Breaking Cycles: Addiction, Prison, and the Power of Hope
“It’s been said that the state of our prisons is a direct reflection of the values, priorities and failures in society”
Steve Page, Chair of Trustees & Prison Ministry Advisor
There is a growing and often hidden challenge within our prison system. In this update, I want to share some thoughts on that reality and the hope that is emerging through The Recovery Course.
Addiction looms large in society and is an even greater issue throughout our prisons. It is quoted as being “endemic” and “inescapable” in many prisons where it’s more prevalent than sobriety.
A high number of people enter prison with an addiction, but many develop a dependency to unprescribed drugs and alcohol once inside. A report by the Justice Committee this year states that 39% of prisoners found it easy to find illegal drugs on the wings.
For many inmates this environment can reinforce cycles of dependency, hopelessness, and isolation. Addiction not only impacts their physical and mental wellbeing, but also affects relationships, decision-making, and their ability to engage meaningfully with rehabilitation. Without support, time in prison can deepen the very struggles that contributed to incarceration in the first place. However, when individuals are given structured support, safe space, and practical tools for recovery, prison can become a place where real change begins.
There are 122 references to prisons and prisoners in the Bible, perhaps the most familiar being Matthew 25:36–40, where Jesus says, “When I was in prison, you visited me… whatever you did for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me”. In the same spirit, Hebrews 13:3 encourages us: “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them”.
The Recovery Course in prisons is our response to this biblical mandate; over six sessions guests are provided with the opportunity to build a firm foundation toward freedom from addiction of any kind.
Below, you’ll read the story of Ben, whose experience reflects both the reality of prison life and the hope that The Recovery Course can bring.
Thank you for standing with us,
Steve
A Story of Freedom: Ben’s Journey
Ben’s life had long been shaped by drugs and crime, yet deep down he always felt as though he were wearing a mask just to survive in that world. No one could have imagined that it would be prison, the very place where freedom is taken away, that would strip away his disguise and begin his journey toward true freedom.
Ben first joined The Recovery Course while serving time at HMP Pentonville. He had arrived in prison as a drug user after being sentenced for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, a serious criminal offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act. At the time, prison was simply the consequence of the life he had been living. What he did not expect was that it would also become the place where his life would begin to change.
While attending The Recovery Course, Ben found freedom from his addiction and began to grow in his relationship with God. Through the support, teaching, and encouragement he received, something shifted in his life. The mask he had worn for so long began to fall away.
Today, Ben has been released not only from prison but also from the world of crime and drugs that once held him captive. He now has full time employment and is preparing to marry the girl he has known since childhood.
Ben’s story is a powerful reminder that real freedom is not just about leaving prison walls behind, it is about a transformed life. Even in the most unlikely places, hope can grow, lives can change, and new beginnings are possible.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
John 8:36 ESV
The Recovery Course is free to attend and free for churches to run, made possible by the generosity of supporters. If you feel able to give, a gift of any size would help us continue reaching more people with hope and support.
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