Second Chances Programme

– Rebuilding trust, empathy, and futures through creativity –
Age range: 16–30 • Format: Group and 1-to-1, community-based

About Second Chances

The Second Chances Programme is designed for individuals aged 16–30 who are rebuilding their lives after contact with the justice system or experiences of exclusion.

At its heart, the programme uses creative practice and animal-assisted activities to foster empathy, responsibility, and emotional growth. Participants engage in lyric writing, music production, storytelling, and structured workshops that combine creativity with guided reflection. Alongside this, opportunities to work with rescue dogs encourage the development of trust, patience, and accountability.

This unique blend of arts, mentoring, and animal care creates a safe, non-judgemental space where individuals can explore identity, strengthen emotional regulation, and envision positive pathways forward.

Who is it for?

 

Individuals aged 16–30 recently released from custody or on probation

 

Young people at risk of offending, exclusion, or gang involvement

 

Those who feel disconnected and want to re-engage with learning, creativity, and community

 

Professionals seeking an alternative rehabilitative route for their clients

 

 

Why it works

 

Creative expression as rehabilitation: Music and art offer safe outlets for difficult experiences

 

Animal-assisted empathy building: Rescue dogs help participants learn patience, consistency, and trust

 

Mentorship & community: Participants connect with facilitators and mentors who model positive change

 

Strength-based approach: Focuses on potential and future growth, not punishment

 

What happens in a session?

 

Group check-in — safe, facilitated discussion and reflection

 

Creative practice — creating rehoming videos from scratch 

 

Animal interaction — structured sessions with rescue dogs, building trust and responsibility

 

Mentorship — 1-to-1 guidance focused on goals, skills, and pathways beyond the programme

 

Building the Evidence

We are committed to tracking impact and outcomes rigorously, with the long-term aim of publishing a white paper on creative and animal-assisted rehabilitation. Our goal is to ensure that Second Chances is recognised not just as a community initiative, but as a credible, replicable model that can inform policy and commissioning for youth justice and rehabilitation.

Get involved

Participants:
Email kaisartbeatsfoundation@gmail.com with the subject line “Second Chances enquiry”

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR RESCUES INTERESTED IN TAKING PART.

Why Second Chances Helps Everyone

 

The power of Second Chances lies in its mutual benefit. Participants gain structure, purpose, and self-belief through creative outlets and the responsibility of caring for another life. Rescue dogs experience positive, consistent human interaction that builds their confidence and chances of adoption. And rescue organisations benefit from strengthened community links, volunteer support, and a visible demonstration of how animal welfare and human rehabilitation can work hand in hand. It’s not just about second chances for people, but for the dogs — and the rescues — too.