At Unlock Drama, we believe rehabilitation works best when it’s relevant, responsive, and rooted in the real needs of each prison community. That’s why we work in close partnership with key departments across the criminal justice system — including Safer Custody Leads, Heads of Reducing Reoffending, Prison Healthcare Teams, Substance Misuse Specialists, Neurodiversity Support Leads, and Violence Reduction Leads.
By collaborating with these teams, we ensure every project is designed not as a generic intervention, but as a purpose-built programme that directly addresses each establishment’s most urgent priorities.
Over the past decade, we’ve delivered issue-based rehabilitation projects in over 40 prisons nationwide, tackling challenges that are critical to creating safer, healthier, and more rehabilitative environments. Our projects are tailored to address pressing concerns such as:
- Mental Health Awareness – helping participants understand and manage their mental wellbeing, building resilience and emotional regulation.
- Weapon Awareness – exploring the consequences of carrying or using weapons, and developing non-violent strategies for conflict resolution.
- Violence Reduction – shifting behaviours through empathy-building, consequential thinking, and restorative approaches.
- Recovery and Substance Misuse – inspiring hope and offering tools for positive change in those affected by addiction.
Co-Designed with Staff for Maximum Impact
Our process starts by listening. We engage with staff to co-design projects that fit seamlessly into the prison’s regime while targeting the most immediate issues. This approach means our work isn’t “off the shelf” — it’s bespoke, responsive, and aligned with the prison’s wider rehabilitation culture strategy.
The impact goes beyond the individual participant. By delivering projects that address key challenges, we contribute to a whole-prison approach that benefits staff, improves safety, and builds a more positive environment for everyone.
As one participant recently told us:
“This project has made me realise I can think differently. It’s given me skills to stay calm and walk away from situations I’d usually react to.”
A Safe, Creative Space for Real Change
We know that true rehabilitation isn’t just about telling people what not to do — it’s about giving them the tools, confidence, and self-belief to make different choices. Our workshops create safe, non-judgemental spaces where individuals can explore difficult topics, rehearse new behaviours, and discover their own potential.
It’s not one-size-fits-all. Every project we deliver is shaped by the needs of the people in the room and the challenges facing the wider establishment.
One decision, one conversation, one rehearsal at a time — this is where real change begins.
