Livery Lenten Prison Walks Raise Over £80,000 for Sheriffs’ & Recorder’s Fund
The sixth and final event in the Livery Lenten Sponsored Prison Walk series concluded this week, marking the end of a powerful initiative led by Robert Hughes-Penney in support of the Sheriffs’ & Recorder’s Fund.
The final walk began with a visit to HMP Downview, where participants spent the morning engaging with those who live and work within the prison. The visit offered insight into a number of rehabilitation initiatives making a tangible difference. These included Fine Cell Work, the “Making for Change” programme delivered by London College of Fashion, and a training programme supported by Max Spielmann. Each initiative reflects a growing emphasis on skills, dignity, and pathways to employment for those preparing to leave custody.
Following the visit, a group of Livery representatives, civic leaders, and individuals with lived experience undertook a sponsored walk from the prison through south west London, finishing at the Old Bailey. The group included Masters, Prime Wardens, Upper Bailiffs, and members past and present from a wide range of Livery Companies, alongside the Recorder of London and supporters of the initiative.
Across the six walks held during Lent, participants were set an ambitious fundraising target: each walker was encouraged to secure 100 donations of £10, aiming for £10,000 per walk and £60,000 overall. That target has been significantly surpassed. Each individual walk exceeded its goal, and the total raised now stands at over £80,000, more than 30 per cent above the original ambition, with donations continuing to come in.
Reflecting on the series, Hughes-Penney described the experience as both powerful and encouraging, highlighting the opportunity for participants to better understand the realities of the prison system and the importance of rehabilitation. He also paid tribute to the leadership of Elspeth Hughes-Penney, who organised the initiative and played a central role throughout.
Funds raised through the walks will support the Sheriffs’ & Recorder’s Fund in its work to assist individuals within the criminal justice system, particularly those seeking to rebuild their lives after custody.
The initiative has been underpinned by a simple but enduring principle, drawn from the Easter message: the importance of visiting and supporting those in prison. Through both engagement and fundraising, the Livery community and its partners have demonstrated what collective effort can achieve when focused on justice, rehabilitation, and second chances.
