Response from About Time:
Hey Danielle,
My name is Ashleigh Chapman, and I thought I would respond to your letter as I got out of prison here in Victoria in May after doing four years. Hopefully, I can help you.
So here goes.
When it comes to getting out of prison there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It is about taking your time and not pushing yourself. Trying to do everything at once is not a clever idea – it just leads to anxiety and thinking that prison is so much easier.
If you have close supports, tell them what you need, set clear boundaries, put yourself first and speak up if you can. If you do not have close supports, are unable to or do not want to speak up, services that may be able to help are there for anyone to use.
Ask around to other people who you have seen come back. They may have helpful tips.
It is okay and it will be okay. Take it one day at a time. If you need to take it one minute or one second at a time, then so be it.
Remember you are you; you can do whatever you put your mind to. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.
If you fail, if you fall, ask for help and do not beat yourself up. You got this. I could keep going – I am quite enthusiastic about making sure everyone knows they are great people and can do wonderful things.
Services:
There are many services out there, but it depends on where you live. For example, here is a service in the Nerang area and things they can help you with.
Nerang Neighbourhood Centre
29 Martin Street, Nerang QLD 4211
(07) 5578 2457
The Centre says that:
When you call in (or ring) our Centre, the first smiling face you will see is either Reece and/or Zoe, our fabulous Community Support Workers. They offer a listening ear, warm cuppa, free meal and years of experience and knowledge of the Gold Coast community sector. In the rare case that they cannot assist you, they will put you with the right person and/or service.
- Community Connect – helps you navigate through life’s struggles by providing support, advocacy, advice and counselling.
- Financial Resilience – provides budget guidance & information including making sure you are getting all your concessions and entitlements. They offer No Interest Loans (NILs).
- Employment – offers free and practical assistance to individuals between the ages of 16 and 65 who are seeking employment and/or training opportunities.
- Food Services – anyone in need of a hand up can access our pre-packed $25 food boxes every Thursday and/or Friday. No concession cards required.
- Free BBQ – hosted by Mark, aka Wolf, and wonderful community volunteers (The Wolf Pack). Offers a free BBQ for anyone feeling isolated and in need of food and company. At Bischof Pioneer Park every Wednesday night from 4:30pm – 8:00pm.
Keep asking for help, keep advocating and please let us know if this helps or you need anything else.
Thanks,
Ashleigh Chapman
