Prisoners took part in a walk at Barlinnie to mark Recovery Month in remembrance of those who have lost their lives in drug and alcohol-related deaths.
The walk, organised by recovery group Sisco and the Scottish Prison Service, saw prisoners joined by the governor, Michael Stoney, and drugs policy minister Angela Constance for the event.
Many of the men who took part are on their own recovery journey while serving their sentences in the jail.
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Recovery Month, throughout September, is held to remember those who have died and also celebrate the efforts of those on the road to recovery.
Natalie Logan MacLean, CEO of Sisco, a third sector organisation which works with men at the prison ahead of their release, said: “Co-hosting the recovery walk in partnership with HMP Barlinnie is one of Sisco’s yearly highlights.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to invite local partners into the establishment and make recovery visible and accessible to those who are ready to embark on a new recovery journey.”
Mr Stoney, governor in charge, recognised the efforts of people in recovery and those assisting them.
He said: “Each life lost to substance use has a devastating impact on families, friends and communities.
“The challenges of substance use faced in the community is mirrored in the prison environment.
“Fortunately, we are able to offer time, space and support for individuals to overcome substance use issues in collaboration with partners such as Sisco and the NHS.”
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To mark the end of Recovery Month, HMP Barlinnie will be holding a remembrance ceremony at a dedicated Remembrance Tree within the prison grounds
Representatives from the prison will be taking part in the community Recovery Walk in Paisley on Saturday.
MSP Constance recognised the work done by Sisco and the prison service on promoting recovery.
She said: “The Scottish Prison Service and Sisco work closely together to offer a safe environment to people in custody to address the complex needs and trauma caused through substance use and offer pathways to recovery.
“Through the National Mission, we aim to reduce drug deaths and improve the lives of all those impacted by drugs.
“Backed by an additional £250m we will draw on evidence from around the world and listen to the views of those with lived experience as we tackle this emergency - taking action and delivering new investment to get more people into the treatment and recovery which works for them.”
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