Welcome to the spring edition of CorrVolunteer. In this issue we highlight some of the many volunteer activities in our prisons and the personalities who make such a valuable contribution to prison life.

Spring is a time of rejuvenation and renewal and it is perhaps timely that I share with you some of the decisions that have recently been confirmed by the Chief Executive following the Department’s Value for Money Review. These decisions reflect a fundamental change in the way the Department is organised and positioned to meet present and future challenges.

Successful organisations focus not only on the present, but also anticipate and prepare for the future. They review and adapt policies, procedures and structures to ensure ongoing efficiency and effectiveness. I am confident that the proposed changes which are to be phased in over the next three years will enable the Department to do its job well, build public confidence and improve public safety. They will also contribute to relationships with important stakeholders such as volunteers.

A new Rehabilitation and Reintegration Services group will be established within the Department, to work alongside the operational groups, Prison Services and Community Probation Services. This change in structure will enhance the Department’s work by ensuring greater alignment with our core business of sentence compliance and reducing re-offending. Greater clarification of roles and responsibilities will also assist us to improve our effectiveness for Māori offenders and our engagement with Māori communities.

There is still a lot to be done in implementing the decisions I have briefly outlined, decisions which I believe will ultimately improve outcomes for the offenders in our care. I am committed to embracing these changes in partnership with you and your organisations in the months to come. I look forward to taking this journey with you as we meet the challenges of the future together.

Harry Hawthorn
General Manager Prison Services

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