A NEW fund has been launched by a faith-based charity to support people in custody and their families.
The Prisoners Week Trust (PWT) unveiled the new Dignity Fund on 27 March, with support from churches and organisations across Scotland.
Individuals will be able to apply for help through the Scottish Prison Service, which will direct applications to the PWT.
Many people arrive in custody with little or no money, while others lose their jobs and source of income when they lose their liberty.
They then rely on families, who often struggle to provide support, in many cases having lost a main breadwinner.
Under the new fund, they will be able to apply for support to buy items worth up to £50, such as a suit and tie or black shoes for a funeral.
They will also be able to request cash of up to £20, which could be used for phone credit, to speak to loved ones.
While PWT has not been prescriptive about what types of things could be supported, they will be to enhance the dignity of individuals in moments of challenge.
The Society of St Vincent De Paul (SSVP) has already committed a minimum of £5,000 a year to the fund, with the hope that other organisations and local congregations will follow suit.
The launch of the Dignity Fund also raises awareness of the Prisoners Week Charter and the way that different organisations, faith-based or otherwise, can support some of the most vulnerable in society.
Rev Sheena Orr, Chaplaincy Adviser at the Scottish Prison Service, said: “This is an exciting new partnership, which shows compassion by recognising the practical needs of those in prison. It brings dignity in the face of indignity.”
Patricia McCartney, National President SSVP Scotland, added: “The Society of St Vincent de Paul (Scotland) wholeheartedly welcomes the opportunity to support the Dignity Fund. Although we have links with some prisons, what we can and are permitted to offer is limited, and at times challenging.
“Contributing to the Dignity Fund allows us to widen our Vincentian reach to all Scottish prisons. We hope that this launch is beginning of a strong collaborative partnership with SPS, Prisoners Week Trust, the Chaplaincy Service and SSVP Scotland.”
