See Beyond the Label
We see beyond the label. Can you?
At Apex Scotland, we know that people are more than their convictions. Stigma has real-life consequences, but we believe everyone deserves the chance to move forward and reach their potential.
Watch the video to hear Martin and Hayley describe their life journeys.
About the campaign
The See Beyond the Label campaign challenges the stigma that prevents individuals from moving forward after adversity.
Building on the principles of our Beyond Trauma approach, we are fighting back against the societal labels that trap people in their past. Many individuals who come into contact with the justice system have experienced trauma, poverty, and significant life challenges, yet they are often defined solely by a conviction.
By encouraging society to see the whole person behind the label, this campaign aims to dismantle barriers to opportunity, connection, and inclusion. Together, we can help prevent and mitigate the long-term harms associated with poverty and trauma.
Why we must change our perspective
1. A conviction does not define a person
Every individual is more than a single event, decision, or chapter in their life. People possess unique skills, strengths, ambitions, and an incredible capacity to grow and change. We must choose to see the whole person, not just a past mistake.
2. Stigma has real-life consequences
Being defined by a conviction creates a cycle of exclusion. When society denies people basic opportunities like housing and employment, it makes it incredibly difficult to build a stable, positive future.
3. Understanding experience matters
A vast majority of people in the justice system have faced trauma, poverty, disadvantage, or adversity. Recognising these experiences does not mean excusing harmful behaviour. Instead, it helps us understand the root challenges a person has faced, allowing us to provide the right support to help them move forward.
4. Everyone benefits when people move forward
When individuals have access to support, opportunities, and acceptance, they are empowered to build stable lives and actively contribute to their communities. Creating a path to redemption doesn’t just benefit the individual it creates stronger families and safer, more inclusive communities for everyone.
The reality of stigma
Stigma has immediate, devastating consequences that persist long after a sentence has ended. When we focus only on a label, we create barriers that impact individuals, families, and entire communities.
In fact, 98% of people with experience of the justice system report facing stigma and discrimination. This exclusion reinforces existing challenges and blocks the paths essential for long-term change.
Stigma directly impacts a person’s access to:
- Community Reintegration
- Employment
- Housing
- Relationships
- Mental Health
Be part of the change
Changing perception starts with all of us.
Read the stories. Share the message. Challenge harmful assumptions. Help more people be seen for who they are, not the label placed on them.
