Reducing Re-Offending Through Family Support

Reducing re-offending through family support

The Project proposal

Introduction and background

Re-integration and Rehabilitation Service is a sector within the New Zealand Department of Corrections. The organization's function is to provide safer communities by protecting the public and reducing re-offending through holistic approach which promotes family involvement in the prisoners' lives and quality performance within the prison system (Department of Corrections).

Description of the project and assumptions

The purpose of this project proposal is to bring prisoners and their families together through a social function at the prison. This event will be a cornerstone to the restoration of family relationships while the main goal will be encouraging families to take an active role in their incarcerated family member's life which may serve to reduce the possibility of re offending after serving their prison sentence. However the function will also bring a change to prison life which is generally characterised by loneliness, isolation from family, community and other related factors that create issues such as depression, suicidal ideation and other associated problems within the incarcerated population. The concept of a Family day evolves on the understanding that meaningful relationships could be born and maintained over food and drink. The project has already been approved by the Site Manager so there is some certainty that it will be executed at ACRP. Given that the project is in its infancy, future expansion to other prisons countrywide will depend on the successful completion of the ACRP project and my ability to organise the different players and stakeholders into a strong working team. This project could become a viable utility that will enable families to support and contribute toward reduction of re-offending.

Resources

* Access to funds to pay for food and décor.

* Families to bring a plate of traditional food to share with the prisoners.

* Increased number of prison officers on the day to ensure families do not bring restricted items such as drugs and alcohol

* Transport and parking

Description of my role in the project

My role during the planning and implementation of the proposed Family day will involve promoting team work across the organisation to improve overall performance and outcomes. This will include:

1. Developing and maintain effective networks within the Department and externally.

2. Liaising with my manager, custodial staff, prison chaplain, coordinating and chairing steering committee meetings

3. Maintain accurate records and submit reports to stakeholders within the agreed timeframe.