Prisoners’ transition from prison to employment following release has been made easier under a joint initiative between Corrections and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD).
The initiative, which has been operating since October 2005, gives prisoners the opportunity to meet Work and Income staff prior to their release to discuss income and employment options.
“International research shows prisoners who leave prison and find employment have a better chance of remaining offence free than those who are unemployed,” says Corrections Reintegration Project Manager Rachel Leota.
“Unfortunately, finding and maintaining employment can be a major barrier to reintegration. Assistance to reenter communities and the labour market can make a difference when it comes to a successful return to the community.”
The reintegration teams are now based at all prisons and consist of a Work and Income case manager and a work broker who complete skills assessments and match the prisoner to employment opportunities in the region they are returning to.
“We’ve had a positive response from prisoners and staff. It’s pleasing prisoners who take up this opportunity have access to the same service as they would receive in a Work and Income Service Centre in the community,” says Rachel. Work and Income Reintegration Case Manager Wynn Campbell says a prisoner was released from Auckland Prison and placed into employment within five days and was promoted six weeks into the job.
“Feedback from the employer has been extremely positive,” she says. One example of successful cooperation between Corrections and Work and Income was when a released prisoner gained a mechanic’s apprenticeship.
CIE (Corrections Inmate Employment) informed Work and Income of a possible apprenticeship and the prisoner who applied on release was employed over two other applicants.
Where a released prisoner does have to apply for a benefit, everything is organised prior to release.
“This makes it so much easier for them and they are much more relaxed and easy for Work and Income staff to deal with when they do come into the office to see their case manager,” says Wynn.
“While prisoners often think they can sort out their affairs better by themselves, they soon realise how many services can be arranged prior to release. Prisoners at Auckland Prison jump at the opportunity to ensure a smooth transition into the community.”
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ISSN 1178-8453