Rebel Justice

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Part 1 of 2 Join us for an enlightening conversation with Phil Wheatley, a veteran of 50 years in the prison system, and Laura Owen, a dedicated prison lawyer with 14 years of in-depth experience. Their expertise promises to provide you with a rare and comprehensive insight into the murky intricacies of the prison system. In our discussion, we zoom in on the frequent use of the 'being of good behaviour'  licence condition, a term that has become an easy tool for recalls and subsequently, a major contributor to the backlog of parole cases. 

Together, we unpack the policies that are fuelling a surge in our prison population.

As we continue to dissect the prison system, we draw attention to the growing pressure on probation services, a byproduct of the rise in the prisoner population. Phil and Laura explore the challenges of staff recruitment and retention and the arduous process of enforcing licence conditions. Our seasoned guests also touch on the importance of an effective engagement between probation officers and prisoners in reducing reoffending rates, highlighting the necessity for a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation.

Finally, we approach the contentious topic of privatization within the prison service. We dissect the government’s motivations behind this shift, and how it has fundamentally impacted the prison system. From the pursuit of cheaper prison running costs  to the impact of funding cuts on the roles of prison officers and rehabilitation opportunities, we leave no stone unturned.

In conclusion, Phil and Laura weigh in on the effects of privatization in the prison system, the challenges that have arisen and the far-reaching implications for access to justice, parole, and rehabilitation. Tune in for an impassioned discussion on the state and future of our prison system.

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What if the very system designed to rehabilitate and reintegrate people with convictions back into society was riddled with systemic failures? Step into the world of probation services with Tania Bassett, Press and Communications Liaison at NAPO. where she and our host Alex Bastion dissect the growing workload, dwindling funding, and the harsh realities compelling many probation officers to abandon ship. We examine the significant impact of political decisions, shedding light on how this vital resource has been depleted over the years. It's time to understand the role of businesses, schools, and other institutions in providing employment opportunities for prisoners and people with convictions. 

Dare to venture into the monitoring and oversight functions of MAPPA 3 -  people under supervision,  managed under the highest level of risk. Hear from Tania about the essential need for  coordinated multiple-agency approaches and consistent supervision in preventing reoffending. 

From staff shortages and high sickness rates to a lack of institutional memory within the Ministry of Justice, the challenges are real. 

Tania's unparalleled insight  helps us to unravel the ill-advised cost-efficiency of the National Probation Service and successive governments' missed opportunities. 

This episode of  the Rebel Justice podcast  demands action for meaningful, lasting change. 

Tune in for searing insight into the criminal justice, amplified by View Magazine, as we expose stories of injustice, gender inequality, and abusive systems.

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How can a simple protest sign spark a global movement? Today's podcast episode takes us all along the inspiring journey of Sara and Kristine, the founders of Mother’s Rebellion, who are standing up to the patriarchal system and calling for a collective fight against the climate crisis. This grassroots initiative born in sunny California has now spread its wings across 21 countries in six continents, uniting mothers, caregivers, and allies alike to save  our Mother Earth's precious resources.

Straight into the heart of Mother's Rebellion: the Climate Circles. These poignant gatherings have not only expanded organically, reaching those previously disengaged in the climate change battle, but they've also become a powerful platform for individuals to voice their concerns about our planet’s future. Sara and Kristine highlight the profound effect of shared emotions, the sense of community these circles foster, and the push they provide for individuals to step out of their comfort zones and commit to saving our planet. 

In the latter part of our discussion, we focus on the impacts of climate change on children and youth, emphasizing the critical role adults play in this fight. 

Sara and Kristine offer a fascinating perspective on how the climate crisis can be a catalyst for a more equitable world, discussing the potential benefits of changes in energy production, diet, and transportation. 

They invite everyone to join the Mother's Rebellion movement and collaborate to paint a hopeful picture of the future. 

Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and learn how you can contribute to this vital cause. Let's rebel for Mother Earth, shall we?

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Ready for a candid look at  probation services? We have the pleasure of hosting Tania Basset, a seasoned expert from NAPO (National Association of Probation Officers)  who lends her unique perspective on the numerous challenges faced by this critical public service.

She uncovers the far-reaching implications of political decisions on probation service with her first-hand experiences, and paints a vivid picture of the privatization fallout that led to policy inconsistencies and difficulties in representing the interests of members, the public and those under probation supervision. 

She takes you on a journey through the Transforming Rehabilitation reforms, unmasking their profound effect on the rapport between probation and the judiciary. Tania emphasizes the necessity for  autonomy in crafting pre-sentence reports, particularly for individuals with protected characteristics, as we go deeper into the sentencing process. 

You'll understand the stress the probation service grapples with due to staff shortages and court backlogs and the vital role it plays in risk management and reintegrating formerly incarcerated people into society.

We conclude by reflecting on the impacts of privatization on the probation service and the changes necessary to ensure its smooth operation. 

Discover how the Transforming Rehabilitation reforms have shaken the faith in the probation service, and how the pursuit of cost-cutting has overshadowed the essential delivery of justice. Finally, we ponder the need for keeping prison and probation services distinct to meet their diverse objectives and maintain their own cultures. 

You won't want to miss these insightful conversations and more, so tune in and join us on Tania's courageous journey.

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Ever wondered how climate justice ties into our daily lives and decisions?

 We sit down with Dr Nigel Gould-Davis and Professor Rupert Reed, leading academics in their respective fields, to delve into this urgent topic.

 They dissect the impact of hasty legislation, exploring how it can lead to oppressive outcomes for climate campaigners. They shed light on the disproportionate effect of the climate crisis on women and discuss the profound need for imagination to bring about systemic change. 

Brace yourself for an intense exploration of China's environmental vulnerabilities and the potential of ecological diplomacy in combating climate change. 

They also examine the transformative promise of regenerative agriculture as we move away from harmful industrialization. 

Listen in as they address the grim reality of repressive laws, and their impact on climate activism, while emphasizing the importance of depolarization for creating progress.

 Lastly, they critically scrutinize the COP process, suggesting a radical shift towards more effective alternatives.

 So, tune in and join this important conversation on collective action and transformation towards climate justice.

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Have you ever experienced an epiphany so profound it reshaped your entire life trajectory? Our guest in today's episode, Professor Rupert Reed, certainly did, and this revelation led him on a journey of environmental activism, pushing for drastic societal transformation in the face of climate change. This isn't just an apocalypse tale, it's a story about recognizing the signs, questioning our path, and actively seeking change before it's too late.  

In conversation with former British Ambassador Dr Nigel Gould-Davies who also has experience working for a British gas and oil conglomerate,  this candid exchange takes us  through Rupert's involvement with Extinction Rebellion (XR) and his subsequent move to create the Climate Majority Project, which focuses on fostering a more inclusive approach to climate action. 

He sheds light on the project's goals and how it's incubating a wave of climate action initiatives. We then  focus on sector-specific action, discussing the potential impact of Lawyers for Net Zero and the insurance industry in influencing corporate responsibility and managing climate risk.

In conclusion we delve into history and the lessons we can learn from the past. Drawing parallels between the Second World War, the COVID pandemic, and the climate and ecological emergency, Rupert illuminates the necessity for long-term thinking and consensus to foster transformative climate action that transcends party politics.

 This is  the first of a 2 part podcast hosted by Nigel and is a more than just a  determined call-to-action for us to harness our collective power and make drastic , personal changes for climate justice. 

We think that this courageous  dialogue that will leave you pondering our future and considering the steps we need to take to safeguard it.

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Can you imagine having over two decades of real-world experience navigating the twists and turns of the justice system? 

In April this year, Pauline was appointed as a member of the Independent Advisory Panel on Deaths in Custody, the IAPDC, which provides expert independent advice to the Government concerning their legal duties to protect prisoners' rights and ensure minimum standards.

Meet Pauline McCabe who'll take you on a journey through her fascinating career, providing firsthand insights into the inner workings of the justice sector. From her role on the Northern Ireland Policing Board to her current position as an international criminal justice development advisor, McCabe's rich experiences bring you inside the world of justice through her privileged viewpoint.

Brace yourself as we dive into the troubling realities of Northern Ireland's prison system. We shine a light on the investigation into the death of Colin Bell in custod and the systemic, entrenche  issues at play.

 Pauline frankly faces up to her frustrations with the lack of rehabilitation and outlines her efforts to improve conditions for young inmates and women. 

Journey with us as we explore the intricacies of prison reform - it's a testament to the complexities of change management within this sector.

The conversation then takes us across continents, delving into the world of international criminal justice.

 Hear about Pauline's experiences in Central Asia and Bahrain, where she made vast strides in prison reform and played a pivotal role in developing the Bahrain Police and Prisoner Ombudsman Office. 

As we wrap up, McCabe leaves us mulling over the need for prison system reform for women, her staunch opposition to violence against women, and the importance of staying in touch with organisation  like the View Magazine. 

This episode is a rare glimpse into the challenges and solutions of the justice system.

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Angela Kirwin, renowned writer-activist and author of the riveting book, How Prisons Are Failing Us All, takes center stage in this episode, providing some harrowing insights into the world of neurodiversity, mental health, and the criminal justice system.
 
Join us as we peel back the layers of societal expectations and the challenges they pose in diagnosing ADHD, especially in women and girls.

This episode mines the groundbreaking work of the ADHD Alliance, shedding light on the invaluable support they provide to neurodiverse individuals within the police force.
 
Hear first-hand about their collaboration on a pioneering study with the City of London Police, where every arrested individual is screened for ADHD, a potentially game-changing approach in the justice system. 

Angela emphasizes the urgency of facing the underlying issues faced by women in prisons, especially mental health concerns and the stark absence of safe housing.

Navigating ADHD can be a profound struggle. Angela draws from her personal journey with ADHD, sharing her frustrations with self-diagnosis, the exorbitant costs linked to a formal diagnosis, and the power of therapy in fostering self-understanding and growth. 

The episode underscores the importance of acknowledging mental health conditions in prisons, and highlights the potential of creative outlets for neurodiverse individuals while cautioning against self-diagnosis. This is a must-listen episode for those intrigued by ADHD, mental health, and the criminal justice system.

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What happens when the justice system, designed to protect victims, does the opposite instead?

What happens when it harms people it should be serving? When the system protects perpetrators of violence against women?

 It's a question that often keeps survivors of abuse awake at night, and our guest today, Jade Blue, knows it all too well. A tenacious survivor and campaigner, Jade bravely shares her unnerving journey through the criminal justice system, shedding light on its har owing drawbacks while igniting the spark of change.

Join us as we delve into the importance of self-care, knowledge, and robust support networks in a survivor's journey towards healing. Prepare yourself for an intensely moving and eye-opening discussion with Jade Blue, a true beacon of change.

Her story serves as a potent reminder of how biases and stereotypes within the justice system continue to hinder fair treatment for survivors. Jade gives us a first-hand account of dealing with these biases, underscoring the urgent need for educational awareness, trauma-informed practice, and comprehensive training for legal entities. She speaks candidly about her pursuit of justice and the pivotal role of a strong support system, resilience, and vulnerability in her journey.

 Jade highlights the pressing need for systemic reform and the crucial role each one of us can play in this collective change. The apathy meted out to victims of abuse is deeply disconcerting and contributes to their trauma. Jade believes in the power of the collective voice and urges survivors to challenge the system.



The link to Jade's Documentary: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p0cyrmzv/sexsomnia-case-closed

More from Jade:
Twitter: @jadeblueldn
Instagram: @jadeblueldn

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This is the first of our Frontline Warriors series in which we meet people creating transformative change in the justice system. 

Nicole Rose is an anarchist organiser and herbalist living in England who has been active in struggles for human, animal and earth liberation for over 20 years. Nicole did a 3.5-year prison sentence aged 21 amidst a decade of state repression against the campaign to close down Europe’s largest animal testing company. She’s been supporting loved ones in prison for over 18 years and founded the Solidarity Apothecary, a project supplying free plant medicines to people experiencing and recovering from state violence and repression. Nicole is the author of The Prisoner’s Herbal and Overcoming Burnout.

From her challenging time in HMP Bronzefield prison to her healing journey through the power of plants and wildflowers, Nicole's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of plants. Listen closely as she shares  poignant revelations of her experiences in the prison system, and how the power of plant medicine promotes collective autonomy and resistance against climate change, capitalism, and state violence.

Our podcast, brought to you by The View Magazine, is proud to serve as a platform for women in the justice system - a place where their voices echo and resonate, where we collectively shine a light on the pressing issues of injustice, gender inequality, and in institutionally oppressive systems.

This episode, featuring Nicole's harrowing but hopeful narrative, speaks truth to power and is  testament to the strength of women standing tall against adversity.

 Please be advised, our discussion includes content related to violence against women, which may be triggering. We encourage you to pause and take care of yourself if it feels overwhelming.

Tune in again to be inspired and enlightened as we amplify these vital voices and address the issues that matter.

See the link to The Solidarity Apothecary website here
Her Instagram is here 

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