David Breakspear; From Prison to Purpose: Creating Meaningful Lives After Incarceration. Video version

In this conversation, David Breakspear, a former prisoner and now a mentor and advocate for criminal justice reform, shares his insights and experiences with David and Naomi. David emphasizes the importance of listening and asking the right questions when working with individuals who have been through the criminal justice system. He believes that by shifting the focus from "what's wrong with you" to "what's happened to you," we can help people overcome their resentment and find a better path in life. David also discusses his involvement with organizations like Revolving Doors and Shannon Trust, where he uses his lived experience to support others. He highlights the power of language and the need for the system to use the right kind of language when addressing individuals who have been in prison. The conversation touches on the disruptive nature of custodial sentences and the challenges faced by individuals reintegrating into society. David shares his journey of turning his negative experiences into something purposeful and meaningful. He also talks about his involvement with Reconnect, a program that aims to support individuals transitioning from prison to the community. Throughout the conversation, David emphasizes the importance of speaking truth to power and advocating for change in the criminal justice system. He discusses the impact of neurodiversity and the need for support and understanding for individuals with diverse needs in prison. Overall, the conversation provides a powerful and thought-provoking perspective on the criminal justice system and the importance of empathy, understanding, and support in helping individuals overcome their past and build a better future.

Main Points

1. Living in probation hostels or approved premises can be challenging due to the mix of residents with different criminal backgrounds and the restrictions placed on individuals. It can feel like being stuck in a confined space where all daily activities take place.

2. The age of criminal responsibility in Europe is the lowest at 10 years old, and children are often criminalized too young. The focus should be on addressing the underlying needs of young people, particularly in the school-to-prison pipeline and school exclusions.

3. Mentoring and support play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome resentment and navigate through difficult situations. Listening and asking the right questions can help individuals see their potential and find alternative paths.

4. The criminal justice system should prioritize meeting the health needs of individuals, regardless of their offenses. Providing support and addressing unmet needs can reduce the likelihood of reoffending.

5. Personal experiences and the support of organizations like ReConnect have shown the importance of addressing health needs and providing opportunities for individuals to turn their lives around. Early intervention and support can prevent individuals from getting caught in the cycle of the criminal justice system.