UK prisons in crisis - What does Catholic Social Teaching offer?

Image: Pact

Andy Keen-Downs, Chief Executive of the Prison Advice and Care Trust (PACT) will deliver a Catholic Union Pub Talk on Monday 7 July. Chaired by Catherine Pepinster, Andy will talk about what Catholic Social Teaching has to offer in terms of the current prison crisis. The event is open to all, but booking is essential as spaces will be limited. A nominal donation is requested for attendance.

PACT is a pioneering national Catholic charity that supports prisoners, people with convictions and their families. It provides caring and life-changing services at every stage of the justice process: in court, in prison, on release, and in the community. Andy, who was recently awarded a CBE for services to prisoners and their families and children, has been CEO of PACT for almost 20 years, during which time he has been at the forefront of work to improve the lives of people caught up in the criminal justice system, in particular, the families and children of people in prison.

Andy Keen-Downs CBE says: "The prisons crisis is real and once again, the country is running out of prison cells. There are huge challenges facing the prison and probation system. If we are serious about creating a sustainable justice system that works for victims, communities, and tax payers, it is time for a radical rethink of why we put people in prison, and what we expect to happen when they are there. Catholic Social Teaching has a lot to offer in rethinking crime and punishment."

Catherine Pepinster is a well-known journalist, broadcaster, and author specialising in religion. She was previously executive editor of the Independent on Sunday and edited The Tablet for 13 years.

Catherine Pepinster, says: "We are delighted that Andy has agreed to give our Pub Talk on 7 July. The prison crisis is a matter of grave concern to society and those policy makers tasked with getting to grips with it. We look forward to insights from Andy and unpicking this thorny issue".

The Catholic Union's Pub Talks have proved a popular series of events with people in public life exploring a subject of particular interest to Catholics. Previous speakers include Lord Alton, Ruth Kelly, Catherine McKinnell, Jon Cruddas, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, Ann Widdecombe, Lord Glasman, Andrew Hawkins and Stephen Pound. Those interested in attending the Pub Talk with Andy Keen-Downs on Monday 7 July at the Rising Sun pub, Belgravia, should book their tickets early, doors will open at 18.00. A nominal donation is requested for attendance.

To register your attendance at the Pub Talk please book here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/prisons-in-crisis-what-does-catholic-social-teaching-have-to-offer-tickets-1354858621609?aff=oddtdtcreator