A focus on wellbeing at HMP Askham Grange

Mental health struggles are widely reported throughout prisons with around 82% of women and 59% of men in prison reporting that they have mental health problems. At Novus it’s essential that we provide the information, skills and support strategies necessary to educate learners about their mental health and wellbeing. So, that whilst in prison and upon release, they are able to put the correct steps in place to ensure they are looking after themselves and get help if/when they need it.

In the Novus education department at the female prison, HMP Askham Grange, wellbeing has been an integral focus of their enrichment programme. From January to April, learners and teachers engaged in a variety of activities to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of good physical and mental health. 
 

Activities and monthly challenges to promote wellbeing

The foundation of the wellbeing initiative was the ‘Drop Everything and Read’ (DEAR) sessions, where learners explored three essential foundations of health and wellbeing, water, healthy eating, and fitness. The reading sessions provided learners a wider resource to learn about the essential foundations of health and wellbeing and provided valuable insights into maintaining hydration, making nutritious food choices, and incorporating exercise into daily life. 

All teachers and learners also took part in a wellbeing day, aimed to reinforce the importance of self-care and maintaining positive mental and physical health in challenging environments. The event, which was promoted by the prison, allowed individuals to reflect on their own wellbeing whilst exploring practical strategies to enhance their health and overall quality of life. 

To sustain motivation and inspire continued commitment to the initiative, learners were encouraged to take part in a series of monthly challenges focused on the three essential foundations of health and wellbeing which participants explored in the DEAR sessions. These interactive activities supported in helping individuals develop lasting, positive habits that extend beyond the classroom. 

The challenges which ran from January to March are detailed below: 

January: Challenge 1 – Water
A water intake diary was kept for 8 weeks with weekly reflections, recording any improvements in physical and mental health.

February: Challenge 2 – Healthy Eating
Learners followed the NHS Eatwell Guide for a week and recorded their food and drink intake.  Reflections at the end of each day required learners to note changes in mood, energy levels, skin, digestion, headaches, vision and general mental health.

March: Challenge 3 – Fitness 
Learners were encouraged to incorporate exercise naturally into daily activities, such as walking (three laps around Askham grounds equalling one mile), dancing, cleaning and using stairs. They recorded their daily exercise, reflecting on how it impacted their well-being.

Celebration event to recognise learners progress and achievements

In April, a special celebration took place to celebrate the learner’s dedication and achievements in enhancing their mental and physical health throughout the wellbeing initiative. The event not only served as a recognition of their commitment but also as an opportunity to reflect on the positive impact the activities and challenges had on their overall wellbeing.

Learners from the Hospitality course took full ownership of planning and hosting the event, transforming it into a hands-on learning experience in event management. From organising logistics to extending a welcoming atmosphere, they gained valuable skills in coordination, communication and teamwork, reinforcing their professional development in a practical setting.

The celebration fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment among attendees with 24 Certificates of Achievement being awarded, inspiring learners to continue prioritising their health and wellbeing.  

By embedding wellbeing into their enrichment programme, the education department at HMP Askham Grange have been able to create an environment where both learners and teachers alike can thrive, developing healthier lifestyles, fostering mindfulness and strengthening their overall sense of wellbeing. 

The initiative was a huge success, so much so that learners have asked for different water bottles to be made available on canteen for them to purchase to encourage the wider prison population to drink more water and feel the benefits.

Learners who participated in the wellbeing initiative, also spoke positively about their experiences:

“I will now consider different food choices and think about the foods that I eat”

“I still see people from my window walking round, doing the 3 laps”

“I have rosacea on my face and drinking water has helped clear my skin.  It was easier than I thought it would be as I never used to drink much water at all”

“I told my family that I was doing the Water Challenge, and they were really proud of me.  My family sent me a card saying well done!  I will be carrying on with it when I go home”

To find out more about our different projects and initiatives, take a look at the news section.