'Coping Kits' Project - Voices Unlocked
This Voices Unlocked project was developed and funded in response to an area of support need identified by a focus group of professionals from detention centres during the restrictions and regulations of Covid 19.
Having consulted a focus group of those with 'lived experience' of detention and hearing voices, these 'coping kits' were researched and developed for detainees, which included laminated resources for support, a grounding object, and exercise dice as informed by members of the group. The inclusion of a stamped addressed envelope for detainees to write to Voices Unlocked was also explored.
Over thirty kits were distributed to detainees in prisons and detention centres across London, including HMP Pentonville where Voices Unlocked organised for someone with 'lived experience' of hearing voices and the criminal justice system to give a talk and workshop to detainees.
"It's helpful that the resources have been created by peers who experience hearing voices...helping some individuals to try the tips mentioned knowing they have been useful for others"
HMP Wandsworth
Specialist Training - Voices Unlocked
A custody officer from HMP Chelmsford attended three day online group facilitation training with teammates developed and delivered by Voices Unlocked, and following this training was able to support a detainee who had made attempts to take his own life, using skills learnt through the training rather than signposting his concerns. The officer said the training was 'permission giving' and enabled him to change his work practice. The detainee stabilised and on release told the officer 'you saved my life, truly'.
Voices Unlocked were also consulted and involved during the restrictions of Covid 19 in the development of more person-centred safeguarding policies for prisoners identified as being at risk of suicide or self-harm at HMP Chelmsford.
“The workshop was really interesting and progressive in challenging stereotypes around mental health. The space was managed well and felt very safe and comfortable. One of the best mental health awareness trainings I have attended by far”
Voices Unlocked Training Attendee