One to One Supporters

Supporters must be ex-offenders (those with experience of the criminal justice system). They need to prove they have been out of prison for two years and clean from any substance addiction for 2 years. Each Supporter will be risk assessed. The role will be voluntary with expenses paid, and will particularly address prisoner relocation.

Supporters will receive an initial 10 days intensive training with follow-up specialist training. They will be supervised and have access to Supporter forums to share best practice. Clear boundaries and standards will be adhered to. Supporters will also establish specific boundaries with their prisoner, for example, times of contact.

Supporters will also be offered a corporate coach who will help with their own personal development. It is hoped this will create a holistic chain where support is given at every level. The first Supporter and corporate coach have been matched up with Rod undertaking this role for Mark Johnson.

Supporters' Training Certificate Award Evening

On 12th September 2007 the first group of supporters received certificates for completing their intensive training. In attendance at the event held at The Prince’s Trust head office were Martina Milburn, Chief Executive of The Prince’s Trust, Rod Aldridge, Chairman of The Aldridge Foundation, Mark Johnson, Special Advisor to The Prince’s Trust, members of The Prince’s Trust and The Aldridge Foundation’s staff and, most importantly, 9 of the 12 supporters who have completed the training and their families.

It was a very emotional and inspiring afternoon. The supporters, ex-offenders who are now living successfully, may never have received any formal certification of achievement before. The ceremony therefore provided a fantastic opportunity for the supporters and their families, the forgotten victims, to be congratulated for turning their lives around and offering something to those less fortunate.

It was hard not to be affected by the event, which has created a greater desire to succeed within the different organisations and individuals working on the project.