Spotlight: shining a light on opportunities inside

Every week on NPR, new show Spotlight visits a charity or training scheme and hears what they can do for you, whether you are in prison or just about to be released. We hear from prisoners on the courses, as well as ex-prisoners who have been able to turn their lives around with a little bit of help.

There are lots of opportunities out there but it can often be hard to find out about them. Tune into Spotlight on Mondays at 11am and 5pm to hear about options you may not be aware of and also to be inspired to make the most of the opportunities you already know about.

Every week we hear from our poet-in-residence, Chris Preddie OBE. Shortly after his 16th birthday Chris’s brother was killed. Rather than seek revenge, Chris focused all of his energy into youth work. Using his natural talent for performance, Chris now travels all over the country visiting schools, pupil referral units and prisons. Tune in to hear him share his infectious enthusiasm for positive change whilst visiting some unusual locations along the way.

We are also very excited to introduce the Spotlight Man or Woman of the Hour. Every week we present a special certificate to a person who has demonstrated a real effort to use their time in prison for a positive cause. From committing to the first steps that will change your life, to dedicating your time to help others make that first step, we know that effort takes many different forms.

Signed by the heads of prison radio, this award recognises hard work and dedication, in prison or out. Past winners of the award include Sam from Isis, who has committed to meeting with his mentor Elliot after he has been released and Jermaine, who travels 70 miles a day from HMP Ford to South London to help ex-offenders into work with St Giles.

And we want to hear from you. We want to hear what opportunities you are making the most of and what difference they are making. We will also be featuring your shout outs and song requests.

We have already heard from lots of great organisations who want to help YOU with tough issues including employment, housing and maintaining family relationships in prison. There is so much more to come, so join us on Mondays at 11am and 5pm, as we travel to prisons and organisations all over the country for advice, stories and great tunes.

For more information about any of the organisations we have featured, write to us at Spotlight, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF.