I'd like to share a powerful story from one of our volunteers, Molly*.
A brief note before reading: the following story mentions bereavement, but ultimately shares a hopeful message about connection and support.
Molly recently joined Shannon Trust as a volunteer, inspired to help by a personal connection to our work. Her late brother, Billy*, was a learner with us while he was serving time in prison. While there, he was supported by Kam*, his numeracy mentor.
Through their one-to-one sessions using our Count Me In programme, Billy and Kam formed a meaningful bond. What began as peer mentoring developed into a connection built on learning, trust and vulnerability.
Upon Billy’s untimely passing, his sister learned about their friendship through a poem Kam had written in tribute to her brother. The poem was later read aloud at the prison memorial service – a moving moment for Billy’s family.
“Kam’s support as a numeracy mentor, and the care reflected in his poem, played a significant part in my decision to become a volunteer. I would really like him to know how grateful I am and that he made a genuine difference, not only to my brother but also to our family. In many ways, his kindness has ensured that my brother’s memory will live on through the time and effort I now give as a volunteer,” says Molly.
For many people in prison, the experience can be isolating and daunting. Human connections and learning both play a key role in rehabilitation. Peer mentoring offers an opportunity for both and can be transformative, not only for the individual but for everyone around them.
“I believe Billy’s story shows the difference mentors can make to individuals in custody, and the lasting impact that compassion and human connection can have on families, even in the most difficult circumstances.
My hope in sharing is that it offers a positive and hopeful message about mental health, dignity and the value of mentoring.”
Kam’s poem, below, is a powerful reminder of why connection matters so much to everyone on their journey towards a more positive future:
A Lesson in Life
(A tribute to Billy*)
He was a quiet guy and somewhat shy.
Didn’t mix much, friendly to a select few.
I don’t know why, but that included me too.
Knowing him since House Unit Twenty-one.
Memories of us sitting in the yard in the sun.
Now I’d just visit him at the weekend.
Giving maths lessons and lending an ear.
Hear the troubles he faced or those he classed as disgraced.
The sister he’d reconnected with just too late.
After these fables we’d work through his times tables.
But now that is all in the past. We never know our fate.
He wasn’t old, frail or ill except maybe some what overweight.
I didn’t think much when I couldn’t visit. The wing being shut.
So, it came as a big shock when I was told he’s no longer here.
Taken in the night to hospital where his heart rapidly gave out.
I went back to his wing some days later. Opened his cell door flap.
Looked where I used to sit, his stuff still there, like no one cared.
The Shannon Trust maths book forgotten, so trivial but sad.
So, I’ll keep a Billy-shaped nugget in my heart.
Hoping you departed for a better pad.
Written by Kam, a mentor.
*names have been changed
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