Crime author helps reduce reoffending

Sunday 24 November 2019

A Jersey-based author, who specialises in crime thrillers, recently led a writing workshop for 24 prisoners at HMP La Moye as part of a scheme to reduce reoffending.

Peter James, who has written 15 Sunday Times Number one best-selling novels, offered the group advice on how to develop their writing technique, discussed examples of his own work, and answered questions about his own career as a writer.

“The writing groups were engaged and enthusiastic, and we had some fascinating discussions about writing novels and short stories, reading, and story-telling," Mr James said.

“Overall, I was impressed with the range of rehabilitation programmes on offer and appreciate the work Prison Governor Nick Cameron and his team have done to create such a positive atmosphere.” 

Pictured: The prison's education and rehabilitation programme delivers over 17,000 learning and employment hours a month.

The writing program is part of a broader education and rehabilitation programme which delivers over 17,000 learning and employment hours a month.

The scheme aims to reduce reoffending by offering prisoners the opportunity to build links with the community, learn new skills, and work towards completing qualifications. 

“The aim of rehabilitation is to reduce reoffending rates by enabling prisoners to reintegrate with society," Leslie Harrison, Head of Reducing Reoffending at La Moye, said.

"Good literacy skills make it more likely for prisoners to find work after release, which in turn makes reoffending less likely. We’re grateful to Peter for giving up his time to deliver a session that was well-received by the prisoners, and which will benefit them in the future.”

As part of his visit, Mr. James also donated a collection of his own novels, including the 15 books in the Detective Superintendent Roy Grace series.