New exhibition at Winchester Cathedral to reveal life in prison

The display Doing Time, supported by Hampshire Cultural Trust, and accompanying book explore 175 years of Winchester Prison history including the harsh prison regimes of the past compared to the present focus on education, training and reform.

Prison life is revealed in a series of interviews with staff including Governor James Bourke who shares the challenges of supporting prisoners with complex social, mental and physical needs.

The impact of education and training, healthcare and counselling is told by prisoners who have turned their lives around at HMP Winchester.

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The book and exhibition were written by Winchester journalist Liz Kavanagh who spent more than six months visiting the prison before, after and during the pandemic when prisoners were almost permanently locked in cells.

The exhibition was curated by Leonie Mountney and photography by award-winning Winchester photographer Javaid Akhtar features throughout.

Winchester Prison prisoner (Image: Doing Time)

Ms Kavanagh said: “Each year, 2,000 men pass through Winchester Prison, on remand, awaiting release and serving sentences.

“The book and exhibition provide an overview of the many individuals who make up the prison – from teachers and prison officers to the prisoners themselves. Their stories have been written as they have been told - without agenda.

“They reveal the huge challenges that the prison faces operationally as well as the dedication of the people who work there. They also highlight the pitfalls of a criminal justice system where reoffending is far too common. The stories told by prisoners are particularly insightful, revealing how debt, drug addiction and lack of family support can all lead to crime.”

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Director of community and impact at Hampshire Cultural Trust, Deborah Neubauer, said: “The exhibition and book have provided real insight into what life is like behind the walls in one of Winchester’s most prominent landmarks. The stories that have been shared are both challenging and inspirational.”

The exhibition at Winchester Cathedral, from Monday, October 2 to Sunday, October 8, forms part of ‘Justice for all?’, a week-long series of cathedral events in partnership with the University of Winchester.

Other events include a Winchester whodunnit, mock jury duty and the annual Law Sunday. For more go to winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/justice-for-all/.

The book Doing Time is available to buy for £10 from P and G Wells.