Liam's story - a Peer Mentor at HMP Channings Wood
"People do bad things but it doesn't define you. "
Liam is a Peer Mentor at HMP Channings Wood in Devon. He helps with inductions, pre-releases and NA (Narcotics Anonymous) meetings as well as being a point of contact on the wings, especially for those who are new.
What led you to become a peer mentor?
Volunteering is an opportunity to give something back. I did the volunteer training with Change Grow Live and waited for a position to come up. I have been involved in recovery in the community and helping with activities and groups.
What are the most important qualities of a good peer mentor?
I think confidentiality is key and being empathetic to how other people are feeling. It helps people who are going through the same thing to know that they are not alone.
How does your lived experience help you support others?
For me, seeing people on the outside who are in sobriety and rebuilding positive relationships with their families and children is really inspiring. When you’re in the middle of it, it’s hard to believe you can ever get out. A seven-and-a-half-year sentence seems like a long time, but speaking to other peer mentors helped me realise that I can get through it, too.
What would you say to someone who believes people in prison can’t change?
That's a one-sided view. Anyone can change if you put the work in. You just need the will and desire. It has taken me 20 years to become abstinent – but I’ve done it.
Can you describe a specific time when you know you made a difference in someone’s life?
A mate wrote a letter to thank me, he was in here for 15 years. Another person here had issues with his family; I have rebuilt relationships within my family and it was good to check in on him as I can empathise with this situation. It can be hard for people, especially in here and when you first arrive in a prison.
What does making a difference look like in this environment — what changes do you notice in people?
The changes that I notice in people is that they engage more in the groups and in the gym. Volunteering has helped me so much and gives me a sense of purpose. Once people are in groups and get talking, they know that they are in a safe space to open up.
What do you wish people outside prison understood more about people inside prison?
There's always a backstory in people’s lives but most people just look at the sentence. There's always reasons. There's not that many evil people out there.
Why do you think people feel able to open up to you as a peer mentor?
They've seen the change in me. I maintain my sobriety and it's working for me. I hope to inspire others.
How has being a peer mentor changed you or the way you see yourself?
It's nice to know you’re helping people and you’re not isolating yourself from others which makes a big difference.
How does it feel to know your actions or words have helped someone else?
It feels good. I don't like seeing people go through bad stuff.
How do you look after your own wellbeing while supporting others?
I maintain my own routine. I go to the gym regularly and I help to facilitate NA groups. I did that outside of the prison as well.
People often have strong stereotypes about those in prison — what do you think they get wrong?
They have a one-sided view. They just see the crime and not the person behind it. It's not as simple as people think.
What do you hope people outside prison understand after hearing your story?
I want to inspire people and help others who want to volunteer. People do bad things but it doesn't define you. If I can even get someone to attend their first meeting - then that's my job done.