Welcoming Prison Leavers - training course for faith groups & leaders

Together Liverpool and The Welcome Directory invite church and faith groups to join this two-part training focused on equipping participants to welcome and support prison leavers in our communities.

The Welcoming Prison Leavers course is an opportunity to deepen participants' understanding of the challenges faced by to those re-entering society after prison, and learn practical and ways to extend compassion and hope.

We'll be joined by Brian Greenhalgh, lead chaplain at Altcourse prison, who will share valuable insights from his extensive work supporting prison leavers, who often experience stigma, isolation, and difficulties in finding stable housing and employment.

Research underscores that having a supportive faith community can significantly reduce reoffending rates, transforming lives and fostering safer communities.

By completing this training, your faith group will become eligible for registration with The Welcome Directory - a network of faith communities committed to providing a welcoming space for those navigating life after prison.

Joe Cottrell, Social Action Lead Development Officer for Together Liverpool, said: “We believe that faith groups have a unique role in transforming lives and communities. By welcoming prison leavers into your community, you are not only offering them a second chance, but you are also helping to break cycles of reoffending and isolation. This course will equip you with the tools to make a lasting impact on the lives of prison leavers and your wider community.”

Course Details

Session 1 (for faith group leaders): Wednesday, 27 November, 6:45 pm–8:45 pm
Session 2 (for leaders and their teams): Saturday, 30 November, 10:00 am–2:00 pm
Location: St Giles Church, Aintree Lane, Liverpool L10 8LE
Cost: Free for Network of Kindness members

What Faith Groups Will Learn:

• Understanding Challenges: Gain awareness of the obstacles prison leavers encounter upon reentry
• Creating Welcoming Spaces: Learn practical steps to make your community an inclusive and safe space
• Offering Spiritual and Practical Support: Equip your team to support prison leavers in a holistic way