How might men in prison, with a background of substance use, experience drama projects?
Authors: Brooks, E.
Conference: HSS PGR Conference: Exploring the Impact of Postgraduate Research on Health and Social Sciences
Dates: 4 June 2024
Abstract:Substance use is an extensive and intractable issue within the United Kingdom’s (UK) prison system, and is associated with elevated rates of criminal recidivism, compromised mental health, self-harm, and fatalities. Current support strategies and agendas, though earnest, have exhibited limitations in effectively curbing this crisis and responding to the underlying needs of those in prison reliant on substances. This study endeavours to investigate the potential of drama-based interventions as a means of mitigating substance misuse and facilitating rehabilitation among those detained within UK prisons. To achieve this, the study collaborates with a professional drama company to implement a five-day drama project across several UK prisons. The project is specifically tailored to engage individuals with a history of substance misuse, thereby seeking to unlock the person-centred, therapeutic, educational, and rehabilitative potential of the performing arts within a prison environment. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methodologies. It evaluates the impact of drama-based interventions by measuring key indicators, including substance use reduction, improvements in mental health, behavioural changes, successful social reintegration, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, in-depth interviews with programme participants and prison staff provide invaluable insights into the lived experiences and effectiveness of these interventions. The findings from this study aim to highlight justification for innovative and holistic approaches to addressing substance misuse within the prison context. Moreover, the research underscores the importance of a rehabilitative focus within the criminal justice system and advocates for investment in person-centred, preventative, and therapeutic initiatives. By bridging the gap between empirical evidence and the arts, this study aims to contribute substantively to the ongoing efforts to tackle the enduring crisis of substance misuse within UK prisons.
Source: Manual