IPP Community Forum
The IPP Online Community Group has been set up in response to the recognition of the complex mix of emotional, social, and practical challenges that IPPs (Indeterminate Sentence for Public Protection) face when coming out of prison after serving prolonged
periods of incarceration.
The British Psychological Society commented "Serving an IPP sentence inflicts significant psychological harm on prisoners. The nature of this sentence creates a perpetual state of anxiety, with processes like parole hearings exacerbating long-term stress. This stress is compounded by a profound sense of hopelessness, stemming from the belief that their lives are no longer within their control. This negative impact is reflected in the disproportionately higher rates of self-harm among the IPP population".
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Unfortunately, this perpetual state of anxiety does not end when eventually, the individual is released from prison. Ongoing stress relating to recall and depression at having spent so many. additional years behind bars can take a significant toll manifesting in severe mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders and complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (cPTSD), self-destructive behaviours, including self-harm and in extreme cases, suicide.
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To learn more about the IPP sentence please click on the link for Ungripp and the Bromley Briefings Feb 2024 - The Prison Reform Trust​.​
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The Arukah online IPP Community Forum has been established in response to the recognition of the complex emotional support needs that those serving IPP sentences require. Iis a safe space for IPPs at all stages of their resettlement, from 'through the gate', early stages in their release, longer on licence and post-licence termination. It is completely confidential with no disclosure to any agencies unless risk of extreme harm to themselves or others and there is no requirement to disclose previous crimes or misdemeanours.
The aims of the online IPP Community Forum are:
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Provide tools and techniques: To help people manage emotional distress associated with extreme feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety and depression. Improved regulation of these emotions will reduce the likelihood of acting out and self-destructive behaviours.
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Stigma and Social Isolation: Removing stigma and shame begins with access to supportive and inclusive communities. The forum will help participants build confidence and develop a sense of purpose and belonging, creating a strong network and reducing isolation through networks of peer support and advocates who understand the unique struggles of people serving IPP sentences.
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Management of daily life: Share coping strategies to help people overcome the challenges associated with daily life including financial struggles, relationships and disrupted family dynamics, health concerns, general uncertainty and anxiety
