Social readaptation of former convicts Discussions around the project implemented in Lubuskie Province

Abstract

The article focuses on activities supporting the functioning of former convicts in the social space. Referring to the assumptions of creative resocialization, it was recognized that the process of readaptation initiated in the course of isolation must be continued after leaving the prison and as such, it should include: independent development of former convicts, building relationships with their social environment, their professional, cultural and educational activity, responsibility and self-determination. The indicated procedural guidelines suggest individualization of social rehabilitation as well as cooperation of many specialists and institutions. Having taken all of the above into account, the effectiveness of the project: “Coordination of the process of social and professional readaptation of individuals leaving penitentiary institutions in the Lubuskie Province” was discussed. The aim of the study was to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the project as expressed in the narratives of guardians of convicts who had left penitentiary institutions and had been enrolled in the project. The main research question was formulated in the following manner: What are the strengths and weaknesses of the project in terms of positive readaptation of prisoners after leaving their penitentiary institution? The study used a method of individual interviews with 18 randomly selected guardians of former convicts. As a result of the analysis, it was recognized that the project had filled in the empty space between institutions with intensified social, soft and professional support. It also was recognized as an alternative to the insofar relatively poor practice of supporting former prisoners’ personal development, self-image and retraining potential.

Keywords

• social readaptation
• readaptation project
• creative resocialization
• social support for former convicts