Andrew’s story – in his own words…

“Since my release in December 2012 I was on electronic tagging for 3 months. I did find it difficult despite the support I received. But I am 42 yrs of age and I no longer want to return to prison.

“I found that doing the Alpha Course in prison gave me an advantage in surviving day-to-day life. Also, the Kainos Challenge to Change programme gave me added knowledge and belief in myself, which I had truly forgotten.

“From what I had learned in prison I went on to better myself in more ways than one. I went to college and decided to better myself doing qualifications in Level 1 and 2 in IT. I also gained Level 2 in Maths and passed my CSCS exam.

“I have had employment since my release, but my main priority is my mother. So after 5 months of release I am a full-time carer for her, and this makes me feel proud. And it’s down to God, Alpha and the Kainos Programme, as they all taught me to be a better person than I once was. I am very grateful, thank you.”