Michael's story - a Peer Mentor at HMP Channings Wood

What led you to become a peer mentor?  

I was thrown in at the deep end and learnt the hard way with what I've been through throughout my life. Now I've come out the other side and want to help others who are in the same situation. I am now four years abstinent from drugs and alcohol.
 

What are the most important qualities of a good peer mentor?

I think it is important to be a role model and to also look presentable. People can be judgmental. When anyone is using, personal hygiene is the first thing that gets neglected. My cell has to be clean, the tops needs to be clear, so if officers see it then it looks good. My morning routine is important to me and it starts the morning off on the right path to wake up in a clean cell. 
 

How does your lived experience help you support others?  

I am not proud of the stuff that's happened in the past but I like to be able to give advice on how to improve and be a good role model for some active users to look up to. It’s like when you see people at the gym, being healthy, you want that for yourself too.
 

What would you say to someone who believes people in prison can’t change? 

This is stereotypical of stigma and anyone with an addiction. You have to take people at face value, not what is on their record. 
 

Can you describe a specific time when you know you made a difference in someone’s life?

I lost my sister when I was young, so I'm empathetic to others if they've lost someone close. If someone has had a bereavement - I'm there, and I can feel their pain. You just need to be who you are. I have a good sense for when people start to bottle things up. They isolate themselves and mope about if they are on the wings. There is a big difference when that changes and people start to open up more and attend groups. My mindfulness course has particularly changed one lad. He now practises the tools he has learned in his cell.
 

Why do you think people feel able to open up to peer mentors?  

Because we are present and good role models. Being in groups shows that we are trustworthy and you can always stop us and have a chat. I always offer to listen and people see this and open up to us. 
 

Has being a peer mentor changed you or the way you see yourself?  

Yes - now I am abstinent I care a lot about the thoughts and feelings of others. I didn't when I was using. My mum and dad are proud of me. I'm proud of myself. I've accepted my flaws, and I am moving on. 
 

How do you look after your own wellbeing while supporting others?

I have a good support network. I talk to Liam [another peer mentor] and others about my family and the prison staff have been helpful. I look after myself and I'm happy to help people who need my support. I'll continue to do what I'm allowed to do when I'm out. 
 

People often have strong stereotypes about those in prison — what do you think they get wrong?  

People do not know the whole story about people's lives. They can be quick to judge and it is frustrating as they do not understand the struggles that people have had. Losing my sister at a young age has been part of my struggles. 
 

What do you hope people outside prison understand after hearing your story?

I hope that they can have a broad mind about other people’s problems and that not all people are bad, they've just done bad things and can change. I was a different person when I was taking drugs but now I feel so much better.