Bedford Row Men’s Group was established in Limerick in 2011 and began as an initiative to include ex-prisoners who were left out of other city-wide initiatives. Beginning as a humble lunch get together it has since grown into a service that builds confidence in ex-prisoners who have suffered from the effects of imprisonment and addiction. The Community Foundation for Ireland provided a grant of €15,000 which went towards a high quality, empathetic service for the participants that included one-to-one counselling, art classes, meditation and cooking.
Locked Out
Often when a man goes to prison he is neglected by family support and other services, usually because the men themselves are reluctant to seek support. However, they continue to be a significant figure in the lives of their children. Bedford Row supports men in becoming responsible father figures for their children and for themselves. They provide a welcoming and non-judgemental space where men can talk about important issues. These men are motivated and inspired by their children doing well in life and avoiding some of the mistakes they have made. In the next year Bedford Row estimate that 15 men will have improved their lives significantly, reduced suicidal thoughts as well as drug and alcohol misuse and reconnected with their families.
Family Links
Bedford Row is now a well-established educational/recreational space and they have been involved in several community projects in Limerick including working alongside the educational unit of Limerick prison. One project deserving of a mention is the ‘Family Links’ exhibition which featured artworks created by participants in Limerick Prison Education Unit. It was displayed at The Hunt Museum in Limerick and was launched by Emily Logan, Chief Commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, was inspired by the Year of the Family.
The museum presented Bedford Row with a cheque for €1,500 which was generated through the sale of artworks from the exhibition. Maria Cagney, curator of education and outreach commented: “The museum greatly values the relationships we have developed with Limerick Prison and Bedford Row. We believe it is important to offer all marginalised families the opportunity to participate in the cultural life of our City.”
The project directly benefitted 30 men and over 120 indirectly (family members). As men who have served prison sentences are up to ten times more likely to commit suicide, this project has directly helped to prevent suicide as well as including isolated men. We are committed to supporting projects like this which enable marginalised people to access support and reach their potential.