Positive Play Partnership scoops top COSLA award

A partnership between HMP Kilmarnock and East Ayrshire has scooped the top award at COSLA’s annual awards ceremony in Crieff for their innovative work with prisoners and their children.

The partnership involving the Council’s Vibrant Communities team and Serco, who manage the prison on behalf of the Scottish Prison Service, fought off stiff competition for the Chair’s Award, which is selected from all 200 shortlisted entries for all the other award categories. This award recognises the innovation, enthusiasm and motivation of the group as well as the strength and unique nature of the partnership. 

EA Positive Play is an integral part of the Early Intervention and Prevention Service provided by Vibrant Communities, reflecting their commitment to making East Ayrshire a strong, safe and vibrant community where everyone has a good quality of life and access to opportunities.

EA Positive Play works with children, families and whole communities using unique, asset based approaches. The project facilitates a range of community based services whilst focusing on delivery of more specific, targeted work with, and for the most vulnerable and isolated children and families - encouraging connections to natural community supports. 

The project also supports prisoners and their families by encouraging positive play, bonding and attachment. The Play in Prison initiative was set up in 2011 and aims to provide positive play experiences for prisoners, their children and families in the most natural environment possible.  Sessions are more akin to an after school club for example, than a regular prison visit. 

These sessions have proven to be an excellent incentive for good behaviour within the prison and assist imprisoned parents and carers in maintaining meaningful contact with their children, thereby reducing reoffending and improving outcomes for parent and child. 

Keith Mason, Serco’s Gymnasium and Health Improvement Manager at HMP Kilmarnock, and Strategic Lead and Chair of the Family Strategy Group, said: “This is a great testament to the fantastic work being undertaken by everyone involved in the Family Strategy Group, from East Ayrshire Vibrant Communities and HMP Kilmarnock.  There should also be recognition for the offenders who engage with the programmes and services developing family bonds and parenting skills. I am immensely proud to have represented all of them at the annual Convention of Scottish Local Authorities awards.”