Jill Ruddock is a new major donor to Pact. Here, she talks about what motivated her to support us, how her donations have helped to support prisoners and their families, and what she has learnt along the way.

"The plight of prisoners has long been an issue of concern for me, so when I set up the Redbreast Trust it was one of the causes I told the Charities Aid Foundation I was interested in supporting. That is how I became aware of Pact and the work the charity does.

"Straight away, on my first contact with the organisation I was impressed with the range of services they offer, pleased to learn about the strong focus on rehabilitation and release preparation, and inspired by the professionalism and passion of the individuals I spoke to.

"Since making my initial donation I have been invited to a number of Pact events which I have found both informative and heart-warming. I’ve learned not only about how the organisation is trying to bring about reform, but also heard for myself how they have changed the lives of current and former prisoners. 

"My two prison visits have been equally enlightening. I have seen first-hand the conditions in which prisoners live, talked to prison staff at all levels, and listened to prisoners extol the virtues of the Pact staff who have helped them maintain contact with their families or even repair broken relationships.

"I am very grateful to Pact for giving me these experiences as I do believe my life has been enriched by them, and for the greater understanding and empathy they have enabled me to acquire. I certainly intend to continue to support Pact in their work and look forward to learning of the fruits of their unstinting efforts to reform the prison system.”

Even a small donation can make a big difference in supporting prisoners, people on probation, and their families to make a fresh start. You can make a one-off or regular donation to Pact through our online platform at https://www.prisonadvice.org.uk/donate/.