Lesley who has been the coordinator for Storybook Dads in her role at HMP Bullingdon since 2019, and to date has recorded over 160 stories. 

We asked Lesley what she finds most rewarding about recording stories?

Coordinating Storybook Dads is the most rewarding part of my role in the Library. I've witnessed both tears and laughter from the readers, they're deeply grateful for the chance to maintain a meaningful bond with their children. When I call the mothers to confirm they're happy for the DVD to be sent out, they're almost always appreciative and touched by the gesture. It's rare for a prisoner, even if on remand, not to ask to record another story once they've heard how much their family enjoyed the first one. The feedback they receive is often emotional and affirming, and it reinforces the value of the connection they're building. 

What different ways do you encourage or promote Storybook Dads within your role at HMP Bullingdon? 

We promote Storybook Dads in several ways. Posters and leaflets provided by the organisation are displayed in the library and across all wings. It's also advertised on Launchpad, where prisoners can request an application form. We encourage those who've already recorded stories to spread the work among their peers.

Many men who've participated in the scheme at other prisons ask if its available at HMP Bullingdon, which helps keep the momentum going. Additionally, the prison runs the Raising Readers Scheme, allowing prisoners to send a book to their child while keeping a copy to read over the phone, another great opportunity to promote Storybook Dads.

We know reading a story can be daunting for some people so how do you put someone at ease who is nervous about doing a story?

It's very common for prisoners to feel nervous, especially if it's their first time. They worry about how their children will perceive them. some haven't told their children they're in prison, saying instead they're working away or on holiday. Others are anxious about their reading skills.

To help ease their nerves, we've created a welcoming Storybook Dads corner in the library, complete with a colourful backdrop, beanbags, a small table, and props like cuddly toys, tractors, and gift wrapped boxes. Often the monkey sits on their shoulder or lap, and the props help create a playful, child-friendly atmosphere. During a recent Ofsted inspection, the inspector commented that it was the nicest Storybook Dads setup he'd seen!

I reassure readers that it's okay to hesitate or stumble as the editing suite will smooth everything out. I explain that I'll stay in the room but hide around that corner so I don't distract them. And just before we start, I ask, 'Have you brushed your hair and washed your face?' which always gets a laugh and helps break the ice.

Beyond reading the story, the men really value the chance to record a personal message at the beginning and end. I do remind them, though, that it's not the time to tell their family where they buried the gold bullion!

What is your favourite story?

My favourite Storybook dads book is The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith. I love how animated the readers get when saying 'Hee Haw!' each time the donkey appears. As the story progresses, the tongue-twisters become more challenging, which adds to the fun.

It's a book that appeals to both very young children and adults, and illustrations are wonderfully humorous, they really bring the story to life.