Page 23 - TTPCA_Annual Report 2022

Above: Otago Corrections Facility.
means to work in a prison, and the job our staff need to do.
I would feel lost without our chaplains, they are a huge part of our service and they offer lots of value to the OCF community. COVID-19 restrictions meant that, for
quite a long time, the chaplains weren’t able to come in person. Now that they’re back, there is definitely a warm feeling on site. One thing we’re focusing on now is strengthening our volunteer group, which is being led by our chaplains. It’s so important that everyone who works with our prisoners is committed because they need to see you here regularly to get to know you and trust you.
Some of these guys have had a life full of abuse and feeling worthless. Our chaplains sow those little seeds, by seeing the best in the person, finding the positive things, and building on them. As a result, I have seen many prisoners completely change their thinking, find hope, and become totally different people. All of us have to realise that this kind of rehabilitation is
so important because when these men have served their time they will live in our communities, and we should want them to live a good life!
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