Meet James Atkinson

PLAS (Prison Liaison Advisory Service) was founded by James Atkinson to bring clarity, compassion, and practical guidance to those facing imprisonment for the first time, and to the professionals supporting them.

During an 18-month sentence served across Category B, C, and D facilities, James recognised a critical gap in how individuals and families are prepared for the realities of prison life, from understanding daily routines and jargon to managing mental health. This experience inspired the creation of PLAS: a consultancy dedicated to bridging that knowledge gap with empathy, integrity, and lived understanding.

James holds qualifications in Mental Health First Aid and Advocacy and is completing a Certificate of Competency in Prison Law (expected January 2026) He is now completing a course in counselling (expected February 2026). He also holds an Enhanced DBS check and NCFE CACHE accreditation.

This combination of lived experience and ongoing professional training forms the unique, empathetic foundation of PLAS. James Atkinson is personally dedicated to offering informed, respectful support for both offender and families navigating incarceration and organisations involved in the UK justice system.

About PLAS

Prison Liaison Advisory Service (PLAS)
Clear guidance. Real support. A fairer journey through the justice system.

Who We Are

PLAS is a Community Interest Company providing clear, accessible, and compassionate guidance for people navigating the justice system. We support individuals facing sentencing, prison, or release, as well as their families and legal representatives.

What We Do

We help people understand the justice process through:

• Pre-sentencing advice

• In-prison and virtual guidance

• Support for families

• Reliable explanations of categories, regimes, and procedures

• Accessible information for those who feel overwhelmed or unsure where to turn

Our mission is simple: no one should face the justice system alone or uninformed.