Family support

This tells you how you can support someone taking part in a rehabilitation programme to help them change their offending behaviour.

What rehabilitation programmes do

Rehabilitation programmes teach people the skills to change how they think and behave so they can avoid re-offending.

Trained programme facilitators deliver intensive, culturally-appropriate programmes that encourage people to take responsibility for their offending and make positive changes in their lives.  Sometimes programmes are run in groups, and sometimes one-to-one.  It takes time for people to work on all the areas they need to address, so programmes are usually run over a period of time, sometimes weeks or months.

How you can help

People who take on the challenge of a rehabilitation programme work very hard. They have to be honest with themselves and the group.  Support from family/whanau and friends can be important to each person’s success.

How much support you give is your decision. It must be comfortable for you and the person doing the programme.

You will be able to show your support if you:

• talk through the work they are doing
   
• support the changes they are making
   
• support their going to maintenance group sessions once the programme is over
   
• come to any ceremonies or events you are invited to.

By the end of the programme

Participants will know what thinking and behaviours contribute to their offending and have learned how to avoid high-risk situations. Most importantly, they will be able to talk about things with you and other support people who can help them make changes that last.

More information

If you have questions about how you can help, you can talk to the programme facilitator.