ACT Corrective Services (ACTCS), together with SHINE for Kids, have launched its first-ever playgroup for parents in custody at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC).
The program allows parents at the AMC to spend regular structured and supported quality playtime with their children, supporting vital family relationships, improving children’s wellbeing, and better preparing parents for a hands-on role when they are released.
Yeddung Mura Aboriginal Corporation has also partnered with the program and will join playgroup sessions to provide live music and culturally appropriate resources and activities.
The playgroup, with the other family programs already delivered by SHINE, is designed to challenge the social and emotional barriers such as shame, anger, and denial with the goal of reducing family involvement in the justice system.
Building relationships and maintaining family and community connections helps reduce the likelihood of reoffending. Family connection plays a key role in rehabilitation and SHINE for Kids’ partnership with Yeddung Mura Aboriginal Corporation makes these supported playgroups even more valuable.
SHINE’s national Australian research has found that:
- 97 per cent of parents said their child benefits from SHINE for Kids services
- 90 per cent of parents in custody report feeling more confident in their parenting skills after completing a SHINE for Kids program
- 98 per cent of parents and carers said SHINE for Kids makes it easier for children to visit their parent.
Children with a parent at the Alexander Maconochie Centre can access supported visits, child and parent days, the storytime program, and playgroup – and parents in custody can participate in parenting programs.
More information on the programs can be found on the SHINE for Kids website.
