Glasgow's Lilias Centre prepares women for community reintegration

The Lilias Centre in Glasgow offers a different approach to women’s imprisonment. Unlike traditional prisons, it has no bars on the windows or high walls. The entrance features a decorative gate, and the inside is warm and welcoming. This facility is part of a project aimed at reducing reoffending by focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Kristie Clelland, an experienced prison service worker, believes that while some may think Lilias is too lenient, it provides inmates with a supportive environment. The goal is to prepare women for a successful return to the community. Clelland highlights that success means inmates leave with new skills and a sense of hope for the future. Inmate Rona Mackenzie, serving a life sentence, appreciates the more homelike atmosphere of Lilias. After 15 years in a closed prison, she finds cooking, shopping, and managing her household responsibilities liberating. Rona expresses deep remorse for her past actions and values the support she has found through fellowship. Another inmate, Amy McMullen, is also experiencing positive changes at Lilias. After transferring from more restrictive prisons, she describes Lilias as a "breath of fresh air." Amy is learning new skills, including DJing, and feels more connected to her family during visits, which are more relaxed than in traditional prisons. The Lilias Centre aims to help women avoid returning to prison. Both Rona and Amy express optimism about their futures. Representatives from the UK's Ministry of Justice plan to visit Scotland soon to learn from this innovative approach to women's rehabilitation.