Description
The overall objective of the project is to introduce new methods and practices for work with imprisoned vulnerable groups - juveniles and Roma and other minority groups’ representatives - in compliance with the international and European standards. The specific objectives are: • Increasing knowledge and skills of vulnerable groups in places of deprivation of liberty - juveniles and Roma and other minority groups; • Establishment of conditions for promoting the participation of competent external organizations and institutions, experts and the public in the establishment of mechanisms of interaction and cooperation between them and the staff. The activities include the research and the preparation of two programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable groups in places of depriving of liberty in line with European standards, as well as raising the awareness, capacity and motivation of the staff to introduce new models and practices in working with vulnerable groups.
Summary of project results
The project has been motivated by the need for new methods and practices in working with imprisoned vulnerable groups - juveniles and Roma and other minority groups’ representatives - in compliance with the international and European principles, standards and experience, which would lead to increased focus on these groups. The PP developed a sound theoretical basis by conducting a study of European and international law and experience, and impact assessment of Bulgarian legislation in the area, for identifying basic principles, standards and practices, including promoting public participation, and for defining opportunities for their application. Sociological survey has been also conducted among stakeholders about the possible adoption of new methods and practices for working with vulnerable groups in places of deprivation of liberty. The developed specialized rehabilitation programmes and individualized measures for support of vulnerable groups have been piloted in five places for depriving of liberty. The programmes have been differentiated according to the type subgroup and tailored to the offense committed, manifested and latent tendencies to commit crimes, personality and behavioural characteristics of the offenders. Additionally, a Manual with good practices of supporting vulnerable groups in prison and a Package of legislative proposals for improvement of their status have been drafted and communicated. A key achievement was concluding preliminary cooperation agreements with the management of 5 prisons related to the introduction of the rehabilitation programmes.
Summary of bilateral results