At the outset , both dance and drama were due to be delivered to young people in Polmont HMYOI . However , with a per-existing presence drama was easier to continue during the pandemic , although not in the way intended .
In February 2019 , GLASS launched Polmont Youth Theatre ( PYT ) in HMYOI Polmont , the first ever Youth Theatre in a Scottish prison . It is delivered through ongoing partnership with Barnardo ’ s and the Scottish Prison Service . GLASS deliver weekly sessions in the performing arts space at HMYOI Polmont . As a performing arts company the work focuses on using drama as a creative engagement experience that builds confidence , develops physical and personal skills contributing to improving the mental health and wellbeing of participants . This case study describes how the project was adapted to respond to the Covid-19 lockdown regulations . It highlights ways that creative interventions can adapt as well as an example of how positive partnerships ( in this case between Glass and Barnardo ’ s ) leads to a stronger impact .
The CashBack funding was allocated to Polmont Youth Theatre Awards Programme , but due to the restrictions imposed by Covid face-to-face work stopped . Delivery was realigned to adapt to the new circumstances . Prior to involvement in the CashBack funded programme a group became established through a summer drama programme . Using the ‘ Email a Prisoner ’ network , Glass began a letter writing initiative , whereby young prisoners were invited to respond to questions and set tasks . There were 10 young people who responded every week and became really involved in the process . This group formed into what is now known as the JukeBox programmeThrough letter writing the core group shaped the content for a radio show that is broadcast across the prison every two weeks .
Barnardo ’ s Youth Workers support work alongside Glass and as part of Barndardo ’ s work , the young people started a Dynamic Youth Award ( DYA ) which gave a useful framework to the programme .
To support the achievement and meet the required criteria of the DYA it was agreed that the young people would create 3 Christmas Special radio shows . With the youth worker ’ s support the first few months were spent developing the content for the shows . Thereafter , for two days a week over 3 weeks young people recorded themselves presenting their segments of the radio broadcasts .
The content included themed music sets , themed playlists , dedications to family members . Some of it reflected a positive sense of Christmas . They also came up with quizzes , a segment on mental health ,
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