Volunteering outside the wire

Hamsa Lilley, literacy support volunteer in the Wellington area, has been working with John* since she started as a prison volunteer in 2008. Recently John was released from prison and Hamsa is continuing to support him as he reestablishes his life in the community.

Hamsa’s decision to volunteer arose from her desire to help her local community. “I think volunteering is a great thing to do,” says Hamsa. “I was interested in working with prisoners as I believe people can change and learn to make better choices. I wanted to help them do this,” she explains.

Working together for the last 12 months has been a learning curve for both Hamsa and John. “I have come to realise that many prisoners haven’t had the opportunities I have enjoyed in life,” says Hamsa. “I’m reminded of this when I work with John. Volunteers need to keep an open mind and should not get disheartened if progress is slow and difficult.”

As Hamsa worked with John, she became increasingly aware that he would need continuing community support and sought the advice of Volunteer Coordinator Amy Blowers. Together with the prison Reintegration Team and the Unit Manager, a release plan was developed for John. This included post-release literacy support from Hamsa. “Having pre- and post-release support from Hamsa has achieved a smooth and secure transition into the community for John,” explains Reintegration Caseworker Wayne Westrupp. “Without her support, acceptance from the community would have been much more difficult.”

Hamsa concludes, “Volunteering has shown me that my small contribution of a once-a-week visit can make a big difference in someone’s life.”

* John is a fictional name to protect privacy.