10/09/03 - Picture the change

On Monday 15 September 2003, an exciting exhibition of challenging and creative artwork by young people in the criminal justice system opens in Carlisle Library, Globe Lane, Carlisle. County Councillor Joe Nichoolson, Chairman of Cumbria County Council, Police Superintendent Brian Horn and Anthony Leeming, the High Sheriff are amongst 100 invited guests viewing the exhibition on the opening day.   

Cumbria Youth Offending Team, The Carlisle and Eden Crime and Reduction Partnership and P.A.C. a charitable organisation providing a range of services to vulnerable young people, have jointly organised the project.   

The exhibition is called `Picture the Change’ because the artwork produced by the young offenders has been created to educate and inform others about the consequences of offending and dissuade other young people from criminal activities. Some of the work illustrates how young people have changed their views about the crimes they have committed after having time to discuss and reflect on their actions. Yvonne Lake, County Youth Offending Team Manager says,   

“This is an intriguing exhibition of work from young people in the criminal justice system and highlights what can be done with young offenders when they change their views on offending. The work encourages others to turn away from crime and shows how education and interaction with young offenders can change their outlook and actions. Not only is this about the young people changing their views on offending but it is also about changing the way young offenders are often perceived. When young people are able to take responsibility for the crimes they commit and turn away from crime, they can make a very positive contribution to local communities. “ 

The exhibition is open to the public and runs from 15th to 19th September.