Funded by: Ministry of Public Safety Solicitor General – Correction Branch
Program History
The Inmate Assistance Program has been in operation at the Nanaimo Correctional Centre since the opening of the Institution in 1983. For many years, the program was offered three hours a week. Over the past 10 years, the program has fluctuated from three, four and five days a week. The Inmate Assistance Program has been offered consistently at the Nanaimo Correctional Centre five days per week since 2005.
Program Outline
The Inmate Assistance Program strives to provide services, which will be useful for the inmates in achieving a successful re-entry into the community. The services which are provided are flexible to the changing dynamics of the community (e.g. adapting to changing Ministry policies and procedures).
Admission Criteria
Inmates at the Nanaimo Correctional Centre who require assistance/information
Referred Process
The Intensive Offender Management Program
Probation Officers
Case Managers
Institution Staff
Self
Program Purpose
To supply inmates with information and support that will assist them upon their release into the community
To work with, and support, the Alcohol and Drug program with related administrative and therapeutic services for those inmates committed to their recovery
To establish community contacts through networking which will assist in providing the best support system options for inmates re-entry
Program Objectives
To deliver and coordinate the BC Benefits Application process and all related liaison work between the Nanaimo Correctional Centre (NCC) and the Ministry of Housing and Social Development
To provide focused solutions to support clients’ specific and individual needs that will assist in a transition back into the community upon their release (e.g. support that acknowledges and reduces client barriers)
To provide assistance with document preparations, lost identification replacement, locating housing options, employment support, and contacting families
To establish contacts for inmates for community resources and agencies for employment, legal, health and social services
To motivate clients in areas of education and employment options
To provide assistance for Correctional staff with community resources