Nationally, 42% of people leaving prison return within a year, a number that’s barely shifted in a century and costs society £18bn annually. Each month, thousands of young men are released with a bag of belongings, an £89 discharge grant and nowhere to go. 35% of our Trainees struggle with mental health issues, 44% are released with unstable housing and 31% have no work experience. These barriers make reoffending far more likely, despite so many wanting to build a brighter future for themselves.

Switchback Mentors challenge and encourage our Trainees to take control and make real, lasting change. Switchback Trainees are four times less likely to return to custody, with around half progressing into long-term employment, further education or apprenticeships. Having a frank, non-judgemental relationship with someone who is there for them through the prison gate helps our Trainees navigate the turbulent transition from prison into the community.