In this Clinks Guest Blog, Lisa Rowles from Clinks members Khulisa shares her thoughts and reflections on being a Streetcraft scholar..... It seems a long time ago that this journey started, and it’s only in looking back that I of course realise just how far I’ve travelled. At the start, the concept of a restorative prison appeared a huge seemingly insurmountable task. To give credence to this idea, in the context of Transforming Rehabilitation, seemed in equal measure timely and unthinkable. I recall being both passionate about the project and overwhelmed by it, and at times everything in between. I started from a blank sheet, knowing that I was punching way above my weight in proposing my idea to heavyweights in the restorative justice and criminal justice sectors. Supported wholeheartedly by my CEO at Khulisa, Simon Fulford, and my supporters at Centre for Justice Innovation and Clinks, months of research began. I have such gratitude to them and to the inspiring folks I met along the way in the various prison locations, who are pushing the boundaries in pursuit of rehabilitation, despite the current economic climate. My audacious vision was to have a well thought out plan, ready to implement, and opportunities to do so. Whilst, I can’t confirm that I’m about to launch my first project tomorrow, the fact remains that there are at least 3 real opportunities in the pipeline. As always, funding is the biggest stumbling block. So what did I learn?  My big realisations were these: 

• 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.

• View short videos of Lisa introducing her idea here

Further information

• Blog post originally published on Centre for Justice Innovations website here 
• Reproduced with permission

Apply for StreetCraft Scholarships 2016 here