Congratulations to Yvonne, who has been highly commended in the BBC Make a Difference Awards for her voluntary service supporting people in prison to practise yoga and meditation for 22 years.
Celebrating Hope and Human Connection
Yvonne’s recognition is one of three major awards for The Prison Phoenix Trust in 2025. In October, Simon was recognised with a Prison Reform Trust Hope and Fulfilment Award for his dedication teaching yoga and meditation to his peers while serving a prison sentence. In May, yoga teacher Emma won the British Wheel of Yoga Heart of Yoga Award for her work teaching young offenders.
Together, Emma, Simon and Yvonne’s achievements highlight the power of human connection, compassion, and personal growth in the rehabilitation journey.
A Lifelong Commitment to Mindfulness and Mentoring
Yvonne, a former Quaker chaplain at HMP Grendon, has been writing letters to people in prison for over two decades.
This mentoring by correspondence is one of the core services offered by The Prison Phoenix Trust, alongside yoga classes, meditation guidance, and access to specialist resources such as books, DVDs, and newsletters.
Hear Yvonne talking about her role as a volunteer.
See BBC Report on Make a Difference Award.
From Personal Healing to Helping Others
Originally from the North Midlands and now living in Oxfordshire, Yvonne first connected with The Prison Phoenix Trust when she ordered books on yoga and meditation. What began as personal interest soon became a lifeline during a time of crisis.
“I experienced an extremely painful life event, and I turned to the books,” Yvonne recalls.
“They got me through what was really quite a crisis. Meditation helped me stay sane and reconnect with spirituality. It became a solid part of my daily routine.”
Over time, Yvonne’s practice has simplified.
“I’m no longer searching for new techniques — a simple practice with the breath is enough.”
The Art of Listening and Reflecting Through Letters
Over 22 years, Yvonne has written to more than 15 people in prison, often maintaining contact even after their release. She treats every letter as a spiritual practice, creating space for reflection and compassion.
“I sit for a moment in prayer or meditation before I read a letter,” she explains.
“There might be all sorts in there — from the profound to the everyday. I try to find the most important thing this person wants me to hear, then reflect it back to encourage their spiritual life to unfold.”
Yvonne believes the rewards are mutual:
“The gratitude I hear is incredible — gratitude for the small things, like hearing traffic, feeling rain, or choosing your own food. These reminders deepen my own appreciation for life.”
She also treasures the slower pace and intimacy of letter-writing:
“In a fast world, writing and receiving thoughtful letters feels sacred. It’s a privilege to connect with people this way.”
The Role of Volunteer Mentors
Yvonne is one of 12 volunteer mentors at The Prison Phoenix Trust. Each mentor writes letters to people in prison, offering encouragement in yoga and meditation.
Mentors are not pen-friends — their purpose is to help others reflect and grow through mindfulness, silence, and self-understanding.
“The key,” says Yvonne, “is openness and welcoming everyone as they are. My role is to create a space of quiet contemplation and compassion, so they can turn within.”
In addition to mentors, volunteers also support the charity’s office work, newsletters, and outreach events. Currently, 11 people also serve as trustees.
About The Prison Phoenix Trust
The Prison Phoenix Trust encourages people in prison to use yoga and meditation as tools for wellbeing, self-discipline, and inner peace. Through letters, classes, and resources, the charity helps people cultivate calmness, compassion, and a renewed sense of self.
👉 Learn more or get involved: www.theppt.org.uk