VPSG - Work Progress
Ongoing Projects
VPSG are currently working to ensure that a suitable bar soap is added to the list of hygiene products, and continuing to work on our concern that vegans are not sufficiently catered for by the majority of prison shops.
Christmas and Easter Pack Trial
During Christmas 2003, VPSG was able to run a last minute Vegan Christmas Pack trial at two participating prisons. These packs included healthy options like nuts and dried fruit, plus a few treats like chocolate and mince pies.
The packs were well received, and we are now planning to offer Easter Packs to a number of prisons.
Burger Mix Trial
In June 2003, VPSG initiated a burger mix trial, where Veggie's burger mix was sent to a number of prisons in order that they could try it out. There was a good response, so a second batch was sent out in October 2003. This time the trial was extended to Veggie's sos mix as well.
Over 30 prisons have now participated in the trial and results received so far have been favourable. Prisons are now able to purchase Veggie's burger and sos mix direct.
Prison News Sheets
In May 2003 VPSG sent out our first news sheet for prisons, to keep them up to speed on vegan issues. It contained answers to commonly answered questions about veganism, updates on our campaigns and other info.
This news sheet received a good response from prisons, and is now a regular occurrence, being sent out three to four times a year. Later editions have also included new vegan products; and all importantly, testimonials from ex vegan prisoners on how they 'were' or 'not' [as the case may be] catered for at the different establishments they were held at.
Police Constabulary Project
In February 2003 VPSG wrote to all police constabularies asking about their provisions for vegans. Responses can be viewed on vpsg.info/PoliceCustInfo.html
Catering Information Pack
At the start of 2003 a Catering Information Pack was despatched to all prisons. It contained extensive information on catering for vegans as well as a vegan recipe book to provide ideas and inspiration. This means that prisons now have plenty of information to refer to when vegan prisoners arrive at their establishments.
Further Information
For more information on our progress please see vpsg.info/Progress.html