1. Home
  2. Projects
  3. Brothers Behind Bars: HMP Low Moss explores the experiences of the Great War's conscientious objectors

Brothers Behind Bars: HMP Low Moss explores the experiences of the Great War's conscientious objectors

Brothers Behind Bars: HMP Low Moss explores the experiences of the Great War's conscientious objectors

Charcoal drawing by Brothers Behind Bars participant, John G
Charcoal drawing by Brothers Behind Bars participant, John G

First World War: Then and Now

Bishopbriggs North and Campsie
East Dunbartonshire
New College Lanarkshire
£10000
"This project has taught me so much about the First World War, the events that led up to it and how it still has significance today."
David H, HMP Low Moss
A group of prisoners attending the Learning Centre at HMP Low Moss explored stories of the First World War, and of those incarcerated as conscientious objectors, by using music, art, drama and creative writing.

The prisoners discussed life at the front, the impact of the war on the creative arts and the crucial role of women in the war.

Staff at New College Lanarkshire and Glasgow Museum provided resources, including a learning pack, to develop their knowledge of the war.

The students used the information they discovered to create a booklet, which featured poetry, diary entries, lyrics and letters written by the students. Local libraries and prisons now use this resource.

The activities inspired the students to create of a set of drawings. These have been developed into ‘Charcoal War’, a film that has been used at the Remembrance Day service, HMP Low Moss and as part of a local drama performance.

The students also teamed up with the Citizens Theatre to develop a play. The team found that changing from their prison uniforms to a variety of historic costumes was a liberating experience.