Our Prizes Start With Your Nominations
The starting point for the Longford Prize is the nominations you send in, whether you are a member of the public, or a colleague, supporter or beneficiary of the work in the field of prison reform done by the individual, group or organisation you want to bring to the judges’ attention. Set out in 1000 persuasive words why individuals like Marina Cantacuzino of the Forgiveness Project, 2014 winner (pictured above), meet our criteria of humanity, courage, persistence and originality. And do include some testimonies from those who have benefitted from the work.
Who Decides?
The final decision is made by our distinguished judging panel, which has included journalist Mary Riddell (right). Winners will be informed in mid-October and invited to receive their award at the Longford Lecture. As part of their prize, one of our Longford Scholar graduates, now working as a film director, will make a short film about them which will be shown at the lecture and then given to the winner to use to promote their work.
The Prize Statuette
Made by one of our former Longford Scholars, Ben Levings, who graduated in stonemasonry, from stainless steel, glass and yew, the prize statuette given to winners shows the lock indicator on UK prison doors. It represents the door unlocked, transparency and reflection, all qualities that are celebrated by the Longford Prize.
“We hope that the Longford Prize will also stimulate debate and discussion on many of the complex issues addressed by nominees. Recognising courage, humanity, persistence and originality through the Longford Prize brings to the fore many of the best contributions regularly being delivered in the field.”
John Podmore, ex-prison governor and for many years chair of judges