No Knocking at the Door
by Brian Eccleshall 27th March 2026“Life was going well; I completed a university degree in ‘Popular Music and Worship’. I was working away from home a lot, had a string of bad relationships and things rapidly became chaotic. Then in July 2023 I picked up a new conviction. In December 2024 I was released from custody and landed at Probation with no idea of what would happen and paralysed by fear that I would mess up and get recalled.
“Gary contacted me over the Christmas period and we arranged to meet early January. I had very little to lose. It was quickly apparent that Networkfour could help with all the areas where I would struggle the most: dealing with my probation officer and asking all the questions which I fear asking myself. Gary was able to communicate my intentions better than me. Seeing this in action helped me accept his support and gave me courage to advocate for myself and make better choices.
“At the bail hostel, I watched so many residents get to leaving day only to have nowhere to go, sitting waiting on phone calls or text messages, to find out where next.
“Now, I needed a job. They helped me re-write my CV. Within a month, I started a job at Birmingham Coach Station on nights. This is a massive step for an ex-offender and a huge impact on risk assessment – because it is a protective factor lifting my self-esteem.
“The highlight was, first night at my new address, I sat on the bed and realised that, For the first time in over two years, everything was quiet - no slamming doors, staff knocking every five minutes, people shouting - just peace and quiet. I would never have found this new accommodation without Networkfour.
“Being ‘in’ the Criminal Justice System is hard and navigating this alone can be very lonely. Having someone in your corner, who understands the role of probation but who is ultimately on your side can be the difference between rehabilitation and failure. Networkfour can be this someone. Sometimes we, as ex-offenders, need someone who can say things we can’t. Networkfour can be this advocate. Above all, we all need someone who sees past the label “ex-offender”. Networkfour is that organisation. They are genuinely there to support you but recognized in ‘the system’ for their influence.”
Tim, 24/2/26
Volunteers: We Need You
We depend almost entirely on the kindness and commitment of our volunteers. The Birmingham Pastors project particularly is built on volunteering by the good people from faith groups, students, retired folks or anyone (over 18 years old) with a heart for the vulnerable who can commit to at least one four-hour shift per month.
We try to be as flexible as possible to get you rapidly registered, trained up and active. Go on, hit that button!
