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StandOut

@standoutprogrammes.bsky.social
131 followers 308 following 131 posts

We empower people to make positive change, realise their potential, and rebuild their lives after prison.

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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
🏃‍➡️ Missed out on a place in the 2027 London Marathon ballot? StandOut has two charity places available for people who believe in our mission to support people leaving prison and want to help create more opportunities for lasting change. Apply by 9 August: lnkd.in/ewdqMTzj
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
📢 Could you be our new Fundraising Officer? In this role, you'll help secure vital funding that enables more people leaving prison to make positive change, realise their potential, and rebuild their lives. 👉️ Apply now: standout.org.uk/fundraising-officer
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 24/07/2026
A lot has changed in the two weeks since our In Conversation event with HM Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones. A lot remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: with prisons at capacity, more people will be supervised in the community. Why can't probation succeed without the third sector? 👇️
standout.org.uk
Why probation needs the third sector — StandOut
HM Chief Inspector of Probation, Martin Jones, argues that probation services cannot succeed alone. As more people are managed in the community, he highlights the vital role of charities and…
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
StandOut coaches are often given sketches, handwritten notes, or even poems inspired by participants' time on the programme. We pin them to the walls of our offices in Vauxhall and our partner prisons. This one felt too special not to share. A gift from one StandOut participant to all the others.
A handwritten poem on lined paper reads:

A gift from me to all the past and future StandOut Graduates.
StandOut.
Stand up my friends this isn’t the end, 
This is just the beginning so I recommend,
With a power mindset and your adult voice,
Look fear in the eyes and make a new choice,
To stand out and be noticed stand out and be proud,
To believe in you focus disclose out aloud, 
With tone and direction your passion your light,
And walk on with purpose take life in your stride, 
We travelled with coaches way past zones of ease, 
The questioned and feedback a quality feast, 
Communication and teamwork we fixed to grow true, 
And embraced our diverseness red green yellow blue, 
So stand out my brethren bring on the next test, 
We are qualities ascending prepared for the best, 
So stand out your worth it no stand out no less,
Imperfectly perfect don’t worry your blessed, 
StandOut!
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 09/07/2026
🥳 On Friday, we hosted our 30th Career Hub! These are opportunities for StandOut participants in the community to meet inclusive employers, access coaching, and receive support from volunteers to update their CVs, apply for jobs, and practice their interview skills.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
Our @biggive.bsky.social Small Charity campaign has raised £13,473 – rising to £25,557 with match funding and Gift Aid! This means more people leaving prison with the tools and relationships they need to move forward with their lives. This is what being connected looks like.
A pale blue background with the words 'thank you' highlighted in dark blue and orange.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 25/06/2026
There are 4 days left until our @biggive.bsky.social Small Charity campaign closes, and your donation can still be doubled at no extra cost to you. No one succeeds alone. Our coaches work alongside men leaving prison to build a new life; you can stand with them too. 👉 bit.ly/standout-scw-2026
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 22/06/2026
No one succeeds alone. We see it every day: when people leaving prison feel connected - to someone who believes in them and a community that shows up - change becomes possible. Until 29 June, donations to StandOut are doubled by @biggive.bsky.social. 👉 bit.ly/standout-scw-2026
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 18/06/2026
In the StandOut classroom, participants stand up and talk about their future - what they hope for, and how they want to be remembered. It’s not easy, but it’s transformative. 🔗 standout.org.uk/blog/legacy
“I went in terrified and sceptical… by the end I did a presentation with no notes. I would have never done that before.” StandOut Participant
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 15/06/2026
When it comes to rebuilding lives after prison, even the smallest act can go a long way – and next week, it goes twice as far. We’re proud to be taking part in the Big Give Small Charity campaign. From 22-29 June, donations to our work will be doubled. Save the date: addcal.io/e/enmltnriecq6
Next week, something small becomes something big. Big Give Small Charity Week, 22-29 June 2026.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
Trust is vital in our work with people in prison - who have often been repeatedly let down by the systems designed to support them. It isn't built through one-offs, but small, everyday actions. StandOut coaches share the simple ways they build trust with participants. 👉 standout.org.uk/blog/trust
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
📢 WE'RE HIRING! Could you be our new Community Manager? You'll lead our passionate and dynamic team of community coaches, who support StandOut participants as they leave the prison gates and begin life in the community. Apply by 12pm, Friday 19 June 👉 standout.org.uk/community-manager
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 04/06/2026
It's #VolunteersWeek! A massive thank you to all the amazing StandOut volunteers who have supported someone write a CV, held a mock interview, or celebrated at graduation. Find out more about one-off volunteering sessions in prison: standout.org.uk/blog/volunteering-in-prison-its-a-bit-different
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
📢 WE'RE HIRING! Could you be our new Community Coach? An ideal role for someone with an understanding of the challenges faced by those caught up in the criminal justice system, gained through personal experience, paid work or volunteering. Apply by 9am, 15 June 👉 standout.org.uk/community-coach
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 28/05/2026
Sometimes, people in prison don’t trust us. Often, that's because they’ve been repeatedly let down by the systems designed to support them. So, trust matters. It isn't built through big gestures, but through small, consistent actions over time. Find out how we build trust at StandOut 👇
standout.org.uk
How we build trust with people in prison — StandOut
Many people in prison don't trust the organisations designed to support them, often because they’ve been repeatedly let down. At StandOut, we work with people in prison to prepare for life after…
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 21/05/2026
Standing up to speak is nerve-wracking for most of us - imagine doing it in prison. At StandOut, “legacy presentations” help participants build confidence, connect with others, and articulate a future beyond prison. These are skills that matter for work, and life. 🔗 standout.org.uk/blog/legacy
standout.org.uk
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 14/05/2026
What legacy do you want to leave? It’s not a question people in prison are often asked. Too often, they’re defined by their past. Phia, coach at HMP Wormwood Scrubs, explores what unfolds when participants imagine a different future - and say it out loud. 🔗 standout.org.uk/blog/legacy
standout.org.uk
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 08/05/2026
📢 WE'RE HIRING! Could you be our new Community Manager? You'll lead our passionate and dynamic team of community coaches, who support StandOut participants as they leave the prison gates and begin life in the community. Apply by 12pm, Thursday 21 May 👉 standout.org.uk/community-manager
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 24/04/2026
This week, we had not one, but two ‘gate-meets’. The first day out of prison can be overwhelming. It’s a huge adjustment, with a lot to navigate. We’re grateful we get to be there for those who need a bit of extra support. See what a typical gate meet looks like 👉 standout.org.uk/blog/gate-meet
standout.org.uk
Meet us at the prison gates — StandOut
Our community coaches love being able to meet participants at the prison gates on their day of release, to support them on their first day in the community. Tony takes us through a typical ‘gate…
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 20/04/2026
This weekend, Nick and Luke are running the London Marathon for StandOut! After months of training, they’re almost at the starting line of the 26.2-mile challenge – all to support more people leaving London’s prisons to rebuild their lives. To cheer them on, donate 👉 bit.ly/standout-marathon-2026
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 07/04/2026
Despite being 19% of the prison population, people on remand often get no pre‑release support. That means risks around housing, work and debt go unmanaged. At StandOut, we include people on remand in our programme so they have support for life after prison. Full report:
hmiprisons.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk
‘Everything is after sentencing’: The experiences of remand prisoners – HM Inspectorate of Prisons
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 02/04/2026
Sometimes the men we work with go back to prison. The journey out of the justice system isn’t linear - so our support stays with them, detours included. Last week, Ava visited a recalled participant at HMP Wormwood Scrubs to plan his next steps. We’ll be there as he works towards stability again.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 01/04/2026
Great to join Saracens Foundation at HMP The Mount. StandOut Coaches Ava and Rosie ran a resilience session linking rugby’s setbacks with the job hunt after prison. A fantastic day supporting men preparing for release. Thanks for having us! 🏉
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 04/03/2026
How often do you step beyond your comfort zone? StandOut participants do it every day - meeting new people, trying unfamiliar things, stretching themselves to grow. As a team, we push ourselves too. Recently, Hannah tried something new. Here's what she learned: standout.org.uk/blog/comfort-zone
standout.org.uk
Stepping out of your comfort zone in prison — StandOut
Hannah usually sits behind a desk at StandOut HQ but recently stepped out of her comfort zone and into the classroom at Pentonville prison to coach the most recent cohort of StandOut participants.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 26/02/2026
📰 In our first newsletter of the year: - Stepping out of your comfort zone in prison. - Coaching prison staff for real impact. - Penny's vision for the MOJ. - Our take on Waiting for the Out - And lots more. Read it here: eepurl.com/juSTPs
eepurl.com
Stepping out of your comfort zone in prison
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 17/02/2026
Great article from @revdoors.bsky.social on the pilot using AI face-scanning check-ins for people on probation. It may ease pressure, but at what cost? Relationships are key for rebuilding lives after prison. Tech should support people, not replace human connection. bit.ly/4r0qRf3
revolving-doors.org.uk
Remote face-scanning in probation: innovation or injustice? –...
Last week, a report from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) raised alarm about the strain faced by England and Wales’ probation services and their ability to support public protection and reduce reof...
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
Growth mindset in action. At StandOut, we ask participants to stretch themselves every day. This week, our team did the same. Hannah headed into HMP Pentonville to coach. Her reflections show how powerful it is when we choose learning over comfort. Read the blog: standout.org.uk/blog/comfort-zone
standout.org.uk
Stepping out of your comfort zone in prison — StandOut
Hannah usually sits behind a desk at StandOut HQ but recently stepped out of her comfort zone and into the classroom at Pentonville prison to coach the most recent cohort of StandOut participants.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
Congratulations to the winners! 🏆
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
For a small charity, this means a lot. It celebrates what we do: listening, amplifying real voices, and centring those who know best. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences, trusted us, and shaped the campaign. And thanks to Big Give for shining a light on values‑driven communication.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
We've been "highly commended" in the @biggive.bsky.social Christmas Challenge 2025 Awards! "Judges praised their ethical storytelling approach, placing lived experience at the centre of their communications & allowing the communities they serve to shape the narrative." biggive.org/blog/2026/01...
biggive.org
Celebrating the Christmas Challenge 2025 Award Winners! - The Big Give
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 29/01/2026
It's your LAST chance to vote for our film in the Smiley Charity Film Awards! It only takes 10 seconds and could help us win recognition for our vital work. Voting closes TOMORROW 👉 bit.ly/3NuciC7
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 20/01/2026
We're entrants in the Smiley Charity Film Awards - and we need YOUR vote! Our film - made in-house - features letters written by StandOut participants, encouraging people leaving prison to draw on the courage and resilience they need to rebuild their lives. Take 10 seconds to vote 👉 bit.ly/3NuciC7
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 15/01/2026
We welcome the report, and recommendations, which is wide-ranging and paints a fuller picture of life after prison. It recognises that finding and sustaining employment is just one piece of the puzzle when supporting people to rebuild their lives – where third sector organisations play a vital role.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 15/01/2026
The London Assembly has published its report on employment in London after prison; an investigation we contributed to over the summer. With levels of employment for prison leavers in London lower than the national average, it is important we have this conversation. www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/w...
london.gov.uk
Employment in London after prison
The London Assembly Economy, Culture and Skills Committee has published its report highlighting the challenges prison leavers face in accessing employment, and the impact this has on London’s economy.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 09/01/2026
It's a privilege to be able to continue working with someone beyond our three-week course - for as long as they need.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 09/01/2026
It's the first week after the break and StandOut prison coaches have been back on the wings, checking in with participants and seeing what they need. For some, this will be a coaching conversation. For others, practical support with accommodation, immigration, mental health, or anything in between.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 31/12/2025
Finally, our most-read blog of 2025 was: "What makes a good prison officer. According to people who have been in prison." We asked people who've spent time in custody about what officers can do to build effective relationships with people in prison. Read what they said 👇
standout.org.uk
What makes a good prison officer. According to people who have been in prison. — StandOut
We asked our participants (all of whom have spent time in prison) what sets a “good” prison officer apart from the rest. Their reflections formed the basis of our response to the government’s inquiry…
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 30/12/2025
Number two in our top three blogs of 2025 is: "Volunteering in prison, it's a bit different." Volunteering with StandOut in prison is unlike most other volunteer opportunities. Find out why we open up our programme to volunteers, and what volunteering with us looks like. Read the blog 👇
standout.org.uk
Volunteering in prison, it's a bit different — StandOut
Volunteering in a prison is unique, and so worthwhile. Our Communications Lead, Hannah, writes about why we invite volunteers to join us inside – and the impact this has on our participants,…
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 29/12/2025
We're looking back at our most-read blogs of 2025. First up, “Focusing on your strengths in prison.” People in prison are constantly reminded of their mistakes. What happens when you're reminded of your strengths? Affirmations & challenges help participants see their potential, set goals & grow.
standout.org.uk
Focusing on your strengths in prison — StandOut
People in prison are constantly reminded of their mistakes. So, what happens when you are instead reminded of your strengths? In this blog, Rosie, one of our coaches, shares how affirmations and…
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 26/12/2025
The relationship is the most important thing. In this blog, CEO and Founder, @penny-parker.bsky.social, reflects on the power of relationships and others believing in you – sparked by our supporters’ event with Jacob Dunne. standout.org.uk/blog/the-most-important-thing
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 23/12/2025
Penny was invited onto the show to speak about gaps in support that exist for people leaving prison, how StandOut steps in to bridge them, and, of course, her vision for a better justice system - with the voluntary sector at its core.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 23/12/2025
Learn what StandOut CEO and Founder @penny-parker.bsky.social would do if she were given the keys to the Ministry of Justice, in this episode of the 'All Things Conflict' podcast with Maria Arpa.
youtube.com
Unlocking Second Chances: How Stand Out is Transforming Lives After Prison
Join us for this episode of All Things Conflict with host Maria Arpa as she sits down with Penny Parker, a former corporate lawyer turned advocate for restorative justice. In this episode, Penny…
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 18/12/2025
We're entrants in the Smiley Charity Film Awards - and we need YOUR vote! It only takes 10 seconds and could help us win recognition for our vital work with people leaving London's prisons. Please vote here 👉 smileycharityfilmawards.com/films/courag...
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 16/12/2025
Life after prison is complicated. People need courage & resilience to navigate the journey. StandOut offers open-ended support that bridges the transition from prison to the community, walking alongside people as they rebuild their lives. Alex embodies that courage & resilience. Read his story 👇
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 12/12/2025
At our recent event, the message from Jacob Dunne was this: "The quality of your life can be measured in the quality of your relationships." Penny reflects on the power of relational working and of others holding belief in you until you can hold it yourself. www.standout.org.uk/blog/the-mos...
standout.org.uk
The relationship is the most important thing — StandOut
StandOut CEO and Founder, Penny Parker, reflects on the power - for people leaving prison - of relationships and others believing in you. A blog sparked by our supporters’ event with Jacob Dunne.
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 10/12/2025
Our @biggive.bsky.social #ChristmasChallenge has come to an end! We raised an incredible £80,202 - increasing to £88,431 with Gift Aid! ✨THANK YOU to every single one of you who donated and helped to make it happen✨ Still want to support us? 👉 standout.org.uk/getinvolved
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 08/12/2025
There are 24 hours to go until the end of the #ChristmasChallenge! You can double your donation via the @biggive.bsky.social until 12pm tomorrow. Help us to reach our £80,000 target! To donate, click here 👉 bit.ly/standoutchristmas2025
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 07/12/2025
With stigma, low confidence & limited opportunities, finding work after prison is tough. StandOut builds skills & confidence, then supports people into jobs when ready. Double your donation via the @biggive.bsky.social #ChristmasChallenge till 9 Dec: bit.ly/standoutchristmas2025
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 06/12/2025
Leaving prison can be isolating. StandOut coaches build trusting relationships, but it takes courage & resilience to grow wider support networks. In letters, participants urge each other to reach out. Double your donation via the Big Give #ChristmasChallenge till 9 Dec: bit.ly/standoutchristmas2025
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StandOut @standoutprogrammes.bsky.social · 05/12/2025
Mental health can be a challenge after prison. It takes courage to ask for help & resilience to keep asking. StandOut creates safe spaces & connects people to support. Double your donation via the @biggive.bsky.social #ChristmasChallenge till 9 Dec: bit.ly/standoutchristmas2025
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