Press Release

Ministry of Health & Social Development
Release Date:
Tuesday, 16 January 2024 - 12:37pm

Thirteen prisoners at His Majesty's Prison received completion certificates for successfully navigating a Skills of Life Programme.

The initiative aligns with the United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS) curricula on addressing offending behaviour and tackling crucial areas for inmates' rehabilitation such as Financial Management, Anger Management, Health, and Conflict Resolution.

The eight-week program demanded full commitment, with prisoners participating in classes, completing diverse exercises, and engaging in group and individual tasks. Successful completion hinged on exhibiting positive behaviour throughout the course, promising a transformative journey for those involved.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, commended the rehabilitation efforts at the prison during the closing ceremony. He pledged ongoing support for expanding rehabilitative offerings, highlighting collaborative efforts with the Prison Visiting Committee (PVC) and the Criminal Justice Advisory Group (CJAG) to further enhance rehabilitation outcomes.

Meanwhile, Superintendent of Prisons, Mr. Jay Kendall, expressed pride in the rehabilitation achievements of both prisoners and the dedicated team. He emphasised the ongoing commitment to elevate rehabilitation services, with plans to expand the Rehabilitation Team.

This expansion includes key roles like a General Counselor, a Drug Counselor, a Restorative Justice Officer, and teachers.

Mr. Kendall stressed the importance of engagement in offending behaviour programs as a pivotal strategy to reduce risks, progress through sentences, and prevent future victims, while also forging a path toward positive change and brighter futures for inmates.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development, through His Majesty’s Prison, remains committed to the rehabilitation of inmates while also improving their health and social well-being.

 

 

Author

Fitsroy Randall

Information Officer I
Ministry of Health and Social Development
Vornicia's House of Commerce, Long Bush
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
E-mail Address: FRandall@gov.vg