Release Mates
This organisation was established to address the lack of immediate post-release support for people leaving prison across the North West of England. The first day of release in particular can determine which path an ex-offender might go down: with the right support they can go onto to a positive future; without support they can feel let down, and it is all too easy to fall into old habits and go back to a life of crime. Since it was set up in 2022, Release Mates has been working in various prisons, and with offenders released back to areas across the North West. Staff and a team of volunteers become the individuals’ first point of contact, working directly with people as they walk through the prison gate, to help them access the services and support they need. They provide basic necessities, accompany them to various appointments and help get them settled into accommodation, and can work with them for around three months.
At the June 2025 meeting of Trustees, the Foundation agreed a grant of £7,500 that is contributing to the launch and delivery the scheme with female ex-offenders. Release Mates Women will specifically support women ex-offenders resettling in the North West, from prisons including HMP Foston Hall and HMP Eastwood Park. The scheme will take referrals from probation services, prisons, police and other agencies. The scheme will provide guidance and one-to-one support through an ongoing mentoring service that will last for between 6 and 12 months, depending on needs and circumstances. The intention is that the women will be provided with the best possible chance of positive change and be supported to resettle back into the community.
