Case study – Keith

Keith found himself in prison for the first time in his later years, a culmination of life-long struggles with mental health and addiction leading to serious offences and a lengthy sentence. While in prison, he took full responsibility for his offences and began to confront underlying issues of anxiety and depression, leading him to accept the Christian faith. He found the companionship of fellow Christians and the prison chaplains to be huge encouragement while inside and was keen to connect with a faith community on his release from prison.

Martin is a professional scientist who volunteers as a mentor. As he is based in the area Keith would be living in on release and as part of an active church, he started meeting with him to provide support and encouragement. Martin and Keith have been meeting most weeks for coffee and walks. A small Bible study group has also been set up for Keith with one or two other members of the church.

The main challenge for Keith has been the strict conditions of his license which has limited the extent to which he can integrate into the community and church. As a result, Keith often spends many hours alone and can lead to frustration and loneliness and he has found the regular contact with Martin a valuable support. They are working together on identifying small, positive steps that will help Keith find security, acceptance and hope for the future.

Martin found the prospect of meeting Keith for the first time on his release from prison daunting and felt well outside his comfort zone. But within ten minutes of chatting, he was able to begin seeing the individual and not just the offence. Meeting up regularly has convinced Martin of Keith’s genuine regret and remorse for the past and commitment to rebuilding his life to make a positive contribution to his community. He sees it as a privilege to work with him to help make this happen.