Humanists UK has sent a copy of The Little Book of Humanism to every prison library in the UK to address the current imbalance in resources available to non-religious prisoners.
Many of those inside UK prisons will hold a humanist worldview and while services and resources are often made available for prisoners with religious beliefs, there can be a lack of corresponding available material for the non-religious. By sending prison libraries a copy of The Little Book of Humanism, it’s hoped that those wishing to learn more about humanism, or seek comfort in it during their time in prison, will be able to do so.
The Little Book of Humanism, co-written by Humanists UK President Alice Roberts and Chief Executive Andrew Copson, was published in 2020 and quickly became a Sunday Times bestseller. It is a collection of stories, quotes, and meditations on how to live an ethical and fulfilling life, grounded in reason and humanity, and has been praised for its accessibility, inspirational content, and for introducing humanism to new audiences.
Through the Non-Religious Pastoral Support Network, Humanists UK also works to ensure that all people with non-religious beliefs have access to pastoral support in prisons as well as hospitals, hospices, and universities.
Director of Understanding Humanism Luke Donnellan said:
‘We’re delighted to be sending a copy of The Little Book of Humanism to every prison in the UK. So often we hear of the lack of resources available to prisoners with non-religious beliefs. In addressing this imbalance, we’re ensuring that humanists have access to resources relevant to their beliefs, no matter their situation.’
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For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson at press@humanists.uk or phone 020 7324 3072 or 020 3675 0959.
It is estimated that 32% of prisoners hold a non-religious worldview.
Read more about our work in prisons through the Non-Religious Pastoral Support Network. Almost 20% of prisons have a non-religious pastoral carer in their team but demand is much higher.
The Little Book of Humanism can be purchased from Waterstones, Amazon, Hive, Blackwell’s, and all good bookshops, with both hardback and eBook available at £7.99 RRP. It is published by Piatkus Books, an imprint of Little, Brown. Author royalties from the book go towards supporting the work of Humanists UK.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by 100,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.