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Making It Out
Sophie O'Sullivan, about 4 years ago
Based in Portslade, Making it Out supports prison leavers and people at risk of offending into art, design and manufacturing opportunities- anything from carpentry to metalwork and computer-aided design!
Making it Out work within the prison system and with those who have recently been released to offer training and skills development, work experience, employment opportunities and support in moving forward towards long term employment.
Since 2018, they have been offering voluntary work placements and occasional paid work. Typically, placements last 2-3 days a week for 3-6 months. Candidates are directly involved in the making and selling of creative goods.
Making it Out is an accredited SFEDI awards centre. Participants have the opportunity to gain qualifications based around enterprise and employment.
The charity typically supports up to 30 people at a time. The team includes a brilliant resident artist.
The workshop is a creative hub that provides structure and offers the space to work towards the final outcome of an artistic project, boosting confidence and paving the way toward positive life changes.
This environment is so positive, welcoming, kind and supportive.
-Making It Out Participant
One of their first artwork commissions included 'The Big Gay Gull' sculpture, made for Brighton Pride celebrations in 2018.
Another project involved working on a shop fitting in collaboration with Emmaus, transforming an old chapel into an innovative retail space with bespoke cabinets, mobile hanging units, tables and a unique floating ceiling.
Making it Out also make quality products and installations for local businesses. They take a wide range of commissions from set design to garden furniture. Check out the stools and chairs they made for Really Happy Chickn!
This is the first thing that has helped me since leaving prison.
-Making It Out Participant
This year, Making It Out were pleased to support lots of entries into the upcoming Koestler Arts Awards. They have recently secured a new workshop space in a barn and are looking forward to the extra space to host their creative projects!
Making It Out are doing outstanding work in the community, helping people with criminal justice experience realise their potential through art-focused work and providing a great stepping stone into employment.