Switchback
Switchback is an award-winning charity helping young Londoners to find a way out of the justice system and make real-lasting change in their lives. By providing intensive one-to-one support either side of the prison gate alongside real-work training after release, we support 18-30 year old men (Trainees) to build a stable life they can be proud of. We share what we’ve learned to inspire change across the justice system and beyond.
The Switchback model is centred on a meaningful relationship between Mentor and Trainee, beginning in prison and lasting as long as it takes. Switchback Mentors work with the same person in prison and in the community, offering them the continuity, support and opportunities they need to make positive change happen for themselves in the immediate and long term.
Switchback challenge and encourage Trainees to take control and build stability across all areas of life, spanning 10 Switchback Pathways from housing to health. By combining consistent support with training in a real work environment, Switchback enable Trainees to make a fundamental shift in their mindset and lifestyle. And it works; Switchback Trainees are six times less likely to reoffend than other offenders (9% vs 49%).
The form that our support takes varies with each Trainee but they go through the same three core stages:
In Prison
An eligible prisoner chooses to take part. During his last three months inside, he meets regularly with his Switchback Mentor and starts to plan for a stable future. That same Switchback Mentor meets him on the day of release.
In Training
The Trainee starts volunteering at our partner training café as soon as he is released; learning in a real work environment. His Switchback Mentor helps him to learn how to make the right choices, be reliable, get the help he needs and practice trying new things.
In Work
We work closely with a wide range of employers and arrange mock interviews, visits and work placements. The Trainee continues to build stability across all areas of his life so that employment is rewarding and sustained.
"If I had all of this support last time I was released I don't think I would have gone back to prison. It's just having someone to talk to who tells you when you're doing well. I can't explain why, but it makes so much difference".
"I used to hate my area, but now I don't mind it because every day I leave it behind & go to work somewhere totally different, I feel part of society, and I am not just stuck in the same place anymore. There's a lot to see out there!"
"It's weird thinking about how far I've come since I was in prison - my brother told me the other day that he's proud of me; he's never said anything like that to me before!"
For further information see our website:
