At the end of March we welcomed David Martindale, manager of Livingston Football Club, to HMP & YOI Polmont.
He kindly gave up his time to speak to young men and women in our care, covering his lived experience of the justice system; how he turned his life around; and his role managing one of Scotland’s top-flight football clubs.
Originally joining the club as a part-time volunteer following release from prison, David worked his way up the ranks through ground maintenance and coaching roles, and eventually to the Manager’s spot, thanks to his discipline and perseverance.
He also spoke openly about the impact his imprisonment had on both him and his family, and how important education and positive relationships were in helping him to turn his life around.
The sessions were extremely popular, with those in our care thrilled to hear his story, and for the opportunity to take part in an insightful Q&A session, which was filmed by Sky Sports.
David said: "It was a privilege to go in and share my experience with the group. It's an old cliché but so very true - if I can help one person by sharing my experience, it’s a step in the right direction.
"The staff who work within the prison system need as much help as possible, they do an incredible job and hopefully I have helped those who attended the chat think about their life choices going forward.”
Stephen Ballantyne, Citizenship Manager at HMP & YOI Polmont, said: “Our residents thoroughly enjoyed David’s visit. Many have said his talk gave them hope, and the belief that they too could be successful upon release.
“They also felt it was thought provoking, as they were able to relate to what David has been through and were inspired by how he has come out the other side of it.”