A Visit to HMP Aylesbury – Hope, Humanity and Handlebars

Today, I had the privilege of visiting HMP Aylesbury with my fellow High Sheriffs – Sean from Berkshire and Pippa from Buckinghamshire (who had very kindly organised the visit for us). We were joined by our respective Chaplains, Shaun and Mark from the Oxfordshire Shrieval team, and Nick from South Bucks Hospice. We were all keen to learn more about life inside the prison and the remarkable work being done there.

From the moment we stepped through the gates, we were met with warmth – from the staff who welcomed us so graciously, and from the men who live at Aylesbury. It’s not often the general public sees behind the literal closed doors of our justice system. Prisons can feel remote – hidden from view and sometimes, sadly, from understanding. But what we saw today deserves to be noticed.

Aylesbury is a Category C training prison, where many of the men are serving medium-length sentences and may move to other institutions before their release. That presents real challenges – for staff trying to build consistent, trusting relationships and for the men trying to make the most of their time.

Yet what struck me was the calm. There was a sense of order, mutual respect and quiet determination in every corner of the prison. Despite the constrained budgets and limited resources that staff must work within, there was no sense of defeat – only a steely commitment to doing the best they can with what they have. And it’s clear that rehabilitation is more than a word here – it’s a practice.

We spent time with the prison’s Chaplaincy team, who support prisoners of all faiths and none with compassion and sensitivity. Their role is central – offering space for reflection, spiritual care, and a human connection that so many value.

A particular highlight for me was the visit to the bike workshop – a shining example of purposeful, practical rehabilitation. Men are trained to refurbish donated bikes from local recycling centres. Once restored and made roadworthy, these bikes are sold to raise funds for South Bucks Hospice. It’s such a clever initiative: it builds skills, pride, and a connection to the outside world. We could see – and hear – how meaningful the work is to those involved.

Of course, no one pretends that the prison system is without its flaws or pressures. But what we witnessed today was a reminder that real change doesn’t come from policy alone – it comes from people. From those who turn up each day, who listen, support, challenge and encourage. And from those serving time who are choosing to grow, to learn, and to build a different future.

One of the clear opportunities ahead is to build stronger partnerships between the prison and local businesses, social enterprises, and training providers. Equipping prisoners with real, employable skills is one of the most powerful tools we have to reduce reoffending and support successful reintegration. There’s particular need – and potential – to focus on the eight nationally recognised skills shortage areas, where trades are crying out for new talent. By aligning prison training with these workforce gaps, we can give people not just hope, but a real, practical future – one with purpose, stability, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to society.

As High Sheriffs, we’re used to seeing the best of our communities in unexpected places. Today was no exception. I left feeling hopeful – and more determined than ever to shine a light on the good that so often goes unseen.