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Following on from last month ’ s article on Veterans in Prison , the SBT is delighted to be introducing the Veterans Change Partnership
The ‘ Veterans Change Partnership ’ ( VCP ) is a Community Interest Company ( CIC ) with clear charitable objectives . It is intended to offer an innovative , special purpose , intensive programme of rehabilitation and family support for military veteran offenders .
Most former military personnel move on to excellent second careers , but a few struggle to make the transition back to civilian life . This group is prone to mental health problems and alcohol and drug misuse . They are often homeless and end up in prison ; increasing numbers have committed or attempted suicide .
In 2014 , research by HM Inspector of Prisons , reported that 7 % of the prison population were military veterans ( circa 6,000 ) with an equivalent number on some form of Probation / Community Order . Aside from the effects on the individuals and their families , this level of unsuccessful military transition represents a considerable cost to the taxpayer .
The VCP programme will provide a safe , community based alternative to custody and community supervision , with training , personal development , therapy and through-care support , including assistance with access into employment - thus reducing the chance of reoffending and helping the individuals forge meaningful lives as worthy citizens . Working with the three Devon prisons and the regional Community Rehabilitation Company ( CRC ), it will also promote greater understanding of the challenges many veterans experience during transition back into civilian life , generating increased support from within society and the local business communities .
Through an environmental and relationship approach to training , delivered by skilled former military and civilian leaders / trainers / teachers , the initiative will significantly reduce rates of recidivism by this cohort . Importantly , the Centre will provide a ‘ hub ’, co-ordinating the delivery of services , assisting the veteran offenders to transition back into purposeful civilian lives .
All veteran offenders will be considered for the programme , unless their offending profile is so serious as to preclude them i . e . those offenders that are subject to defined ' Multi-agency Public Protection Arrangements ' ( MAPPA ). Acceptance will be based upon individual motivational interviews and a demonstration of a firm and genuine desire for personal change .
Once established , the programme can be considered as part of the NHS / Police ‘ Liaison and Diversion ’ programmes , and for some military veteran offenders , as an alternative to custody .
The VCP has secured the support of key local , regional and national public , private and third sector bodies , including Prison and Probation / CRC staffs . Working closely with these stakeholders , it has developed robust risk management procedures . Importantly , it has built networks that will sustain the programme beyond its initial 2.5-year business plan .
The cost per trainee will be £ 7.7K for the 12- month programme , based upon a 2½ -year project cost of £ 2.2m for 192 participants ( to include recruitment & training of staff , the purchase of equipment and programme delivery ) . Devon & Torbay Local Authority Housing Offices , Job Centre Plus , Police , CRC and health providers have agreed support once the programme is operational . The RN / RM and RAFA charities have also agreed to support individual trainees attending the programme ; similar support is being sought from Help for Heroes , the RBL and The Tudor Trust .
Programme Outline
The VCP Programme will be delivered in 3 phases : –
• Phase 1 - Pre-course risk assessments and motivational interviews in prison and / or the community .
• Phase 2 – 11-week residential courses of personal development , therapy , self-esteem , confidence , communication , social , academic , work life and functional skills training , addressing motivation , thoughts , feelings , attitudes , offending behaviour , substance misuse and employability - SOSGE ( Seek Obtain Sustain Gainful Employment )
• Phase 3 - A minimum of 9 months VCP and peer volunteer mentor support into work and accommodation . Future peer mentors will stem from successful trainees .
In parallel , mentoring support and ‘ Information , Advice & Guidance ’ ( IAG ) programmes will be provided for families in need and who seek it .
The transformation in offending behaviour and the re-building of personal confidence and selfesteem will be achieved through a range of demanding activities , managing their psychological issues and developing their key life and social skills . Training will include Restorative Justice ( RJ ), anger management , team work , leadership & skills training ( including NVQ and functional skills qualifications ) and volunteer work placement ; all designed to prepare trainees for re-entry into civilian life . Group and individual therapy and medical sessions will also be provided – addressing personal well-being and mental health ( anxiety , stress and Combat Related
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