The team from Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison (EGRP) received a Corrective Services Award today for collaborating with WA Police to identify FDV offending via prisoner telephone calls.
The security officers worked with police to identify and monitor more closely new prisoners considered likely to re-offend, leading to further FDV-related charges against individuals.
The team also began deactivating prisoners’ telephone contact lists after they were released, ensuring a returning prisoner would need to re-apply for approval of their contacts. This brought about a reduction in offending.
“The measures taken at EGRP show the value of partnering with other agencies to help protect victims and enhance safety community,” Corrective Services Commissioner Brad Royce said.
The EGRP team won the Safety and Security Award.
Corrective Services Minister Paul Papalia CSC presented the Minister’s Commendation to Veteran Services Manager Fiona Roberts for her work supporting prisoners and staff who have served in the military.
“Fiona has shown exceptional dedication and initiative to enhance services for veterans in custody and raising awareness among staff,” Mr Papalia said.
Superintendent Chris Calverley won the Director General’s Award for Excellence for leading improvements in care at the Unit 18 youth detention centre.
“Chris has demonstrated utmost professionalism, integrity and passion in his commitment to both the young people in custody and the staff who support him,” Department of Justice Director General Kylie Maj said.
National Corrections Day recognises and celebrates the mostly unseen work of corrections staff who operate 24/7 to keep the community safe, with a focus on rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.
Prominent landmarks in Perth and regional WA cities will be lit up tonight with the national corrections colours of blue and green, and images of Corrective Services staff are being displayed today on the Yagan Square Digital Tower.
Other Corrective Services Awards winners:
Commissioner's Award for Outstanding Service
Assistant Superintendent Offender Services Dean Wellman
During a 30-year career, Dean has worked tirelessly to improve conditions for staff and prisoners at Greenough Regional Prison, while representing the facility in community projects, networks and partnerships.
Innovation Award
Acting Clinical Nurse Manager Danielle Fraser
Danielle developed a program at Casuarina Prison Health Centre which significantly reduced wait times for nurse assessments of prisoners, easing pressure on staff and patients.
Community Partnership
Team Leader, Adult Community Corrections, Linda Workman
Linda has led a range of initiatives at her Adult Community Corrections office aimed at improving outcomes for Aboriginal clients.
Rehabilitation and Reintegration
Clinical Nurse Manager Candice Hatch
Candice has shown exceptional dedication to promoting prisoner health and wellbeing, making a real difference to the lives of prisoners at Greenough Regional Prison.
Uniformed Officer of the Year
Prison Officer Gurtek Singh
Gurtek has demonstrated patience and empathy while on duty, with an ability to connect with prisoners to ease their anxiety and support their wellbeing.
Non-Uniformed Officer of the Year
Executive Manager, Adults Women’s Prisons, Dianne Dyer
Dianne has played a key role in delivering projects in the women’s custodial estate which include a hospitality training program, mental health unit and making prisons smoke-free.