14 April
The first graduation from Spring Hill Corrections Facility’s Drug Treatment Unit (DTU) will improve public safety because the Unit has given them the tools required to overcome their addictions says the Department of Corrections. Ten prisoners graduated on Thursday from the intensive course.
Spring Hill Corrections Facility Manager Noho Williams believes the 24 week programme, which includes behavioural therapy and education on addiction and change, is key to reducing reoffending.
“Drug and alcohol addiction is a big issue amongst prisoners, 60 percent of offenders are affected by alcohol and drugs at the time of their offending. The need for such facilities is clear,” says Mr Williams.
“The DTU programme gives motivated prisoners the tools to turn their lives around, by allowing them to address their addictions which are often a significant reason for their offending.
“It is great to see these prisoners have taken a very positive step in addressing their addicitions, I’m sure it has not been easy for them but their perseverance and hard work has paid off.
“It is vital that they take the lessons from the DTU and continue to apply them in the rest of their rehabilitation and reintegration. This positive change has reduced the likelihood of them reoffending when they return to the community."
The 10 graduates entered the programme acknowledging their addiction and accepting the need to do something about it. Each prisoner signs a contract upon entry to the Unit which includes a requirement to stay drug and alcohol free.
The prisoners must also submit to random drug tests to ensure they are sticking to their commitment.
“This is a rigorous course – the prisoners would gain nothing if they were given a free ride. If staff aren’t confident a prisoner has completed part of the course satisfactorily they won’t graduate until they are up to scratch.
“These prisoners gain skills and techniques that will aid them in remaining drug free and in recognising trigger points in their lives that could cause them to relapse.
“Reducing the demand for drugs through programmes such as the DTU is one half of the equation. The other half is minimising the supply of drugs in prison.
“The Department works constantly to prevent contraband entering our prisons. This includes the use of intelligence, regular searching, increased security and our drug dogs. There are currently 12 drug dogs working around the country."
The Department contracts Care NZ to deliver the DTU programmes. Care NZ staff treat prisoners through cognitive behavioural therapy in both one-on-one and group situations.
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