When I arrived at HMP Ford, I met CXK advisor Alison during my first week. From the beginning, she offered incredible support, helping me set up a Personal Learning Plan (PLP) and guiding me through options for courses and universities, including eligibility and application requirements. She also reached out to universities on my behalf and advised me on how to complete application forms, ensuring I was well-prepared. Thanks to her guidance, I applied and secured a place on a master’s programme, following her practical advice every step of the way.
Since that first meeting, I’ve interacted with Alison nearly 100 times. She encouraged me to apply as early as possible so I could start my degree in September 2024, and she supplied prospectuses, assisted with course research, and ultimately helped me choose the best programme for my goals. Now, I am studying for a master’s degree in International Human Rights Law at the University of Sussex.
“I don’t think I could have overcome all the obstacles on my journey to university without the help and support of my CXK adviser.”
This means a lot to me. I came to the UK as a 16-year-old asylum seeker with limited English, but I was determined to build a life here and earn a degree. I started university in 2018, but during my first year, I got into a fight, was arrested and faced charges. Although navigating the system during COVID-19 was challenging, I remained focused and finished my undergraduate degree in 2020. Just a week later, I was sentenced, but I held onto my ambitions.
I don’t think I could have overcome all the obstacles on my journey to university without the help and support of my CXK adviser. Alison not only managed the paperwork and communication with the university’s Criminal Conviction Panel but also provided crucial emotional support, encouraging me to be patient and resilient when I felt discouraged. Alison’s approachable and caring nature has made a world of difference, allowing me to easily reach out whenever I needed help or reassurance.
Looking forward, my goal is to complete my studies and pursue a career advocating for human rights, ideally with organisations like the United Nations or Amnesty International. Without Alison’s guidance, I would not have made it this far, and I am deeply grateful for the path she has helped me build.
CXK offers comprehensive support within ten prisons across Kent, Surrey, and East Sussex. Our Work Ready Programme empowers prisoners with job market skills, while our careers information, advice and guidance services support them towards fulfilling careers. Additionally, our Settling In programme addresses mental health and well-being needs, helping new prisoners to adapt to prison life while fostering a positive prison culture. Learn more on our Work In Custody page.
