The IPP (Imprisonment for Public Protection) Conference took place on Tuesday 16 October at HMP Hewell, organised by the Worcester Criminal Justice Affairs Justice Group (CJAG) and was supported by several YSS (Your Support Service) volunteers.

The title of the conference was ‘Searching for a way out – The dilemma of the sentence of Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP).’ The conference was attended by those working in the criminal justice system, those who can influence policy, those concerned about IPP prisoners, mental health professionals and interested people from faith communities.

The day included talks from prisoners who spoke about their experiences, keynote speakers from the Parole Board, Prison Reform Trust and the National Probation Service, and workshops which explored these issues in more depth.

YSS volunteers were on hand throughout the day to support the smooth-running of the event, helping with the registration of delegates on arrival, managing the reception and answering any queries.

Lorraine Preece, YSS Chief Executive, said: “Unfortunately this event clashed with our annual staff conference which also took place on Tuesday 16 October. However we needn’t have worried as our brilliant volunteers are always on hand to fly the flag for YSS! I am always so incredibly proud of our volunteers and this is another great opportunity to showcase how they contribute in so many ways.”

Diana Fulbrook, CJAG member who helped to organise the day, said: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone involved in supporting us on the day, including YSS volunteers who were brilliant in ensuring the smooth-running of the event.

“All the delegates I spoke to found the day informative and enlightening, and we are so pleased it was such a great success.”

To find out more about YSS or how you can get involved as a volunteer, please click here.