Inmates at La Moye Prison in Jersey have combined skill training with conservation efforts by making hedgehog feeding and nesting boxes from reclaimed wood. This project is part of the prison's broader vocational program aimed at reducing reoffending and fostering positive connections outside the prison walls.
- Inmates built hedgehog boxes from reclaimed wood
- Project supports wildlife conservation and skill-building
- Boxes have sold out due to strong local demand
What happened
La Moye Prison in Jersey introduced a carpentry program where inmates learn woodworking through projects that benefit the local community. Recently, participants crafted 20 hedgehog feeding and nesting boxes using reclaimed pallet timber. These boxes aim to provide safe shelter for hedgehogs, a species at risk from common garden hazards and road traffic in the UK.
This initiative is part of the prison’s commitment to making constructive use of prisoners’ time. It complements various activities offered at the facility, including educational courses, vocational training, physical education, and group therapy. By integrating this work with vocational qualifications, the prison provides inmates with skills that could lead to careers in construction and better opportunities post-release.
Why it feels good
The carpentry program not only teaches valuable technical skills but also fosters a sense of purpose and community connection among inmates. Vocational manager Peter Gould highlights how projects like these contribute to prisoners’ self-esteem and help reduce reoffending by offering meaningful engagement.
The hedgehog boxes themselves play a significant role in local conservation efforts. Hedgehogs face numerous threats in urban areas, from lawnmowers to poisonous garden products. By creating safe nesting spaces, inmates contribute directly to preserving wildlife, which brings a positive impact beyond prison walls and inspires pride in their work.
What to enjoy or watch next
The hedgehog boxes made by the inmates have already sold out, reflecting strong community support for both local wildlife preservation and the prison’s rehabilitation efforts. The Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group continues to sell these boxes to residents interested in helping hedgehogs thrive safely in their gardens.
For those interested in similar community initiatives, neighbors in the UK have also been crafting 'hedgehog highways' by cutting small holes in backyard fences to allow hedgehogs to move safely between gardens. These kinds of grassroots projects highlight how small actions, often supported by educational programs, can contribute to broader environmental and social benefits.