apas has built up strong links with the Probation Services, HMP Nottingham, HMP Whatton and HMP Lowdham Grange. Through these collaborations, we are able to reach more of those people for whom alcohol and gambling is a problem and may be a contributory factor in their offence(s).
Through support and education it may be possible to prevent further offending and give these clients an opportunity to make a new life without crime and alcohol.
Following the expansion of the prison some six months ago, apas has been extremely busy dealing with an increase of numbers from 550 to 1060 prisoners. We are grateful of recent investments which increases our staffing from two to three. As you would imagine there is a huge need within the prison, and we have been working tirelessly to develop the service to deal with the current demand without ‘watering down’ the quality of our work.
We have forged strong links with the prison healthcare; helping assess clients on an alcohol detox, working closely with the offender management team, drug and resettlement departments and we are an integral part of the community prison.
The shocking figure of 27k per prisoner per year may go some way to explaining how passionate apas feel about reducing reoffending and addressing alcohol misuse. For many prisoners and frustrated alcohol workers in the community. Prison offers a safe alcohol detox and an enforced period of abstinence – this in turn allows apas at HMP Nottingham to work with prisoners who have clarity of thought which is often unattainable in the community due to their chaotic drinking and lifestyle choices.
The work is challenging and often frustrating. However, we believe the cost effectiveness of our service versus the core cost of maintaining a prisoner in custody and the positive results we have; results in a meaningful change for society as a whole.
