WE ARE SISCO

For the past 5 years we have been developing and delivering recovery initiatives within the Scottish Prison Service, and in April 2020 became an independent Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation.

Our model was set up in a strategic manner to offer multiple pathways to recovery and is specifically designed for individuals caught up in the cycle of addiction.

We offer the whole person approach, addressing trauma and complex needs prior to release from prison, ensuring individuals can manage their emotional wellbeing.

The core of our model is built upon trust, integrity, honesty and healthy relationships. Upon these foundations we can develop a safe environment where prisoners can explore vulnerabilities and address the underlying reasons for engagement in crime or substance use.

The ethos of our model includes providing opportunities to those most disadvantaged; creating employment and voluntary opportunities within the service. Our approach utilises the knowledge and experience of those previously subject to the criminal justice service.

Our model has proven to be so successful we have replicated the blueprint to adapt to other prison establishments with plans to expand throughout the Scottish Prison Service.

As well as our prison-based work during lockdown, due to the demand for support, staff and volunteers created a community outreach support network, adapting our prison model to fit into the community needs.

Having access to a community hub allows us to deliver some of the following activities, health and wellbeing sessions, mentor sessions, hill walks, park walks, daily phone support, signposting to other services, pathways to education and supporting the transition from prison to sustaining a tenancy