Tom is currently serving an 11-year sentence at HMP Dovegate. Living in the Therapeutic Community, Tom started studying a BA Hons this year in Philosophy and Psychological study. Tom had also completed his Level 2 qualifications at Dovegate and received a highly commended award at the Koestler Awards in 2022.

Tom was unable to receive education for Maths and English qualifications in his last prison – since moving to HMP Dovegate he has completed these qualifications which he needed for his Open University application. 

In terms of new skills, Tom has learnt how to plan and write essays at HMP Dovegate, answering questions asked in an informed and organised way. Tom has also been able to use the skills that he has learnt to put together a resettlement plan which he will need for parole.

Tom is hoping to work for a company called User Voice who help ex-offenders stay out of jail upon release. He wants to move into counselling and hopes that his work with the Open University will help make this possible.

Tom said:

“Taking an Open University course helped with my confidence and my self-worth. It is really a case of good staff at HMP Dovegate. At my last prison, they were unable to have the right staff and it took me over a year to do a 3-month maths course. Having experienced staff like Anna-Marie is a godsend.”

*Pseudonym