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We’re proud to bring you this year’s edition of the Service User Newsletter, a space where voices are heard, stories are shared, and creativity shines. Every piece in this newsletter has been written, drawn, or created by people with lived experience of probation.
Whether it’s a poem, a painting, a personal reflection, or a recipe, each contribution is a powerful reminder of the value of expression and connection. For those of you who are new to ‘Connect’, this newsletter was created in direct response to requests from a service user group in 2021 and the first edition was published in 2022. Our service users continue to have a central role in creating and editing the contents of the newsletter; that’s what makes it so important. From your lived experience, you know what will help other service users, and you know the advice you wish you had been given at critical points in your past. The newsletter, now in its fourth year, is going from strength to strength and it is a place where you can find information and advice which will assist you to integrate into local communities, the list of resources in the Belfast area which you can find in this magazine will hopefully be particularly useful for you.
This newsletter exists because your voice matters. Too often, the experiences of service users are spoken about, but not spoken with. This publication flips that script. It’s a place where your insights, your humour, your struggles, and your triumphs are front and centre. By sharing your thoughts and talents, you help others feel less alone, challenge stereotypes, and show the richness and diversity of life beyond any labels that are given to you.
Every piece in this newsletter represents a step forward, whether it’s a moment of reflection, a burst of creativity, or a voice that’s been waiting to be heard. Sharing takes courage, and we really appreciate your contributions. This shows strength, bravery, and the power of being seen and heard. We believe that listening to service users isn’t just important, it’s essential. It helps probation grow and develop. It reminds us all that change is possible, and that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Maybe I could share something next time”, you absolutely can. Your voice matters, and we’d love to hear it. Whether it’s a few lines, a sketch, a recipe, or a reflection, your contribution could inspire someone else or help them feel understood, please just let your PO, PSO or CSO know.
To those who submitted work, thank you! Your courage, creativity, and honesty make this newsletter what it is. And to those reading, we hope you find something here that speaks to you, makes you think, or simply brings a smile. This is your space. Your stories. Your voices. And we’re delighted to share them. As always, a special thanks goes to Fred Caulfield, Chief Executive of Prison Arts Foundation and Pamela Brown, Prison Arts Foundation who year after year have helped with the design and editing.
“No one can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending”.
Gillian Montgomery
Director of Operations