected, disillusioned, distresses threatened, tormented, tortured never give up think your way out of it
There will only ever be one you you are unique you will never pass this way again develop your personality attitude, determination, pragmatism moral fibre think it’s the sensible thing never give up. >>RH
PTSD WON’T STOP ME
Getting up, getting dressed, getting stuff done we have mental health, on the run getting off drugs, going through the rattle getting time done, every days a battle it’s OK to have an illness, like PTSD your only human, you and me keep the head up, you’ll get through it staying positive is the only way to do it it sure can be hard, try your best and be strong nothing in life lasts that long develop your personality, improve yourself smile and be happy it’s good for your health doing positive things with your life make it better
be the best, your own man, a trendsetter. It’s all about making your own choices to be free not have drugs or mental health, controlling ye! >>CH
MENTAL HEALTH
About mental health, where do I start there’s so much to say as it ripped me apart when I was young times were good then things got complicated, living in the hood my issues started after drugs and the drink then my addiction got bigger, so I didn’t have to think I locked up my feelings, I became a closed book you wouldn’t know I was struggling, but my face, if you had a look
I suppressed my feelings way deep to my core I was in self-destruct and didn’t care anymore going to the doctors, time and time again I locked away my feelings, so you couldn’t see the pain I felt like a guinea pig, it was pill after pill the hardest thing to accept that I was very ill the pain I was in didn’t involve any scars but soon down the road it would put me behind bars not talking or venting what was on my mind threw up so many questions, the answers I couldn’t find my emotions were up, then they fell down no longer was there a smile, it turned into a frown I thought it would be better if I was no longer here I was tired of being frightened and living in fear anxiety, PTSD, panic attacks and depression soon escalated to violence, rage and aggression I’ll fight these demons to the day I die was it worth a lifetime of illness just to get high I now feel comfortable talking about where it went wrong by sharing my feelings, helps keep me strong. >>DMcK
creative
I AM DEATH
I am in-between the Lion’s jaw
I am the stroke of the clock
I am the final breath
I am the trigger on the gun
I am the bleed to the brain
I am the lump on the breast
I am the blow to the head
I am the poison in the syringe
I am the impact of the car
I am cancer
I am the pressure of the water
I am the force of nature
I am the devil in the detail
I am the dark after the light—
Who knows when I will come?
Who can predict a crisis?
Who is next? >>CH
HOMELESS!
A sleeping bag for a bed, a rucksack for a pillow, No place to call home, no place to feel safe,
The world around me is forbidding and gloomy, My thoughts are barren, bleak to say the least, I’m discarded and isolated, Deserted by loved ones, unwelcome by friends.
Night falls,
No keys, no door, Night sky, stars for lamps,
I’m homeless and soulless
Friendless, desperate for warmth needing shelter, My thoughts are grey dark and desperate,
I feel so desolate, abandoned and forsaken,
No place to call home, no place to feel safe,
Desperate for warmth needing shelter >>KB
THE HOMELESS MAN
From riches to rags, now his home, a sleeping bag; lights his last cigarette, has a drag…
A sky so bright, a night so clear; he’s cold and alone, full of fear
Sat in a doorway, he’s lost his home; it’s shook him, hit him hard; a homeless man, emotionally scarred…
All for gear, it drives him mad; his life, so bad; lost a home, a wife, he’s was a wonderful Dad…
A lonely place, it all feels weird, and strange; ashamed, he’s begging for change…
He needs a plan; not to be a homeless man…
In the city streets, full of danger; a man in a doorway, a homeless stranger…
Full of shame, this unwanted fame; people pass him, don’t know his name
He wishes this was all a dream, a daily struggle just to keep clean…all the drama, so much restriction; for drugs and the power of addiction… >>JO’C
MANIFOLD
“Revenge” is a dish served cold— Where men of war are feeling bold. Where soldiers unite and steal the gold, And all the people keep growing old. >>TMMcG
INVOCATION
Creativity requires thought… And thought invokes reflection
Reflection is where wisdom’s sought And wisdom ends affliction.
I’m sure that’s why we write so much…
I feel it’s where we are free
To contemplate and, perhaps, to touch…
Upon the who and what we strive to be… >>GS
Insane
Sitting at my desk in writing class and through the window, out on the grey day, I’m watching ravens rooting through the grass for some scrap a prisoner has thrown away. They strut and swagger beneath the fences, perch on the cameras above the gates, perhaps they’ve committed dire offences are doing time, like us, in this grey place but they have feathered wings and gift of flight, the option to leave whenever they desire, yet they flit from yard to yard in daylight and watch with beady eyes from barbed-wire. Strange birds could fly away but they remain from here where I am sat, they seem insane. >>GS
Rufus and Floyd Film Quiz Answers
Laugh
It can happen without the slightest thought Make you feel better when you’re sometimes lost. It can be crafted but cannot be bought You can give it away, without a cost.
Makes you who you are in so many ways
Can bring you light in the darkest of days. Comedians love to draw it from you This is why they do, what they have to do.
And sometimes people can pick it up wrong They call it a snigger done short, never long.
Sometimes it’s hard when you are feeling down It always happens when your friends come round.
