Celebrating our Impact and Achievements at SIG Penrose IAP

On Tuesday, November 19th, we had the pleasure of hosting a special open day to celebrate SIG Penrose IAP’s second anniversary. This event provided a unique opportunity for distinguished guests from the criminal justice sector to explore our facility and learn about our mission: to prepare men under license for successful resettlement into the community while improving their self-confidence and resilience.

At Penrose IAP, our carefully designed structured programmes and rehabilitative activities address the criminogenic needs and life aspirations of individuals in our care. The open day attracted a diverse group of esteemed attendees, including representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), Community Accommodation Services (CAS), St. Giles Trust, Redemption Roasters, CGL, and the Clothing Collective.

Moreover, we welcomed Probation Heads of Service from throughout London, alongside representatives from Clinks, SIG Trustees and our leadership team. Their participation, coupled with the insights from prominent speakers such as Probation Director Manjinder Purewal, highlighted the vital importance of collaboration as we continue to innovate to support a more impactful criminal justice system.

The open day commenced with a networking session, allowing attendees to connect and share ideas before Adam Moll, SIG’s Director of External Affairs and Impact, formally welcomed everyone. He expressed, “Collaboration is at the heart of our ethos, and today reflects the incredible support from our HMPPS colleagues. Their guidance has enabled our service to develop and grow, and we eagerly look forward to witnessing the continued evolution to ensure we provide the best possible support to those in our care.”

Ms Purewal emphasised the vital role of Independent Approved Premises (IAPs) alongside public sector counterparts like Penrose. She remarked, “The independent sector brings innovation and flexibility, exemplified by alternative therapies and approaches that have been commended by HM Inspectorate of Probation. Penrose IAP is contributing to reducing reoffending and protecting the public, showcasing the positive impact of a mixed economy in this sector.”

Reflecting on our Achievements and Experiences

Eva Katsani, SIG Head of Criminal Justice Services, shared her reflections on the rewarding nature of our work, highlighting several key milestones that illustrate the progress of our AP:

• Supporting 350 men since our opening
• Delivering over 6,000 unique activities and contacts
• Successfully transitioning 220 people to independent living

Guests joined guided tours of the facility and viewed a specially produced film featuring testimonials of individuals residing at the IAP. Lunch was a highlight of the day, catered by two talented chefs, including a former resident of Penrose IAP who secured a position within our service. His journey, alongside eighteen others recently placed into meaningful employment, beautifully underscores the positive impact of our efforts at Penrose IAP.

SIG CEO Gill Arukpe addressed Penrose IAP’s essential role within the broader service landscape, unveiling exciting plans to expand move-on accommodation through SIG Housing Trust in response to the increasing demand for suitable housing. Gill passionately articulated the importance of advocacy, stating, “Our External Affairs team works diligently to ensure that the voices of those we support are heard by decision-makers, driving meaningful change.”

As the event drew to a close, attendees enjoyed one final networking session, leaving inspired by the showcased facilities, remarkable accomplishments, and innovative initiatives. We are incredibly proud of our progress and eagerly look forward to the future as we continue to empower those in our care.