JAILHOUSE CAFE OPENS TO THE PUBLIC
A cafe run by serving prisoners and plus it has one of the best views of the Jurassic Coast in Dorset is now open to the public.
Called the Jailhouse Cafe it is located high on the cliffs at Portland and as a consequence it has one of the most outstanding views of the famous Dorset coast from its large garden.
The outside terrace area at the Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset
Located within a few hundred metres of yet another prison it is part staffed by inmates from HMP Portland (YOI) which is in fact about a mile away and will help the prisoners volunteering there with their rehabilitation prior to full release back into the community.
One of many gifts for sale at the Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset.
A paid chef, with other staff and prisoners, under licence, make up the team. A local charity has helped to get the cafe up and running to provide important training opportunities for the inmates and also provide an unusual tourist facility on the Island of Portland.
Full time chef Paula Marfell, Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset.
However its views and indeed the switchback drive to it will provide any visitor with an experience they will not forget.
INMATE TO COFFEE MATE AT JAILHOUSE CAFE
Although surrounded by a few former dilapidated prison buildings the views from the cliff top garden vantage point make it so worthwhile.
Jail House Cafe, Portland has stunning views over the harbour and the Dorset Jurassic Coast. (Cruise ship the Sea Princess in port)
With a wide sweep of the Jurassic Coast the garden offers to the left a vista of Chesil Beach, straight ahead back to Weymouth Bay and to the right over to Lulworth Cove and Anvil Point near Swanage.
Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset
The cafe’s contribution in helping offenders get back into society is priceless according to Martyn Underhill, The Crime Commissioner for Dorset who said about Daren a former inmate whom is there now working, “ I have to admire him for what he has achieved and he is perfect example of what this cafe can do for those that want to get back into society after a spell in prison, he takes my breath away.”
Crime Commissioner for Dorset Martyn Underhill at the Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset.
His statement was backed up by the HMP Portland Prison Governor, Steve Hodson, who said, “Daren is a fantastic example of how successful this scheme can be.”
Former prisoner Daren now a Barista at the Jailhouse Cafe, Portland, Dorset.
The organisation that has worked getting the premises ready is Expia Ltd and is a charitable company limited by guarantee which aims to reduce re-offending by:
Providing employment and supporting the education and training of risk assessed prisoners at the jailhouse cafes and gardens.
Seeking links to next steps to external employment.
Helping prisoners to make reparation for their crimes by volunteering and helping in the local community.
Food treats on sale to take away at the Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset
The cafe did close last year as the nearby prison changed its types of prisoners which generally would not have been able work closely with the public but now HMP Portland stepped into to give its inmates which are more suitable.
An opening buffet for guests at the Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset
Cakes, coffees, teas, snacks, daily homemade soups, jacket potatoes, baguettes, panini plus desserts and puddings to keep you fortified on your visit.
Souvenir bag at the Jailhouse Cafe Portland, Dorset
After dining at the cafe why not pick up a few reminders of your visit where souvenir bags and food items can be purchased other items made by prisoners will also be on sale like bird boxes and insect houses.
