Welcome to our yearly roundup and Time In news review. I always get philosophical this time of year. And not least because I was reading Michael Scammell’s biography of Arthur Koestler where Koestler vividly describes a wrapped-up present sent by his wife to him in prison. The contents included a toothbrush, socks, cigarettes, matches, cheese, sardines, figs and chocolate. When he opened the present, each object looked like a treasure. He laid them out like exhibits in a museum. He didn’t know whether to use them or worship them. His psychological state, he tells us, was such that noises in prison made him feel ‘his bed was shaking as though in an earthquake’. Koestler had much to think about but also felt the weight of time and especially his location. He adds to the intensity of narration saying it was a book that saved him. Literary history records that he wrote a letter to Thomas Mann on his release. The letter is emotionally flooded with gratitude for Mann’s having written The Magic Mountain He concluded in the letter ‘I believe I have to thank you for the fact that I am still alive or at least that I still have my wits […] I would never have thought it possible that art could exercise such a drastic influence on real life.’
The Koestler Trust set up in 1962, realised the longevity of the great Koestler Project which achieves so much for prisoners who engage with art while serving a prison sentence. When Koestler was in jail in Spain could he have imagined such a concept as the Trust? He was very much in a foreign prison because of his background, and this added to the harshness of the regime for him. There wasn’t really much kindness. It was a cruel environment. Regulations would normally not have allowed him to get such a parcel under any circumstances but on the occasion of granting him the present there was mercy. Koestler’s legacy is in granting a posthumous present to prisoners. So, it was not only his receiving the parcel as miraculous since he could hardly believe such a lapse in the rules.
Random acts of kindness, or what may seem vague or insignificant acts of kindness can never be underestimated. They are a tiny eminence in a darkened place. Your act of kindness is not only your potential gift to someone like the exchanging of gifts at Christmas, and it can be a catalyst for something greater than we can ever imagine.
Thank you to our Governor Andy Tosh, to Prison Arts Foundation, patrons of our magazine, to the prison staff and NWRC staff for their support during the production of this issue, and last but by no means least, all inmates for their input, writings and creativity.
In the current issue we have a miscellany of articles, nature watch, sports up-date, poetry plus the news of this year’s Koestler Trust Award winners. There are articles, poems, features, and our regular slots. You will find engaging reading matter as well as entertainment from our many contributors giving of their best. The contents include ‘The Vinyl Countdown’; ‘My Computer Hates Me’ and ‘Breaking The Mould’.
Pamela Mary Brown
BRAILLE
SKILLBUILD
Argue the Point?
Dear TimeIn,
Firstly, could you please settle an argument between my cell mate and I? We have been doubled up for such a long time now and I really do value his friendship. We have spent countless days in ‘the block’ due to our recent constant arguing and shouting, and the entire landing is now up in arms over our dispute. So here is the question we can’t seem to settle. Do spiders have knee caps…is what he says. Or. Do spiders have elbows…is what I says.
Secondly, can I use your magazine to offer an apology to the MO? When she came to give me my meds a few days ago I asked her if she had anything else in her box of tricks that could ease the awful pain I have in me knees and elbows? She replied Aqua-puncture…too which I answered far too quickly ‘I can’t swim.’ I was sitting the other night and suddenly burst out laughing. Sure what was I worrying about, it’s going to be far from an Olympic size pool in this hostelry!
Thirdly, on a more serious note, I’ve been waiting for over two months for a doctor’s appointment and had two cancelled on the prescribed day. I’ve compiled a list of questions for him and am waiting ‘patient’-ly. Furthermore, I don’t find doctor or healthrelated puns funny anymore since I started suffering from an iron-y deficiency. Yours, D. Lusion
Winter 2019 Time In cover, at the suggestion of Paddy Nash our music maestro, is the iconic Thin Lizzy album Jailbreak. Not so much the boys are back in town but ‘tonight there’s going to be a jail break somewhere in this town’ according to Phil Lynott’s 1976 New Musical Express Award Winning single. The cover comes from Riko giving his usual update and innovation based on the original Lizzy album cover art.
Growth Opportunity
Dear TimeIn,
I have been studying horticulture at North West Regional College for the past 2 years. I would like to tell you about my experience and how it has changed my plans for the future. I would also like to share the knowledge I have gained from my studies. When I first started horticulture I could not tell a pansy from a daisy, and now I could probably tell you about any flower, plant or seeds and how to maintain a flowerbed, garden or hanging basket. I have learned all this because of my dedication and interest in the course.
Just last week our college participated in a SkillBuild competition where all the workshops in the college competed against each other. I took part in horticulture along with seven other lads in our group. We were set into two groups of four for the heats, and it was the same for the other eight workshops and then four from every group went into the finals.
The talent from everyone was amazing; the level of dedication was unbelievable. The work was highly complimented and praised by the tutors and judges. It was an honour to take part and show off my skills, which were spotted by job scouts who attended to help people gain employment from their courses. I would strongly advise and encourage people to find a course they are interested in and pursue it in the form of a diploma or some form, as I did. This will go a long way to secure employment from the college whether it is Horticulture, Joinery, Tiling, Painting & Decorating, Plastering, Welding, Furniture Making, Barbering, Woodworking or any of the other courses the college has to offer.
Do something good for yourself and prepare for the employment part of your life. You too can further your education by taking part in a course of your choice in North West Regional College and better yourself just as I, and so many other students have done. Hope to see you there soon. >>TK
Did You Know?
The first recorded handwritten letter (epistle) was by Persian Queen Atossa around 500 BC.
The stamped letter we know today came into being in the reign of Queen Victoria in 1840, the Penny Black stamp (portrait of the young Queen Victoria) for letters under half an ounce and the Twopenny Blue stamp for letters over.
Before this date letters did not have stamps or envelopes and the receiver of the letter had to pay on its receipt.
Letters were folded and sealed by wax with ring or hand seal.
Source: handwrittenletters.com
“Effective use of Braille is as important to the blind as independent mobility, knowledge in the use of adaptive technology, and the core belief that equality, opportunity and security are truly possible for all people who are blind.”BobNey
The Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) , in partnership with Start360 and Community Sports Network, have secured funding to develop their Support Hub initiative. Located in Belfast City Centre, the Hub offers a multi-component support package for people returning to the community following release from prison, those on probation and those serving non-custodial sentences in the community.
The Support Hub provides education, employment support and advice, therapeutic support; gym, physical activity training sessions and dietary advice; visual art and creative writing workshops and a host of other activities and services, as well as the opportunity to volunteer in their Braille transcribing/printing unit.
The concept of the Hub was developed through discussions with prisoners and ex-prisoners around rehabilitation to identify things to be included in a multicomponent support package for ex-offenders returning to the community. Who better to design a support package for people recently released from prison than those going through the process themselves?
The partners involved with the Support Hub programme have a wealth of experience of working to support people involved in the Criminal Justice System. They bring their expertise under the same roof in a one-stop-shop, offering clients help to adjust to life on the outside.
Start360 offer drugs and alcohol support, 1-2-1 intervention, mental health support, benefit support, housing support, parenting support and ‘Life Skills’ education. Kathleen Grego, Service Manager said ‘Start360 are delighted to be part of this exciting partnership. This service is critical in supporting those leaving custody, promoting positive reintegration into our communities and reducing the number of victims in our society.’ The Community Sports Network (CSN) tailor sport for development support to ex-offenders in suitable venues across Belfast covering engagement sessions linked PDP’s, gym and fitness training workshops, sports coaching – structured group activities, Munch & Move cooking and exercise.
At the Support Hub, CSN will also support individuals who have developed skills through the Fit Futures (Bodyworks) programme at Maghaberry and would like to continue to develop these skills upon release. Speaking at
the Hub, Billy Boyd, Sport for Development Manager said ‘the Hub will provide ex-offenders with an opportunity to develop their skills, sport & leadership, within the community by providing support to others. This could be supporting community youth groups, OAP’s or other ex-offenders. With supervision and support of CSN Sport for Development Facilitator’s each exoffender will be able to apply their skills as well as attain further qualifications and training within the Support Hub.’
PAF will also provide art classes/workshops to exoffenders at the Hub in most artistic disciplines: visual arts, painting and many other art disciplines, ceramics, creative writing and musical instrument tuition. In addition to the art workshops at the Support Hub, PAF will provide volunteering opportunities at their Braille transcribing/printing service. There is a successful Braille Unit at Maghaberry, with many qualified Braillists. Upon release there is little opportunity for these men to utilise the knowledge, experience and skills they acquired while inside. The Support Hub provides an outlet in the community. It provides a workspace where individuals further develop their skills around Braille, offering an opportunity for more experienced individuals to train others in Braille production. PAF plan to start a Braille teaching programme for visually impaired and individuals to learn the Braille alphabet and specialised forms: Moon Braille, music Braille and foreign language Braille.
Probation and the Prison Service are keen to support the Braille Service and the multi-component package offered at the Support Hub. The Prison Service will refer prisoners who wish to volunteer, to the Braille Service as part of their Pre-Release Plans. The PBNI will also refer clients.
Fred Caulfield, PAF Executive Director, speaking about the Support Hub said, ‘This is an exciting, groundbreaking and unique project, which we believe will have a significant impact in helping some of the most vulnerable people in our society. We are very grateful to the funders for believing in our work and investing in us.’
If you are interested in getting involved in the Support Hub through availing of the support services or volunteering at the Braille unit, please contact your Probation Officer or Prisoner Development Officer for referral. >>Johnny
Breaking The Mould
PRISON ARTS FOUNDATION TRAVELLER COMMUNITY
PROJECT
Ceramics and pottery-making can be therapeutic and relaxing. Your body and mind calm, then work together to help you create something from clay. This meditative artistic activity helps to relieve anxieties and forget outside worries.
Nine prisoners from the Travelling community took part in the Prison Arts Foundation’s ceramic project in HMP Maghaberry. The prisoners created individual pieces of art and also worked on a group mosaic which will be exhibited in Maghaberry visiting room. Each of the nine prisoners agreed that they loved taking part in the project. When asked “if arts mattered more to them after the project?” Seven men answered yes, and one said that art is already very important with one not giving an answer.
“RESPECT THE AMOUNT OF WORK INVOLVED”
Reasons why art matters more to the group now after taking part included;
“Good Vibes”
“Interesting”
“It takes your mind off the outside”
“Respect the amount of work involved”
“More appreciation for arts in general”
“Learn a lot”
Before the project only three of the men had ever taken part in a creative arts activity or programmes, two of the men had previously been involved with the creative writing group in HMP Magilligan and a Traveller community pilot which took place in 2018/19.
The majority of the men involved said that taking part in the project made them happier, more creative, more able to express themselves, and also gave them more confidence. Some of the men who took part added that they gained skills which included; technical art skills, performing skills, people skills and communication skills. Art has helped them become more inter-
ested in attending education, training and other arts events.
“GETTING OFF THE LANDING”
When asked if there was anything else that they gained from being involved in the project answers included;
“Involvement”
“Self-Purpose”
“A music book”
“Completing a project”
“Getting off the landing”
The travelling community often experience negative stereotypes and face many challenges while in a prison environment. Engaging with arts related disciplines encourage participation, develop confidence and encourage prisoner to engage with other forms of education.
>>SH
THE EUROPEAN PRISON EDUCATION ASSOCIATION 17th Training Conference
The European Prison Education Association (EPEA) held their 17th Training Conference on prison education in Dublin, on the 12th June-16th June 2019. It is an independent organisation, formed in 1991. The EPEA is ‘made up of prison educators, administrators, governors, researchers and other professionals, whose interests lie in promoting and developing education and related activities in prisons throughout Europe in accordance with the recommendations of the Council of Europe.’
The EPEA is the voice for education in prisons and claims membership from over 40 countries. As an official NonGovernment Organisation (NGO) with participatory status at the Council of Europe (COE), it has recently been elected to the Liaison Committee of NGOs with full voting rights. The main activities include advocacy, policy foundation, professional development of prison teachers, networking and vital research to further our understanding of the needs and challenges of prison educators. The conference featured a contemporary Irish prison art exhibition, launched on the 13 June in Kilmainham prison, Dublin. The UNLOCK exhibition was on display in the restored Governors’ room and three adjacent spaces. The governors’ room featured works by Eddie Cahill, a successful artist who began painting when he served time in Portlaoise prison. Cahill believes that art changed his life away from being involved in criminality. Cahill’s paintings depict a sad sense of isolation, and reflect how people become faceless in their ordeals with institutions. The paintings are original, dark, deeply emotive, and establish Cahill as one of the foremost artists in Ireland. Other work in the exhibition, included a painting by Bangor artist, Stephen Greer. Greer’s work was selected by Irish Prison Arts officer, Tom Shortt. Shortt attended the Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) 2018 exhibition in Crumlin Road Goal, and was drawn to Greer’s work at the time. Greer echoes Cahill’s sentiment and explains that art ‘not only changed my life but saved my life.’ Support for PAF’s inclusion in the exhibition was by the PAF representative, Geoff Moore. Works from artists in the Irish prison system featured ceramics, tapestry, painting, collage, digital technology, jewellery, stained glass and mosaic works. Kilmainham prison, built in 1796 was an appropriate venue, and speaking at the opening the EPEA’s chair, Annet Bakker, commented that we were, ‘going back to the past to look to the future.’
Eddie Cahill unloading his painting
Altered Vision from a prison van at Kilmainham
Pamela Brown and Geoff Moore (PAF) painting by Stephen Greer
Tom Shortt Arts Officer IPS
Based in the Technological University Dublin (TUD) seminars focused on the experience of educators.
Per Olav Haarr and Kristen May from Norway’s Bryne vidaregåande skule presented on TheSchooloftheFutureandourperspectiveonhumanlifeinprison.
Courses on offer include machine operators’ licence, truck licence, studies in media, film, photography and music. Their work is based on the national curriculum and core values which focus on basic skills: reading, writing and maths. There has been educators in prisons in Norway since the 1600s. Teaching represents the values of Norwegian society; ethical awareness, identity, cultural diversity, critical thinking, human dignity, democracy and participation. Human dignity is considered the most important value and how often it is an advantage to be different, therefore acknowledge and appreciate differences, meet the prison inmates with a positive attitude and a core belief of forgiveness, charity and solidarity.
Marjolein Rammelaere presented on Learning Inside Out;Howtofindyourwayasaprisonertolifelong learningaspartofyourreintegrationprocess?
Rammalaere explained that you can only make a good choice when you are well informed. Prisoners need correct and accurate information. An initial assessment when prisoners are first incarcerated helps steer a learning path. Prisoners choices often relate to life and family, and not just education. She established the importance of connections being maintained after release. For many prisoner’s digital exclusion is a huge issue, and there must be talks with Justice departments to address this. Due to the changing nature of education, offline versions are often no longer possible with many subjects.
Senator Lynn Ruane, an independent senator, former President of Trinity College Dublin’s Students’ Union, a lifelong activist and campaigner on issues of justice and equality, talked about growing up in working class Dublin, poverty, and early school leavers ending up in the prison population. She is currently tabling two pieces of legislation which she believes will redress some of the social injustices faced by traumatised communities. Ruane explained that society must take responsibility for creating the system with a ‘class bias in legislation and the laws on spent convictions’ which currently in Ireland stand at being removed after 7 years, if an offender has only one charge and their prison sentence is 12 months or under. This impacts on the Garda vetting system and prevents the return to employment and education.
Governor Eddie Mullen, Mountjoy Prison, said his perception of education had changed over the years. Education in prison must be attractive to the prisoners. You need a safe environment, non-judgemental, ‘a sense of people working to assist prisoners.’
Prison Arts Foundation (PAF): building foundations for change through arts. Dr Shelley Tracy, Carlo Gebler, Stephen Greer.
Dr Tracy talked about seven case studies of prisoners engaged with art programmes. Ste-
and exhibitions. The discussion facilitated by Tracy, Gebler, and Greer focused on the experiences of art practitioners within the prison system and with input from Rowan Mackenzie, Creating Space for Shakespeare, and Bieke Deloof, Klasbak among others.
In teaching in a prison setting where information is confidential and sensitive, there are few platforms where practitioners and teachers can talk or discuss work outside the
Rowan Mackenzie, Stephen Greer, Dr Shelley Tracy and Bieke Deloof.
Prison Art Showcase
Good Relations Week 2019
16-22 September
It is often said that good relationships are built on sharing similarities and respecting differences. ‘People Making Change for Peace,’ the theme for Good Relations Week 2019 brought together writings, paintings and crafts created by prisoners engaging with Prison Arts Foundation working in three of Northern Ireland's prisons. Additional collaborations with the North West Regional College and NIPs based in HMP Magilligan saw work on display in Limavady and Portsewart libraries. The four exhibitions also included Antrim Library and Newtowenbreda.
The displays showcased the positive outputs creativity has in a prison environment. The work on display evoking feelings of isolation, change, hope and innovation. The exhibits included a rose made from bread, wooden jewellery boxes, hand-made clocks, artworks, painting and poetry.
Commenting on the exhibitions, Fred Caulfield, Chief Executive of Prison Arts Foundation, said that ‘the arts are a successful vehicle for rehabilitation and peace-building, and we are very proud that the people in custody can engage with the arts as they transition back into the community after release.’ (Time In is ever thankful to ALL organisations for their shared spaces to exhibit prisoner’s creative endeavours. This is VITAL. We are proudly giving a gallery feel with lots of art works here!)
Pictured (L-R) at the exhibition in Antrim Library Jim O’Hagan, Chief Executive of Libraries NI, Ronnie Armour, Director General of the Prison Service and Fred Caulfield, Chief Executive of the Prison Arts Foundation, (image by) Michael Cooper
Portstewart Library (above)
Limavady library (below)
My Computer Hates Me
laptop,
Education is a big part of prisoners’ sentence plan while in custody. But, it is sadly lacking in one crucial area; that is using technology. The usefulness of technology goes far beyond sharing photos of your latest social outing, or tweeting your favourite celebrity. All aspects of life are now found on the information super-highway, a much broader syllabus than what is learned within traditional ICT courses that incorporate creating Word documents, using PowerPoint to make slideshows, and creating spreadsheets on Excel.
Jargon surrounding technology often leaves many people feeling perplexed, or as if they had their head in the cloud (excuse the pun). Equipping detained individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to be able to adjust to modern life should be a priority. Otherwise, it is likely that they will be left further behind as the world advances deeper into the digital age.
Smartphones, laptops, tablets, email, internet, harddrives, software, apps, it has been approximately 25 years since these technologies became commonplace in our daily lives, often changing at a relentless pace. Words and phrases such as up-grade, user-friendly, bandwidth, social media, relational database management system can cause the occasional headache, especially for the novice who doesn’t consider themselves part of the technological generation. At Time In we decided to ask Honest Jim to give an insight into how technology impacts his day-to-day life.
My Laptop Hates Me
‘Is it just me or does anybody else have trouble understanding information technology? For years I’ve been flummoxed by the wonders of the electronic ear. This all left me behind because when I was at school only NASA, the C.I.A., and British intelligence had computers. Oh, and the Starship Enterprise had one. And there may have been one in the Bat Cave.
These days’ electronic technology and communication systems are the sciences of the era, and intelligent and reasonably well educated as I am, I can’t for the life of me get my head around any of it. I’m in my late fifties, with a good I.Q. and can pretty much turn my head to learning anything. But as soon as I sit in front of a PC,
electronic tablet, or even a mobile phone the lights go out in my brain. It’s as if someone just pressed a switch in my head. Little kids about five years old can run rings round me: sending emails (I wouldn’t have a clue how to), surfing the internet, browsing Facebook, Google or YouTube, or how to buy or sell on eBay and Amazon. It was only during the summer of 2018 that I bought my first mobile phone, and in October the same year I first learned how to send a text message. Don’t even ask me how many voicemails I’ve lost because I can’t access them.
Last summer I bought my first laptop. It’s a small lightweight Lenovo which has a detachable screen that can double as a tablet, I’ve never separated it as I probably couldn’t put it back together again. I only really bought it as I like to write a little. Unfortunately, write was the only thing I couldn’t do because there was no ‘Word’ installed on the device. I had to fork out an extra €70 for Office 365 on top of the original €230 layout. That’s a lot of money for a homeless person living in a hostel and on Disability Benefits, and that was only the start of my problems. My computer refused to acknowledge that I had installed Word.
In the last ten months, it has frozen on five occasions, preventing me from accessing Word and saying that it isn’t there (!!??) thus preventing me from writing anything new. It’s even stopped me editing or changing any of my work which I have saved on several USB sticks, insisting ‘read-only’. The yearly €70 subscription is due in a few months and I won’t be renewing it.
Thankfully, a friend is a bit of a computer whiz kid has installed OpenOffice writer, it’s a lot more limited but so far so good. I’m writing on it right now and it’s free! If this keeps up I can write until my heart is content without any more stressful breakdowns.
Unfortunately, though hopeful, I’m not confident. Sometimes I look at my laptop and I’d swear it is sneering at me. The thing hates me, and it’s not paranoia. I’ve got a card up my sleeve if it winds me up any more I won’t bother selling it…I’ll throw it into the river…he who laughs last…!
Honest Jim
Anyone who has ever been in prison is sure to have seen the AD:EPT workers, easily identifiable by the logo emblazoned on their jackets and shirts. All would probably be aware that they work with people who have substance use problems. Although the specifics of what service they provide may be unknown, or, not fully understood. Having engaged in and availed of the service while in custody, Trish (thanks Trish!), my counsellor suggested I do an article regarding AD:EPT for Time In. So, here’s what came of the idea…
What does AD:EPT stand for? Alcohol and Drugs: Empowering People through Therapy, a service facilitated by Start360 and funded by SETrust. Start360 have delivered this service since June 2009. Start360 AD:EPT are based in HMP Maghaberry, HMP Magilligan and Hydebank Wood College.
What Services do AD:EPT Provide? Interventions currently provided by outlined below, however, days of delivery, sessions times, etc., vary depending on the site location.
Assessment: Services use the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) means of assessment, to assess seven areas: 1. Physical health. 2. Employment and support. 3. Drug use/prescription medication . 4. Abuse/alcohol use. 5. Legal status. 6. Family/social status.7. Emotional wellbeing. Once completed, the client engages on one of the interventions and is placed on waiting list or signs a disclaimer stating they do not wish to engage.
Casework: Client one-to-one intervention, over six sessions and underpinned by Motivational Interviewing. An Action Care and Support Plan is formulated, identifying where the client is in relation to their life, what the protective and risk factors are, and what goals they wish to set. A contract of engagement, based upon the model of consent, is completed to develop a safe, positive working relationship. Sessions last about 60 minutes (depending on need). Focusing on goals and how to achieve goals.
Counselling: One-to-one intervention completed over 12 sessions underpinned by Behavioural Change theories. Comprising of an Action Care and Support Plan, identifying where the client is in relation to their life, barriers & goals. Upon completion the client and counsellor sign a
lors that focus on client’s release. Involving discussion around harm reduction in relation to substance use, exploration of high risk situations and impact of relapse. Information provided about tolerance levels and increased risk of overdose on release. The client’s geographical area is identified to assess services in the area and where appropriate referral to appropriate services.
Failed Drug Tests (FDT): Individuals in prison are subject to Mandatory Drug Testing, if they refuse a drug test or fail the information is passed to Start360 AD:EPT to find out if the client would like to engage with the services and explore the reasons behind the failed drug test. If they have previously engaged with AD:EPT it is useful to look at relapse prevention techniques, session based on a harm reduction perspective.
Induction Programme: One off group-work session completed with individuals who have recently come into custody. It focuses on harm reduction and services provided, to explore their substance use. The programme varies between sites; however the content remains. The programme is co-facilitated by AD:EPT.
Check-in/Harm Reduction Session: Completed following a request from a prisoner, mentor, staff member or family member. Identifies client’s need which vary from a relapse, poor emotional well-being, a conversation, issue within custody, etc.
Naloxone Overdose Awareness & CPR Training: Naloxone is used to counter the effects of Opioids, especially in overdose. Training is for clients who are high risk to gain the skills to administer the Naloxone in the community and to receive their pack upon release. Naloxone has been provided in the Northern Ireland Prison service since 2013. All AD:EPT staff are trained to deliver Naloxone Training. Co-facilitated by AD:EPT.
Auricular Acupuncture: used throughout Start360’s services, delivered by AD:EPT, once a week, to support, assist with cravings, help sleep disturbance; increased general well-being. Allowing core addiction casework to be more holistic. Start360 AD:EPT staff are trained Acupuncture Detox Specialists (ADS). Endorsed by The World Health Organization.
Building Skills for Recovery Programme (BSR): A structured psychosocial treatment programme accredited by the Correctional Services Accreditation and Advisory Panel (CSAAP). Based on a cognitive behavioural model. Reducing offending behaviour and dependent substance misuse towards recovery through exploration of previous and current substance use and skills to prevent relapse, a person centred ‘Recovery Toolkit’. Target group male and female offenders, age 18+ users of substances including alcohol, offenders medium to high risk of reoffending and whose substance use increases the likelihood of crime.
SMART Recovery Meetings: Self-Management and Recovery Training, a NIPS Funded Programme provides training for people to aid change; addiction to drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, food, shopping, Internet and others. Guided by trained facilitators, participants help themselves and each other using cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and motivational techniques.
credited Recovery Champion Training, Naloxone Overdose Awareness Training including CPR; NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) Auricular Acupressure Magnetic Seeds administration, Harm Reduction & Education including OST (Opiate Substitute Therapy), Blood Borne Virus Education & Training. Peer mentors personal development can also help with volunteering, education & employment opportunities.
Is AD: EPT only available to individuals in custody? Yes, at present, however, Start360 is a leading provider of support services to young people, adult offenders, and fams across Northern Ireland, with services and interventions in health, justice and employability.
Why is AD:EPT important? And are there aspects of the service which could be improved? It is an invaluable therapeutic service within the custodial environment to help with substance use issues. The service is continually progressing to meet the evolving world of substance use. Staff engage in Continuous Professional Development. We work with the S.E. Trust to ensure person centred treatment. Continuing to develop innovative ways to address the complex needs of service users in Northern Ireland
SMART 4-Point Programme: techniques used for the recovery journey, help deal with future problems and achieve more life satisfaction and balance. The four points are: 1. Building and Maintaining Motivation. 2. Coping with urges. 3. Managing Thoughts, feelings and Behaviours. 4. Living a Balanced Life.
Could you explain the peer mentor programme? The peer mentor was established 2015. Peer mentors are prisoners, who travelled a similar journey. Working on their own recovery and alongside AD:EPT. Peer mentors gain NOMS (National Offender Management Service) Ac-
How can individuals avail of the services of AD:EPT? Anyone in custody can refer directly into the service – we also take referrals from prison staff and other agencies, and from family members of prisoners.
What are the aims and objectives of AD:EPT? The enduring Mission is “ Change Starts Here”. Our Vision is “Every Person Stronger”. Our Values are: 1. Accept and Respect. 2. Challenge and Change. 3. Engage and Empower. 4. Deliver. 5. Strategic Aims Start360 has worked within the Northern Ireland Prison Service since 1999. We have seen a lot of changes in relation to substance use. The changes in substance use in the community are reflected in custody.
Can inmates make the prison a safe environment? The safest method is not use illicit substances and take medication as prescribed. Remember drugs/alcohol taken together can interact which increase their effect. Overdoses happen when people mix heroin, or opioids (Fentanyl), Morphine, Codeine or Alcohol with benzos such as Temazepam, Diazepam or Xanax. ALL sedating medications carry overdose risks alone; when combined the risk is substantially increased because the drugs use different mechanisms in the body to create sedation. Keep each other safe and find out the facts. >>A.L
The Benefits of Prison Writing
I started work on this article a few months ago. Our course director had had a book on her desk, Unlocking the Prison Muse by Julian Broadhead. This began a discussion about the many benefits gained by writing whilst in prison. Now I must be frank, my experience has been short, in relation to writing and to prison. I was able to relate to some of the immediate benefits; it’s interesting, it gives you something to do to fill your days, and it engages you in a way that you don’t find yourself engaged normally within the prison environment. I asked my tutor if I could read the book, I was reading a lot more than I had normally, and it had peaked my interest. What I hadn’t realised before working my way through, were the benefits prison writing offered to literature. When you hear the phrase Prison Writing I would imagine your mind races, like mine did, to recantations by murderers, gang-lords and those wrongfully convicted of various and varying offences. While it is undeniable that these exist and some would argue, make up the vast majority of works published by those in the prison system, there are many notable works of literature which may not have come to be had their writers not been in prison at the time. It would be extremely reductive and naive to assume that there is little to be gained from this branch of writing, someone once told me that the prison experience is one which not many go through, so it is natural that it would be an area of interest to readers.
It isn’t hard to believe that the experience of being in prison can lead to the production of a great number of high quality pieces of writing; the average prisoner spends large swathes of the day with little more to occupy him or herself than to explore their own thoughts, good and bad; there is a lot of down-time. In a lot of prisoners, not all granted, there is a want and in some, a need, to engage their brains in order to help get through the time. Writing can be a release, a form of mental engagement and also a way to make sense of the situation
and surroundings. When this is tallied up, it becomes easier to understand how writing and even writing of substance can be produced within this environment. I can only speak about my own experience and some of the benefits I have seen in others; being able to view them first hand has taken them from a cursory discussion between pupil and tutor, or from words on a page, has helped solidify in my own mind the benefits for the individual, the benefits to a wider readership aren’t for me to judge. In our class I’ve seen a cross-section of our society, become engaged and thrive. What surprised me was the depth of talent in such a small group. I can only imagine other members have taken similar benefits, such as purpose, working towards something, giving and receiving constructive feedback and challenging yourself. In his book, Julian Broadhead, engages in an academic study of all published work written by either a current or past inmate; from Oscar Wilde to Jeffrey Archer and everyone in between. Throughout his book it struck me that a lot of writers who had been through the system, might not be, at first glance, apparent to the everyday reader. Whether it be De Profundis by Oscar Wilde, Don Quixote by Cervantes or Borstal Boys by Brendan Behan, the literary world would be a less diverse and representative place today were it not for the contributions of these and many more authors before, during or after their time spent in prison. I couldn’t help but think sitting in the same seat as I am sitting in, past, present or future, could be another with as much, if not more, to contribute to the pantheon of prison literature. What began as something for me to do, rather than sitting about the houses and wings, developed into a genuine appreciation for the talent in the prison. We have fantastic poets, songwriters, short-story experts (writing and telling), and the topics have ranged from serious items, addressing mental health and awareness, to lighter pieces of fantasy and comedy. Credit must go to the course director for creating a relaxed and safe atmosphere, allowing individual’s creativity to be accessed and thrive.
I hope I have given a brief glimpse of the benefits. I believe that there is a depth of talent, of all sorts, in prisons, and my experience has been within creative writing, I have no reason to doubt that this is reflected in most, if not every, prison class. I have found a tendency towards inward reflection throughout my time inside, and writing has given me an outlet for this, I can only guess that others would find it similarly beneficial. Having a vehicle of expressing yourself is crucial within any context, but particularly in an environment where our normal structures and support systems are removed or curtailed. Oscar Wilde, in De Profundis, said “I do not defend my conduct, I explain it” and given a similar opportunity, many prisoners would greatly benefit by being given an opportunity to express this explanation in a coherent and structured manner. Not everyone will agree with this, but that is the great thing about the subjective nature of opinions, they can be criticised or even derided, but if they are honestly held then they can’t be dismissed. >>KMcD
Books Written in Prison
Le Morte d'Arthur: (1485) Thomas Malory’s reworking of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, while imprisoned in the 1450s, awaiting trial for theft.
DonQuixote: (1605) Miguel de Cervantes developed the idea for this book while in prison. Cervantes served time in a debtor's prison, after his novel was published he never experienced money trouble again.
HistoryoftheWorld: (1614/1621)
Sir Walter Raleigh’s work was written during his 13 years vin the Tower of London, imprisoned for treason.
To Althea, from Prison: (1642) Richard Lovelace was jailed for leading a march supporting the Royalists during the conflict between Parliament and Charles I. His seven weeks in the Fleet prison produced the most quoted prison-lines in English poetry: "Stone Walls do not a Prison make, / Nor Iron bars a Cage; / Mindes innocent and quiet take / That for an Hermitage".
ShortStoriesofO.Henry : (1904) William Sydney Porter, in 1895 charged with embezzlement, fled to Honduras to avoid imprisonment. He returned to the US when he found out that his wife was dying of tuberculosis. While in prison, he began writing his short stories.
Introduction to Mathematical Philosophy: (1919) Bertrand Russell often at odds with the Government for his anti-war and anti-imperialist stands, spent six months in prison for speaking his views in 1918.
OurLadyoftheFlowers:(1943) Jean Genet’s famous semi-autobiographical novel about a drag queen in the Paris underworld, was written by while in prison for various charges included theft and vagabondage.
The Essential Gandhi:(1962) Gandhi spent time in prison for civil disobedience, and did a lot of writing while behind bars.
InthePlaceofJustice: (1961) Wilbert Rideau served almost 44 years before his release in 2005. Convicted of murder at 19, sentenced to death in 1961, his sentence commuted to life in prison in 1972. Rideau spent most of his sentence in Angola State Penitentiary (the Farm), where he started writing.
One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich: (1962) Alexsandr Solzhenitsyn, sentence to eight years in a Siberian labour camp for making negative comments about Stalin in a private letter. He wrote about his experience, and won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1970.
No Beast So Fierce: (1973) Edward Bunker, a former careercriminal and prison escapee featured as Mr Blue in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs.
IntheBellyoftheBeast:Letters from Prison: (1981) Jack Henry Abbott’s work stems from letters to the author Norman Mailer, describing childhood in reformatories, time in prison for murder in 1965 at the age of 21. He killed again six weeks after his release in 1981.
ThePilgrim'sProgress: (1678/1684) John Bunyan, a British Puritan persecuted for his religious beliefs, spent almost a decade in prison where he wrote his allegory on how to live a righteous life.
CivilDisobedience:(1849) Henry David Thoreau spent one night in jail, for refusing to pay a poll tax used to fund a war with Mexico, which Thoreau objected to. His one night inside inspired his most famous essay.
The House of the Dead: (1860-2) Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s most famous book is Crime and Punishment but he wrote The House of the Dead while in a Serbian labour camp, a stark account of his prison experience.
Couldn’t Keep it to Myself: Testimoniesfrom Our ImprisonedSisters: (2003) Wally Lamb, author of She’s Come Undone, since 1999, runs a writing program at York Correctional Institution. The book contains essays written by prisoners, details harrowing conditions of early lives, experiences in prison, and hopes for the future.
Shantaram: (2003) Gregory David Roberts a heroin addict, escaped from prison in 1980, lived in India for almost ten years, before recapture in 1990. Shantaram is a fictionalized version of his own story.
Prison Diaries: (2004) Jeffery Archer’s trilogy. Prison books written during his sentence for perjury.
Conversations With Myself : (2010) Nelson Mandela's writings composed while imprisoned for 27 years for fighting against apartheid in South Africa. After his release he was elected president.
Two short stories by GS shortlisted and selected for the Southbank Centre Koestler Trust exhibition in London and included in a booklet made to accompany the displays. Miracleis one of the stories showcased in the exhibition catalogue.
Miracles
The bus-driver gave the man his ticket and gunned the engine. The passenger was thrown forward and almost lost his footing. He resisted the urge to turn back and confront the driver. He took a seat next to the window and shook the raindrops from his jacket. An elderly lady sat opposite him scowled at him as the water hit her forehead. Her terrier barked at him. He looked the dog in the eye and it stopped barking immediately, curled its tail between its legs and cowered into the lap of the old lady who had suddenly turned to look out the window. Two teenaged boys three seats back were snickering and the man felt something bounce off the back of his head. His heartbeat quickened and the angry voices in his head began to scream again. He heard his father’s voice ‘Ignore them son, they don’t understand.’ The breathing techniques, the advice from all those therapists and psychiatrists; all those faces and words and techniques flickered and echoed in the chaos of his mind like a movie on fast-forward. He closed his eyes, placed his hands on his lap (face down) and concentrated on his breathing… felt his chest heaving…slowed it down. The man turned to look out the window. Rain was streaming down the panes and the last light of day was fading. The orange glow of streetlights reflected on the umbrellas of the people rushing home from work. An old Labrador sat at the edge of the pavement waiting for a break in the traffic. The old dog’s sandy coat was soaked but the man thought the dog looked happy. His gaze refocused on his own reflection. He looked pale and blue eyes looked deep into their own soul. Frown-lines creased his forehead above bushy black brows. His ears looked exaggeratingly huge and made him think fleetingly of the taunts of classmates at school ‘teapot…F.A Cup…Dumbo.’ Breathe Simon…Breathe. His stop was next. He could feel every eye on the bus staring at him even before he stood up to get off the bus. More giggles and rude noises followed him all the way down the aisle and only stopped when the door of the bus hissed shut behind him. He knew he shouldn’t
have looked back when he saw one of the teenagers stood staring at him and circling a finger at the side of his head. The boy was sneering and Simon read the words ‘looney’ on the boy’s lips. He turned and walked away into the heavy rain.
All the way down the pavement he was careful not to step on any cracks or lines on the paving-stones. He and his brother Mark loved to play that game when they were boys. He kept a framed picture of Mark on his bedside locker; proud and handsome in his armyuniform. He missed his brother terribly.
From a warmly lit café an old man smiled and waved at him. The old man had friendly, knowing eyes. Simon wanted to smile back. He tried but couldn’t.
The chapel was warm and candles cast swaying shadows on the walls and statues. The air smelled of flowers and wax and frankincense. Simon knelt at the altar, blessed himself and began to pray one last time for a miracle.
>>GS
Two bunks, double cell with toilet and sink confronted him when the cell door was opened by a prison officer. He entered. The door closed and was locked shut. He looked around, somewhat shocked at the appearance of his new home, for how long he didn’t know. The walls were painted institutional cream and green. The floor a depressing grey, speckled with flecks and small clusters of green, sparsely furnished with one hard plastic chair, small table and narrow wardrobe with two shelves and no door. A small two shelf unit hung on a wall with biscuit crumbs littering the shelves. His eyes lit on a grimy mirror above a well-used grotty looking grey and black marble sink. The toilet was situated just beyond the foot of the bottom bunk and was separated from a nearby sink by a waist high partition with hinged attached door. It offered very little privacy when in use. A four by four window overlooked a tarmac yard, enclosed by thirty foot heavy duty mesh fences topped with entwined razor wire.
of the outside world only added more pain to his already fragile state. It seemed to him since taken into custody, everything concerned with his surroundings were designed to instil a sense confinement, claustrophobia, an overwhelming and oppressive state. He reasoned he had to keep control of his emotions and keep at bay all negative thoughts. Encapsulated within himself he would persevere and strive towards release and freedom. Banish them as soon as they came drifting into his mind. He knew the first night, first morning, first walk around the yard, first visit and first everything would be the most difficult. Think your way out of it. You’re here now he thought, make the best of it, learn from it and proceed forward in a positive manner. He checked his mattress. One side was stained, with what he didn’t know and didn’t want to know. A residual smell of cigarette smoke remained on the mattress. He turned it over and put the under-sheet on, enveloped the duvet in a cream cover and put on a clean pillow case. His belongings were in a huge brown paper bag. He opened it and placed some items on shelves. He preferred to keep most items in the bag as it saved time when he might be moved at short notice. Sitting on the edge of his bed he leaned over and put on the television, going up and down the channels without settling on any due to his mind overflowing with questions, doubts and uncertainty. Getting up from his bed he switched the television off, put the cell light on as night was falling fast and went to the window. Through the side vents of the window he could feel and smell the sweet fresh air and hear the steady hiss of rain striking the ground. The prison security lights allowed him to see the hypnotizing effect of shimmering bubbles of rainwater bouncing off the tarmac. Turning away from the window he became aware of a constant cacophony of noise, always present in the background but unnoticed because his mind was overflowing, bursting, near shattering with an accumulation of his thoughts and fears. From the cell below him, either side of him, cells up and down the corridor in which he was housed the sounds came; a conglomeration of TV’s,
rave, rock, heavy metal, rap and more. Voices sometimes loud, sometimes soft, echoed and bounced around the cavernous corridors of his unit. A prisoner further along from his cell was banging on the back of his door and shouting for the attention of a prison officer. No one answered him. The early hours, the dead of night would be the only times he might be free of constant noise. Stripping off he washed at the cell sink, observing the ravages of time, natural ageing on his body. He still looked fit and healthy considering his age, but time can’t be stopped he thought. He dried himself. Switching off the light he noticed the emergency cell call button. Settling down for the night he lay on his side with the duvet pulled up over his shoulder. Sleep would not come easily. His mind was awash with thoughts of his wife, a yearning for her, profound and deep, his mind on every feature in adoring detail. He recalled tracing his fingers down her spine, stopping and gently caressing the groove at the base. Longing for his wife his heart ached. His head on the pillow he tried to capture a tendril of her delightful scent, like that of an exquisite flower that blossomed with its own unique fragrance. He tried to savour the sensation. It floated around him but was always just out of reach. She was a total delight to all his senses. Thinking, longing for her his heart was pounding and feeling clammy he shrugged off the duvet. They had total devotion for each other. His heart body and soul were hers. A knotted clenching feeling filled his stomach and gasping, he struggled for breath, thinking and longing for his wife. He breathed slowly, until he felt calm. Indulging, reflecting about his wife for too long placed him in danger of becoming melancholic.
It was a long time before he finally succumbed to sleep. Then the dreams came, like a gossamer thin cloud moving slowly across an azure sky on a beautiful summer’s day. Surreal and frightening they swelled up from his consciousness, rising high like a flood tide within him emerging from the darkness, dreaming of eternal punishment and the righteous receiving eternal life. Fighting the memory of those terrifying dreams he awoke suddenly thinking of the wrong choices and paths he had made and taken in life. It was so easy to become lost in the world. The intensity of his strong emotions of his wife and bleak depressing essence of his dreams disturbed him. Relishing the fresh air wafting into his cell he got up, went to the window and saw the early morning sun burn off the moisture in the ground as a thin mist languidly dissipated in the distance. >>RH
The Open University has been at the forefront of education in a prison environment for over 40 years. The ethos is ‘open to everyone’, helping students achieve goals, learn new skills and gain third level qualification, from access certificates to degree level.
Here at Time In we decided to talk to The Open University prison co-ordinator to find out the process in a Northern Ireland prison setting. Why is it important that prisoners have access to university levels of study?
For individuals successful in their educational studies the opportunity to have access, through Distance Learning, to university level of study can help develop confidence and belief in themselves while assisting their rehabilitation and resettlement back into community life following their release from custody. What courses are on offer?
The Open University offers qualifications in a broad range of subjects from short introductory modules to longer, broader modules leading to degrees and other recognised qualifications. Subjects available includes:
Arts and humanities
Business and Management
Computing and IT
Engineering, design and technology
Environment and development
Health and social care
Languages
Law
Mathematics and statistics
Psychology and counselling
Science
Social Science
Sport, fitness and coaching
is released from custody. Student Finance NI provides information on funding entitlement.
What level of education does a prisoner need in order to apply?
Demonstrate evidence of learning and attainment at or above National Level Qualification Framework level 2 in literacy, numeracy and ICT. Also, show commitment to complete the chosen modules or courses.
The Open University offers a range of introductory Access modules which students are encouraged to apply for to enable them to experience what it is like to study and then decide if Distance Learning is for them. There are three access modules available:-
Y031 - Arts and languages
Y032 - People, work and society
Y033 - Science, technology and maths.
Can a prisoner continue their course of study after they are released?
Yes, of course they can. Prior to being released the student will complete a form which will be passed onto the Open University. This will include new contact details to enable direct contact with the Open University. How can a prisoner access course finance?
When an individual is in custody NIPS provide the funding for those Individuals who meet the criteria, for example an Access course: Funding of up to £1000 per academic year (August to July) for up to 6 years to-
What support exists within the prison service once a student is signed up?
Support is provided for Distance Learning by the Activities Governors and NIPS staff. The OU co-ordinator, Wendy Thompson, is available to raise queries with the OU or the tutors. Distance Learning is most suitable for those individuals who work on their own with minimal contact with the OU or the tutors. If individuals wish to talk to their tutor, or order relevant books then requests should be submitted on PRISM for Wendy Thompson’s attention. Monthly visits will be arranged during which the Activities Governors and Wendy meet with the OU students that wish to attend. Queries that occur in between visits can be put on PRISM.
Who do you contact within your prison for more information?
If a student requires further information please contact Wendy Thompson. Information can also be requested from the Activities Governor.
KOESTLER TRUST HIGHLIGHTS 2019
Another Me is the title of this year’s Koestler Trust exhibition at Southbank Centre, curated by award-winning musician Soweto Kinch, an award winning musician on the jazz and hiphop scenes.
Included are over 150 artworks. from music and poetry to paintings, drawings and sculpture. The Koestler Trust group said that ‘The title for the exhibition invites visitors to reassess their perceptions of people who have spent time inside.’
Each year the Koestler Trust awards play a huge role in the lives of prisoners involved with artistic disciplines and in particular taking part in (PAF) Prison Arts Foundations’ programmes.
24 winners HMP Magilligan include 2 Platinum, 3 Silver, 6 Bronze, 4 Highly Commended, 6 Commended, 1 Under 25s Special & 2 First time entrant Awards
4 Awards for Hydebank College & Women’s Prison include 1 Platinum, 1 Silver & 2 Commended Awards
4 Awards for PAF community entrants include 1 Highly Commended & 3 Commended Awards
2 Award winners works showcased, 2 creative writing pieces and 1 artwork at Koestler’s ‘Another Me’ exhibition in Southbank Centre, London. 19 September - 2 November 2019.
1 Award winner’s creative writing selected for publication in Koestler’s ‘Voices from Prison’, a booklet of writing collated in celebration of National Writing Day. (Broken Robots)
Another overwhelmingly successful year for the writers group at HMP Magilligan. 23 awards with two platinum among the outstanding results. The NWRC art department further gained awards as well as the PAF music group. A first for the NWRC was awards in barbering, including a gold award.
Koestler Trust Awards 2019: Creative Writers Group
1.Anthology Creative Writing OCN Level 1 Platinum Award (group entry)
2.Shane's Song Book - A Song in Every Word Platinum Award
3.Flash Fiction and Short Story Gillet Juane - One Man's Story Silver Award
4.Poem In and Out of Costume Silver Award
5.Poem Live One Day at a Time and Make it a Masterpiece Silver Award
6.Anthology Life Bronze Award
7.Poem A Dark Night Bronze Award
8.Flash Fiction and Short Story The Winds of Change Bronze Award
9.Anthology Dead Man's Shoes Bronze Award
10.Flash Fiction and Short Story The Bond Bronze Award
11.Flash Fiction and Short Story A Drawing Down of Blinds Bronze Award
12.Flash Fiction and Short Story The Things We Carried and The Drugs We Took and The Lives We Lived FirstTime Entrant Award
13.Flash Fiction and Short Story First Impression FirstTime Entrant Award
14.Anthology Pathway to Prison Under 25s Special Award
15.Flash Fiction and Short Story Taxi Man Highly Commended Award
16.Handmade Book Poetry Extracts Highly Commended Award
Gary Sloan Up-Date
2 Award winners creative writing selected for publication in Vol. 2 of Koestler’s Anthology of poetry ‘Koestler Voices’. Broken Robot & Wagtail.
17.Anthology Tales From Around the Lough Shores Highly Commended Award
18.Anthology Creative Writing OCN Level 2 Commended Award (group entry)
19.Anthology Standing Room Only Commended Award
20.Longer Fiction and Novel Rocket Man Commended Award
21.Poetry Collection A Tirade of Little Consequence Commended Award
22.Poem I Am Death Commended Award
23.Life Story Life - Story One Commended Award
Can Prisoners Write their Wrongs?
Creative writing in prison
I have always been very aware of the power of words; spoken, written and read. Words are what define us, they are everywhere, within us, around us and behind us.
Words have the power to transform. They can have a profound healing effect or they can cause indescribable harm. So please, remember to always choose your words carefully.
I have been part of the creative writing class here in Magilligan for two years. I have seen so many inmates come and go, and in that time I have become utterly convinced that reading and writing has the power to change a person’s life.
I’ve seen it go like this; the door opens on a Monday morning and in swaggers a twenty-something year old from one of the wings. The eyes are darting left to right, taking in his surroundings, looking for a familiar face or a potential threat. Then, with shoulders back and chest out he’ll say to the teacher ‘Is this creative writing? I was told to come here.’
And I can guarantee you that, by the beginning of the following week, that same “gangster” who came strutting through the door days ago, will be relaxed at a computer writing short stories or poetry about his life, his family or his children.
Prison offers a variety of services that are designed to help an incarcerated man or woman cope with having had their liberty taken from them, confined to an enclosed and controlled environment. There are gymnasiums, educational classes, counselling groups to name but a few.
These services have been proven to be beneficial outlets for inmates, but I have seen with my own eyes the transformation in so many of the men who have walked into this writing class, sat down at a computer desk and bravely put their feelings onto paper.; the bravado vanishes, the barriers come down, the shoulders fall and their eyes soften as they receive encouragement from all the other guys sat around him.
The simplicity of sitting at a keyboard and having the freedom to pour your thoughts and your worries, your hopes and dreams and the real you onto paper, be it as a short story, a poem, a rap or even just a line or two this, to me, is a powerfully effective therapy any person can benefit from.
I have seen it; the hurts and frustrations being poured onto paper, writing that has opened discussions between a room of repeat offenders, some with mental health issues and some with addiction problems. They write. They share. They discuss. They think. They learn. They change!
Creativity is good for the soul, it’s good for self-esteem and it’s available to everyone!
Creative writing is a unique way for a person to explore themselves, to look within themselves and to fine tune any little chinks in their armour that may be causing problems in their lives.
So, go on! Read a good book. Find new authors and allow them to open your mind. Let the beauty of your own word heal your heart, set your soul free and open
Nature Watch Christmas Plants
This Christmas, take a moment to look around at the variety of winter plants displaying their beauty; irrepressible evergreens which we humans have held in such high regard that for centuries we have been offering them as gifts, adorning our homes in their flowers and foliage and using them as medicines for a long list of ailments.
Holly (Ilex) This hardy little plant has represented immortality since humans began to look to plants for inspiration. It has been given as a gift at ancient Roman festivals and used as a protection against evil spirits, poisons, thunder and lightning and the evil eye. In rural England it is often placed in barns to bring good fortune and health to livestock. In Ireland holly has been kept in the home as a way of keeping away fairies and elves. This many-faceted little plant has also been used over the millennia as a cure for measles, rheumatism and asthma.
Poinsettia Flowers (Euphorbiapulcherrima) Not all plants tied to Christmas are evergreen though, and this little beauty has recently found its way into homes all over the world during the festive period. The poinsettia’s vibrant red flower is now an established member of the Christmas decorations list and can be seen on holiday calendars and cards worldwide.
Native to Mexico, the legends and lore surrounding this little, red flowering plant stretch back centuries. It has been revered by Aztec emperors, used in medicines, dyes and to decorate churches and homes. It has even been connected to divine miracles.
The poinsettia was first introduced to Christmas traditions in the 17th century when Franciscan monks began
using it in their nativity scenes. An American diplomat, Joel Roberts Poinsett, visited the Mexican countryside in the winter of 1828 and came across the plant and took some back home with him to South Carolina and the poinsettia’s popularity flourished.
Yew Trees (Taxus); in Europe, a Yuletide role has been reserved for this evergreen shrub or tree, easily identified by its red berries. Yews are valued as slowgrowing, low-maintenance plants tolerant of shady conditions.
Mistletoe Plants (Viscumalbum); after all the kissing at parties has been done, we tend to forget mistletoe for another year. That is unfortunate because there is so much more in the history of this fascinating plant than just providing cover for stolen kisses. Like holly, mistletoe was revered by the ancient Celts.
Christmas Trees; no list of plants steeped in Yuletide lore would be complete without mentioning the beloved Christmas tree. This traditional favourite has its roots in paganism and had to fight its way into the Christian celebration of Christmastime. Now it is the undisputed king of the holidays as millions of us take it home, trim it, decorate it and place our gifts beneath it for the big day!
Much of nature retreats to hide away from the darker, colder days of winter. However, these little warriors hold their heads up high, bloom their tenacity for all the world to see and give us humans something beautiful and colourful to help us through the long months of winter. I believe these are but a few of the reasons we have come to cherish them so much. Merry Christmas everyone! >>GS
The Vinyl Countdown
The Art of the Album Cover
Aform, and this issue I’m going to give you a quick run through of famous artists who have designed or painted actual album covers for bands, and I’ll also throw in my favourite artist that has painted covers for the rock band ‘TOOL’, whose artwork is so good most people think it is computer generated! Ah, where to start… well I suppose when you think of great album covers you tend to think of Pink Floyd (Dark Side of the Moon, A Saucerful of Secrets, Animals, etc.) and too many other great bands who have used Iconic Images. For some reason it seems that the rock scene has always had the best covers – look at Nevermind (‘Nirvana’), Chilli Peppers (‘Blood, Sex, Sugar, Magic’) and Kula Shaker (‘K’) – (pictured here). Maybe I’ve lost the younger generation here but I’ll bring you up to speed…famous artists who have designed covers for bands...mmm let me see… Well Banksy designed Blur’s ‘Think Tank’ album with two lovers in an embrace with sea-diving helmets on a typical Banksy Image I suppose. Then you have Jeff Koons who designed Lady Gaga’s ‘Artpop’ album with a sculpture of Gaga with one of his trademark spheres between her legs and fragments of famous art behind that which suits Gaga to a T!
Other famous artists include Salvador Dali (Jackie Gleeson – ‘Lonesome’), H.R. Giger (Debbie Harry –‘KooKoo’) and Andy Warhol (The Velvet Underground - (‘Nico’), who have all added their trademark style to make classic covers.
covers and also designs their on-stage visuals, logo’s and general artwork. His style could be best explained by saying it is geometric, spiritual and esoteric. I don’t know of any other artist who does this style and is therefore unique and maybe that’s why I like it – we all are unique at something – it’s only a matter of finding out what that is, should it be writing, art, music or performance art – we all have a talent…YES YOU TOO! Back to Alex Grey and I’ll add a couple of Images here for you to be amazed at and Yes, they are all hand painted NOT computer generated! >>RMcA
The Vinyl Word
Thepast few years have seen a major return of vinyl records. More and more people are spending money on record players and vinyl disks. Records that people more than likely threw out or got damaged over time are now being sold for ridiculous amounts of money. In an era were digital downloads are sending the compact disk into extinction. Vinyl prevails. Is it just a trend or is Vinyl simply a collectors World for music enthusiasts? We spoke to Magilligan's Musician-in-Residence Paddy Nash to get his insight into the ever changing music industry….
Is art an important part of putting together an album?
I think it adds to the overall package and it’s imperative to have the artwork reflect the mood of the album. That said, some of my favourite albums don’t necessarily have great artwork but the art is still instantly recognisable as a vital piece of the whole painting. What has inspired the comeback of Vinyl LP’s amongst today’s generation of music listeners?
Most young music lovers eventually find their way to their parent’s collection. There’s a story behind every vinyl I’ve ever bought. I can’t say the same for CD’s or even tapes. There’s just something magical about a vinyl. The anticipation when the needle falls, the crackling and then the main event. A vinyl demands you listen to every song, and that you treat it with it love and care. That’s why it’s the true representation of the art. Do you think that with the comeback of Vinyl LP’s that older artists like ‘The Beatles’ will gain more popularity with today’s younger audiences?
I hope so. We live in the Spotify age where albums in general are becoming a thing of the past. It’s all singles now and even they’re becoming more and more disposable. When I was growing up we had some great music shows. DJ’s would play the indie stuff, John Peel, The Old Grey Whistle Test. They turned us on to the music that wasn’t top 40. We don’t have that anymore. The whole market is saturated with bland pop crammed in to your face and ears with every advert. Even the so called alternative scene is just one big marketing scam with bands having to pay their way on to the TV or pay
Wu-Tang Clan:OnceUponaTimeinShaolin
$2 million
The Beatles: The Beatles (White Album)
$790,000
Elvis Presley:MyHappiness
$300,000
The Beatles: Sgt.Pepper'sLonelyHeartsClub Band(signed by all four Beatles)
$290,000
The Beatles: TilthereWasYou(10” acetate)
£77,500
to support other bands. What that serves to create is an audience who will only probably hear The Beatles if they’re played on an episode of Hollyoaks.
Do you think the art on the cover of The Beatles album ‘Abbey Road’ helped shaped how iconic the album became?
I’m sure it did. It’s not the best album cover. The photo was taken on a whim. But it captures a time, a place, a movement, a revolution almost. Every time I look at that cover I just want to play it. I don’t even skip Ringo. There is a long-standing debate amongst music listeners that vinyl is the best format to play music. What is your opinion on this?
Yes I agree. It’s not the most convenient and it’s definitely the most expensive but I think it’s worth it. If you truly love and live music you’ll go that extra mile. Maybe not every time but it’s a treat when you do.
Is art in music videos still as relevant as it was in the days of MTV?
A few years ago with the popularity of YouTube I would say, yes. Nowadays videos are just live or mimed performances. There are still some enthusiasts who continue this dark art but the main audience are usually blissfully unaware that the song from TOWIE actually has a decent video and the lyrics are trying to say something. They’re too busy adding it to their Spotify playlist while they pose for another selfie on Instagram.
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.
Education First
InOctober, prisoners at Magilligan studying construction skills took part in the first ever SkillBuild NI competition in a UK prison. SkillBuild is largest multi-trade competition in the UK for construction trainees and apprentices.
The competition is recognised and promoted as SkillBuild NI while SkillBuild Competitions Ltd was established in 1994, obtaining permission in 1996 to use the SkillBuild name and logo. The competition is held annually with winners often progressing to represent Northern Ireland in the Skills Show UK and potentially at WorldSkills. In 1997 SkillBuild NI obtained the National Seal of Approval from UK Skills, which is recognised by the Government as the standard setting body across all industry sectors for Skills Competitions.
The North West Regional College (NWRC) in collaboration with the Northern Ireland Prison Service hosted the competition in Magilligan were prisoners demonstrated their skills in woodwork, joinery, tiling, plastering, welding, horticulture, painting and decorating. Skillbuild NI is governed by Construction Industry Training
Board (CITB) NI and supported by the Department for the Economy, ensuring the status and standards of professional and technical education and training.
Following discussions over the past year and a visit by David Cooper (Director, CITB NI) the NWRC at Magilligan were given approval to deliver an internal SkillBuild NI competition, the first time ever that a SkillBuild competition was delivered in a prison setting, and a tribute to supporting staff and tutors who believed their students had the aptitudes to participate. The competition planning, guidelines, tasks, marking and standards were supervised by SkillBuild NI and the NWRC SkillBuild representatives. The competition heats and finals took place during the week beginning 7 October – heats were judged by tutors from NWRC, representatives from the CITB NI and the finals judged by a panel of judges representing SkillBuild NI. Over 60 students took part in the competition. A final 32 participants were selected and winners announced in each of the eight categories. The 4 top scoring students from each trade area took part in the final on Friday 11 October.
David Cooper, Director at CITB NI, responsible for the annual delivery of SkillBuild NI said it was fantastic news that Magilligan hosted the first ever event in a prison. He added that ‘having recently visited the prison and seeing the quality of work on display I am sure the event will be a huge success. I have been involved in skills competitions for over 20 years and I know that those individuals who participate will gain confidence and self-esteem and have an opportunity to display their skills to their family members and fellow students.’
Dr Damian O’Kane Head of Education, NWRC, Magilligan, commented that: ‘In partnership with Magilligan Prison and SkillBuild NI, we are delighted to have been able to provide students with an opportunity to showcase the knowledge and skills they have acquired while undertaking accredited programmes with the NorthWest Regional College.’
Speaking at the event Governor Andy Tosh said that Magilligan were delighted to host the event and especially ‘the first ever SkillBuild competition within a prison setting. Working with our colleagues from North West Regional College we are delivering learning and skills programmes that are directly linked to job opportunities within our communities, allowing our rehabilitative work to extend beyond the prison walls and support people in our care to reintegrate back into society.’
Barbering Trainer Assessor at Magilligan, Ciara, felt the competition important as it ‘gave students the initiative to work hard, it gave them a competitive edge, knowing they were going up against each other.’ Ciara whose students recently received a number of Koestler Trust Awards added that the SkillBuild ‘ created a buzz. The atmosphere over the week of the competition was intense, but enjoyable. I think it has helped the students feel they can achieve things they never thought they could and has helped them be proud of their work.’ On a more personal note she added, ‘I loved it because I could see in my students that they were really passionate about cutting hair, not just because they were coming to class to get off the landing or some other reason.’
Shuan, the woodwork tutor and craftsman said ‘the importance of the competition was witnessed by the efforts of the competitors who really valued it, and not least a break from the norm.’ Shuan stated that he ‘would not be surprised following the event that the next SkillBuild would generate more interest.’ He concluded by saying that ‘the self worth of the competitors was evident by spirit amongst the class. Long term valued links with the likes of the CITB (construction industry training board) will ultimately be beneficial for employers and competitors gaining employment.’ Students taking part equally responded with enthusiasm. AE, ‘The SkillBuild competition was a very good idea. It was good to be competitive.’ TK, ‘SkillBuild was a good way for people to show off their talents. The “wasted talent” had an opportunity to demonstrate abilities.’ CK. ‘It was very very good – I learned a load more about barbering. I couldn’t have done it without Ciara’s support. I’m definitely going to pursue barbering when I get out. Taking part in SkillBuild has really opened my eyes.’ PA, ‘SkillBuild was a good thing to come into the prison. It’s good to see the prison moving forward – it motivated people to put the effort in.’ VD, ‘I really enjoyed the whole experience. It has given me the confidence to continue on with barbering.’
Damian O’Kane and Andrew Cromie (Activities Governor), paid special tribute to the tutors from NWRC: Raymond (NIPS Instructor) who supported students throughout the SkillBuild journey. Jillian and Pauline, the backbone of the organising committee. They extend thanks to include S.O. Clements and the kitchen team. PEIs (Gym staff) and their orderlies for turning the gym into an award presentation venue. Jeremy, Karl and their orderlies for delivering solutions to ‘insurmountable’ problems William McGinley and Pat McGinley for their help Joan, who ensured that everyone turned up at the designated locations and last but by no means least, Governor Tosh and the Senior Management Team who supported the week long activities, providing prizes and incentives for participants.
Raise the Bars
Sport for All
The gymnasium at Magilligan prison is perhaps one of the best gyms in the whole of Ireland, inside or out. Boasting a huge selection of the most up-todate equipment; machines, free-weights and apparatus. There is also a five-a-side football pitch, basketball and badminton courts and lawns.
I spoke to Nigel, one of the instructors responsible for the recent additions made to the curriculum at the prison gym. Nigel explained to me that the new programme has been shaped to cater to the needs of each and every individual wishing to avail of the prison gymnasium.
Brand new and exciting activities such as rugby, Gaelic football and cycling have seen the number of participants rocketing. The large outdoor pitch with goalposts has not seen as much action in a while.
‘It’s great to see so many men of all ages and abilities taking part in the activities being offered’ said Nigel. ‘It is exactly the response we were aiming for.’
Nigel went on to say how the numbers attending the gym sessions has increased since the changes that have been introduced.
‘Numbers were falling drastically, and we realised, from speaking to inmates, that the reduced number of sessions available to them was the off-putting
factor. And sure enough, when we offered a new improved structure with additional sessions for inmates of all regimes, the number of men attending the gym has more than doubled, and it’s great to see that.’
There is a new buzz about the prison in recent months; men of varying age-groups can be seen walking from their residences towards the gym with their gym-gear under their arms and a brand new spring in their step. Record numbers have signed up for the prison Parkrun and stuck with it through all types of weather, even the famous Magilligan winters.
Should one find oneself walking up or down the phase it is not uncommon now to hear the yelling and cheers of encouragement from teammates and instructors on the gravel pitch as a rugby ball or a Gaelic soccer ball is sent soaring over the bar.
These new activities on offer to inmates not only improve physical health and well-being, they also make it possible for participants to gain accreditations. This in turn can have an extremely positive effect on a person’s mental and emotional wellbeing, self-esteem can benefit from such achievements.
The Duke of Edinburgh scheme has been running at Magilligan for a number of years. This widely recognised scheme has advanced the lives of many former residents of HMP Magilligan. Participants in the scheme can gain new skills and are offered further assistance upon release from prison.
Cycling has become enormously popular since being added to the long list of events on offer to inmates. A great way to get fit and to test yourself in a different way, cycling is now firmly imbedded in the prison gym’s curriculum. Top of the range mountain bikes are provided, as is all the essential safety equipment; helmets, gloves, kneepads etc. Full training is provided on the outside pitch. Safety is paramount, as eventually members will be taken on an outdoor excursion along the coast as far as Ballycastle, learning new road safety skills along the way, building confidence and gaining new qualifications.
The Irish Football Association (IFA) attend the prison on a regular basis to offer inmates the opportunity to partake in courses. Basic introductions to team-building exercises, soccer skills and basic refereeing. The course concludes with a friendly match between inmates, prison staff and course facilitators, and certificates are awarded at the end. Gaelic football has taken off at Magilligan too. Only recently added to the list, there has been no shortage of takers for this course. Like the soccer course, there is a recognised accreditation at the end of the programme, as there is for the rugby course on offer.
The large gymnasium is a fully-equipped, spotlessly cleaned and maintained place where inmates of all abilities can lift weights, play football, basketball, badminton and bowls amongst other things. There are dumbbells, Olympic bars, benches, skipping-ropes and medicine-balls. There are rackets and rowing machines, running machines and crosstrainers. Any gym in the country would be envious of the multitude of modern equipment available in the prison gym.
If you are laid on your bunk right now, cigarette hanging from the corner of your mouth, if you get out of breath walking to the servery to grab your fry -up…get your name down for a few sessions at the gym; it’s free and you might surprise yourself even.
>>GS
According to the NHS online, to live a healthy and fulfilling life into old age, there are many health benefits to be gained from regular exercise. These health benefits not only derive from personal testimony but are also medically proven:
up to a 35% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke
up to a 50% lower risk of type 2 diabetes up to a 50% lower risk of colon cancer up to a 20% lower risk of breast cancer
a 30% lower risk of early death
up to an 83% lower risk of osteoarthritis
up to a 68% lower risk of hip fracture
a 30% lower risk of falls (among older adults) up to a 30% lower risk of depression up to a 30% lower risk of dementia
9 September 1971 prisoners incarcerated in Attica Prison, Buffalo New York, decided they had enough. Tensions were brewing for weeks before the major riot which claimed the lives of 10 hostages and 29 inmates with 89 seriously injured. Inmates were frustrated with the overcrowding, censorship of letters, inhumane living conditions such as one shower per week and one roll of toilet paper each month. The bubble finally burst as inmates made their way to breakfast. Prison guards were overpowered, beaten and taken as hostages. Prisoners made their way throughout cell block D and fought their way through a faulty gate to an area known as ‘Time Square’. Gaining access to Time Square allowed prisoners reign over all cellblocks, many of the 2200 inmates decided to join the carnage, a rampage with guards overthrown and attacked. The prisoners made makeshift weapons. Prison guard, William Quinn was severely beaten and thrown out a second story window. He was pronounced dead 2 days later in hospital. Prisoners destroyed everything they could, even burning down the prison chapel. State police force, armed with submachine guns and tear gas, regained control of three of the four cellblocks without anyone being killed. By
Then the inevitable happened, the State Troops flew over in a helicopter and dropped tear gas into D yard. State Troops swarmed the building, armed with machine guns. The police fired over 3,000 rounds of ammunition into the hazy smoke. 29 inmates and 10 innocent hostages were killed, with 89 badly wounded. An emergency medical technician recalled seeing a wounded prisoner, on the ground with several bullet wounds to his head, many more were beaten within an inch of their lives. The days following the riot tensions were high. Prison officer William Quinn was dead and 3 inmates slain by fellow inmates. It was later proved remaining inmates were put through brutal torment, including crawling on broken glass. There was a lot of speculation as to how the inmates were killed. Autopsies revealed state trooper bullets was the cause of death while official report said inmates died by slitting their own throats. The cover up prompted a Congressional investigation. 43 people lost their lives, Attica went down in history as the worst prison riot in the US.
“The worst prison riot in the US”
and better phone privileges. As negotiations got underway, hundreds of State Troops arrived in Attica, the National Guard was called in. The New York Correction Commissioner, Russell Oswald, agreed to honour inmates demands but Governor Rockefeller ordered the prison to be taken by any means necessary. On the 13 September an ultimatum was issued, demanding prisoners surrender and let hostages go. Unfortunately, the prisoners decided not to give in to the commissioner’s demands and they threatened the hostages by placing knives towards their throats.
Many inmates qualified received substandard medical treatment and in 1974. 1,281 inmates employed lawyers to file a 2.8 billion class action lawsuit against the prison and state officials. 18 years passed before the suit came to trail, along with an extra 5 years to reach the damages phase. In January 2000, New York State and the inmates settled for $8 million, divided between 500 inmates, receiving $16,000 each. The families of the correction officers lost their right to sue due to accepting the modest death benefit cheques sent by the state. The surviving hostages who cashed their pay cheques also lost their right to sue.
Attica correctional facility has incarcerated many high profile criminals including David Berkowitz, Mark Chapman and William Sutton. Serial Killer David Berkowitz, known as the Son of Sam, went on shooting raids in the summer of 1976, killing 6 people and leaving 7 wounded. He claimed he was commanded to do so by a demon that possessed his neighbour’s dog.
In 1981, Mark David Chapman was sentenced to 20 years to life for the murder of John Lennon. Chapman was restricted to a Special Handling Unit at Attica due to the risk of being harmed by fans of Lennon. Chapman refused to eat for 26 days early in his imprisonment. Another infamous criminal William Francis "Willie" Sutton, Jr, a prolific American bank robber, who stole an estimated $2 million during a forty-year criminal career. Sutton spent more than half his adult life in prison and escaped three times. He gained two nicknames, Willie the Actor and Slick Willie for his ability to rob using a disguise. >>BR
The origins of this versatile little verse aren’t certain, but like many things Irish, the history of the limerick is debatable. It is thought to have come from 11th century France and made its way across to England but exact details can’t be pinned down.
In The Curious Story of the Limerick, Matthew Potter tells us that early versions date as far back as the thirteenth century. A poem called “Tom O’Bedlam” written in the style of a limerick appeared around 1600. Shakespeare used the limerick in four plays dating from the late 1590s and early 1600s. Othello and The Tempest both include limericks in the form of drinking songs, while Hamlet and King Lear include limericks used by mentally ill characters.
Despite its longevity and popularity, the limerick wasn’t actually so-called until the end of the nineteenth century.
In 1845, Edward Lear published a book called ‘The Book of Nonsense’ in which he featured 72 limericks. This is the first history of limericks, which includes a published work.
several children’s books.
An English artist and writer, Lear wrote children’s poetry. “The Owl and the Pussycat” was one of his. He adopted the limerick as a form for writing nonsense verse. Nonsense verse became popular during the Victorian era. It uses rules of grammar, rhyming schemes and established poetic forms to give rational structure to its irrational content. While Lear didn’t invent the form, he popularized it.
It has been suggested that soldiers returning from war in Europe during the eighteenth century brought the limerick to Ireland. The Maigue Poets, who hailed from the Maigue River in Limerick, used the form while the eighteenth century also saw the limerick becoming associated with nursery rhymes following the publication of
There once was a man from Coolock who cried as he stood in the dock the judge said dry your tears you’re going away for years and I’ve swallowed the key for the lock
A keyboard player known only as Joe said I’m going to open the show I’ll use my big feet to tap keys to the beat but he ended up breaking his toe.
The Victorian era was an apparent time of respectability and morality, both paramount at the time. However, it was also a time of great social change, witnessing the rise of socialism, liberalism and feminism. Perhaps there was an air of rebellion about the limerick that endeared it to the masses. The limerick became a means of rejecting traditionally imposed values and it was during this time that it became associated with obscenity. Does it really come from Limerick itself – or is it merely coincidence? The earliest known use of the word limerick has recently been identified as 1889. ‘Will you come up to Limerick,’ a now-forgotten tavern chorus from the Irish town of the same name.
Limericks are fun to create. They are humorous, often bawdy, full of folk wisdom, and delightfully entertaining. They are also easy to write with the subject matter basic and often self-deprecating. Below are some of limericks created by the writers group at Magilligan. >>KMcD
A guy I knew in Magilligan a repeat offender, back in again going nowhere too fast says this is his last but his release papers ended up in the bin again.
There once was a woman called Pam who swore she’d never eat lamb on a night without sleep she began to count sheep and woke up with a chop in hand.
A gambler named Devilfish Mick good at the occasional card trick with an ace up his sleeve he could make you believe that it was the same card that you picked.
A scary word we know is “seclusion” it fills you with fear and confusion so when I shut my eyes I’m in a pub with the guys it helps, but it’s just an illusion.
(WK)
I have laid witness to countless murders both sides of the divide attack turn on each other, hatred inbred I have been used in street-to-street battle saw streets run red with innocent blood AND I WEEP I weep for the poor souls who lost their lives and cry empathy out for their love torn families Father against Father Son against Son saw devastation and destruction far beyond recompense burnt out cars bricked up derelict houses used as children’s playgrounds fear and worry lay heavy on furrowed brow while tears flood family homes and as I fade through time like distant memories of the past I see the poor, tortured and diminished soul of Belfast drain for I am as old and as wise as old Belfast itself I have shed many tears My head hangs low in shame. >>LK
COURAGE
INSIDE AN ALKIE’S MIND
It started at the weekend, tonic wine (so divine) live for night-time having a good time brought out my hyperactive side and it was a good laugh for a while then it started to take over drinking every evening (morning) living for a beer made me lose all sense of fear depression built up, I couldn’t stop I was a class clown losing relationships for cheap cider or rough vodka anything to take me (breakdown) the tunes always blaring but inside I’m hurting the sickness overwhelming inside an Alkies mind you fall over, wake up sick until you get the first few sips this is addiction and the addict welcome to an alcoholic’s life. >>AC
KINDNESS
MIND, BODY, SOUL
To satisfy each element and give wings to time,
I search for a reason that may justify such rhyme.
My body grows tired; sorrow is clear to me through blood shot eyes. It hurts me more when I see everything, yet nothing at the same time. >>CK
for those who tried to help me who were kind who give decency and respect I thank you I wish I had more than just words small acts of kindness worth double their weight in gold these words pale the insignificance of these soppy words when you find gentleness in the roughest life’s living graveyard there our people of redemption. >>AL
Write a poem? Where do I start? Ink from the pen, contents from the heart. draw on past experiences, the bad and the good not always clear to see, and often misunderstood a problem of yours might go over one head bellies filled with worry, anxiety needs fed bodies filled with meds, chemicals in the brain tragedy after tragedy, time and time again the body, each different, not one is the same I’ll address my indifferences and defend them in my name if I could give strength to one person, or even more things could be very different, opening that one door never doubt yourself because others do that for you you can be whatever you want. believe it, cos it’s true if you can dream it, strive to achieve it. it won’t happen overnight, but never stop believing it.>>DMcK
SOS
I have a list and here it is but What does it mean?
Cat, Fish, Nike Bike, Man, Stand Messi, Mics, Spoon. Cane. Banana. Reader. I’m not referring to my career Subliminal messages aren’t that clear And if you’re waiting on a sign to appear STOP! And turn right here.. >>CK
SACRIFICED TO THE SYSTEM
footsteps across catwalks whistles on a thousand wings broken down cells yippeessinging the songs of the insomniac, lost boys howling at the moon tears in the basement slopped out long ago to saturate the Crumlin Road, indignity revolving door round and round and round we go days like sand slipping through clenched trembling fists of our hands seasons like leaves from a tree years and rubbed out memories that were never meant to be for you and me we laid ourselves on the altar, lost boys blade in hand rain in our eyes storm clouds in burning skies no one to save us and sacrificed it all for sanctuary. >>GS
Prison Arts Foundation, Unit 3, Clanmil Arts & Business Centre, Northern Whig Building, 2-10 Bridge Street, Belfast, BT1 1LU
