What’s it really like to go through the justice system? Experts by Experience starts by asking – and listening.
Created by Catch22Minutes, this series puts lived experience at the heart of the conversation. In each episode, we hear from people who have been through the justice system, as well as professionals working to change it from the inside.
In this episode of Experts by Experience, Nic speaks with Rik Willis, Training and Advocacy Manager at Offploy – an organisation dedicated to improving employment outcomes for people with convictions.
Rik shares his journey from a long career in the Air Force to navigating a life-changing conviction and time in custody. He reflects on the resilience he developed throughout his life and career, and how it supported him during one of his most difficult chapters.
But for Rik, the most powerful tool for coping wasn’t just resilience – it was purpose. Whether mentoring through the Shannon Trust or Shelter, supporting others via the prison advice desk, or setting up a food bank for new arrivals, Rik found strength in helping those around him.
Now, through his work at Offploy, he continues that mission – creating pathways to meaningful employment and second chances.