Corrections recognises the support of Wairarapa REAP

Wairarapa REAP (Rural Education Activities Programme) was this week recognised for its partnership with Corrections in helping community-based offenders increase their literacy levels and employment and education prospects.

Corrections Deputy Chief Executive Christine Stevenson presented Wairarapa REAP Director Peter McNeur with a community work partnership award at Masterton Community Corrections on Tuesday.

Corrections Service Manager Mel Morris said the award recognises the contribution Wairarapa REAP has made to community-based offenders’ lives.

“Corrections values the commitment of our community work partners like Wairarapa REAP that allows offenders to learn new skills and behaviours, and provide role models that make a positive difference to others.

“Wairarapa REAP has done a tremendous job in providing offenders with the tools that could turn their lives around,” she said.

Since 2013 Masterton Community Corrections has worked in partnership with Wairarapa REAP to deliver a work and living skills literacy and numeracy programme to offenders on a community work sentence. The 100th participant is due to complete the programme this week.

The programme focuses on embedded literacy and numeracy skills through everyday activities and tasks which include communication skills and budgeting. The overall goal is to enhance participants’ readiness for work or help them progress into further education.

At the end of the five week course participants have prepared their own CV, developed skills for job interviews and are well-prepared for job hunting or further education.

REAP’s Programme Facilitator Kylie Brady uses a flexible teaching approach that recognises participants’ needs and experiences.

“Skills like budgeting are already being used and we’re seeing small steps forward with participants adjusting their mindset, growing in confidence and recognising that there is an alternative future out there for them.”

Of the 100 offenders who have completed the programme since it began in 2013, many have secured employment or enrolled in other education programmes (such as driver licensing and computer training) offered by Wairarapa REAP.

Corrections manages offenders to hold them to account to comply with their sentences and orders, reduce their likelihood of re-offending, minimise their risk to others, and help them become productive and contributing members of society.

ENDS

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