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A new kind of support for inmates
Added: (Tue Jul 26 2005)
The support available for inmates can often comprise of internal counselling services, a range of education and training schemes, and visits from family and friends. However, a unique combination of spiritual and physical support from one organisation is proving to enhance the lives of prisoners across the country.
The Rescue of Dignity Group (ROD) is a voluntary initiative of the UCKG HelpCentre, a Christian church and registered charity. Its aim is to provide short-term and long-term support for prison inmates both spiritually and physically through letter writing and regular visits. Established in 1997, the network of volunteers is currently helping over 200 inmates to improve their self esteem and prepare for their eventual release if appropriate.
The ROD is not about preaching to prisoners; it’s about friendship, companionship, and empowerment. We work with inmates to understand the underlying factors that lead individuals to turn to crime and help them to embrace the concept of improving their role as a citizen in society.
ROD also acts as a contact point with the outside world so that prisoners are not completely separated from everyday society. This is particularly effective for those whose family and friends have drifted away over the course of a long sentence.
In many cases it has been found that when inmates develop their faith, they are empowered with higher self-esteem and their attitude towards themselves and others improves considerably. Several of the inmates that we have dealt with have even been released or had their sentences reduced due to their changed behaviour and attitude in prison.
Through their experiences, the ROD volunteers have learned how to help people of all ages, races and cultures to regain their confidence.
Referrals to ROD can either be via inmates themselves or by family and friends. All volunteer workers are assigned to write and visit individual prisoners and the feedback from prisoners is always very positive.
If you would like to find out more or register yourself for ROD please write to the group leader, Charles Ajorgbor at:
UCKG HelpCentre
Rainbow Theatre
232 Seven Sisters Road
Finsbury Park
LONDON
N4 3NX
Charles Ajorgbor
Rescue of Dignity (ROD)