"What can I do?" - Szymon's story
Pact supports people on probation with relationships, parenting, and emotional wellbeing, empowering them to adjust to life after prison and make a fresh start in the community. This work helps individuals to break the cycle of reoffending and enjoy positive relationships with their children and families.
Following his release from prison on probation, Szymon was referred to Pact’s Personal Wellbeing Manager, Melissa, for support. The breakdown of his relationship had seen him refused contact with his children, and he was struggling with low mood and low self-confidence. To make matters worse, he had been refused access to work or benefits because of an immigration query, leaving him without the means to support himself. Desperate, frustrated, and relying on the goodwill of friends for the bare basics, all Szymon wanted was to see his sons.
Melissa shared: “Szymon had a lot going on. He was homeless, he had struggles with his health, he had no income, but his focus was still on what he could do to be a better person. Even when he had everything going on with immigration and he was trying to find somewhere to live, he still asked, ‘What can I do to be a better person for my boys?’”
Melissa supported Szymon in identifying the changes he might need to make in relation to his role as a parent, particularly in how he could effectively co-parent with his ex-partner. They also worked together to build Szymon’s emotional resilience, particularly in managing change and addressing challenges and barriers to enjoying healthy relationships.
Melissa was also able to signpost Szymon to the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass), and his local Andy’s Man Club, where he found it hugely beneficial talking to other dads struggling with separation from their children.
Szymon recently contacted Melissa to thank her for her support and share that he had been granted regular contact with his children after many months of court dates and social services involvement. Melissa shared: “It's good to hear back from people after we’ve supported them, especially when they reflect on their mistakes and have clearly learned how to move on from them. I can only imagine the positive impact the court decision has had on Szymon and wish him all the best for the future.”
About Pact's probation services
Pact’s work with people on probation forms part of His Majesty's Prison Probation Service’s (HMPPS) Commissioned Rehabilitative Services (CRS). These services provide flexible support for people involved with the criminal justice system, including help with accessing accommodation, support managing finances, benefits, and debt; dependency and recovery services; as well as support for personal and emotional wellbeing.