THE Well founder David Higham has been shortlisted for a prestigious award due to his work in the community to help people 'break free from crime and addiction'.
David has been shortlisted for the Howard League for Penal Reform awards in recognition for his years of work helping those in the community overcome addiction and rehabilitate following time in prison.
AWARD: Dave Higham has been shortlisted for an award
As CEO of The Well, David has used his past experience of the justice and legal system to guide others back into society and overcome their pasts.
He said: "I've been brought up in the justice system since I was 14.
"I've been through it all before, probation, prison, pre-release and the difficulties that come with transitioning back into society.
"I wanted to use that lived experience I had to introduce others back into society after prison.
"Through using skills and interventions we hope to help people break free from crime and addiction.
"We've dealt with a wide array of offenders. We've had people who have served life sentences, prolific offenders, drug offenders and a lot of others.
BREAK FREE: David, pictured speaking at an event in 2019, is working to help others break free from crime and addiction (Lindsey Dickings)
"The staff I have with me are amazing and they are as dedicated as I am to help people break free from the justice system when they have been released.
"We got the email about the awards on August 13 and the ceremony itself will be online on October 12.
"I think it's great to be shortlisted for this because it really shines a light on the fact that people can change and rehabilitation is possible if you give people a chance.
"We really need to support people coming through the justice system and help them break free from it.
WELL: David Higham has been shortlisted for the Howard League awards
"It's about challenging the stigma that people can't change and we need to look at the system that keeps people from getting jobs due to their criminal records.
"I hope to help as many people as I can so I can help them break free from crime and addiction."
The Well wrote on social media: "Congratulations to The Well Communities CIC chief executive David Higham on being shortlisted in The Howard League for Penal Reform awards."
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