Working with Offenders
What does the activity involve?
Delivered by Sam Onagoruwa, a life coach who works with offenders, the activity gives you the chance to learn more about the impact of offending on families; what to expect when working in prisons; how to recognise patterns in young offending (county lines, gang participation, etc.); and the importance of proportionate sentencing. The activity draws upon Samuel’s experiences in these areas, and more, to challenge perceptions of offenders and offending behaviour and to inform practical approaches to rehabilitation.
What skills will it give me?
The Working with Offenders activity provides students with key skills that are highly valuable in criminal justice and beyond. By developing empathy and emotional intelligence, students learn to understand and work with vulnerable individuals, including offenders. The course also improves communication skills, enabling students to effectively engage in challenging environments, such as prisons. Students will strengthen their organisational and analytical abilities, learning to recognise patterns in offending behaviour, such as gang participation and county lines.
The course encourages critical thinking by exploring the balance between punishment and rehabilitation, while introducing the concept of proportionate sentencing. These transferable skills, including empathy, communication, critical thinking, and analysis, enhance students' confidence and employability, preparing them for careers in criminal justice and any role that requires strong interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of human behaviour.