For over 20 years, the Royal Institute has been delivering a programme of learning for prisoners in England. Working alongside specialist providers, ex prisoners and experienced philosophers, our programmes have reached into women’s prisons, young offenders units, men’s high security, and category C prisons.
This year we welcomed prison education work delivered by our partner, the Philosophy Foundation, becoming certified by Sheffield University, meaning prisoners will receive a certificate of attainment; a significant milestone for many and often the first time prisoners have achieved academic recognition. This certificate means an opportunity to demonstrate a positive project as part of their probation appeal whilst becoming an inspiration to themselves, their families, and other prisoners.
Our work aims to increase aspiration, create a foundation of inner confidence, and offer new experiences in areas of personal challenge. We are working hard to discover opportunities to deliver philosophy that is responsive to prisoners needs and easily accessible to as many as possible. We want to offer opportunities to think again about all the questions, not just the big ones.
If you would like to support our work in prisons, then please get in touch by emailing support@royalinstitutephilosophy.org.