Jail Birds

Anyone who has rehomed hens will attest to the natural therapy they bring. They instil a sense of responsibility, caring and companionship that comes with any pet ownership. And yet, for inmates at HMP Guys Marsh in Dorset, ex-commercial hens are offering much more than that.

Having recently rehomed a flock of hens from the BHWT, prisoners have been caring for them under the guidance of prison staff, helping feed them, maintain their run and also learning the fundamentals of hen husbandry through a course developed by the charity.

The hens and the accompanying course are part of the prison’s wider rehabilitation work, and the BHWT is exploring pathways with the British egg industry to turn this course into a pipeline for low-skill employment opportunities for prison leavers.

And so the cycle of humans helping hens helping humans comes full circle. Through the process of readjusting to their new retirements, these hardworking hens in turn support the rehabilitation of the prisoners caring for them.

For some, the impact has been striking.

One former inmate had spent long periods in segregation due to violent behaviour. Then he was given responsibility for caring for a limping hen.

His behaviour improved significantly and sustainably following his involvement with the scheme, and he was eventually allowed to return to the main prison wings, where he later took responsibility for looking after the entire flock before he was transferred to another prison.

Of course, as with any pet, there is a level of preparation to be done. As the BHWT looks to expand on its hens as therapy project within more UK prisons, it is delighted to have support from Omlet, who are providing coops and equipment for rehomed hens in prisons.

The charity has a longstanding partnership with the company which recognises the benefits that hen keeping can bring and was keen to support and promote this prison project.

Robyn Kassam of Omlet said: “We’re delighted to support a project that provides a safe home for these hens while helping people develop confidence and practical skills.”

The BHWT is inviting applications from more UK prisons to come on board and experience the mutual benefit that rehoming can bring for hens and humans alike. To get involved, please email [email protected]