Reading for Redemption Phase 2 Expansion

About this opportunity

Summary Reading for Redemption Phase 2 is a expansion of a successful proof-of-concept educational reading programme developed at HMP Frankland. The programme explores how structured reading, reflective discussion and literature-based learning can increase engagement with reading amongst individuals in custody who can read but do not routinely participate in existing reading provision. The programme will also generate evidence regarding any wider impacts on wellbeing, engagement and positive participation within prison communities. Core Programme Requirement All projects must be built around a carefully curated reading list tailored to the needs of a specific prison cohort. Applicants must explain: how texts have been selected; why the materials are appropriate for the chosen cohort; how the reading list supports critical thinking, self-reflection, empathy and social awareness; how participants will be supported to engage with the materials. What prison resources will be required, if any, to support delivery. The rationale, quality and proposed application of the curated reading list will be a central component of application assessment. Expected Structure of Activities Successful applicants will be expected to: Submission of a National Research Committee application is a mandatory requirement of successful projects within 4 weeks of confirmation of a successful bid. Deliver a university-led educational reading programme within a prison that has agreed to participate. Develop and deliver a curated reading programme specifically designed for individuals who can read but who do not typically engage with reading opportunities. Undertake regular direct engagement with participants through university-led delivery, which may include facilitated discussions, reflective activities and supported reading sessions. Have a reflective element to the educational reading programme. Prepare end of prototype project report. Requirements for Service Providers Applicants must demonstrate: Experience of delivering comparable higher education, educational reading or research programmes. Appropriate governance and safeguarding arrangements. Capacity and experience to work effectively within prison environments. Ability to deliver monitoring and research requirements. Intended Outcomes Grant recipients will be expected to consider the following: Confidence in engaging with reading, discussion and learning activities. Engagement with individuals who do not routinely participate in existing reading opportunities. Development of critical thinking and reflective learning skills. Discussion of different perspectives, experiences and ideas. Supporting growth in empathy, social awareness and perspective-taking. Engagement with education and other purposeful activity. Builds evidence regarding the effectiveness of curated reading programmes in prison settings. Tests whether educational reading activities can contribute to wider positive outcomes. Benefits for Service Users Participants are expected to benefit through: Increased empathy and reflective thinking. Greater engagement in education, learning and other purposeful activities. Enhanced wellbeing. Improved opportunities for personal development and progression. Research Expectations Applicants should propose a research approach that considers: Successful applicants will be required to submit an application to the National Research Committee (NRC), where required, and comply with applicable HMPPS research governance processes. Participant attendance and engagement. Reading participation and reading habits. Changes in attitudes towards reading and learning. Evidence of changes in critical thinking and reflective discussion. Participant perceptions of empathy, social awareness and understanding of others. Staff observations regarding engagement and participation. Barriers and enablers to engagement amongst the target cohort. Lessons for future scaling and delivery. Applicants should demonstrate: · Relevant expertise in delivering educational reading programmes, literature-based learning initiatives or research projects. Ability to deliver within the required timescales. Appropriate governance arrangements. Capacity to manage public grant funding. Financial stability and organisational capability. Applicants must provide evidence of support from the Higher Education Institution responsible for delivery. Evidence of support from the participating prison establishment, including written confirmation in principle of willingness to participate in the prototype delivery. Demonstrate that all programme costs, including resources, travel and research activity, can be delivered within the grant funding available. Confirm that the project will not draw, nor has it received, duplicate funding for the activities covered by this funding application Applicants must identify the target cohort and explain why current reading provision does not adequately meet their needs. Delivery Window The grant scheme will support delivery during FY 2026/27, with activity taking place between approximately January to December 2027 with a final end of year report due by April 2028. This is a time-limited grant programme funded through the MoJ Spend to Save Innovation Fund and is intended to support activity during the specified delivery period only. Funding Available · The total grant fund available is £80,000, comprising up to four grants of £20,000 each. · The total grant amount will be paid in advance, subject to satisfactory completion of due diligence requirements and execution of a Grant Funding Agreement. · This is a time-limited grant programme funded through the MoJ Spend to Save Innovation Fund and is intended to support activity during the specified delivery period only.