A podcast series hosted by Edwina Grosvenor, Prison Philanthropist and Founder of One Small Thing.
Edwina talks to guests who all have varied relationships and experiences with the justice system. Listen as podcast guests explore their ideas and thinking about what works well and what could be done differently.
Listen to our latest series
Our new series of JUSTICE explores women’s health in the justice system – we will explore issues and innovative practice in areas such as substance use, maternal health, menopause and brain injury. This series sheds light on the often unseen issues women face when seeking to get appropriate health support. Each episode we will be speaking to expert guests and exploring what needs to change.
This series of JUSTICE explores community justice solutions for women. What are community justice solutions? And why are they important for women? For the first time, this series will be co-hosted by Edwina Grosvenor with One Small Thing’s Women’s Involvement Advisor Lilly Lewis.
This series of JUSTICE explores what impact the physical environment can have on those who have experienced trauma. How can spaces be designed to create feelings of safety, and promote healing? And what key design elements do we need to consider when responding to trauma?
This series of JUSTICE explores the experiences of mothers in the justice system. With those working on the front line, and those with lived experience, each episode sheds light on the issues and explore what needs to change.
Drawing from years of speaking to experts, practitioners and those with lived experience on our JUSTICE podcast, these collections allow you to explore key themes from the frontline of our justice system, and ideas on what could be done differently.
Explore all our episodes
PODCAST: EPISODE 106 19 December 2022
IN CONVERSATION with …Joy Doal
This week Edwina speaks Joy Doal, CEO of Anawim, Birmingham’s Centre for Women. Anawim is an award-winning Women's Centre with over 30 years' experience. They provide support, advocacy and campaign on a local and national level. Anawim’s mission is to help women from all backgrounds and communities in and around Birmingham to get the support they deserve. They provide a tailored package of support for women through a variety of one-to-one interventions, courses, counselling and opportunities, in person at their centres as well as online. Anawim’s approach is to help women understand the impact of their trauma and begin the healing process by overcoming obstacles and learning how to move forward to a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Anawim also run Dawn House, a safe, secure and trauma-responsive residential centre for women leaving prison. With support from The Jabbs Foundation they have recently published a report on learning from the first 5 years that can be accessed here.
Learn more about Anawim by visiting their website https://anawim.co.uk/ and follow them of Twitter @Anawim_BCW.
PODCAST: EPISODE 105 05 December 2022
IN CONVERSATION with …Michael Spurr
In this week’s episode, Edwina speaks to Michael Spurr, the former Chief Executive of His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). Starting out as a Prison Officer in HMP Leeds in 1983, Michael has occupied a variety of roles in prisons and probation, including serving as Chief Executive of HMPPS from 2010-2019.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Michael reflects on his 36 years working in the justice system – from the appalling conditions he witnessed in the 80’s and 90’s, to the changes that have transformed the justice system into what we recognise today. Edwina and Michael also discuss the impact of ministerial flux on those working in the justice system, and what he wants the future of HMPPS to look like.
Please note, this episode contains descriptions of conditions in prison including suicide that some listeners may find distressing.
PODCAST: EPISODE 104 21 November 2022
IN CONVERSATION with …Sarah Dangar
This week Edwina speaks to Sarah Dangar, CEO of Ahimsa. Ahimsa is a Plymouth based charity that challenges and supports perpetrators of abuse to cease their violent and abusive behaviour. They deliver one on one support and group programmes for male perpetrators of abuse, supporting their behaviour change and preventing future incidences of domestic abuse.
In this episode, Sarah shares more about how Ahimsa works with individuals and families, and reflects on the opportunities and challenges of delivering this difficult work. Having a background in supporting victims and survivors of abuse, Sarah speaks about how she came to work with perpetrators, and why she believes it’s vital if we want to protect more families from the devastating effects of domestic abuse.
Learn more about Ahimsa by visiting their website www.ahimsa.org.uk and follow them of Twitter @Ahimsa_charity.
PODCAST: EPISODE 103 08 November 2022
IN CONVERSATION about the menopause with … Davina McCall and Carolyn Harris
In this week’s episode Edwina explores the often unspoken impact of menopause on women’s lives. Despite the fact that 51% of the population will experience menopause, and the estimated 13 million people who are currently peri or menopausal in the UK, this topic has remained taboo. Edwina speaks to two advocates driving change in the national conversation around menopause on their experience of this transition, and what needs to change to ensure more women have access to the support they need – including those in the justice system.
Edwina’s first guest is Davina McCall, renowned TV presenter and household name. As well as presenting shows such as Big Brother and The Million Pound Drop, Davina has presented documentaries exploring the Menopause. She is also the author of Menopausing, The Positive Roadmap to Your Second Spring which seeks to debunk myths, and break the shameful silence over the menopause.
Edwina’s second guest is Carolyn Harris, MP for Swansea East who established and now chairs the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on menopause. Carolyn has played a pivotal role in putting menopause on the national agenda, and has recently published an inquiry into the impacts of Menopause on women and families as part of her work for the APPG on menopause.
More information:
Read the APPG on Menopause Inquiry to assess the impacts of menopause and the case for policy reform here.
Order Menopausing, The Positive Roadmap to Your Second Spring, by Davina McCall and Dr. Naomi Potter here.
Follow Carolyn Harris on Twitter @carolynharris24
Follow Davina McCall on Twitter @ThisisDavina
PODCAST: EPISODE 102 03 october 2022
IN CONVERSATION with… the forgiveness project
Artwork by RESTORE participant © The Forgiveness Project
Edwina speaks to Sandra Barefoot, Raushia Coles, Siobhan Jackson and Ruth Chitty from The Forgiveness Project. The Forgiveness Project works with people who have rebuilt their lives following hurt and trauma to explore what it takes to heal, restore and rehumanise.
In this episode they discuss their new research on the importance of understanding the impact of shame. They explore Shame Resilience Theory (SRT) and its potential for understanding how shame affects the behaviours of women with lived experience of imprisonment.
They highlight how very little research had been undertaken on the connection between shame, violence and aggression with women, especially in comparison to the wealth of research available on men. The research, funded by the Griffins Society, is based on years delivering the RESTORE programme in prisons, and with women over the last 8 years. They suggest the motivation for this research came from a realisation that shame was the missing piece within the lens of working with anyone who has experienced trauma.
You can access a summary of the research here.
Find out more about the Forgiveness Project at https://theforgivenessproject.com
Follow The Forgiveness Project on Twitter @ForgivenessProj
Please note this episode contains descriptions of treatment of women in prison including sexual threat and abuse that some listeners may find distressing.
PODCAST: EPISODE 101 20 September 2022
IN CONVERSATION with… Harriet Still
Harriet Still, Curator of Thomas Hardy’s Wessex Exhibition
This week Edwina looks at justice through a literary lens by speaking to Harriet Still, the curator of Thomas Hardy’s Wessex exhibition. In this episode Harriet explores one of Hardy’s most famous works, Tess of the D’Urbervilles, and highlights how this novel sparked conversations around the world on violence against women, consent, and justice.
Influenced by his experience at 16 of witnessing the execution of a woman found guilty of murdering her abusive husband, Hardy brought his feelings on this injustice to the writing of Tess.
Edwina and Harriet reflect on how radical a character like Tess was in 1851 when the novel was published, and how her treatment can speak to the experiences of women today, including those in the justice system.
Please note this episode contains discussion on domestic abuse and sexual assault.
Hardy's Wessex, The landscapes that inspired a writer is open until 30th October. Visit the Wessex Museum’s website for more information: www.wessexmuseums.org.uk/what-we-do/exhibitions-events/thomas-hardy-exhibition/
Follow Wessex Museums on Twitter @WessexMuseums
PODCAST: EPISODE 100 05 September 2022
IN CONVERSATION ABOUT… Fair Criminal Records Checks…with sir Richard Branson and Paula Harriott.
In this week’s episode, Edwina focuses on the UK’s criminal record system. She speaks to two supporters of the Fair Checks campaign led by Transform Justice and Unlock, which is calling for a fresh start to the UK’s outdated criminal records system.
Sir Richard Branson, Photo by Owen Billcliffe
Sir Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin, discusses why no one should be judged by their worst moment, and the commitment of Virgin companies around the world to offering employment opportunities for those with a criminal record. As well as building Virgin from the ground up, Richard has spent his life speaking up globally about the issues he is passionate about, including ending the failed war on drugs, and abolishing the death penalty.
Paula Harriott
Paula Harriott, Head of Prisoner Involvement at Prison Reform Trust then speaks from first-hand experience about the adverse impact excessive criminal record checks can have, and why she supports the Fair Checks campaign. Paula has huge insight into the impact current legislation has on the ground through her work supporting those with experience of prison to have their voices heard, including through the national Prisoner Policy Network.
To find out more about the Fair Checks Campaign visit www.fairchecks.org.uk.
PODCAST: EPISODE 99 15 August 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Natasha Finlayson
This week Edwina speaks to Natasha Finlayson, Chief Executive of Working Chance. Working Chance is the UK's only employment charity solely for women with convictions. In this episode Natasha explains the support they provide to women and the impressive outcomes they achieve, including 90% of women using their employment service securing a job.
Natasha also outlines recent research by Working Chance which shows just how much stigma still exists from employers towards people with past convictions, and their important work to tackle this.
Working Chance also work with policymakers, politicians and employers to share knowledge about what helps women with convictions to secure employment, and to dismantle the systems and barriers that hold them back.
You can find out more about Working Chance here: www.workingchance.org
Follow Working Chance on Twitter @WorkingChance
PODCAST: EPISODE 98 20 July 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … CHarlie Taylor
This week Edwina speaks to Charlie Taylor, Chief Inspector of Prisons. Independent from Government, the role of Chief Inspector of Prisons reports directly to the Secretary of State for Justice on the conditions in prisons and detention centres, and the treatment of those inside them.
In this episode Charlie explains more about what his role entails, and why independence from Government is so important. He also reflects on the challenges and issues raised in his recently published annual report such as long lock up times, issues with staff recruitment and retention, and concerns for the wellbeing of women in prison.
You can read Charlie’s latest Annual Report here: www.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmiprisons/inspections/annual-report-2021-22/
You can find out more about the work of HM Inspectorate of Prisons here: www.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmiprisons/
Follow HM Inspectorate of Prisons on Twitter @HMIPrisonsnews
PODCAST: EPISODE 97 04 July 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … birth companions
Naomi Delap, Director of Birth Companions
In this week’s episode, Edwina speaks to Naomi Delap, Director of Birth Companions, and Sam who is part of their Lived Experience Team. Birth Companions is a women’s charity dedicated to tackling inequalities and disadvantage during pregnancy, birth and early motherhood. Founded in 1996 to support pregnant women and new mothers in Holloway Prison, they’ve become experts in meeting the needs of women living in the most challenging situations in prison and in the community.
In this episode Sam and Naomi shed light on the experience of pregnancy and birth in the justice system, and what needs to change to improve the lives of women and babies who experience inequality and disadvantage.
You can find out more about Birth Companions here: www.birthcompanions.org.uk
Follow them on Twitter @BrthCompanions
Please note this episode contains discussion of traumatic births and infant mortality that some listeners may find upsetting
PODCAST: EPISODE 96 21 June 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Sofia Buncy
In this week’s episode, Edwina speaks to Sofia Buncy MBE, the pioneering Founder and Director of the multi-award-winning Muslim Women in Prison Project. Established in 2013 to document and research the experiences of Muslim women in criminal justice system, the project delivers a community-based culturally appropriate service for Muslim women returning to communities.
In this episode, Sofia sheds light on the challenges these women face, and shares how her ground-breaking project is giving voice to the experiences of Muslim women in the criminal justice system.
Follow Sofia and the work of the Muslim Women in Prison Project on Twitter @MWIPproject.
PODCAST: EPISODE 95 06 June 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Sarah Beresford
In this week’s episode, Edwina speaks to Sarah Beresford, Prison Reform Trust Associate and Churchill Fellow. Sarah is also the author of ‘What about me?’, a report which explores how children’s lives are impacted when their mothers are involved in the criminal justice system.
In this episode Sarah describes how children are so often invisible to decisionmakers, and explains how her recently developed Child Impact Assessment can equip adults and services to listen more closely to the needs of those with mothers in the criminal justice system.
You can read more about why Sarah feels Child Impact Assessments are so important in this blog, and there is further information about Sarah’s project here.
Follow the Prison Reform Trust on Twitter @PRTuk and the Churchill Fellowship @ChurchillFship.
PODCAST: EPISODE 94 23 May 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Professor Taj Nathan
In this week’s Justice episode, Edwina speaks to Professor Taj Nathan, a consultant forensic psychiatrist for the NHS. He holds honorary academic posts at the University of Liverpool, University of Chester and Liverpool John Moores University, and provides independent expert opinion to courts in England and Wales.
Taj is also the author of Dangerous Minds: A Forensic Psychiatrist's Quest to Understand Violence. Taking us from secure hospital wards to high-security prisons to courtrooms, Dangerous Minds offers compelling and deeply compassionate accounts of ten people whose lives have been shaped by violence, and asks its readers to re-evaluate all that they think they know about the people society deems most dangerous.
In this episode, Taj discusses the origins of his book, and sheds light on the complexity of working in the field of forensic psychiatry.
To learn more about the work of Professor Taj Nathan: www1.chester.ac.uk/departments/chester-medical-school/staff/taj-nathan
To learn more about Dangerous Minds: www.curtisbrown.co.uk/client/taj-nathan
Follow Dr Taj Nathan on Twitter: @tajnathan
PODCAST: EPISODE 93 09 May 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Hannah Shead
In this episode Edwina speaks to Hannah Shead, the CEO of Trevi. Operating since 1993, Trevi is an award-winning women’s charity in Devon. Their mission is to provide safe and nurturing spaces where women in recovery can heal, grow and thrive.
Set up to support women experiencing alcohol and drug misuse issues and their children, Trevi runs the only UK residential rehabilitation centre exclusively for mothers and their children. In the 27 years they have been operating, they have helped transform the lives of thousands of women and their children.
Hannah discusses Trevi’s beginnings, and shares how the charity has continued to develop to meet the needs of women in their community.
To learn more about the work of Trevi visit www.trevi.org.uk
Follow Trevi on Twitter: @TreviWomen
PODCAST: EPISODE 92 25 april 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Peter Sullivan
In this episode I speak to Peter Sullivan from the organisation Chess in Schools and Communities who facilitates a chess clubs in Wandsworth prison and has recently been expanding to the women’s prison estate.
Peter trained and organised the England team that participated in the World Prison Chess Championship. 43 teams from 31 countries took part in the competition and England scored a huge 23/24 in the preliminaries and 9.5/20 in the final stages, read more here.
Peter discusses how chess can be a therapeutic activity, create a calm environment and bring staff and residents together.
To learn more about the work of the Chess in Schools and Communities see: https://www.chessinschools.co.uk/
Follow on Twitter: @schoolschess
PODCAST: EPISODE 91 04 april 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … NICOLE JACOBS
In this episode Edwina speaks to Nicole Jacobs, the first Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales. Nicole explains her statutory powers, as set out in the Domestic Abuse Bill, to raise public awareness and hold both agencies and government to account in tackling domestic abuse. Listen to Nicole describe her important work to shine a light on good practice and the practices that fall short, to end the postcode lottery of domestic abuse services in England and Wales. Nicole outlines a range of initiatives that she is working on with her team, including improving the response of Family Courts to Domestic Abuse
Please note this episode contains discussion on domestic abuse, including fatal domestic abuse, that some listeners may find distressing.
To learn more about the work of the Domestic Abuse Commissioner see: https://domesticabusecommissioner.uk/
Follow Nicole on Twitter: @CommissionerDA
PODCAST: EPISODE 90 21 March 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … RIANA TAYLOR
In this episode Edwina speaks to Riana Taylor, CEO of Circles UK, who are the national organisation which oversees Circles of Support and Accountability (Circles), an innovative model that uses groups of volunteers in the community, working alongside criminal justice agencies to reduce sexual offending. Riana explains that a Circle of Support and Accountability is a group of trained volunteers from a local community that provides a social network to someone who has committed sexual offences or engaged in harmful sexual behaviour, whilst also requiring them to take responsibility for their own ongoing risk management. The Circle can also provide practical guidance in things such as developing social skills and finding suitable accommodation. In so doing the Circle serves to reduce the risk of reoffending associated with social exclusion and the attendant risk of harm to existing and potential victims and survivors
Please note this episode contains discussion on child sexual abuse and other forms of sexual offending that some listeners may find distressing.
To learn more about the important work of Circles UK and the network of Circles Providers see: https://circles-uk.org.uk/
Follow Circles UK on Twitter: @CirclesUk
PODCAST: EPISODE 89 21 february 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … SUE MCAllister
In this episode Edwina speaks to Sue McAllister, Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. Sue explains her work to carry out independent investigations that aim to make custody and community supervision safer and fairer. Sue talks about her important work including recent high-profile reports on the deaths of babies in custody. She outlines how she has developed the work of the Ombudsman during her time in post, including a focus on increasing the impact of investigations, and making sure changes are made as a result of the work of her team.
Follow Sue McAllister and the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman on Twitter: @sue1mcallister @PPOmbudsman
PODCAST: EPISODE 88 21 february 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … pavan Dhaliwal
In this episode Edwina speaks to Pavan Dhaliwal CEO of Revolving Doors Agency who work to end the revolving door of crisis and crime. The organisation creates and shares research, influences policy and evaluates services, making sure the voices of those with lived experience are central to their work. Pavan explains their belief that justice system reform cannot be achieved without the voices of those who have had direct experience of the system themselves. Examples discussed in the podcast include their New Generation Campaigners - young people who designed and led their own campaign called ‘Divert don’t arrest’ calling for police reform.
Follow Revolving Doors Agency on Twitter: @RevDoors
PODCAST: EPISODE 87 07 February 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Donna JONES
In this episode Edwina speaks to Donna Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and National Lead for Victims for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners. Donna talks us through her work to hold local criminal justice partners to account and ensure delivery of Hampshire’s Policing and Crime Plan. Donna outlines important areas of her work including tacking Violence against Women and Girls and crime prevention work with children and young people.
Follow Donna Jones on Twitter: @HantsPCC @DonnaJonesPCC
PODCAST: EPISODE 86 24 january 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … THE RT REVD RACHEL TREWEEK
In this episode, Edwina talks to The Right Reverend Rachel Treweek, Bishop of Gloucester, the first female diocesan bishop in the Church of England. We talk about her role as Anglican Bishop for HM Prisons and her important work in the House of Lords, raising the need for justice system reform, particularly for women. Listen as Bishop Rachel describes her unique role and the insights she has gained into many areas of the justice system that inform her passion for advocating for change.
Follow Bishop Rachel on Twitter: @BishGloucester
PODCAST: EPISODE 85 10 january 2022
IN CONVERSATION WITH … mark bramah
Please note this episode discusses harm towards children that some listeners may find distressing.
In this episode, Edwina talks to Mark Bramah, Director of Corporate Safeguarding and Chair for Hampshire Children’s Services about what safeguarding really is and why we need it. He also highlights particular gaps in child safeguarding in the business environment. Mark unpacks complex language associated with safeguarding to help us better understand its importance. Edwina and Mark talk about how the internet and social media have affected children’s safety and changes we can make to ensure children are better protected.
PODCAST: EPISODE 84 20 december 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … dR SIMON FOX
In this final episode of the JUSTICE Podcast for 2021, Edwina talks to Dr Simon Fox, Head of Law at Solent University and Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Legal Education. Simon talks about what it means to study criminology and compares varied approaches to criminology and the context of crime across different countries.
If interested in a career in criminology or law, feel free to get in touch with Dr Simon Fox as he is happy to discuss this.
PODCAST: EPISODE 83 06 december 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … danny shaw
In this episode, Edwina talks to Danny Shaw, Head of Strategy and Insight at Crest Advisory and previously Home Affairs Correspondent at the BBC. Danny shares what it really means to cover court cases where people’s lives hang in the balance and the need to be very careful not to prejudice the proceedings. Listen as Danny talks about the challenges of reporting on prisons, a place which the public do not really understand nor have access to, and the importance of self-care when reporting on difficult issues.
Follow Danny on Twitter: @DannyShawNews
PODCAST: EPISODE 82 18 november 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … JAMIE MORRELL, DAVID COHEN AND JODIE JACKSON
In this episode, Edwina talks to a panel comprising of Jamie Morrell, Communications and Engagement Officer at the Criminal Justice Alliance, David Cohen, Campaigns and Investigations Editor at the Evening Standard and the Independent, and Jodie Jackson, Journalist and author researching the impact of the news on mental health. Edwina speaks to the panel about the notion of responsible journalism in the context of criminal justice as they break down what the role of journalism is, and the different types of reporting, such as solutions-focused journalism. The Criminal Justice Alliance’s Report, launched today, highlights how reporting can be improved, including best practice when hearing from people with lived experience of the justice system.
PODCAST: EPISODE 81 08 november 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH.. gethin jones
In this episode, Edwina talks to Gethin Jones, founder of Unlocking Potential and inspirational speaker, trainer and coach. He talks about how the justice system has been a part of his whole life and drawing on his own experiences of prison, Gethin now dedicates his time to reforming the justice system and making it fit for purpose. Gethin shares that a prison under his leadership would place a strong emphasis on human-to-human relationships, have a real community feel and give people in prison a sense of ownership.
Follow Gethin on Twitter: @GethinUnlocks
PODCAST: EPISODE 80 25 october 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH.. sANDRA fIELDHOUSE
In this episode, Edwina talks to Sandra Fieldhouse, team leader at Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons, who lead on inspecting all prisons and Young Offender Institutions in England and Wales and jointly inspect Secure Training Centres with Ofsted.
Sandra talks about the important role of the Inspectorate in providing independent, additional scrutiny and raising the bar for prisons. She shares the need for different strategies for the female and male estate which recognise the complex needs and experiences of women in the justice system. Listen as Sandra walks us through her professional journey through the justice system to team leader at the Inspectorate.
Read HM Inspectorate of Prisons Report “What happens to prisoners in a pandemic?”
PODCAST: EPISODE 79 11 october 2021
in conversation with ... lisa dando
In this episode, Edwina talks to Lisa Dando, Director of Brighton Women’s Centre (BWC) who help women from all backgrounds, facing all kinds of issues, to live happier lives. BWC work closely with women in the justice system including running a new pilot project to provide support to women at risk of breaching their community orders and going to prison. Lisa shares that there is real need for gender-specific services and the importance of community alternatives to prison.
Follow BWC on Twitter: @BTNWomensCentre
Find out more about Brighton Women’s Centre here
JUSTICE ON THE ROAD 31 AUGUST 2021
As pandemic restrictions lift, we are excited to start travelling and visiting prisons and services again. In celebration of this we are re-sharing episodes of #JUSTICE when Edwina visited a women’s prison and domestic abuse service in person back in 2018 and gained fascinating insights of day-to-day life for women and staff in these spaces.
PODCAST: EPISODE 78 16 August 2021
in conversation with ... deborah murphy
In this episode, Edwina talks to Deborah Murphy, Lead Occupational Therapist and Mental Health Manager at HMP Pentonville. Deborah was the driving force in redesigning the therapeutic services available in the prison to ensure that the wellbeing and mental health needs of people in prison were being assessed and addressed. She shares examples of activities as therapeutic interventions and positive changes to the environment that were implemented such as welcoming interiors and a kitchen which made prison residents feel part of something and feel ownership of their environment.
Follow Deborah on Twitter: @Murphlemurph
PODCAST: EPISODE 77 02 August 2021
in conversation with ... JO-ANNE wELSH
In this episode, Edwina talks to Jo-Anne Welsh, CEO of the Oasis Project, an organisation that was set up by a group of women who felt their needs were not being met in the drug and alcohol services available. The Oasis Project helps women, children and families affected by drugs and alcohol by providing women-specific services and a trauma-informed approach to substance misuse treatment. Jo-Anne talks about their unique approach and how the Oasis Project adapted their services during the pandemic, including how after the first lockdown, the organisation saw a 300% increase in new alcohol presentations.
Follow Jo-Anne on Twitter: @BOPjo_anne
Read Dame Carol Black’s review of drugs part two: prevention, treatment, and recovery here.
PODCAST: EPISODE 76 20 JULY 2021
in conversation with ... NINA CHAMPION
In this episode, Edwina talks to Nina Champion, Director of the Criminal Justice Alliance (CJA), a network of 160 organisations working towards a fair and effective justice system. Nina shares the CJA’s important work on building a fit for purpose and diverse workforce, including tackling race and gender disparity and implementing processes of scrutiny and accountability within the justice system.
Follow Nina on Twitter: @ninachampioncja
PODCAST: EPISODE 75 05 JULY 2021
in conversation with ... Dr Lucy Baldwin
Please note this episode mentions loss of pregnancy and infant mortality that some listeners may find distressing.
In this episode, Edwina talks to Dr Lucy Baldwin, Senior Lecturer in Criminology at De Montford University and previously, qualified social worker and probation officer. Lucy shares how her own experiences of stigma as a young mum influenced her career supporting women and children. Lucy believes there are many missed opportunities before women come into the justice system and stresses the need for a better and more tailored response to mothers during their prison sentence, as well as supporting them post-release.
Follow Lucy on Twitter: @LucyBaldwin08
To hear more on the issue on maternal imprisonment, listen to Edwina’s podcast with Dr Shona Minson here, and to learn more about the impact of a parent in prison on children listen to Edwina’s podcast with Sarah Burrows here.
Women, Trauma and the Justice System 21 june 2021
This mini-series is a re-launch of the interviews Edwina recorded as the very start of the JUSTICE podcast in 2018 with four incredible women on their stories of surviving trauma both inside and outside of prison.
These interviews touch on topics including domestic and sexual violence, moving from the care system to the prison system, mental health in prison and the harms of maternal imprisonment. These four powerful personal testimonies are accompanied by an interview with American clinician, consultant and lecturer Dr Stephanie Covington outlining best practice in trauma-informed and gender-responsive work with women in the criminal justice system, based on her pioneering work in the US.
Participant names have been changed to protect their identities. Please note, these interviews include descriptions of abuse and harm that some listeners may find distressing.
Click on the links below to listen:
PODCAST: EPISODE 75 07 JUNE 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … UNLOCKED GRADUATES
In this episode, Edwina talks to Natasha Porter, Founder and Chief Executive of Unlocked Graduates, and Occy Cobb and Karan Rai about their experiences training to be Prison Officers through the organisation’s unique leadership development programme, and what they have learnt along the way.
Natasha shares that her motivation to break cycles of reoffending lead her to create the Unlocked Graduates programme, which identifies talented people and supports them to spend two years working as frontline prison officers. The programme also challenges them to come up with new ideas to improve the way prisons work across the country. Occy and Karan reflect on their experiences of their training which includes mentoring, working with experienced prison officers and completing a master’s degree.
Find out more about Unlocked Graduates here.
PODCAST: EPISODE 74 24 may 2021
in conversation with ... professor dame sue black
Please note that this episode contains graphic descriptions of the work and difficult themes of death, violence and murder that listeners may find distressing, including responding to war crimes and mass fatalities.
In this episode Edwina talks to Professor Dame Sue Black, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Engagement at Lancaster University, Forensic Anthropologist, Human Anatomist and now appointed Crossbench peer in the House of Lords.
Sue shares her years of experience as a forensic anthropologist and her work in the UK and abroad, including helping to reassemble deceased bodies so that their loved ones can identify them and allow them to grieve and find closure from their loss. Sue was deployed by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on behalf of the United Nations, to work in Kosovo, Sierra Leone and Grenada. Sue talks about her role as an expert witness in court and the challenges of an adversarial court system. She also shares her advice for young people wishing to pursue a career in this field including the importance of self-care.
Sue mentions the book Unnatural Causes by Dr Richard Shepherd.
PODCAST: EPISODE 73 04 may 2021
in conversation with ... Tracy Alexander
Please note this podcast contains depictions of violence that some listeners may find distressing.
In this episode Edwina talks to Tracy Alexander, Director of Forensic Services for the City of London Police, President of the British Academy of Forensic Sciences and Fellow of King’s College London. Tracy walks us through the fascinating world of forensic science and the difference between investigating physical and digital crime scenes, the latter having significantly increased during the pandemic. Listen as Tracy’s explains how the UK’s National Fingerprints Database operates, the strict rules surrounding disclosure of evidence and the complexities of launching an appeal if you are wrongly convicted.
Resources:
Inside Justice website
The British Academy of Forensic Sciences
PODCAST: EPISODE 72 19 april 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … lilly lewis
Please note this podcast discusses domestic abuse, coercive control, rape and sexual assault that listeners may find distressing.
In this episode, Edwina talks to Lilly Lewis, Domestic Abuse Campaigner about her incredibly moving story as a survivor of domestic violence and abuse and how Lilly’s involvement with an ex-partner led to her serving a seven-year prison sentence for conspiracy to defraud. Lilly shares how she found prison a relief and that her prison sentence was a “gift of time”. A year after release, Lilly now works for In2Change, a charity that works with people who have left prison to give them a second chance.
Lilly will be joining us at One Small Thing LIVE on 20 May. Register now to hear more from Lilly and our brilliant panel of speakers.
PODCAST: EPISODE 71 06 april 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … SARAH BURROWS
Please note this podcast contains real-life recordings of children which some listeners may find distressing.
In this episode Edwina talks to Sarah Burrows, founder of Children Heard and Seen, a charity that supports children who have a parent in prison. These children often face stigma, isolation and trauma and have nowhere to go for help which is what motivated Sarah to work in this field. Sarah shares some harrowing accounts of children’s experiences and the subsequent impact of this trauma as well as what she believes needs to be done to ensure these forgotten children are ‘heard and seen.’
PODCAST: EPISODE 70 22 march 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Stephen Akpabio-Klementowski
In this episode, Edwina talks to Stephen Akpabio-Klementowski, Regional Manager for the Students and Secure Environments team, Associate Lecturer in Criminology and PhD candidate at the Open University. In 2002, Stephen was convicted for serious drug offences and sentenced to 16 years in prison. Stephen shares his remarkable journey of achieving three degrees whilst in prison and shares his thoughts on rehabilitation and the impact access to education and support can have on an individual’s future.
PODCAST: EPISODE 69 08 march 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … harry potter
In this episode, Edwina talks to Harry Potter, prison historian, barrister and author about his experiences with the British justice system and the history of prisons. Harry’s belief that we imprison too many people for too long is what lead him to pursue a career in criminal defence practice. Listen as he shares how the theme of the rich versus the poor dominates our justice system both historically and now and his hopes for the future include a smaller prison population with fewer people serving short sentences and less people incarcerated entirely.
Buy Harry’s book: Shades of the Prison House - A History of Incarceration in the British Isles
PODCAST: EPISODE 68 08 february 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … PETER DAWSON
In the third and final part of our procedural justice mini-series, Edwina talks to Peter Dawson, Director of the Prison Reform Trust, who has 30 years of experience of working in prisons. Peter highlights the difficulties associated with adjudication, the internal disciplinary process in prisons, and the challenges to remaining impartial when sitting in judgement. Edwina and Peter speak about the four pillars of procedural justice: being fair in processes, being transparent in actions, providing opportunity for voice and impartial in decision-making.
PODCAST: EPISODE 67 01 february 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … jo millington
Please note this podcast contains graphic content and is not suitable for children. Some listeners may find some aspects of our conversation distressing.
In the second part of our procedural justice mini-series, Edwina talks to Jo Millington, a forensic scientist and specialist in blood stain pattern analysis. Jo shares her first-hand experience of attending crime scenes and how crucial the management of bias is when carrying out her role.
Twitter: @jomillington_v1 and @spatter_ed
Website: https://www.spattered.co.uk/
PODCAST: EPISODE 66 25 january 2021
IN CONVERSATION WITH … DCI Kate Gunson
Over the next few weeks, Edwina will be speaking to three guests who share their experiences and perspectives of working within the justice system to form our very first, mini-series. In part of this procedural justice series, Edwina talks to DCI Kate Gunson about the role of the police, ‘policing by consent’ and the importance of procedural justice in allowing the police to remain fair and accountable.
PODCAST: EPISODE 65 11 january 2021
in conversation WITH … rory stewart obe
In this episode, Edwina talks to Rory Stewart OBE former British politician and Prison’s minister and now Senior Fellow at Yale University to talk about his role as number two in the Ministry of Justice and responsible for all prisons in England and Wales.
Rory speaks about the importance of accountability and his success story in focusing on ten prisons and reducing assaults in these prisons. Listen as Rory shares what our justice system does well, which he largely pins on its incredible prison officers as well as the challenges in implementing positive change within the system.
PODCAST: EPISODE 64 21 December 2020
FESTIVE EPISODE 2020 WITH … Zoe Thomas and Nadia
In this episode, Zoe shares her experiences of working in a female estate during the Christmas period and how the women often found this time to be particularly challenging as the new year comes in and they are away from their families. Zoe speaks about the importance of her trauma informed training in helping her understand women who come in conflict with the law and the support and care they need.
Nadia shares her first-hand experience of serving a criminal sentence and the pain and trauma she experienced being away from home and her loved ones which is only heightened during the holiday period.
PODCAST: EPISODE 63 7 December 2020
In conversation with … Peter Clarke CVO OBE QPM
In this episode Edwina talks to Peter Clarke CVO OBE QPM about his role as HM Chief Inspector of Prisons. Peter reflects on his time in this important role leading the team that provides an independent voice as well as navigating the challenges that the pandemic brought. Listen as Peter shares his views on rehabilitation and giving those behind bars the opportunity to turn their lives around.
PODCAST: EPISODE 62 23 November 2020
In conversation with … dr bob Johnson
In this episode Edwina talks to Dr Bob Johnson, about his experiences working as a psychiatrist at HMP Parkhurst, a maximum-security prison on the Isle of Wight. During his 5 years there, Bob spoke to 50 murderers to help them to unpack their trauma and to understand why they did what they did. In the time that Bob worked there, he reduced prison alarm bells from an average of 20 times a year to none for three years, signaling a monumental reduction in prison violence. Listen as Bob shares the three pillars of his life’s work: truth, trust and consent.
http://www.truthtrustconsent.org/
Follow @BobTrustConsent
PODCAST: EPISODE 61 9 November 2020
In conversation with … Carolyn Hoyle
In this episode, Edwina talks to Carolyn Hoyle from the University of Oxford’s Centre for Criminology who has set up the Death Penalty Research Unit. Although the UK has abolished the death penalty, it still remains prevalent in many countries across the world. Listen as Carolyn unpacks the issues associated with gathering accurate information on the death penalty particularly in Asia where this is kept a ‘state secret’ and her fascinating story of working directly with the president of Zimbabwe, highlighting the need for political will to bring about change.
Follow @CarolynHoyle1 and @OxfordCrim
Resources:
PODCAST: EPISODE 60 26 october 2020
In conversation with … Mary bosworth
In this episode, Edwina talks to Mary Bosworth, Director of the Centre for Criminology and of the international research network Border Criminologies at the University of Oxford about her research on immigration detention and deportation. Mary sheds light on this under-researched area and the difficulties associated with it. She discusses the impact of the Windrush scandal and how the number of deportations has since reduced but remains cautious that Brexit may change this trend. This podcast was recorded in July, statistics and figures quoted may have changed since.
Follow @BorderCrim and @OxfordCrim
To learn more about immigration detention centres, visit the Border Criminologies website.
If you want to contribute information about conditions in immigration detention, please consider contributing to the interactive map, Landscapes of Border Control.
PODCAST: EPISODE 59 14 october 2020
In conversation with … chris daw qc
In this episode, Edwina talks to Chris Daw QC, Barrister and author of ‘Justice on Trial’, about his experience as a defence lawyer and how his vast experience has led him to believe that our criminal justice system is broken. Listen as he unpacks what he believes our country should be doing to change things for the better.
Follow Chris on Twitter: @crimlawuk
Buy ‘Justice on Trial’
SupportLine provide confidential emotional support on 01708 765200 as well as the Samaritans who are open 24/7 on 116 123.
PODCAST: EPISODE 58 29 september 2020
In conversation with … ANNE FOX
In this episode, Edwina talks to Anne Fox, Chief Executive of Clinks, founded in 1997 to coordinate the work of charities that engage with people in criminal justice in England and Wales.
Anne discusses the importance of understanding the needs of organisations working in the criminal justice space, particularly in the current context of a pandemic.
The impact of Covid-19 on the voluntary sector working in criminal justice
Subscribe to Light Lunch
PODCAST: EPISODE 57 17 september 2020
In conversation with … RICHARD GARSIDE
In this episode, Edwina talks to Richard Garside, Director of the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies about their recent report on how prison systems in different European countries are dealing with the coronavirus outbreak.
Richard outlines the importance of this research both in the short and long term as it records how this crisis was handled and can be used to ensure we are better prepared for the future.
Following the release of this report, the Centre for Crime and Justice studies has released a series of webinars to have a more detailed understanding of the key issues and intends to carry out further qualitative research on COVID-19 in prisons.
COVID-19 in European prisons: Tracking preparedness, prevention and control
PODCAST: EPISODE 56 19 August 2020
In conversation with … David lammy MP
In this episode Edwina Grosvenor talks with Rt Honourable David Lammy MP for Tottenham, delving into a host of issues including language, white privilege, and the lack of diversity and structural racism in the criminal justice system. This lively discussion looks at the reasons and the solutions to disproportionality in Britain’s judicial system and why only 6 of the 35 recommendations in the 2017 Lammy Review have been implemented.
PODCAST: EPISODE 55 27 July 2020
In conversation with … jaMES timpson obe
Edwina Grosvenor talks to James Timpson OBE, Chair of Prison Reform Trust and Chief Executive of Timpson, a successful UK-wide family run business. In this wide-ranging conversation, we find out how the ethos of Timpson’s came about, which today translates to 1 in 9.5 of Timpson staff being recruited from UK prisons. James shares his observations of prison leadership over the last few years and different cultures within UK prisons. James discusses his approach recruitment and what he has learnt along the way, including the importance of supporting colleagues to be the best they can be.
PODCAST: EPISODE 54 07 July 2020
In conversation with … Christopher Stacey
Edwina talks with Christopher Stacey, Co-director of Unlock. They discuss how people often face stigma and obstacles because of their criminal record - long after they have served their sentence. In the UK 1 in 6 people have criminal records - Chris explains how the current system of criminal record checks isn’t fit for purpose with information shared with potential employers that isn’t relevant; and wide-spread employment practices are too often grounded in prejudice, causing significant harm to individuals trying to get on with their lives.
@unlockcharity and #FairChecks
Resources from Unlock
Practical guidance for employers on dealing with criminal record checks Guidelines on recruiting people with convictions
PODCAST: EPISODE 53 22 June 2020
In conversation with … Paddy Wivell
In this episode, Edwina talks with Paddy Wivell, award winning film director and producer, about his experience making the Channel 4 series ‘Prison’, a behind-the-scenes exploration of life at HMP Durham and HMP Foston Hall. Paddy discusses the importance of building trust with both the officers and the residents, and the range of human experience he witnessed and explored in the series – from the violence to the humour, to the tenderness of the relationships. He explains how he saw first-hand, the impact of ‘Healing Trauma’, (the peer-led trauma intervention introduced by One Small Thing) had upon the women residents at
Foston Hall.
SupportLine provide confidential support for a range of issues including self harm: 01708 765200; and Rape Crisis 0808 802 9999 (12:00-14:30 and 19:00-21:30 daily)
PODCAST: EPISODE 52 8 June 2020
In conversation with … dr karen treisman
In this episode, another in our series responding to Covid-19, Edwina talks to Dr Karen Treisman, clinical psychologist, author and trainer, exploring the impact of trauma at an individual, organisational and community level, particularly in this time of Covid-19. Karen is an expert in trauma-informed work and this wide-ranging and practical conversation explores how Covid-19 is impacting upon us including how the body holds and responds to trauma (and how we can care for
ourselves), how organisations can respond to the impact of Covid-19 in a way that is trauma-informed, and the concept of cultural humility.
If you find you have been impacted by the issues raised in this podcast, support is available at National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 and Rape Crisis 0808 802 9999.
PODCAST: EPISODE 52 1 June 2020
In conversation with … louise shorter
In this episode, Edwina talks to Louise Shorter, founder and CEO of charity Inside Justice, about their work undertaking casework investigations on behalf of people who claim they’ve been wrongly convicted. Louise is a former producer/director of BBC TV’s long-running miscarriage of justice investigative series, Rough Justice and set up Inside Justice 10 years ago following the decline of media organisations investigating individual claims of wrongful conviction. In this podcast, Louise explores cases Inside Justice have worked on and tells of the increasing number of systemic challenges Inside Justice faces when working on cases.
PODCAST: EPISODE 52 20 MAY 2020
In conversation with … ENVER SOLOMON
In this week’s episode, Edwina catches up with Enver Solomon, CEO of charity Just for Kids Law – the UK charity that strives for the legal rights and entitlements of children and young people in the UK – to find out what impact Covid-19 is having on their work and the lives of those they serve.
PODCAST: EPISODE 49 11 may 2020
IN CONVERSATION WITH … dci nick plummer
In this episode, Edwina talks to DCI Nick Plummer about his work leading the Missing Exploited Trafficked (Children) Team and Youth Offending Team, within the Public Protection Department of Hampshire Constabulary and their plans to become a trauma informed county. Nick has been a police officer for 27 years and is an operational and strategic police leader, with a wide range of experience including responses to kidnap, misconduct and corruption, the management of Covert Human Intelligence Sources. He has also served in Kabul as a leader on a training and mentoring mission supporting the Afghan National Police.
PODCAST: EPISODE 48
IN CONVERSATION WITH … IAN ACHESON
In this week’s episode, Edwina talks to Ian Acheson about the threat posed by violent extremism in prisons. Ian is a former prison officer and now visiting Professor at Staffordshire University school of Law, policing and forensics. In 2016 he was asked by Government to conduct an independent review of Islamist extremism in prison, probation and justice in England and Wales. He currently works internationally advising Governments and institutions on how to combat ideologically inspired terrorism on behalf of the Counter Extremism Project.
PODCAST: EPISODE 47
IN CONVERSATION WITH … laura richards & zoe dronfield
In this episode, released during National Stalking Awareness Week 2020, Edwina talks to survivor and activist Zoe Dronfield and Criminal Behavioural Analyst and founder of Paladin National Stalking Advocacy Service, Laura Richards. They discuss the dangerous reality of stalking and the need for more change in law and practice.
Paladin 020 3866 4107 info@paladinservice.co.uk @paladinservice
PODCAST: EPISODE 46
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Dougie graham
In this episode, another in our series responding to Covid 19, Edwina talks to Dougie Graham, Governor of HMP Isle of Wight – a category B high security male training prison holding over 1000 prisoners on two sites. Dougie has served in HMPPS for over 20 years and as the governor of HMP Isle of Wight for over three years.
PODCAST: EPISODE 45
IN CONVERSATION WITH … CHIEF CONSTABLE OLIVIA PINKNEY
in this week’s episode Edwina talks to Chief Constable Olivia Pinkney about her role as the most senior police officer in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Olivia joined Hampshire Constabulary in April 2016 and is also the national police lead for Children and Young People and Chair of the national Women Chief Officers’ Network. She has previously served as assistant chief constable for Surrey and Sussex forces, and was the national lead for the police on tackling organised immigration crime including people trafficking. She began her career policing with Avon and Somerset Constabulary and was an assistant inspector of constabulary with Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary. Olivia was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal in the 2016 New Year Honours list.
PODCAST: EPISODE 44 - #COVID19
IN CONVERSATION WITH … HELEN ALDERSON
in this episode, another in our series responding to Covid 19, Edwina talks to Helen Alderson Head of Delegation for the UK & Ireland at the International Committee of the Red Cross. Helen explains the work of the Red Cross in responding to the crisis and its work in prisons around the world. Helen began her career at UNICEF before joining the ICRC and has also worked for the Ethos Foundation and as CEO of the World Heart Federation.
podcast: episode 43 - #covid19
in conversation with … polly neate
In this episode, another in our series responding to Covid 19, Edwina talks to Polly Neate, CEO of Shelter about how the global health crisis is impacting on the existing national crisis in housing and homelessness. Polly joined Shelter in August 2017 from Women’s Aid, where she was Chief Executive. Previously, she was Executive Director of External Relations and Communications at Action for Children.
podcast: episode 42 - #covid19
in conversation with … dickie james mbe
In this episode, part of a series in response to Covid19, Edwina talks to Dickie James MBE, CEO of Staffordshire Women’s Aid for 26 years, to find out about the impact of the pandemic on refuge and support services for women and their children and the anticipated rise in incidents of domestic violence. Please note that this episode was recorded on Tuesday 31st March 2020 and the situation is rapidly changing.
@StaffsWomensAid @DickiJames Helpline: 0300 330 5959
Dickie also feature in Episode 11, JUSTICE
National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 I The Men’s Advice Line – 0808 801 0327 I National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428 I Childline: 0800 1111
podcast episode: 41 - #covid19
in conversation with … Mark fairhurst
In this episode, as part of a series in response to Covid19, Edwina talks again to Mark Fairhurst, Chair of the Prison Officers’ Association (POA) about what is happening on the ground for prison officers. The POA is the largest union in the United Kingdom representing uniformed prison officers and staff working within the field of Secure Forensic Psychiatric Care. It has over 35 thousand members in the public and private sectors. Mark was elected to the POA National Executive Committee in 2015 and elected as National Chair in 2017.
podcast episode: 40 - #covid19
in conversation with … sarah hughes
In this episode, Edwina talks to Sarah Hughes, CEO of The Centre for Mental Health – a charity with over 30 years’ experience in research, analysis and policy influencing. Sarah has worked in mental health and criminal justice for 29 years. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Salzburg Global and the Mental Health Collective and is a member of the Sciana Health Leaders Network.
PODCAST: EPISODE 39
IN CONVERSATION WITH … LUKE HART
In this week’s episode Edwina is in conversation with Luke Hart. Luke and his brother Ryan, are award-winning domestic abuse advocates, authors and international keynote speakers, speaking out against male violence towards women and children. They share their family’s story to raise awareness of coercive and controlling behaviour and domestic abuse which resulted in the murder of their mother and sister by their father and his own suicide. They have worked closely and frequently with the national media on domestic abuse reporting and are White Ribbon Ambassadors and Refuge Champions. They have written a book Remembered Forever about their experiences.
PODCAST: EPISODE 38
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Peter clarke
In this week’s episode Edwina is in conversation with the Chief Inspector of Prisons, Peter Clarke CVO OBE QPM. Appointed as HM Chief Inspector of Prisons in 2016, Peter is in the final months of his term of office and reflects on the role ‘shining a light on closed institutions’ and the career in the justice system that brought him to it.
Peter joined the Metropolitan Police in 1977 and served in a variety of uniformed and detective roles in London, and in May 2002 he was appointed as Head of the Anti-Terrorist Branch at New Scotland Yard and National Co-ordinator of Terrorist Investigations. He has held a number of national roles since and in 2014 was appointed as the Education Commissioner for Birmingham with a specific remit to investigate alleged Islamist infiltration of schools. He is a member of the Board of the Charity Commission and is a trustee of the Crimestoppers charity. He has been a Fellow of the Center for Law and Security at New York University and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Laws by the University of Bristol in 2008.
PODCAST: EPISODE 37
IN CONVERSATION WITH … Nick hardwick
In this week’s episode, Edwina is in conversation with Nick Hardwick, Professor of Criminal Justice at School of Law, Royal Holloway University of London and former Chair of the Parole Board, and Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons 2010 to 2016. A highly topical conversation that explores the role and purpose of the Parole Board, its legal framework, the wider justice system, public perception and the rights and needs of both victims and perpetrators, as well as a number of high profile cases.
PODCAST: EPISODE 36
IN CONVERSATION WITH … the tartan con
In this episode Edwina talks to the Tartan Con. An ex-prisoner turned prison employee, he chooses to be referred to by a pseudonym to allow his work to be heard above views or judgements about his past. Passionate about prison reform, the Tartan Con currently works in the private prison sector, seeking to improve the quality of life for residents and staff, with the aim to help reduce suicide and self-harm rates within prisons.
PODCAST: EPISODE 35
in conversation with … just for kids law
In this week’s episode, Edwina finds out about the work of charity, Just for Kids Law – she speaks to youth advocate Max Davis, founder and legal director Aika Stephenson and CEO Enver Solomon. Just for Kids Law is a UK charity that strives for all children and young people in the UK to have their legal rights and entitlements respected and promoted, and their voices heard and valued. We also hear from one young person the charity has worked with, Mayowa, and his immigration status challenges via the charity’s own pilot podcast This Young Life.
PODCAST: EPISODE 34
FESTIVE SPECIAL 2019 #ALLIWANT4XMAS with … Noel Williams and Kate Paradine
In this week’s episode, Edwina is joined by Policy Adviser Noel Williams and Women in Prison CEO Kate Paradine to discuss festive wishes and wants for change in the Justice system from a range of contributors, including prison officers.
Noel advises on criminal and youth justice and has direct experience of the prison system. He is featured in JUSTICE Episode 14.
Dr Kate Paradine is Chief Executive of the national charity, Women in Prison. Women in Prison campaigns to end the harm of imprisonment to women, their families & our communities and supports women affected by the criminal justice system, in prison and through community-based specialist services, including women's centres in Manchester, London and Surrey.
Podcast: Episode 33
In Conversation with ... Jack Rowlands - DIVERT
In this episode Edwina talks to Chief Inspector Jack Rowlands who heads up DIVERT, a Metropolitan Police Service intervention programme for young adults aged 18-25 years. Working in partnership with a number of charities, DIVERT aims to reduce reoffending and offer routes in to employment, education and training. Edwina also hears from Paul Goumou who has directly benefitted from the support, coaching and mentoring on offer. The team goes on location at Brixton Police Station Custody Suite with Jack, to find out more about how the DIVERT initiative works there and in other police stations across the Metropolitan Police Service and meets DIVERT Coach Angel Videyra.
@DIVERTLondon Chief Inspector Jack Rowlands @earlyyearscop
To find out more about DIVERT and Paul Goumou’s music: https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/music-youth
Podcast: Episode 32
in conversation with - mark fairhurst
In this week’s episode, Edwina talks to Mark Fairhurst, Chair of the Prison Officers’ Association (POA) about the current challenges facing its members. The POA is the largest union in the United Kingdom representing uniformed prison officers and staff working within the field of Secure Forensic Psychiatric Care. It has over 35 thousand members in the public and private sectors. He was elected to the POA National Executive Committee in 2015 and elected as National Chair in 2017. Mark joined the Prison Service in 1992 and has worked in a number of secure establishments including HMP Frankland in Durham, HM Young Offenders Institute (HMYOI) Wetherby, HMYOI Lancaster Farms and since 1996, HMP Liverpool, where he continues to work.
For more information about the POA: POAUK.org.uk @POAUnion
You can also follow Mark Fairhurst on Twitter @POANatChair
Podcast: Episode 31
in conversation with - john podmore
In this week’s episode Edwina talks to John Podmore. John is an international criminal justice and expert witness consultant. John spent 25 years as a senior manager in the Prison Service of England and Wales during which time he governed three prisons - HMP Swaleside, Brixton and Belmarsh; was a team leader with HM Inspector of Prisons and Head of the Corruption Prevention Unit. He left the Prison Service in 2011. John is a regular commentator and writer. His book ‘Out of sight Out of Mind: why Britain’s prisons are failing’ was published in January 2012 and nominated for the 2013 Orwell Prize. John has considerable experience in the charitable sector including with the Pilgrim Trust, Addaction, Release and currently as a trustee of the Longford Trust.
*John meant to reference Reggie Kray, not Ronnie Kray in this episode and Penelope Gibbs raised a Freedom of Information request and not a Parliamentary Question.
Podcast: Episode 30
Another Me Exhibition at the Southbank Centre
In this week’s episode, Edwina and the One Small Thing team are on location at Southbank Centre in London for a tour of Another Me, the Koestler Arts Annual Exhibition curated by Mercury-nominated and MOBO-winning jazz and hip hop musician Soweto Kinch. Edwina tours the show which features work by artists from across UK prisons and other secure settings with Koestler’s Director of Arts, Fiona Curran. Fiona leads on the charity’s annual awards programme, exhibitions, sales and events and has worked for the charity for over ten years. We are grateful for permission to feature the original Another Me music compositions by Soweto Kinch in this episode.
Podcast: Episode 29
In Conversation with - Naima Sakande
In this week’s episode, Edwina speaks to advocate and campaigner, Naima Sakande about her work challenging the practice of imprisonment for non-payment of Council Tax and TV license fines and its disproportionate impact on women and children. Naima is the Women’s Justice Advocate at justice charity APPEAL, using impact litigation to challenge miscarriages of justice for women experiencing multiple and severe disadvantage. She produces APPEAL’S Surviving Injustice podcast, is a trustee of the charity Women in Prison and creator and host of the podcast, Third Culture.
We are encouraging our UK listeners to sign the petition calling for repeal of the law that allows imprisonment as a penalty for non-payment of Council Tax.
Podcast: Episode 28
In Conversation with - Gary Mansfield
In our first episode after the summer break, Edwina talks to artist and podcast producer, Gary Mansfield, about discovering art and creativity whilst serving a 14 year prison sentence. Gary talks about his experiences of crime and prison life, the importance of creativity in helping turn his life and the lives of others around and his art, exploring issues of identity and justice. Gary is also a trustee of Koestler Arts.
Podcast: mind your own business
Lady Edwina Grosvenor - Life Inside Prisons
During our last round of training with the Long Term High Secure Estate officers at UKFast offices in Manchester, Edwina was interviewed by the company’s founder and CEO, Lawrence Jones MBE for his podcast Mind Your Own Business. Listen in to hear Edwina talk about her life and work and what inspired her to found her own charity, One Small Thing.
Podcast: Episode 27
In Conversation with - Dolly Sen
In this episode Edwina talks to artist, mental health activist and all round extraordinary and brilliant being, Dolly Sen. Dolly talks to Edwina about her childhood, her experience of psychosis, mood disorder and PTSD, and how the multiple diagnoses affected her ability to live a normal life. She also talks about how she has survived - and befriended - the voices in her head.
If you are affected by mental illness including schizophrenia, here are some useful sites to visit for information and support:
http://www.sane.org.uk/what_we_do/support/helpline
Podcast: Episode 26
In Conversation with - Dr Stephanie Covington Ph.D
Clinician and Trauma expert Dr Stephanie Covington Ph.D runs pioneering trauma programmes in prisons all over the world. As author of the Healing Trauma intervention for women, she has been pivotal in the success of our charity’s ongoing efforts in both the male and female prisons in England and Wales.
Among the key topics explored in this episode Edwina and Stephanie consider the way men respond to the word, and the idea of trauma, while confined in hyper masculine spaces. Fascinating and compelling stuff.
The Healing Trauma research referred to in this episode is available on the One Small Thing website:
Podcast: Episode 25
In Conversation with - Lucie Russell & Jasmine Fulcher (StreetDoctors)
What will it take to end the culture of knife crime and violence? Today’s podcast explores this question with new CEO of StreetDoctors Lucie Russell and volunteer medic Jasmine Fulcher. StreetDoctors is a UK wide youth social action movement of healthcare students volunteering their time to teach lifesaving skills to young people at risk of youth violence. The charity empowers young people to become StreetDoctors in their own communities, helping to keep themselves and others safe.
Podcast: Episode 24
In Conversation with - Simon Shepherd of The Butler Trust
We all know that prisons get a huge amount of bad press. However, behind the negative headlines, there are lots of good things going on in our jails. Someone who has dedicated his working life to exploring and celebrating the good in prisons is today’s guest, Simon Shepherd. “I want to highlight the good work that goes on in the [prison] estate, highlight the good work that goes on in prisons and help to identify lessons learned that the prison service can draw on,” he says. Simon is the Director of The Butler Trust, a charitable organisation that recognises, celebrates, develops and disseminates outstanding work and best practice across UK prisons, probation and youth justice. He also leads the Good Book of Prisons and has - to date - travelled 17,210 miles, visiting 102 prisons and meeting with 2,067 staff and prisoners. The results will be published in August 2019.
Podcast: Episode 23
In Conversation with - Inspector Michael Brown OBE
In our latest episode Edwina speaks to police inspector and mental health advocate, Inspector Michael Brown, OBE, West Midlands Police. Until very recently Michael was the Mental Health Coordinator for the College of Policing and National Police Chiefs’ Council. His award winning blog explores policing, mental health and criminal justice..
Podcast: Episode 22
In Conversation with - Marian Partington
Marian Partington’s deep interest in healing threads through her work as a homœopath for thirty years, in prisons and schools as a story teller and facilitator for The Forgiveness Project since 2005, and as a writer. Her book If You Sit Very Still offers ‘an extraordinary story of inner movement and growth’ (Rowan Williams) as she engages fiercely with the traumatic loss of her sister Lucy who was murdered by Fred and Rosemary West.
Podcast: Episode 21
In Conversation with - Alexandra
In her early twenties, Alexandra was raped. Seven years on, we hear her story and learn how she was treated by the criminal justice system once her case was brought to court.
If you have been a victim of rape, there are many places you can go for help, these include:
For help and information about support available including IDSVAs – Independent Domestic and Sexual Violence Advisers and SARCs – Sexual Assault Referral Centres - as mentioned specifically in the episode, go to: http://thesurvivorstrust.org Telephone 0808 801 0818
For male rape and sexual abuse support, go to: survivorsuk.org
Podcast: Episode 20
In Conversation with - Helen McGinn
Edwina is joined by author, newspaper columnist and wine expert Helen McGinn, whose younger brother Tim was murdered in London in 2002.
Podcast: Episode 19
One Small Thing Trauma Conference - Leeds 2019
In this episode we report live from the first ever One Small Thing Conference – Working With Trauma - held in Leeds in March 2019. With keynote speeches from Dr Stephanie Covington and Dr Karen Treisman, the conference brought together a range of experts and practitioners to share ideas, knowledge and network together about #workingwithtrauma
Podcast: Episode 18
In Conversation with - Penelope Gibbs
In this episode Edwina explores the language of criminology with Penelope Gibbs, a champion of improvements to the UK justice system and the founder of charity organisation Transform Justice.
Podcast: Episode 17
Edwina On The Road - at The Clink in Brixton Prison
In this week’s episode, Edwina goes through the gates of Brixton Prison to explore how it's prisoner-staffed restaurant, The Clink, is bringing reoffending rates down and changing lives for the better.
Podcast: Episode 16
IN CONVERSATION WITH - Marina Cantacuzino
On this episode Edwina talks to Marina Cantacuzino. Award-winning journalist, TED speaker and founder of The Forgiveness Project - a charity which collects and shares stories from individuals and communities who have rebuilt their lives following hurt and trauma.
Podcast: Episode 15
IN CONVERSATION WITH - CHERYL STEPTON
In this week’s episode Edwina speaks to Cheryl Stepton, Managing Director & Proprietor of the Cavendish School providing education for excluded children.
Podcast: Episode 14
IN CONVERSATION WITH - NOEL WILLIAMS
In this week’s episode Edwina speaks to Noel Williams, Youth & Justice Consultant who has also had first-hand experience within the criminal justice system.
Podcast: Episode 13
IN CONVERSATION WITH - SATHNAM SANGHERA
Edwina speaks to journalist and author, Sathnam Sanghera about the role of the media in the criminal justice system.
Podcast: Episode 12
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL: IN CONVERSATION WITH ERWIN JAMES
Edwina speaks to author, The Guardian contributor and ex-prisoner, Erwin James about Christmas behind bars.
Podcast: Episode 11
Edwina on the Road - at Staffordshire Women's Refuge
Edwina is back on the road, taking the short trip from Drake Hall Prison to see how women suffering trauma are being helped and supported by Staffordshire Women's Aid.
Podcast: Episode 10
Edwina on the Road - at Drake Hall Women's Prison in Staffordshire
This week Edwina pays a visit to Drake Hall Women's Prison in Staffordshire. She hears from Governor Carl Hardwick about how the staff there are dealing with the issue of trauma.
Podcast: Episode 9
In Conversation with - Dr Stephanie Covington
This week, Edwina meets American clinician, consultant and lecturer Dr
Stephanie Covington to talk about her pioneering work focussed on gender
responsive and trauma informed services.
Podcast: Episode 8
Edwina On The Road - behind the scenes on Coronation Street
Earlier this year Edwina visited Weatherfield to learn about troubled
mother of three Abi Franklin who's struggled to get back on track after
prison and addiction. Edwina meets Coronation Street story editor
Lindsay Williams and Sally Carman who plays Abi in the world's longest
running tv serial.
Podcast: Episode 7
In Conversation with - Katherine Sacks-Jones
This week Edwina talks to Katherine Sacks-Jones - Chief Executive of the campaign group AGENDA and co-chair of the Government's Mental Health Task Force - about the multiple issues women face inside and outside the criminal justice system.
Podcast: Episode 6
In Conversation with - Baroness Helena Kennedy QC
Edwina speaks to Human Rights lawyer Baroness Helena Kennedy QC about her new book Eve Was Shamed and how she feels the criminal justice system is failing women.
Podcast: Episode 5
In Conversation with - Dr Shona Minson
This week, Edwina meets barrister turned criminologist Dr Shona Minson to discuss her work around the welfare of children of women and men who end up in prison.
Podcast: Episode 4
Stories of Trauma Survival - Maya's Story
Edwina concludes her series of conversations with women who've survived trauma both outside and inside prison. This week she speaks to Maya.
Please note, some listeners may find the content distressing or triggering.
Podcast: Episode 3
Stories of Trauma Survival - Tina’s story
Edwina continues her four part series in which she speaks to women who have survived trauma both outside and inside prison. In Episode 3, she hears Tina's Story.
Please note, some listeners may find the content distressing or triggering.
Podcast: Episode 2
Stories of Trauma Survival - Clare’s story
Edwina continues her series in which she speaks to four women who have suffered trauma both outside and inside prison. In this episode she meets Clare.
Please note, some listeners may find the content distressing or triggering.
Podcast: Episode 1
Stories of Trauma Survival - Katie’s Story
Edwina begins a four part series in which she speaks to four women who have suffered trauma both outside and inside prison. In this episode Katie tells her story.
Please note, some listeners may find the content distressing or triggering.