Transition 24 (T24) volunteers walk alongside former inmates after their release from prison – focusing on the first 24 hours and 24 months outside.
The first 24 hours after release can be the most difficult. “Where will I sleep? What will I eat? Will anyone help me?” These are the questions that face many inmates upon their release.
The needs of someone coming out of prison can vary significantly. Some need accommodation, others need to find sustainable employment, some need practical assistance, others need transport from the prison gate…
Some just need a friend.
Our fully trained T24 volunteers are able to meet released inmates at the prison gate and ensure they get to where they need to be. With some inmates leaving with nothing but the clothes on their back, our volunteers can also provide them with a ‘Welcome Back-Pack’ full of necessities (like toiletries, a towel, transport cards and food vouchers) to help them on their way.
And the journey doesn’t end there… Australia’s recidivism rate is 42.5%. That means almost half the prisoners released from custody today will be back inside prison within two years. For ex-offenders who want ongoing support, our volunteers will meet regularly with them for the first 24 months after release, helping them get their life back on track and flourish in the community.
Impact
Assisting ex-prisoners in the first 24 hours after release, focusing on immediate needs and support
Ongoing mentoring and support for 24 months after release, helping former inmates rebuild their lives and flourish in the community
'Welcome Back-Packs' provide basic necessities to help ex-inmates on their way, such as toiletries, clothing, food vouchers and transport cards
