AN EX-PRISONER has put pen to paper to describe his experiences across 14 UK prisons, including HMP Hewell.
In 2008 Stephen Jackley, then a 21-year-old university student, was sentenced to 13 years for armed robbery and associated crimes.
While serving his sentence Stephen was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and also completed an Open University degree.
After release, Stephen set up an award-winning social enterprise enabling people from disadvantaged backgrounds to fulfil their ambitions and make the most of their true potential.
He received a commendation from then HRH Prince Charles for his work, and has gone on to help others who have gone through the justice system.
Now he tells his own story of life behind bars and reveals what he perceives to be the many failings, and some successes, of the UK penal system.
Stephen said: “These are not places built for reform, no matter how strongly some politicians protest.
“They are the universities of crime – the holding pens for society’s rejects – a sorry excuse for punishment. There are better ways.”
In his memoir, Stephen shares his personal experience of life in prison – the intricacies of navigating prison politics, and the disparity in sentences for similar crimes.
* Just Time by Stephen Jackley is released on Monday October 2.
