My Journey as an AVP Facilitator
Hello,
I am currently in my 14th year of a life sentence in prison. I would like to share my journey as an Alternatives to Violence Program facilitator. In 2013, I completed AVP Levels 1, 2 & 3. By completing these levels, I have achieved the following:
- How to better communicate with other inmates, in order to avoid conflict situations, which often occur in prison environments.
- Create social bonds with other female prisoners.
- Foster a sense of self-belief, self-worth and confidence in myself.
- Be able to work as a team member with outside AVP facilitators.
- Most importantly, the opportunity to help me cope with my life sentence.
As a facilitator, I have learned how to manage difficult situations and develop positive and healthy relationships with other prisoners in my community. However, I was adamant that I had to learn more and give more. The AVP has taught me to draw on my own strengths and develop my own coping abilities. I had not recognised my own unique qualities before joining the Alternatives to Violence Program. Due to this, I am more capable and dedicated to encouraging and helping both female and male prisoners in my community to participate in the AVP. In my opinion, this program empowers other prisoners in my community to feel capable and able to develop a prison environment that works for the long term good of all members of this community.
I am grateful that the Governors continue to offer valuable support and assistance to both the male and female AVP facilitators, both inside and outside the program. Their ongoing dedication and commitment to the AVP has demonstrated to the inside facilitators that management staff recognize the importance of prisoners identifying their own needs and strengths during their time in Limerick Prison. Thanks to the support of the management staff at Limerick Prison and the outside AVP team members, I have developed strong self-direction and take pride in my ability to meet deadlines and work with purpose. For example, although I am serving a life sentence, I am fully committed to re-engaging in a meaningful way with the outside AVP team members upon my release from prison in Ireland.
Yours sincerely.
(AVPer in Limerick Prison)
