Trust and Change

Description

Trust and Change explains the democratic basis of therapeutic communities (TCs) and what exactly happens in community meetings including those in prison. It deals with commonly asked questions about TCs and describes their four basic pillars: democratisation, tolerance, communality and reality confrontation as well as the ‘no secrets’ principle (commonly referred to as a footstool). It examines the need to create a culture of enquiry and ways of avoiding trauma and other risks. It shows how TCs integrate with normal prison regimes and locations and the arrangements for record keeping and auditing. Throughout, the book contains ‘Thinking Points’ and gives examples of typical structures and schedules together with the aims, purposes and rationale of key aspects of TC work.

Explains TC work in basic, straightforward terms. Deals with problems, pitfalls and possibilities of encouraging engagement in a TC. Includes educational anecdotes in an easy-to-read format. For newcomers and seasoned TC workers alike.

Reviews

‘A wonderful helpful book that beautifully encapsulates the work of a TC’— Jinnie Jefferies, Founder, London Centre of Psychodrama and senior trainer in NHS and Prison TCs.

‘Brings to life the complex, challenging, and potentially rewarding experiences of making a career out of working with perhaps some difficult and damaged individuals. The book is a challenging and practical read of real value to those in practice or considering a career in such change-focused practice.’– Probation Journal.

‘Speaks directly to some of the real confusions and dilemmas faced by the staff member in a TC…offers good advice…enlivened and illustrated by examples…I recommend it’— Barbara Rawlings.

‘Presented in a very accessible way for any reader who does not have an in-depth understanding of forensic psychology. It is littered with many examples from prison practice … and it is evidence based. The writing style is engaging and at times conversational, occasionally prompting questions to the reader, and encouraging personal reflection. This text is an excellent introduction to TC work.’– Independent Monitor.

Authors

Judy Mackenzie is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist who has spent her working life in TCs, both in prisons and the NHS. She has worked in and latterly managed over eleven TCs and acted as a TC consultant, trainer and supervisor. Rosemary Anthony was a probation officer and worked in the community for several years and later at Grendon Prison, the ground breaking UK therapeutic whole prison. Their combined experience spans sixty years.