A remarkable exhibition sharing real stories from people whose lives have been shaped by Scotland’s justice system is opening at Mareel in Shetland on Tuesday 26 August.
Second Chancers brings together the voices of people who have lived through crime, punishment, recovery and rehabilitation, offering a deeply human insight into how lives can change and how justice can work in the community.
The exhibition features eight striking portrait stories, each told in the subject’s own words through recorded audio, with additional video content available online.
These are stories of personal challenge and public transformation.
Some come from those who have committed crimes and served community sentences.
Others are told by victims, or by those who work on the front lines of Scotland’s justice system.
All speak to something bigger, the possibility of change, and the value of compassion, support and accountability.
The exhibition arrives in Shetland through a partnership between Shetland Islands Council, Shetland Arts, and Community Justice Scotland.
It has already travelled across Scotland, stopping in cities and communities including Aberdeen, Glasgow, Dundee, Stirling and Edinburgh.
The aim is to show what community justice looks like in practice and to raise public confidence in sentences served outside prison walls.
Community-based sentences are designed to help people confront the root causes of their actions, such as addiction, poor mental health or insecure housing, while remaining in their community and taking responsibility for change.
Evidence shows that these sentences often work better than short-term prison terms when it comes to reducing reoffending and protecting communities.
Susan Laidlaw, Chair of the Shetland Community Justice Partnership, said the exhibition offers something rare and valuable.
“This exhibition gives a rare chance to hear directly from people whose lives have been changed by community justice, and from those who work alongside them,” she said.
“It’s honest, sometimes challenging, but above all it shows that change is possible.
“I’d encourage everyone to come along, listen to the stories and see the difference this approach can make for individuals and the whole community.”
Natasha Pile of Community Justice Scotland echoed that invitation.
“We’re grateful to Shetland Community Justice Partnership and Shetland Arts for hosting the Second Chancersexhibition,” she said.
“These stories give visitors a chance to see how community sentences can positively impact people’s lives and strengthen communities across Scotland.
“The evidence shows that community-based sentences can help prevent people from breaking the law again which leads to fewer victims and safer communities.”
The exhibition is open during Mareel’s regular public hours, and entry is free.
It is a chance to reflect, to listen and perhaps to think differently about what justice really means.
