The Vision

The Psalmists exists to cultivate creative practice in prisons and among those on the margins of society. Through acts of creative expression and gospel-centred spiritual formation, we offer a space to process the past, reclaim the present, and participate in a redemptive future.

Alongside in-person workshops we develop creative resources, such as journals and tools for writing and spiritual growth, that can be used in cells and beyond.

SUPPORT OUR WORK

“It’s easy to see the effect The Psalmists has on the men who come to the sessions…

It is a transformative and cathartic experience for them”

HMP Pentonville

TESTIMONIALS

  • London City Mission

    I would highly recommend the Psalmists for any prisons context and firmly believe it has the potential to reach some of the hardest to engage and complex prisoners. The benefits of helping prisoners express themselves are huge and can have so many positive outcomes.

  • HMP Pentonville

    It's easy to see the effect The Psalmists has on the men who come to Josh's sessions. Not only do they receive excellent biblical teaching but they also find a new way to express themselves – doing so openly and honestly. Through writing and sharing as the Psalmists did, they understand that their thoughts and feelings matter - to God, to us, to each other. It is a transformative and cathartic experience for them

  • HMP Lancaster Farms

    Joshua helps draw out their stories, helps them re write their narratives, bringing about redemptive messages and encouraging them to reach out and use the hurt, pain and disappointments of the past for the greater good. He has a mesmerising way – using his empathetic ability to attune to individuals alongside his honed intuition is incredible to see.

Why we do it.

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” Maya Angelou

We do this work because words can heal what silence cannot. In prisons, on the streets, and at the edges of society, we meet people in their humanity — not their history. Because when people find their story, they begin to find their way.

the impact.

    • Reduced Recidivism: Studies show that inmates involved in creative programs, including art and poetry workshops, are up to 30% less likely to reoffend after release​ (UAL). text goes here

    • Creative programs significantly improve mental health, with one UK study finding that 85% of participants reported enhanced well-being and emotional resilience​ (UAL).

      • Boosts Mental Health: Studies show that expressive writing reduces stress, anxiety, and depression by helping individuals process difficult emotions (Pennebaker, 2013).

      • Improves Cognitive Function: Regular writing enhances brain connectivity, improving memory and problem-solving skills (Kellogg, 2008).

      • Increases Emotional Intelligence: Writing about emotions fosters self-awareness and empathy, leading to better emotional regulation (Burton & King, 2004).

      • Enhances Creativity: Writing stimulates divergent thinking, helping you generate more creative solutions (Flaherty, 2005).

      • Strengthens Communication Skills: Frequent writing helps articulate complex ideas more clearly and persuasively (Graham & Perin, 2007).

    • Creative engagement fosters social skills, with over 70% of inmates noting better communication and empathy after participating in such programs​ (UAL).

Research highlights the profound benefits of creativity in prison settings. Studies show that participation in creative programs, such as poetry workshops, significantly improves inmates' mental health, fosters social skills, and offers them an outlet for self-reflection.

The Workshops

Exploring our reckonings, responsibility, and renewal through the practice of poetry.

Learn more