I was dropped outside a very beautiful but very imposing set of gates that encased the listed building and grounds of a closed category D women’s prison in Derby.

The hatch opened when I rang a bell, a jolly prison officer said good morning and on entry, subsequently checked with me that my phone was off. I was rather embarrassed to find I didn’t know how to do that, who generally goes anywhere to need to physically turn off their phone?

Swishing my belongings into a small locker and obtained a visitor lanyard, I waited in the sunshine courtyard looking at an impressive clock tower and wondering about the history of the buildings. 

I was greeted by Katie Stanley and Joanna Hartley - two passionate women who are relatively new to the prison and both hold roles focused on the rehabilitative support for the women on release. Both conveyed how much more they wanted to do for the women there.

Interestingly, the number of women on the record there was down by approximately 50 places. This in itself an unexpected result of recent court decisions but perhaps a positive shift. 

Walking through the grounds I could see positive action left and right , grounds work, animal care , hairdressing salon and my favourite - Fosta Coffee Shop. If you didn’t know, I’d have guessed I was in a female commune style home. It felt calm and I made a point of saying good morning to everyone we passed. 

Setting up in an education hub, ten women joined us, a real mix of those on short term and long term sentences, with some leaving in a few weeks and some a year or so away. 

Coffees ready and away we went with the first question - “Were you where we are ?” I said yes, absolutely I was and that’s why I wanted to come here to see you. They visibly lowered a little guard and we started talking , they shared aspirations and reflections - they told me how they felt about themselves and their futures. We discussed compounding issues and we had real conversation that life isn’t always easy , you just need one or two good people and to know where to go for support. I stressed that we don’t always know which doors will open but to not give up. 

I was grateful for the trust in these women sharing in a space that doesn’t often feel safe or without judgement. 

I wished someone had come to tell me that if you have a goal and it is realistic, you can achieve with the right mindset and a large mix of resilience and determination. If nothing else I hope the women heard me say this. 

The overriding feeling is to fix everyone - my colleagues who work in criminal justice will know this feeling and also know it possible. 

A very poignant visit for me personally and I will closely follow the Foston Hall journey. Thank you for inviting me.