We spoke to Ray* who took part in Switchback’s 12-week programme for young men leaving custody. Through intensive 1-to-1 support and real work training, the programme helps young men build a stable, rewarding life.

“I was still in custody when I found out about Switchback. One of my friends that I was in custody with got released and he would send me letters.

“He told me, ‘Things are going well. I’ve just joined this charity called Switchback.’ He said they specifically help people who have just left custody.”

Ray decided to reach out to Switchback, who invited him to join their 12-week programme.

“I went to the Switchback office, and they were very welcoming. I never knew that organisations like this even existed. I thought you literally just went to probation and that was it.

“It was a blessing. I was talking to positive people, people willing to help, put you into legit work, find you good opportunities.”

Ray was matched with a Switchback mentor to help him adjust to life after release.

“I would say the relationship with my mentor was the same as with everyone in that whole office. The mentors, the finance department, the CEO of the charity – everyone is there with the intention to help others. It just felt right with Switchback.”

Ray’s mentor was able to help him work through his career aspirations and goals.

“When I first joined the programme, I was asked about what I want to do and my strengths. I expressed my interest in starting my own business. Making a clothing brand is a real passion of mine, something that I want to bring to fruition.

“We sat down, and we broke down my skill set. From that we made a business plan to take my ideas forward. I got an opportunity to bring it to life and do a presentation about it with other people, which was very cool.”

“They provide so much support. They have a list of organisations and companies where you can get training. And after the training, you can get a full-time job placement.”

One of the most important benefits of the Switchback programme is the intensive, 1-to-1 support that each trainee receives.

“What was most impactful for me was not necessarily what we were specifically speaking about, but the fact that there was so much frequent communication, not just a five-minute call. We were breaking down my time in custody, talking about my mental wellbeing.

“Being inside for four years is a very long time. You see the same faces, and you’re around a certain type of energy all the time.

“But at Switchback, everyone was so friendly. Being around that kind of energy just instantly raised the positivity within myself. I believe your environment can shape how you think and feel and what you do.”

Ray believes that Switchback’s mentors are incredibly diligent professionals who go above and beyond to support their trainees.

“I’ve personally witnessed them go out of their way to make phone calls to housing advisors and chase things up. They will always be on your side. They’ll find a way or find someone who can help you.”

Since completing the Switchback programme, Ray has joined the charity’s Experts by Experience (EbE) board. Members play a key role in shaping Switchback’s campaigning, policy priorities and programme development.

“EbE is where we have discussions about real important stuff that could potentially change new laws that are being passed. I’ve seen the difference and I’ve been able to meet people who I would never have been able to meet before.”

Ray and other members of EbE have had the opportunity to talk to politicians and policymakers at the Ministry of Justice – sharing their experiences and how the system could better meet the needs of young adults.

“You know that your voice can be heard, and that something can be done about it. Working with Switchback, what I have to say reaches the right people.”

Taking part in Switchback’s programme has made a huge difference to Ray’s life, so he is keen to raise more awareness of the charity’s work. Ray believes that the programme could be a blueprint for how all young adults can be successfully resettled back into the community.

“Not everyone in the world knows about Switchback, but if more people knew about them, other charities might follow in their footsteps. They’ll see that this is what works with young adults, and then more people coming out of prison will get the help they need.”

*We have used a pseudonym in this interview to protect the young adult’s identity

Helping Young Adults with Care Experience Thrive after Release

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