The Unlock Community provides a space for people with convictions to share their stories and experiences about living as a law-abiding person with convictions, give hope and inspiration for the future, and show examples of what’s possible.
Success Stories
Hear directly from people with convictions about their experiences living as a law-abiding person with criminal convictions
Struggles and Stigma
Learn about the various struggles and stigma that people with criminal records have faced, and how they have overcome them.
- “Let me put that in writing” – Why you should always confirm your criminal record in writing what you’ve said verbally
- “Second chances don’t feel like they exist if you’ve been convicted of a sexual offence”
- “You’re fired!” – Losing my job after my spent conviction came to light due to my own honesty
The latest opinions, views & reviews submitted by our Community members
View all news and updatesCommunications Officer
Help deliver engaging and effective communications that raise awareness of the issues faced by people with criminal records
Communications Officer
Help deliver engaging and effective communications that raise awareness of the issues faced by people with criminal records
Paula Harriott’s statement on the weaponisation of Louise Haigh MP’s criminal record
Criticising Louise Haigh for a past mistake that she has long ago paid for risks setting a dangerous precedent
Government’s review of the Early Release Scheme must prioritise rehabilitation
This review presents an opportunity to prioritise rehabilitation in our criminal justice system and reassure the public of safeguards
Community Network Coordinator
Help build stronger communities and put lived experience at the heart of change
3 ways that you can get involved with the Unlock Community
Our inclusive community is made by, and for, people with criminal convictions.
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View all the most popular articles by Unlock from the last month
- Improving your mental health
- Working overseas
- Information: Relationships, children and dealing with social services
- Travelling to Russia
- Information contained on UK passports
- What will be disclosed on a basic DBS check?
- Single Justice Procedure Notice (SJPN)
- The ‘Right to be Forgotten’ and the role of the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
About Criminal Records
- Extended driving tests
- The ‘Right to be Forgotten’ and the role of the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
- ‘How long do I have to disclose my criminal record for?’ – A detailed guide to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
- Drag-through explained
- Police, Crime, Sentencing and Court Bill (PCSC) – What does it mean for you?
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Everything you need to know about gaining employment, starting or running your own business, or volunteering.
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