Multi-award winning rehabilitation programme InHouse Records is a music label that operates across a number of prisons to give inmates an opportunity to express their creativity and help reduce reoffending rates.

As a result of lockdown, which meant that the majority of prisoners have remained in their cells for almost 24 hours per day, InHouse Records interaction with inmates was severely limited, so the music label pivoted to magazine publishing to maintain regular contact with inmates.

The project, which was founded by designed Judah Armani, turned to Spitalfields-based Kall Kwik City, and its owner George Rumball to produce the resulting weekly Aux magazine.

“This is a brilliant initiative and one I wasn’t aware of until a member of Judah’s team approached me. We were only too pleased to help and it has given our business a much needed boost during lockdown,” said Rumball.

“Whilst the centre has been closed to personal callers we have been able to keep trading behind closed doors and delivering work to customers following strict social distancing guidelines.”

As well as practical tips on music and a CD with lessons and examples, Aux magazine features articles written by prisoners themselves and contributions from musicians, including Jamie Cullum.

Every week, 2,500 copies of the 16pp magazine are sent to seven prisons across the South East.
Emily Thomas, governor of HMP Isis, a young offender facility in Greenwich, said: “Young men here have been having to spend lots more time in their cells over the last few weeks and the weekly magazines have been really popular, people are always waiting for the next one.

“We're really grateful for the support because it means that our young men know people are thinking of them at this time and are still hoping they can help them to rehabilitate through what is a difficult time.”