Planning for the future
SCOTLAND
Planning for the future - Getting the support of a mentor
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The Wise Group

Name
New Routes Throughcare Mentoring Service
Website
www.thewisegroup.co.uk
Number of prisoners/prison leavers helped
Typically, New Routes supports in excess of 1500 prison leavers annually across the entire Scottish Prison Service estate and across all 32 Local Authority areas.
Region
SCOTLAND
Specific Geographical Area
Service delivered across all 32 Local Authority ares in Scotland.
Who Can Apply
Males serving short term prison sentences (less than 4 years) in Scotland.
How the scheme can assist you

New Routes Mentoring provides holistic wrap-around support and guidance to men serving a short term prison sentence across Scotland. It’s completely voluntary and person-centred – delivered by mentors many of whom have lived experience. Support is available for 12 months, typically starting 6 months pre-release and continuing for 6 months in the community. Mentoring support is based entirely on customers self-identified needs (including but not limited to) housing, health care, employment, relationships, mental health, money advice and addictions support. Our mentors meet customers at the gate on the day of liberation and walk alongside them to support their journey of re-integration with their communities and the pathway to desistance.

How To Apply
Current eligibility criteria means that referrals are taken for individuals currently in custody. Our team of prison based mentors constantly monitor admission lists on the SPS data base to identify eligible individuals and then arrange an appointment to offer the support of the service. Individuals can also make requests via their personal officer or through the Prison Links Centre to speak to our staff  and explore their options. Enquiries can also be made by phone (including by family members) for further information. See the 0800 number below.
Notes
In Scotland, New Routes Mentoring is delivered as a public social partnership with the Scottish Government, led by the Wise Group. It's nationwide delivery is supported by third sector partners (Apex, Families Outside, Sacro and the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH)). Delivery is tailored locally, but always to the same national standard – meaning consistent support is given regardless of prison or destination.
Contact
Request via Personal Officer or through the Prison Links Centre. Further information can be accessed by calling 0800 731 5678
Quote
Having support from someone who truly understands where I'm coming from and who has the knowledge and network that can open doors and opportunities for me, has been invaluable. Without the support of my New Routes mentor, I'd probably have been back in custody within weeks." 
Stevie M, New Routes customer