Join Our Big Conversation about Second Chances

The Longford Blog is an all-year-round conversation – about, amongst other things, prison, the criminal justice system, and what a difference education can make in turning (prison) sentences into degrees as our Longford scholars are all doing. This Blog page is an opportunity for our scholars (like Gavin, pictured above) who are at the heart of what we do - as well as our mentors and others involved in the scholarship programme - to share first-hand experiences and ideas for change.

If you have something you’d like to say, find out how at office@longfordtrust.org

Man smiling on green grass overlooking the sea

“I never know what he gets out of it. I get plenty”

Author: | 7 Jul 2025

Mentoring is a crucial part of our work. Every Longford Scholar is accompanied through their years at university by one of our trained Longford Trust… Read More

Person's hand holding an academic mortar board in the air

“Anything is possible, if you try hard enough”

Author: | 24 Jun 2025

Our Frank Awards help people in prison who want to start an Open University degree. For most it is their first attempt at higher education…. Read More

A good news story for prison education – and what it could be…

Author: | 9 Jun 2025

With prison education under strain, our Ambassador, journalist David Shipley, finds a new report ‘incredibly encouraging’ on the effectiveness of the in-cell education channel Way2Learn,… Read More

A green forces helmet and a black mortar board

Facing up to identity issues

Author: | 27 May 2025

Scholar Isaac Rasmussen is proud to have been a Royal Marine. But what happens when you’re not anymore? He reflects on belonging, loss and forging… Read More