Jailbreak 2025

Shepton Mallet prison housed a group of 15 daring ‘convicts’, including TV personality Richard McCourt of Dick and Dom fame and renowned journalist Clinton Rogers. But this was all to raise money to support those living with dementia.

Richard is an Ambassador for the Somerset charity Reminiscence Learning, who organised the jailbreak. He volunteered for the charity challenge as soon as he heard about it, as someone who has experienced the impact of Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) first hand after losing his mother.

Another Ambassador for the charity, former BBC Television Correspondent Clinton Rogers – who is now a Deputy Lieutenant in Somerset – was also locked up!

All 15 ‘convicts’ participated in the high-spirited Jailbreak event at the historic prison, raising just over £13,000 for Reminiscence Learning.

The immersive experience saw participants locked up, undertaking a series of mental and physical challenges culminating in a prison-themed escape room. To earn their release, their final task was to raise "bail money" through sponsorship from friends, family, and supporters.

The event blended fun, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose to raise dementia awareness during Dementia Action Week.

Reminiscence Learning CEO Fiona Mahoney said, "I want to thank the energy and enthusiasm of our participants, many of whom travelled from across the UK to participate. The generosity of their networks means we have smashed our target and raised vital funds. Every pound raised goes directly toward helping us deliver life-changing programmes for people with dementia. Even Archie took part! The 'Archie Project' is our intergenerational project linking schools and care homes to educate children about dementia."

Lorraine Thomas a property developer from London was among the 'convicts' who took part, raising over £5000 for the charity. She shared “I travelled from London to take part in memory of my father who had dementia. Having been his carer for many years I know that services like Reminiscence Learning are essential.”

Shepton Mallet Prison, the world's oldest prison, was once home to some of the UK's most infamous inmates, including the notorious Kray Twins, and provided a fitting backdrop for the day's antics, lending historical atmosphere and authenticity to the Jailbreak experience.

If you want to take part in 2026 - get in touch. We are holding both an a day and over night option on 16th May 2026!