Libraries Change Lives: Prison library tackles low literacy with Poet Laureate workshop
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Poet Laureate, Simon Armitage visited HMP East Sutton Park and brought a new joy in reading and writing poetry for the prisoners.
Poet Laureate Simon Armitage attended HMP East Sutton Park’s reading group, which is run by Kent Libraries, where he read some of his poetry and talked about how he finds his inspiration.
Literacy levels in prison are much lower than in the general population. A report from the Ministry of Justice in 2020 found that 57 per cent of adult prisoners had pre-GCSE literacy levels.
The workshop took place in March 2024 and drew in regular reading group attendees, some prison staff, and a new set of prisoners who do not normally attend library events.
One attendee said: “I really enjoyed listening to some of Simon’s poetry in his own words and hearing the stories that influenced his work. It inspired me to try putting some of my own stories down in poem form. Simon made me realise that poetry is a good way to express your thoughts and feelings."
The group provides choice in a place where most choice is taken away; encourages open discussion; creates a community; improves welfare; and promotes reading for pleasure and the many benefits that it brings.
Another prisoner said: “It was a real treat to meet Simon Armitage and understand the role of a Poet Laureate. Simon brought his poems to life with anecdotes, and it was a very enjoyable evening listening to him talk about his work.”
The event brought a new experience to the prisoners at HMP East Sutton, and challenged the belief that poetry is not for the prison population.
The age of attendees ranged from early 20s to late 60s.
Simon Armitage said: “It was a very positive experience. There was a quietness and calmness in the room - a tribute to the prison library staff and the value given to books and words.”
The Libraries Change Lives Campaign brings libraries to the top of the political agenda and showcases the positive impact libraries deliver to their communities and clients.
Libraries Change Lives will launch a social media and press campaign during the week of 24-28 June, and culminates in a parliamentary event in the latter half of 2024.
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