Pubdate: Wed, 29 Jan 2003
Source: Evening Telegraph (UK)
Copyright: 2003 Northamptonshire Newspapers Limited
Contact:  http://www.northantsnew.co.uk/news/tele/index.asp
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2272

PROJECT HOPES TO TAKE NO PRISONERS

A scheme intended to show children the harsh realities of drugs and prison 
is to expand.

Wellingborough prison and Northamptonshire police want to reach youngsters 
who have not yet seen the inmates' presentations on life in jail.

Posters will be put up in police stations to invite youths who have had a 
brush with the law to see what could be in store for them if their illegal 
behaviour continues.

The project, called Drugs And Crime Mean Doing Time, has seen about 9,000 
children from across Britain visiting Wellingborough prison since its 
launch in July, 2000.

A visit includes a tour of the prison plus a viewing of weapons found there 
and photographs of the injuries caused by them.

Jason Keeling, 31, who is serving time for street robbery  " carried out to 
fuel his crack cocaine habit  " is one of the inmates who gives talks on 
his situation.

Plays are also put on by 25 prisoners to portray how easy it is to get 
involved in crime.

PC John Pearce, youth and schools liaison officer for Wellingborough, 
Rushden and the surrounding area, said: "We are asking parents if your son 
or daughter is showing signs of drugs or alcohol misuse, signs of criminal 
behaviour or any behaviour which is concerning you, they may benefit from a 
visit to Wellingborough prison."

Project co-ordinator Glen Banks said: "If we stop just one youngster from 
getting involved in drugs and crime and ending up in jail through this 
project it will have been a success.

"The pupils who have visited so far have got a lot out of it. It's not just 
a short, sharp shock, but reality."

For more details call PC Pearce on 01933 304351 or Mr Banks on 01933 224151.
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MAP posted-by: Beth