I became a trustee of Shannon Trust in 2019. I was drawn to its mission to support people in prison to improve their reading skills. As a lifelong reader, I could not imagine a life without the written word. From the mundane to the sublime, reading gives all of us the keys to survive and thrive, and to unlock connection, inspiration and opportunity. For people in prison, reading and numeracy are often a struggle which can mean that the door to education programmes in prison is firmly closed.
Shannon Trust’s model builds on a network of inspiring volunteers who teach people in prison who can read to teach those who find reading a challenge. Recently, we have expanded that support to numeracy and also beyond the prison gate. Without basic literacy and numeracy skills, people in prison cannot even begin to avail of education and rehabilitation programmes. Whether it’s reading a menu to choose a meal, supporting a parent to read a story to their child, taking a first step towards formal education or studying for a degree, Shannon Trust helps people to liberate themselves, make choices and grow their confidence.
In my five years as a trustee, under the leadership of our inspiring Chief Executive and his team, the Trust has had the vision and courage to pursue our mission, constantly thinking about how our proven and practical approach can be made available to as many people in the prison system as possible and more recently beyond the prison gate.
There are two parts to our role as a trustee, firstly ensuring that the organisation stays true to its mission and principles and is managed responsibly. As important, is our role in encouraging, supporting and on occasion challenging the Trust’s leadership team.
It’s been an honour and a privilege to be part of Shannon Trust’s success and growth in the service of others. I’ve learned a huge amount and met and worked with people I would never have had the opportunity to work with in my day-to-day life.
I would encourage anyone to get involved in volunteering at a grassroots level or as a trustee. You’ll get back way more than you give and be stimulated and challenged to give your best. My only sadness will be when I have to step down at the end of next year at the end of my second term.
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