PRISON MINISTRY

Back in 2004 we got a phone call from one of Christopher's old school teachers
she started to tell us about a new course they were running in a local prison called the Sycamore tree programme
And asked us if we would come to the prison and tell the inmates our story about how Chris was killed.
After a lot of prayer we rang her back and said yes we would love to.
She then went on to say we would be invited on week three to talk to the inmates on what it is like to be a victim of crime
and the ripple effect it had not only on us but the community as well

I must say when we got to the prison we didn't know what to expect and how the inmates would treat us
we were both a bit Apprehensive about going through the gates.
At the end of the session when we were able to talk to the inmates we found they felt the same about meeting us.
and we started to see them not as inmates but as people.
We are then invited back on week six and act as surrogate victims
this is when the inmates takes responsibility for their actions

We are glad we did because it is wonderful to see the inmates lives change for the better,
We now visit many prisons to give our story.
And it is one of the most positive things we have done since Chris was taken from us.

What is Sycamore Tree?

The six-session in-prison Sycamore Tree programme raises victim awareness among offenders
and teaches principles and application of restorative justice.
Offenders on the programme explore the effects of crime on victims, offenders, and the community, and learn to take responsibility for their personal actions.
For most offenders on Sycamore Tree the most powerful element of the programme is when surrogate victims talk through how crime has impacted their lives.
Also at the end of each programme members of the community are invited to support and bear witness to the offenders intentions to put into practice their improved attitudes and behaviour.
The programme raises a number of very important issues, which are relevant to victims and offenders today.
The attitude of offenders towards victims
The attitude of victims towards offenders
The need for restoration, forgiveness and restitution

For more information about the Sycamore tree please Click here.

VOLUNTEER

If you are a victim of crime and would like to be a part of the Sycamore Tree.
Your crime could be from a Mugging to a Murder no crime is to small or to big.
Victims of crime very rarely get a voice to say how they feel,
This is the way your voice can be heard and change lives even yours.
Or you may want to Volumteer and be part of the team.
for more information please Click here