Project Connect: Helping inmates reintegrate into community
SINCE 2005, SCORE had implemented various work reintegration programmes to help inmates start and stay on jobs. Through the case management of inmates who participated in these programmes, it was found that inmates faced non-work issues which impeded their successful reintegration at work.
To address the gap, Prisons and SCORE piloted 'Project Connect' which attempts to address both work and social reintegration isuses faced by inmates after release.
Reintegrations issues are complex and cannot be addressed by SCORE case managers alone. To implement the project, support of various stakeholders and partners such as SANA, SACA, Family Service Centres and various religious organisations were secured.
Preparing the inmates for work
Inmates are prepared for work through nationally accredited courses like Employability Skills Systems (ESS). Inmates take modules like Communication and Relationship Management, Personal Effectiveness and Workplace Safety and Health. Mindset Change courses were also conducted to help them develop the right mindset for work. Those who express interest in the service industry will attend Certified Service Professionals (CSP) course.
Besides that, Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) is used to assess their literacy and numeracy levels. Based on their level of proficiency, they are put through different levels of Workplace Literacy and Numeracy (WPLN) classes to upgrade themselves. At the end of the programme, most inmates will at least attain a level of literacy and numeracy equivalent to that of a person with GCE 'N' levels.
Before their release, a placement exercise is conducted and employers are brought into prison to interview the participants.
Social support
Family involvement Programmes were conducted in prison by Family Service Centres (FSCs) to bring inmates and their families together to bond and build up their relationships for their return to the family.
Religious mentors from various religious organisations also provided support and guidance for the participants.
SACA and SANA provided counselling services to the inmates to help them deal with their social issues.
Coordinated aftercare support
SCORE case managers were assigned to each inmate at the beginining of the programme. Through personal coaching, case managers help inmates identify reintegration challenges and assess their aftercare needs.
After their release, SCORE case managers coordinated the efforts of counsellors and religious mentors to continue to work with him to overcome any reintegration barriers.
Successful pilot
A participant said, "This programme is very useful as it help me overcome some of the problems that I may face upon release. I have gained a lot out of the courses I have attended."
The first placement exercise was conducted on Nov 25, 2008 at Changi Prisons. A mix of new and existing companies participated in the project. In that exercise 33 out of the 41 inmates who attended the placement exercise secured job.
More runs of the project will conducted throughout the year.