Black Lesbian in White America and Other Writings
£12.71
Just Time
£12.99
The experience of custody is one most of us only usually hear about from outside. All the intricacies of navigating prison life – suicide watch, fights, punishments, abuses of power by officials, and relationships – are rarely shown. This book sets out to reveal these facets of prison life in a depth and diversity never covered before. Right from the opening passages (when the author is arrested at Heathrow Airport) readers will discover aspects of the justice system that simultaneously shock and enthral. Against the backdrop of severe budget cuts, rising violence and suicides, the door is thrown open to reveal the consequences of hastily enforced policies – with legal challenges brought before the High Court. Throughout it all, a lens is cast on all aspects of the UK justice system.
Stephen Jackley spent six-and-a-half years in 12 different prisons around the UK, witnessing seismic shifts in a system that incarcerates upwards of 80,000 people each year. From the twilight years of Gordon Brown’s Labour government, to the draconian policies ushered in by Tory Justice Minister Chris Grayling, he witnessed how prisons became a political playground for pandering towards an ever partisan press. Upon release, he went on to set up a social enterprise, receiving commendation from then HRH Prince Charles and nominations for awards.
