Australia's First Social Enterprise Dog Salon Gives Ex-Prisoners
a Second Chance
In a heartwarming story of redemption, a new dog-styling salon in Maling Road, Canterbury, is not just a place to pamper pets – it's a second chance for ex-prisoners to turn their lives around. The salon, New Leash, employs women with lived experience of the justice system.
Prison Network's CEO, Amelia Pickering, says the dog salon is the perfect business model to help formerly incarcerated women readjust to society while learning skills like customer service and dog washing. '[Dogs don't judge]' she says, explaining that working with dogs that love and validate their owners helps break the stigma and shame that often follows ex-prisoners.
New Leash is the first social enterprise in Prison Network's 79-year history. The charity supports women both during incarceration and after their release. With over 130 volunteers, Prison Network's activities range from running fitness and craft classes to driving children to visit their mothers in prison.
In a unique arrangement, philanthropist Cynthia Carter has given Prison Network rent-free use of the former fruit shop she owns in Maling Road. Pickering credits Carter with helping the idea of a dog salon take shape. '[She] said, 'I think I can help you.' It was then that Carter offered to give away the shop for free.
The feedback from canine clients has been overwhelmingly positive. In the eight weeks since New Leash opened, they've had an impressive 240 clients, mostly cavoodles. Their employees come from all walks of life, including Louise, a part-time staff member who is also studying to be an alcohol and other drugs counsellor. She credits her role at New Leash with helping her make friends and build confidence.
Prison Network is set to undergo a name change from July 1, with women in custody at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre in Deer Park suggesting the new name – Hope Network. The change aims to replace the stigma associated with the word 'prison' and represent the charity's mission of offering hope.
New Leash's employees work part-time, studying or seeking other opportunities to better their lives. The dog salon serves as a platform for them to build confidence, learn new skills, and eventually transition into more stable and fulfilling careers.
Philanthropist Cynthia Carter, secretary of the Maling Road Business Association, says the local traders were thrilled to welcome New Leash to the shopping strip. They view the salon as a 'local charity', embracing its mission to support women with lived experience of the justice system.
New Leash's success is a testament to the positive impact that organisations like Prison Network can have on individuals and communities. By providing a chance for redemption and rehabilitation, these social enterprises are changing lives and fostering hope for a better future.