An innovative new ‘Inspire' scheme has been introduced at Serco-run HMP Dovegate, a Category B adult male prison near Uttoxeter. The benefits of engaging in purposeful activity during time in prison are well documented; giving prisoners the opportunity to gain new skills and develop positive relationships can reduce the likelihood of reoffending once released. Participating in such activities can help manage stress, cope with mental health challenges and give a sense of accomplishment that boosts self-esteem.

To encourage participation in purposeful activities and foster a culture of rehabilitation and positive behavioural change, Serco have introduced the Inspire incentive scheme. Prisoners can collect 'points' for demonstrating positive actions above and beyond what is usually expected. These points can be exchanged for items that enhance wellbeing and rehabilitation, such as additional phone credit to support family relationships.

Points can be awarded for a range of activities, including full engagement with educational activities, and achieving formal qualifications. Bolstering key literacy skills through reading for pleasure is also a key focus with points offered for completion of an agreed number of books. 129 books have been read and returned since the launch at end of March this year. The scheme has also been particularly successful in rewarding the safe return of books and DVDs to the library, saving investment in replacing these resources.

Points can also be received for the donation of books or DVDs with 122 books and DVDs being donated since this aspect of the scheme went live in early July.

Inspire Coordinator, Dave says "Uptake with the scheme has been positive, as with all new things some are quicker to adopt and feel the benefits than others. We are delighted to have already received feedback from those who are experiencing positive benefits to their journey in prison and have taken the time to reach out to me to share this."

Dave explains that the programme is firmly rooted in rewarding positive behaviours: "We do not take points away from people as the intention is rooted in encouraging positive behaviour change and supporting our rehabilitative approach. If there are challenges with an individual, then they will be suspended from being able to collect any further points for a defined period of time."

We will be reviewing the impact of the scheme over the first 6 months – watch this space for updates on the difference we are making!