- The award of a StreetCraft Scholarship and the support of recognised brands (Centre for Justice Innovation, Clinks) enabled me to make calls I might not have made, and greatly expanded my network
- Armed with a big idea, humility, passion and seeking knowledge – unexpected doors can open
- I’m never alone – even if sometimes it felt that way, and my confidence dipped – surrounding myself with like-minded pioneers was a key lesson
- Restorative and criminal justice networks are full of encouraging & inspiring collaborative partners
- Restorative prisons are possible, and restorative practice is here to stay!
So, as I embark on the next phase of the journey, I’m not anticipating it will be easy, not at all. What I do know now, though, is that jumping in – without all the answers – and surrounding myself with those that are equally passionate does provide the impetus to finding those answers.
We’re at the forefront of an exciting (if challenging) period of transition in our criminal justice system. I look forward to the next wave of innovative StreetCraft ideas, and to my first restorative prison implementation. Watch this space!About Lisa
Lisa Rowles designs and develops programmes for a violence reduction charity, Khulisa. In her work, she has developed a reputation for coaching the most challenging and aggressive individuals, including young adults on bail.
This success has culminated in a passion to release potential in those who display dysfunctional behaviour through restorative listening, non-judgmental and non-violent communication. Through the StreetCraft Scholarship programme, Lisa will be working with Clinks to develop a practical vision for a prison regime rooted in restorative justice principles, a potentially radical reshaping of the ethos behind imprisonment.
Further information
- Blog post originally published on Centre for Justice Innovations website here
- Reproduced with permission
Apply for StreetCraft Scholarships 2016 here
What's new
Blogs
How to get involved with the Clinks group that advises the Ministry of Justice
Publications
Notes from the member advisory forum meeting
Latest on Twitter

We have published our annual report and financial statements 2021-22. The report sets out our activities, achievements this year and plans for future work towards our strategic goals. Read the full report here: https://bit.ly/3iMbdX7