As you will no doubt be aware, the Department’s Policy on Volunteers is currently the subject of a comprehensive review.

Since the current policy was implemented back in 2004, there has been a remarkable growth in volunteer numbers, with nearly 3,000 registered volunteers now listed on the Department’s database. During 2006/2007, the Department signalled its commitment to developing and maintaining a strong and progressive volunteer strategy in prisons, as part of the goal of meeting the rehabilitative and reintegrative needs of prisoners, by appointing a number of Regional Volunteer Coordinators and myself as National Advisor: Volunteers. With the new positions in place, it was considered timely to review all aspects of the current policy, engaging with all key stakeholders, both internally and externally, as part of the process.

The policy review is now well underway, with initial consultations having taken place with a number of stakeholder groups. Opportunities are being made available for individual volunteers to make their views known on a number of key issues.

On page 5 you will find an invitation to give your views on the way the Department contributes to the expenses incurred as a volunteer.

In the meantime, your views on any aspect of your prison volunteering, whether positive or negative, can be e mailed to volunteering@corrections.govt.nz or posted to me at;

Russell Underwood
National Advisor: Volunteers
Department of Corrections
Private Bag 1206
WELLINGTON 6140

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