Supporting people in forensic and detention settings.
Voices Unlocked is a Mind in Camden project dedicated to supporting people who hear voices in prisons, secure units and Immigration Removal Centres (IRCs).
The term ‘Hearing Voices’ relates to people who hear things, see things, and sense things other people don’t. These experiences can be positive or neutral, but when they are distressing, they can cause feelings like shame, powerlessness or distress. We work with people to normalise and validate their experiences, and support them in making sense of them.
We do this mainly through peer support groups, which we train forensic and detention staff to run. These groups are safe, inclusive, non-judgemental spaces which foster hope. Group members can connect with each other, explore ideas, but also share and sit with challenging emotions. These groups are simple yet radical.
For some people, they can be life-changing.
Additional information
“The group has made me feel like my life is more worthwhile. l feel like I am making a valid worthwhile step in my recovery.”
“You get an insight into the lives of other group members, who you can empathise with, hear their stories. It gets you in touch with people who have left the unit and you get inspired by them.”
“I love coming here, listening to others who have the same problem as me. It teaches you how others have become stronger.”
We are always on the look-out for volunteers to support us with delivery of this project.
A good understanding of the Hearing Voices approach is essential. Experience of facilitating a Hearing Voices group and/or working in a forensic setting is highly desirable.
People with lived experience of voices, visions, unusual beliefs, detention and imprisonment are strongly encouraged to apply. Training will be provided and successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check.
If you want to discuss the project, find out about our trainings and workshops, or explore how we may be able to help; please email us on VU@mindincamden.org.uk or call on 020 7241 8978.
To find out more please visit our website. https://voicesunlocked.com/
We also offer a range of workshops and one day training courses virtually, and across central London, the Home Counties, and Manchester with various in-house options.
To keep up to date on upcoming events please subscribe to our mailing list here.
Available training:
- Introduction to Hearing Voices
- Hearing Voices Group Facilitation
- Paranoia and Alternative Realities
- A Fresh Approach to Mental Health
- Supporting People who Self-Harm
- Taboo and Violent Voices
- Complex trauma
- Supporting people diagnosed with Borderline / Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder
- Multiplicity
- Encouraging reflective practice / peer support for staff
- Opening up conversations: Let’s talk about Race
We offer these in-house for a fee, or schedule different training throughout the year, dependant on demand. We also develop bespoke training to suit the needs of individual organisations.
