Welcome to Switchback

We support young men to find a way out of the justice system and build a stable, rewarding life they can be proud of.

Real, lasting change

Switchback Trainees are five times less likely to return to custody. 
Through consistent, motivational relationships with a Switchback Mentor on both sides of the prison gate, we support young Londoners to change their relationship with society.
We share what we’ve learned to inspire change across the justice system and beyond.
About Us

Winner

Longford Prize 2019

Shortlisted

Charity of the Year, Charity Times Awards 2019

Shortlisted

Criminal Justice Alliance Outstanding Organisation 2017

Winner

Robin Corbett Award for Prisoner Re-Integration 2016

60%

of Switchback Trainees reach our benchmark of Real, Lasting Change: a fundamental shift in mindset and lifestyle

56%

of Switchback Trainees move into long-term work, education or training – compared to only 10% of prison-leavers nationally six weeks after release.

91%

of Switchback Trainees do not reoffend within a year of release. Compared to around half of prison-leavers nationally, only 9% of Switchback Trainees reoffend.

Latest News

Mental Health Report 2024 – A note on publishing from Antonia, Head of Influencing

| Flip the Script, News | No Comments
When I first joined Switchback I steadied myself to be met with the same hurdles to influencing momentum as voluntary sector jobs past; lots of well earned opinions and valued…

Switchback launch Mental Health and Prison Release Report in partnership with our Experts by Experience

| Flip the Script, News, Publications, Reshape Release | No Comments
Switchback has today published a new report investigating the mental health of people leaving prison. You can read the Mental Health and Prison Release Report PDF document here. We were…
The Switchback Charity Staff Team

Meet Burphy Zumu – Switchback Trustee | Switchback are recruiting Trustees – Join us?

| News | No Comments
Switchback’s model works. We’ve supported over 500 young men to complete our programme but know 1000s more need this intensive support. In the past three years, Switchback has not only…

Switchback’s 2022 Annual Report

| Publications, Uncategorized | No Comments
We’re delighted to share our 2022 Annual Report. With thanks to Switchback’s Founder, Alice Dawnay, for her considered input, Chair, Duncan Shrubsole, and CEO, Sian Williams.   A message from…
See all

Subscribe to our newsletter

Name(Required)

Switchback shows that if you really want to change lives, this is exactly the approach that makes sense. The lesson from Switchback is that providing that trust, that human relationship is central for change"

Rory Stewart OBE, Former Minister for Prisons
 
 

We build transformative relationships

Our model is centred on a meaningful relationship between Switchback Mentor and Trainee, lasting as long as it takes.

Seeing my Switchback Mentor in prison meant I already knew her once I got out. She understands me and understands the journey I’m taking. If I was doing it by myself I reckon things would have gone off track by now."

Daniel, Switchback Trainee
 
 

Our Impact

Switchback supports over 300 young Londoners every year on their journey out of the justice system.

Training in the cafe after prison meant I kept busy, so I didn’t fall back into something else. I got really into making coffee and I love working now. I never thought I would be able to say that but I just love it!”

James, Barista and former Switchback Trainee
 
 

Get Involved

There are lots of ways to get involved with Switchback. Find out about making a donation or becoming a partner or supporter.

Our Supporters

See All