Together in celebration at HMP Pentonville
As we come together at the end of each StandOut course, we share special moments, reflect on progress, and recognise that each person's journey through the course has involved commitment, energy, and resilience. The recent graduation at HMP Pentonville was particularly special, as we were able to invite family and friends of the men on the course along to celebrate with us.
The graduation brought together StandOut participants and their loved ones, prison staff, and the StandOut team to celebrate personal growth and highlight people’s achievements over the previous few weeks.
For some guests, this unique opportunity to join us to recognise the achievements of their son, partner or friend was the first time they had visited prison. Some said how the event had challenged their expectations of what prison could be, “I thought prison was corrupt, but it has changed me, because of the support and a course like this they can do”.
Our graduations are an opportunity for participants to talk about moments on the course that have resonated with them or to share reflections on things they have learned. With family and friends present, some took the opportunity to thank them for their support. One expressed his gratitude to his mum, who he called his ‘best friend’, and shared a heartfelt account of his journey and the support and friendship she had provided throughout his life.
Friends and family shared their pride in seeing their loved ones develop, “He was lost, he wasn’t interested in anything. He has done so well, he talks about things more. I’m proud of him”.
The men on the course also shared their reflections, “I feel really happy that we made it to the end and everyone is proud and happy. Glad family and friends came - helped me a lot”.
Other guests, which included those from other agencies in the prison, reflected on the potential they felt in the room, “Today I have been reminded how many utterly brilliant, talented, unique, inspiring men there are in Pentonville, and we are lucky to know them and work with them”, and some on how the event had impacted them, “all it has done for me is to prove that these guys are worth the time and effort”.
A StandOut graduation includes a presentation of certificates together with an affirmation of the strengths coaches have seen in participants. To share positive reflections of each participant in front of their family and friends emphasises StandOut’s aim to empower people to realise their potential.
Over lunch after the graduation, participants enjoyed catching up with their guests, sharing the celebration and enjoying time in a more relaxed setting than a visits hall.
The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of supportive family and networks of people who believe in you, and the difference that can make to someone’s success after prison.
We’d like to thank the staff at HMP Pentonville for supporting the event.