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The Barlinnie Special Unit: Art, Punishment and Innovation – with Sara Trevelyan This book tells the story behind the creation of a small but ground breaking experimental unit which was situated in the women’s wing of Barlinnie Prison in Glasgow. The experiment showed what it takes to change human behaviour in a positive humanising direction. Calling a small group of previously violent prisoners by their first names, having meetings where they could talk to each other and prison staff proved revolutionary. The floodgates also opened when creativity entered the unit through the presence and work of a pioneering art therapist called Joyce Laing.
We know transformation is possible here at Findhorn, but the Barlinnie Special Unit (BSU) was a place where hope was rekindled, and a vision of what is possible was demonstrated in a prison environment. Previously desperate violent offenders were successfully rehabilitated. A group of 5 of us who all had different connections with this remarkable experiment which sadly closed after 20 years, decided to write a book about it to bring the experience and spirit of the Barlinnie Special Unit back into the current conversation about prisons. Shining a light on this radical experiment which became internationally famous, is timely in terms of the current well publicised crisis in prisons. The experience of the BSU challenges overly punitive ideas around crime which simply result in warehousing human problems and creating cycles of despair.
If you are interested at all do come along to my launch of this new book which gives intimate personal perspectives on this remarkable experiment. I am delighted that Robin Alfred will be hosting the event, and introducing me. I will share about the book, followed by a Q and A time for responses.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Phoenix Cafe Findhorn, The Park, Findhorn, Forres, Forres, IV36 3, United Kingdom,Forres
