
At Trailblazers, we believe no one should be defined by their past. Our volunteer-led, one-to-one mentoring programme offers consistency, compassion, and hope to people in prison and post-release. We walk alongside them as they work to rebuild their lives and create a more positive future.
As one of our dedicated volunteer mentors at HMP Brixton, Bill, puts it:
“Trailblazers are non-judgemental. It gives hope to a human being who just happens to have a conviction and a prison record. This understanding and approach are recognised by the mentee, offering some light in the perpetual darkness within the walls.”
We operate in London, the South-East and the West Midlands, providing mentoring and intensive, tailored support before and after release. Our goal is to reduce reoffending and improve life outcomes—benefitting not just individuals, but families and communities too.
Trailblazers may be small, but our impact is mighty. In 2024, just 7% of the men we supported reoffended in the first year of release—compared with the latest government figures which show the overall adult rate of reoffending to be 27.5%, rising to almost 60% for those on shorter sentences. Our successes are the result of dedicated weekly mentoring sessions, practical support and a model built on perseverance, trust, and belief in each person’s potential.
Mentoring is often delivered by volunteers like Bill, who notes:
“Mentees are genuinely appreciative of the support Trailblazers provides. Many don’t understand why a mentor gives up their own time to help. Some have no contact with family or friends—loneliness in custody and in the community is a real issue. But the mentor shows up every week, no matter what. That’s not something they're used to, but it’s something they come to value deeply.”
One mentee at HMPYOI Brinsford echoes this sentiment:
“I'd like to thank my mentor for giving up her time to help me. I was surprised to learn that Trailblazers mentors are volunteers. Our weekly sessions are helping me prepare for release. I know I've made mistakes, but my mentor doesn’t judge me. She’s helped me understand myself better, and I feel more confident and ready to work towards my goals than I ever have.”
Our mentoring is supported by hands-on, personalised guidance from Trailblazers staff, and we work closely with referral partners to offer wraparound support. We are always open to working with new, like-minded organisations who share our goal of preventing re-offending and creating pathways to accommodation, employment, and other essential support for our mentees. Together, we help people leave prison not just with a plan, but with belief in themselves—and the tools to become role models in their own communities.
What's new
Blogs
HM Chief Inspector of Prisons Annual Report lays bare scale of challenge
Publications
The Education Committee inquiry into boys’ attainment and engagement in education
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The role is for a leader from an organisation focused on racially minoritised people, with expertise in service delivery, policy, advocacy, or related areas in criminal justice. Racial disparities are present at every CJS stage. This role ensures these voices are central in shaping policy to help address and eradicate them. Apply by Mon 18 Nov, 10am. More info: https://www.clinks.org/voluntary-community-sector/vacancies/15566 #CriminalJustice #RR3 #RacialEquity