Summary
In most European countries there are more alternative sanctions offenders than prisoners, as alternative sanctions reduce prison overcrowding and costs, and lead to changes in people’s behaviour.
This project supports coordination of various institutions to improve the system of social reintegration and acceptance of sentenced persons. It will provide assistance, advice and training to 25 established Probation offices and raise awareness of state and local government administration representatives, judges and citizens on the use and benefits of alternative sanctions.
Improving the post-penal care should lead to lower rate of return, and decrease of overcrowding in prisons. Local probation offices will receive equipment, such as vehicles for efficient field work. They will also get support through capacity building, in order to achieve stronger cooperation with state and local institutions, giving a more active role to local humanitarian organisations and NGOs.
The project will also work in improving the healthcare system in prisons. It will support gradual transferring of healthcare competences from the Prison Administration to the Ministry of Health and provide training related to harm reduction programmes, as well as to employees working with minors.