Guilt, loneliness and fear are but a few of the many emotions attached to a prison sentence. These feelings are often long-lasting and can make returning to society very challenging. The current prison system offers little hope of effective rehabilitation with overall reoffending rates of 26% between July and September 2019.
The Liberty Choir, set up in 2014, has a vision to reduce reoffending rates by providing high quality singing programmes within prisons. They currently have four community choirs who visit prisons on a regular basis to sing alongside prisoners. This inspirational initiative provides a sense of purpose, access to a supportive social network and long term support once prisoners are released, with many ex-offenders joining their local choir upon release.
A quick glance at the testimonials on The Liberty Choir’s website show the choir has been a lifeline to many and so much more than just singing. It has been the helping hand to lift them from the vicious cycle of repeat offending.
The choir is looking to expand their work and hope to benefit as many people as possible. They are currently looking for musicians with a passion for social justice to join their team. For more information or to consider whether you could be the next person to join this life-changing venture visit their website at libertychoir.org or find them on social media @libertychoiruk