PRISONERS behind bars and those on the outside are linking up in an innovative scheme to stop youngsters returning to a life of crime.

The Prince’s Trust is now looking for ex-prisoners from Weymouth and Dorchester to help run the programme.

The youth charity is expanding the reach of its ‘One-to-One’ mentoring programme which links young people in prison with reformed prisoners for support and inspiration.

The scheme, which aims to reduce re-offending rates, supports young prisoners through the transition from custody to the community.

Ex-prisoners from Weymouth and Dorchester who have turned their lives around are being urged to volunteer their time and help young people break the cycle of re-offending.

As part of their role, they will be expected to support the young people which will include giving motivational talks, writing letters to them and meeting the young person at the prison gate upon their release, if requested.

After the young person is released from prison, supporters will meet up with them for six months.

Sharon Cooper from The Prince’s Trust in Dorset said: “Volunteer supporters are able to make a real difference to the lives of young people leaving prison.

“We would like to hear from any former prisoners from across Dorset who think that they can provide practical and emotional support to help young people break the cycle of re-offending.”

Last year more than 3,300 unemployed young people living in the South West were supported by The Prince’s Trust through a range of personal development programmes. More than three in four went on to find work, secure training or access further education.

* Aiming to inspire offenders

To be trained as a supporter, potential volunteers must be reformed prisoners, free from criminal activity and substance misuse for at least two years.

For young offenders in custody to be matched with a supporter, they must be within a year of release, aged between 16 to 30 years old and interested in resettlement support.

The primary role of a volunteer supporter is to inspire and motivate the young offender they are matched with, the secondary role is to support their client to access appropriate services for their resettlement needs including getting help with benefits and accommodation.

To find out more information contact Sharon Cooper on 01202 436013 or Ginette Boyd on 01202 436014.