Prison chiefs praise drug unit's first graduates

Ten prisoners have become the first graduates from Spring Hill prison's drug treatment unit.

The Department of Corrections says the graduation will improve public safety because the unit has given the inmates the tools required to overcome their addictions.

Noho Williams, manager of the Spring Hill Corrections Facility at Te Kauwhata, Waikato, said yesterday he believed the 24-week programme, which includes behavioural therapy and education on addiction and change, was the key to reducing reoffending.

"Drug and alcohol addiction is a big issue among prisoners, 60 per cent of offenders are affected by alcohol and drugs at the time of their offending," he said. "The need for such facilities is clear."

Eleven inmates started the programme at Spring Hill, with one dropping out.

Mr Williams said the programme gave motivated prisoners the tools to turn their lives around by allowing them to address their addictions, which were often a significant reason for their offending.

"It is great to see these prisoners have taken a very positive step in addressing their addictions. I'm sure it has not been easy for them but their perseverance and hard work has paid off.

"It is vital that they take the lessons from the [unit] and continue to apply them in the rest of their rehabilitation and reintegration. This positive change has reduced the likelihood of them reoffending when they return to the community."

The 10 graduates entered the programme acknowledging their addiction and accepting the need to do something about it.

Each prisoner signed a contract which includes a requirement to stay drug- and alcohol-free.

The prisoners must also have random drug tests to ensure they are sticking to their commitment.

"These prisoners gain skills and techniques that will aid them in remaining drug-free and in recognising trigger points in their lives that could cause them to relapse," Mr Williams said.

Spring Hill's unit is one of six in the country.

The others are at Hawkes Bay Prison, Rimutaka Prison, Waikeria Prison, Christchurch Men's Prison and Arohata Prison.

- NZPA