Peterborough Quakers

In its ‘Framework for Action’ the Religious Society of Friends (The Quakers) in Britain stated that:

‘Quakers are well known for our work in supporting prisoners and in campaigning for reform of our justice system. Quaker work includes promoting alternatives to violence, alternatives to custody, restorative justice and support for the families of prisoners and for communities affected by crime.

We would like work to be funded in niche areas that can best draw on our existing local experience, such as that of our Prison Ministers, to complement the work already carried out by other bodies such as the Prison Reform Trust and the Howard League for Penal Reform. We hope in particular that work can address the needs of mentally ill people within the justice system.

We would like to see this area exemplify ways in which central, local and individual effort and experience can be brought together in a campaign over a long time to influence public opinion to transform the criminal justice system. This must be based on evidence, working with established campaigning bodies. The basis for this work is our belief in that of God in everyone, and our testimonies to equality and peace.’

In response to this Quakers in Peterborough (Cambridgeshire Area Meeting) decided to set up a Community Justice Project with the aim of providing small grants that help support, rehabilitate and resettle individuals who are in the criminal justice system or are in danger of falling into criminality, the ultimate aim being to prevent offending and re-offending.

It does this by working in partnership with and through well managed activities operating (or potentially operating) in the Peterborough locality which share these aims. Where needs that meet the aims of the Project are identified Quakers will, where possible, act as an agent for developing new activities. The Peterborough Meeting has set aside a Fund of £3000 per annum for 3 years commencing 1 January 2009. Additional monies have been provided by another Quaker Meeting.

To date support has been given to a hostel for men completing their custodial sentences, a project working with women to prevent reoffending, a scheme working with young people living difficult lives and a prison visiting scheme. Currently the Project is considering supporting a housing project for those leaving prison, a peace garden in a women’s prison and a mental health project aimed at people in prison.

December 2010