Jason Jordan; Case Study

Our clients often need tailored support to help them overcome barriers which may be holding them back from rebuilding their lives.  In common with many other prisoners, Jason has dyslexia.  However, he hasn't allowed this to prevent him from moving his life forward through working as a Peer Advisor during his sentence.  He is now looking forward to doing new things with his life when he is released.

 "My name is Jason Jordan and I've been working for St Giles Trust in HMP Brixton as a Peer Advisor since February 2009. I'm currently completing my NVQ Level 3 Advice and Guidance.  It hasn't been easy - being dyslexic I've had to overcome a lot of barriers and low self-esteem. I'm not a great lover of writing or spelling due to my upbringing.  I was repeatedly abused by my parents to try and make me read and write.  My parents did not understand the term dyslexia so I tried to stay away from reading and writing.

I first went to prison 15 years ago for a charge of an Offensive Weapon. When I got out my life was like a rollercoaster.  I got into the habit of selling drugs for quick money and due to my learning disabilities I was afraid of applying for jobs. I've got children who I support, who I haven't been much of a role model to with selling drugs.

I've always wanted to better myself but I didn't know how. I came to prison in August 2008 for the second time. I thought it was time to use this experience and turn it into a positive. Another prisoner told me about the St Giles Trust Peer Advice Project.  I completed an application and was told that I could graduate with an NVQ Level 3.

I'm 32 years old and have no qualifications.  I was worried about the course as I thought I wouldn't be able to meet the requirements needed but I was determined to give it a go and not let it beat me.  Through help I have been able to break down my barriers and build my confidence. I attended my classes religiously and am now weeks away from completing my first ever qualification.

I gained my confidence back through St Giles Trust and even joined a prison play where I had to learn a script. This was a huge challenge but I was confident I could do it considering I'm doing my NVQ and I felt that was much harder.  I also had a really supportive team of fellow Peer Advisors.

I now feel I can be a good role model to fellow prisoners and - most importantly - my children.  If you're reading this and possibly have dyslexia... face your fears, don't tell yourself that you can't do it. I'm a perfect example that if you set your mind to it you can achieve your goals for a new life.

On release, I plan to take things one step at a time and use my experiences for the better to help others in similar situations. I want to continue working with St Giles Trust and use the qualification I have gained, keep my head held high and be proud of myself.  To show my children was a real role model looks like - by working hard and achieving my goals."