HMP Bronzefield is a women’s prison based in Surrey. Their aim is to reduce re-offending through rehabilitation and support prison leavers on release to lead law-abiding lives in their community.
HMP Bronzefield support many charities including Just a Helping Hand (JAHH) as, unfortunately, some women are homeless when they leave prison.
We specifically support the homeless – both practically and emotionally. We provide each person with a rucksack which contain practical items such as a wash bag with new toiletries, a flask (with free refill information at local outlets), new socks, new underwear, hat, scarf and gloves, meal vouchers, and a small Bible. We provide a number of “goodies” that the person receiving the rucksack can personally enjoy. At JAHH we also stock a range of good condition pre-loved clothing, including winter coats, to support those who need them. To the people who receive these things, such unexpected generosity often brings an emotional response which can provide a real sense of being cared for and thought about. This can ease anxiety, provide hope, can help with depression and even remove thoughts of suicide.
When someone leaves HMP Bronzefield, they are advised that they are able to collect a rucksack directly from the Salvation Army (who act as an agent for JAHH) on the day they leave and start their journey back into the community.
In 2021, HMP Bronzefield donated £1,000 to JAHH which enabled us to obtain and fill a number of rucksacks ready for any person leaving HMP Bronzefield.
