We’re proud to announce a transformative new chapter for Unlock Drama: we’ve officially been onboarded as a vendor with Mitie, marking the beginning of a 10-year partnership at HMP Millsike — a brand-new, state-of-the-art Category C resettlement prison in Yorkshire.
This isn’t just a new location — it’s a bold opportunity to embed creative, participant-led rehabilitation at the heart of a forward-thinking prison. As the UK’s first fully electric prison, HMP Millsike is pioneering in both sustainability and rehabilitation, operating under the progressive “One Millsike” vision. Unlock Drama will stand alongside key partners PeoplePlus and Forward Trust to help realise this vision, supporting individuals through powerful, issue-based theatre projects.
Why This Partnership Matters
At Unlock Drama, our work goes far beyond performance. We use theatre as a rehabilitative tool, offering participants the space to reflect, grow, and acquire vital life skills that support their reintegration into society.
Our projects are designed to:
- Address key themes such as substance misuse, violence reduction, mental health awareness, and restoring family ties
- Build confidence, empathy, communication, and teamwork
- Support emotional resilience and behavioural change
- Provide a safe and inclusive space for reflection and transformation
By embedding our model within HMP Millsike, we’re helping shape an environment where individuals are empowered to make positive choices and feel valued.
Rehabilitation Through Theatre: Our Approach
Theatre offers something unique: a creative, low-barrier, emotionally engaging space that resonates deeply with participants — especially those disengaged from traditional interventions. We work with some of the most complex individuals in custody, including those who struggle to engage with education or other services.
Our issue-based workshops allow participants to explore real-life scenarios, develop characters that reflect their experiences, and tell stories that matter. From there, peer-led performances are shared with staff and the wider prison community — sparking conversation, building understanding, and fostering empathy.
Over the next decade, we’ll continue to deliver these transformative programmes at HMP Millsike, embedding our evidence-informed model of change within a prison designed to be truly rehabilitative.
A Shared Vision with Mitie and HMP Millsike
Mitie’s commitment to rehabilitation, innovation, and purposeful activity makes this partnership a natural fit. Together, we share a belief that prisons can — and should — be places of growth, learning, and opportunity.
As HMP Millsike sets a national benchmark for modern prison infrastructure and rehabilitative culture, we’re honoured that Unlock Drama will be part of this journey from day one.
Looking Ahead
We’re excited for the impact this partnership will bring. From delivering weekly creative sessions to launching new peer mentor pathways, our role at Millsike will evolve to meet the needs of the people we serve — and we can’t wait to see the change that unfolds.
This work is urgent. It is meaningful. And it is a privilege.
To explore partnership opportunities or find out more about our work in custody, please contact us at:
