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Healing Systems, Not Just People: Healing Health Inequalities
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When Tony first joined SIG Safe Ground’s Man Up programme at HMP Altcourse in 2023, followed quickly by Fathers Inside in 2024, he brought an openness and willingness to change that quickly made him a key member of both groups. He threw himself into every opportunity, whether it was theatre, writing, poetry, or difficult conversations, and his creativity shone through. His work was published in the first Fathers Inside poetry pamphlet, a proud moment that reflected not only his talent but also a deep commitment to change and his own recovery.
SIG Safe Ground’s programmes provide the space to explore identity, reflect on who we are, strengthen family relationships, and provide practical tools for positive change. Tony’s journey shows how needed this approach is needed. During the programmes, he built a personal “toolbox” to manage emotions and make better decisions, skills that stayed with him long after release. His honesty and empathy inspired others, too, creating a supportive group environment that helped everyone to engage and grow.
After leaving prison, Tony didn’t slow down. SIG Safe Ground connected him with Damien John Kelly House, a recovery residence, and he seized every opportunity, including arts, sports, and cultural activities, and more. He joined a weekly writing class, impressing everyone instantly, and even gave a public talk on “Male Identity” supported by Liverpool City Council, sharing insights that allow us to look at masculinity through a new lens.
Tony’s progress highlights the ripple effect of SIG Safe Ground programmes. He has developed emotional resilience, strengthened family ties, and actively contributed to community recovery networks. Most importantly, his engagement hasn’t stopped at the prison gate; he continues to learn, create, and inspire others through community, education and cultural activities. As Tony puts it: ‘”It’s hard to start living positively when you’ve never been shown how. SIG Safe Ground helps people really live for the first time”.
Today, Tony has completed 12 months in recovery housing and is thriving. His story is living proof that creative, relational interventions don’t just change behaviour, they transform lives, strengthen communities, and build hope for the future.
