More than 400 prisoners in Scotland have taken part in a 'groundbreaking' rehabilitation programme by a Glasgow-based charity.
The initiative, led by arts charity Creative Change Collective, uses drama as a means to improve mental health and reduce reoffending rates among Scottish prisoners.
Five prisons have been participating in the unique initiative which started in 2022.
Each year, the programme accommodates more than 200 participants from HMPs Shotts, Barlinnie, Low Moss, Greenock and Glenochil.
The programme, dubbed Anonymous Drama, spans a period of 12 to 16 weeks during which participants collaborate to develop a group script.
Some participants take part in a rehearsed readthrough of the work they have developed in front of their friends, family, staff and fellow prisoners.
The participants do not reveal which aspects of the stories are based on truth and which are fictional.
The primary aim of the programme is to enable prisoners to improve their mental health and their relationship with themselves within a safe environment.
On Friday, August 2, prisoners from HMP Low Moss, which has been offering the programme since its inception in 2022, gave a rehearsed reading to their peers, prison staff, friends, and family members.
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Mark, Creative Change Collective project director, said: "I am proud that our work is playing its part in helping people turn their lives around and address some of the challenges that led to their convictions.
"The project gives participants a creative outlet, improves their communication at all levels and gives them a chance to reconnect with friends and family.
"I am always deeply moved by the transformation in the people who take part in our programmes and the power that the arts and creativity have to change lives and support rehabilitation."
A participant who has partaken in the programme twice shared his experience, saying: "My confidence has grown and it has allowed me to realise I can get a 'buzz' without taking drugs.
"Years in prison has impacted my confidence and self-worth, however, the drama therapy group has given me the belief that I can express myself and explore feelings I have been reluctant to explore in the past.
"Being part of the first group built my confidence to stand up and read in front of an audience, however this time round I have supported others on that journey which has been rewarding."
Karen Norrie, governor in charge at HMP Low Moss, said: "We know that creative opportunities like the Anonymous Drama programme can give individuals a positive outlet to express themselves, build their confidence and improve their communication and life skills.
"We are grateful to the Creative Change Collective for the work they are doing here in Low Moss and look forward to continuing this great partnership."
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