Wandoo residents participate in unique therapeutic programs to address their drug and alcohol dependencies which are aimed at breaking the cycle of addiction, criminal activity and imprisonment.
Service provider Cyrenian House has a longstanding contract with the Department to deliver the therapeutic community - alcohol and other drugs program at Wandoo.
The report identified that OICS staff conducting their inspection ‘saw and heard’ of the development and growth of many women as they faced the pain and trauma underpinning their addictions.
Importantly, the report identified staff were personally invested in the program and were focused on outcomes for residents.
Reducing recidivism rates is a priority for the Department and offering these rehabilitation programs and investing in residents’ futures contributes to creating safer communities.
Notably, the report found: ‘On the face of it, more prisons should run like Wandoo. It is safe, staff and residents appear dedicated to change and rehabilitation, and women leave with hope for the future.’
Corrective Services Commissioner Mike Reynolds said the report highlighted the positive impacts of having a focus on rehabilitation while also acknowledging more work was needed, particularly improving communication and relationships.
“Providing these programs has significant benefits for our residents and the community,” he said. “I also thank residents and staff for their valuable contribution to the report and note the suggestions and recommendations for improvements.”
