The rationale of the prison library is found in HM Prison Service's Vision which includes the following statement: "HM Prison Service serves the public by keeping in custody those committed by the courts. Our duty is to look after them with humanity and to help them lead law-abiding and useful lives in custody and after release".
The Library serves the prison and community by: - contributing to 'dynamic security' i.e. the maintenance of good order and discipline by providing a positive and constructive regime. Many prisoners discover books and reading for the first time in prison. Some become avid readers, especially since there are few other pastimes available.
- providing materials to support basic literacy, numeracy, communication and life skills helping inmates to develop skills and gain qualifications which will enhance their chances of employment when they leave prison
- training suitable prisoners as library assistants to develop their work skills and enable them to experience responsibility and gain an OCN certificate.
- supporting inmates family links and promoting family welfare through the 'Superdads' family reading programme
- reaching out to inmate 'school failures' and undiscovered talents through imaginative projects such as the 'Writer in Residence'
- where practical, providing a reference service and reading material to non-English speaking prisoners
- helping to prepare inmates for release by offering them a civic facility for leisure, education and information.
Holme House Prison 'Superdads' This is a continuation of Holme House's family reading tradition which started with the Prison's 'Time for Kids' project. That project, funded by a grant from the Roald Dahl Foundation, offered prisoners the opportunity to make a 'story-sack' for children. 'Superdads' offers them a short course to enhance their parenting skills, keep them in touch with their children, and help their children's reading. Each participant chooses a book for his child and this is sent out with a card from the father promising to read it together when he rejoins the family.
The aim of the programme:The Library staff at Holme House believe that 'Superdads' helps to avoid or mitigate the consequences of family breakdown; helps mothers to cope and above all helps the children
When fathers go to prison some children can suffer feeling of anxiety, sadness and confusion and can be vulnerable to long-term damage including depression. 'Superdads' aims to help the children through this difficult time and help the men to be better parents on their release.
To find out more please telephone the Prison on (01642) 744114
