This is a 6 Month Period where the time is spent in focus groups, informal discussions and observations. This period is also dedicated to the building of hope, through presentations, discussions and information given about growth environments and their benefits. At the end of this period an action plan is created to consider how the Growth Project could be implemented at the prison. This makes it meaningful to the individual prison and organisational needs.
The photo-essay research project takes place as a way to appreciate and understand current prison practice. It aimed to uncover those aspects of practice that promote growth. This involved both the staff and residents walking around the prison, capturing quality practice through photography. 5 photo-essays were created by each participant following a short interview.
There were over 200 photos used within the project and these were displayed in the sports hall, to highlight to the staff and residents which aspects of practice were valued and important. This was good for new staff and was found to improve the level of hope, at a time when the prison was struggling. This project was an innovative way to engage people in the conversation of prison reform.