Charity seeks volunteers to support prison leavers 

Community Chaplaincy Norfolk (CCN) is seeking more volunteer mentors as it continues to provide a ‘Both Sides of the Gate’ support service to people leaving prison in Norfolk. 

The charity is particularly looking for new Catholic volunteers. CCN Manager Melanie Wheeler said: “Leaving prison is a challenging time, made even tougher by the pandemic. The choices individuals make at this vital point influence whether a person re-offends or goes forward to build a positive future. CCN are there to guide and support people looking to move away from a life of crime. We are always looking for new Volunteer Mentors to walk with people leaving prison.”

Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, among other grant funders, the CCN ‘Both Sides of the Gate’ project recruits, trains and supports volunteer mentors of all faiths and none to assist with successful re-integration into society after release from prison.   

One CCN service user comments: “My experience of CCN has been an altogether good one. They have been helpful, friendly, understanding and most of all non-judgemental about my crime and my past, and I feel relaxed and able to talk openly about things that are happening and have happened in my life. The support I have got in prison has helped me feel confident that there is support there for me after my release as well.”

The next CCN training course starts on Wednesday March 16 at St Stephen’s Church in Norwich. Anyone interested in applying can do so here or by emailing abby@norfolkchaplaincy.org.uk.  Alternatively, telephone Abby Erwin on 07706 348472.

Pictured above is a CCN social event for staff, mentors and clients.
 

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