Description
This project will enhance the cooperation and coherence between the criminal justice and social system through establishing a common educational system for inter-departmental training related to prison and post-prison care. It will support the establishment of a quality education system for persons dealing with inmates and offenders. The project will strengthen the sharing of information and knowledge between the judiciary, the Prison Service and the Probation and Mediation Service.
The project will include, inter alia, the following main activities:
- Training of staff focused on treatment of end beneficiaries, especially in the areas of addiction, employment, maintenance of family and social relationships,
- Training of staff focused on motivation, psycho-hygiene and conflict management,
- Study visits to gain experience and know-how in the area of common education and to share best practices not only in the area of education but in penitentiary and post-penitentiary care in general,
- Training of staff by Norwegian experts on topic of interconnection of the Prison Service and the Probation and Mediation Service within the Common Education System.
Summary of project results
The project addressed the lack of coordinated education among various organizations in the justice and social services sectors. This ultimately affected their low level of collaboration which is necessary for effective functioning of the justice chain.
We created a system of joint education that includes among other things 8 modules designed as common for organizations working in correctional and post-correctional care. We conducted 135 educational runs with nearly 2000 unique participants. The courses focused on increasing the responsibility of convicts, working with indebted clients and other topics relevant to criminal justice and social services. These activities enhanced the competencies of the participants and improved interdisciplinary cooperation. However, a recurring issue was the low interest in participating in the education from court and prosecution staff, which negatively impacted the fulfillment of the program''s output related to training in use of alternative sentences. On the other hand, the strengthening of cooperation between the Prison Service and the Probation and Mediation Service is evaluated as successful.
The project successfully enhanced cooperation among organizations and improved participants'' skills. Surveys showed a very positive reception of the courses. Participants valued the opportunity to meet colleagues, share experiences, and better understand each other''s work. The project improved the correctional system by creating an integrated education system, enhancing cooperation between the justice and social systems. The long-term benefit includes sustainable improvements in legal and social services quality. Better coordination and process improvement in correctional care are key to reducing recidivism and more effective offender resocialization.
Summary of bilateral results
The project benefited from a partnership with KRUS, an educational institution and an organizational unit of the Norwegian Correctional Services, which provides training for Norwegian correctional services staff, primarily through sharing best practices and expanding training opportunities for stakeholders. The involvement of the partner was crucial as it enabled access to specialized knowledge and facilitated a rich intercultural exchange, which enriched the educational content of the project. Workshops and joint sessions enabled a deeper understanding of different operational standards and training methods, which improved the skills of both the Czech and Norwegian sides. The partnership has strengthened international relations between Czech and Norwegian institutions. This cooperation has not only improved current practices, but also paved the way for future joint projects that could influence broader policy and practical changes in both countries.