The Long Stretch Report Launch

You are invited to join us at the launch of the Long Stretch Report.

Compiled by the Pr*son Reform Trust and written from the perspective of men & women serving long sentences, the Long Stretch Report highlights their reliance on, and appreciation for, their families and other social connections as well as the difficulties in maintaining a relationship.

POPS is delighted to host this event in collaboration with the Pr*son Reform Trust . We will welcome The Rt Hon. The Lord Farmer to give the key note address and hear from a family member about their experience of supporting a relative through a lengthy sentence.

The Long Stretch report talks to the following themes identified by the people in Pr*son who took part:

• problems for growing number of aging prisoners and their family/friends who visit
• The location of many longer term prisons being far away from family/friends making visiting in person difficult and costly, often for only one hour
• the cost of telephone contact as well as travel costs
• broader support not readily available for those prisoners with no family contact
• recognition of a range of supportive networks including ex prisoners with whom they have forged a friendship.

The Friend's Meeting House is ideally placed for public transport. It is within walking distance of all four Manchester rail stations. St Peter’s Square tram stop is less than three minutes’ walk from our front door. There are stops for various bus networks close by and a taxi rank only two minutes’ away. For those who need to drive there are several convenient car parks – blue badge holders can park directly opposite the Meeting House.

The building is accessible by an access ramp from street level to the ground floor. Inside there are accessible toilets on both floors and a lift which gives access to the first floor where our event will take place. A portable hearing loop is available on request for use in the conference room.

Host or Publisher POPS