Further education and the justice system: Seeking transformation
A pioneering UCL Grand Challenges project has brought together over seventy participants from the criminal justice, education, and voluntary sectors — including people with lived and learned experience — to reimagine the role of Further Education (FE) in supporting people leaving prison or on probation.
A partnership between Justice Futures and the UCL Centre for Education and Criminal Justice focused on the arts, sports, and digital industries, the project explored how FE can open up meaningful education and career pathways beyond the traditional focus on construction and hospitality. Using creative, participatory workshops, participants co-created a vision for a fairer, more inclusive system.
Key findings highlight that transformation is possible through a shift in mindset, personalised learning, stronger partnerships, sustainable funding, and leadership by those with lived experience.
“This project shows what’s possible when creativity, collaboration and lived experience come together,” said Anita Dockley, Co-Director of Justice Futures CIC. “FE colleges have the power to help people not just survive after prison — but thrive.”
An upcoming event will share the findings and invite discussion among leaders and practitioners across FE, justice, and community sectors.
Contributors to event:
Anita Dockley, Co-Director, Justice Futures CIC and Event Chair; Carlotta Allum, Director of Stretch; Kieron Bryan, Entrepreneur; Nina Champion, Freelance Consultant; Reshma Malhotra, HM Prisons and Probation Service; Lindsey Middleton, 180 Project; Eddie Playfair, Association of Colleges; Jazz Singh, Founder and CEO of EmpowerAbility.
Artwork by Erika Flowers
Funded by: UCL Grand Challenges Initiative
Launch of Justice Futures CIC
Join us to celebrate the launch of Justice Futures - a community interest company established by Co-Directors Gemma Buckland, Nina Champion and Anita Dockley.
Discover what led us to set up this unique social enterprise and how we can support you 'see, think and do' differently to achieve the positive changes you want to see.
Hear from a range of speakers engaged in changing criminal, civil and social justice systems, both in the UK and globally, about why we need new approaches.
Engage in a vital discussion about how all of us can work together to build the justice systems of tomorrow today.