Princess Anne Highlights Prison Farm's Role in Rehabilitation
On July 21, Princess Anne paid a visit to HMP Prescoed's Cilwrgi Farm in Monmouthshire to witness its role in rehabilitating prisoners. The farm, which operates as a working dairy facility, offers inmates the chance to develop practical skills and gain qualifications that can aid their reintegration into society.
During her visit, Princess Anne met with staff and prisoners who are involved in the farm's daily operations. She was particularly interested in the farm's two robotic milking machines, which are operated, serviced, and maintained by the prisoners themselves.
Cilwrgi Farm is not only a fully operational dairy farm but also a registered training provider. It offers courses that are nationally recognized, covering areas such as tractor driving, field mowing, livestock handling, and the operation of agricultural machinery.
The deputy governor of HMP Usk, Prescoed, and the Cilwrgi farm training center, Dai Jones, along with farm manager Richard Gough and livestock control officer Hannah Priest, welcomed the Princess. The visit was also attended by Karl Gilmore, the deputy lord lieutenant, and Kay Peacock, the mayor of Usk town.
Governor Rob Denman expressed his delight at the royal visit, highlighting the importance of the farm in providing prisoners with valuable opportunities. "The farm provides prisoners with valuable opportunities to gain recognized qualifications, develop practical skills and build the confidence needed to lead successful, crime-free lives on release," he stated.
Research conducted at the farm suggests that working with animals helps prisoners develop empathy, responsibility, and positive relationships, which are considered factors in reducing reoffending rates. The farm's efforts are part of a broader initiative at HMP Prescoed, an open prison for adult men, which has been operating in various capacities since its opening in 1939.
Mr. Gilmore attended the visit as the chair of the Employment Advisory Board for HMP Usk and Prescoed. The board collaborates with business leaders and prison staff to enhance employment outcomes for prisoners and those who have recently been released.
