WORKPRIS - Richtungswechsel

“Security is not a product of isolation, but of cooperation.”

– Kofi Annan (Former Secretary-General of the United Nations)

Project WORKPRIS

Project Overview

Breaking barriers means learning from one another. International networking in the prison system strengthens not only the competencies of those working directly with incarcerated individuals but also fosters mutual respect and a shared goal of humane penal policy. A key goal of the WORKPRIS project is to further involve Third Sector Organisations (TSOs) in the social reintegration of incarcerated individuals. TSOs provide specialised support services tailored to the specific needs of prisoners, including (re)integration programmes, educational services, mental health support, and addiction treatments. These services complement and enhance the efforts of prison authorities to promote (re)integration and reduce recidivism.

WORKPRIS is an Erasmus+ -funded KA210-VET – Small-scale partnership in vocational education and training. This project actively supports the Pact for Skills ‘Liberate Skills’ and its pledge to increase the professionalisation of correctional staff. WORKPRIS aims to increase the engagement of TSOs in correctional facilities through innovative vocational education and training programmes that meet the demands of the labour market and human rights. Through flexible training models and the creation of a transnational network of professionals and trainers, we aim to build sustainable support for TSOs and promote social (re)integration, contributing to the development of safer and more inclusive communities.

Project ID: 2024-1-AT01-KA210-VET-000252330 WORKPRIS

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WORKPRIS Promoting Social (Re)Integration through Cooperation with Third Sector Organisations

Project Objectives

Vocational Education and Innovation: Develop and implement innovative training programmes tailored to the needs of TSOs working in the prison context. Through hands-on training, new vocational education and training (VET) programs will be created.
Flexible Training Options: WORKPRIS promotes flexible and adaptable training models that can be applied across different areas of the sector. This enhances cooperation with prisons and supports TSOs in their work.
Transnational Cooperation: A network of professionals and organisations will be established to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices. This network will remain active beyond the project’s duration.

Target Groups

- Prison Administrators and Trainers: Leaders and trainers involved in prison staff development benefit from workshops and training sessions that enhance their collaboration with TSOs.
- Third Sector Organisation Employees: TSO staff working with incarcerated individuals receive support from WORKPRIS to further develop their skills and exchange best practices.
Administrative and Judicial Personnel: Professionals from ministries, justice authorities, and administration benefit from improved cooperation between prisons and TSOs, leading to enhanced quality in (re)integrative services.

Project Activities

1. Mapping Existing and Inspiring Practice in TSO Engagement

Start Date: November 2024

This activity involves documenting TSO practices in six EU countries and the UK. The results will be published in a report and an infographic, with national workshops promoting the exchange of insights.

2. Developing and Delivering a Workshop on Working with People in Prison for TSOs

Start Date: May 2025

A two-day seminar in the Czech Republic will present the mapping results and develop a training programme for TSOs.

3. Evaluating TSO Engagement & Training, PMI, Quality Control, Dissemination

Start Date: October 2024

This activity involves regular monitoring and adaptation of project measures and the organisation of an international online seminar to present project results.

What Makes WORKPRIS Unique?

WORKPRIS highlights the vital role TSOs play in the (re)integration of incarcerated individuals. These organisations offer specialised support in areas such as employment, education, mental health care, and addiction treatment. WORKPRIS also addresses the limited resources available in prisons by integrating additional expertise and support through TSOs.

Advantages of Transnational Collaboration

WORKPRIS fosters the exchange of best practices and innovative approaches to the (re)integration of incarcerated individuals at the European level. Building an international network strengthens collaboration between different actors and enhances (re)integrative efforts.

OUR PARTNERS

CIK Trebnje

(Slovenia)

The public institution CIK Trebnje (Center za izobraževanje in kulturo Trebnje = Trebnje Center for Education and Culture) specializes in adult education and promoting lifelong learning, especially for disadvantaged groups, including incarcerated individuals. Their extensive experience in developing and implementing educational programmes is a key part of the project.

VOLONTÉ CZECH

(Czech Republic)

The organisation VOLONTÉ CZECH provides comprehensive counselling and educational programmes for individuals at risk of social exclusion, including incarcerated individuals and their families. VOLONTÉ CZECH works closely with the Czech Prison Service and brings their expertise to the project.