150625 - A real gap.pdf (714.82 kB)
'A real gap': consequences of removing reintegration support in Tasmania, Australia
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-21, 08:46 authored by Ebba Herrlander BirgersonEbba Herrlander Birgerson, Angela DwyerAngela DwyerAs Australian imprisonment and recidivism rates continue to rise, it is increasingly important to better understand how to support "returning citizens" to adequately prepare them for post-release life. Using a case study approach focused on service provider perspectives, this article examines the consequences of removing a transitional accommodation support service on service providers and returning citizens. Participants highlighted significant consequences, such as: gaps in services; lack of support and housing; persons remaining in the system unnecessarily; persons being released without transitional support or accommodation; health implications; loss of relationships and trust; and suicide of returned citizens. Drawing on critical criminological theory, we argue that the most significant consequence was the loss of "floating support" - which involves a case worker who brokers support between agencies working with a single client - that was integrated into the program. Study findings suggest serious consequences of government decisions to defund programs in this sector.
History
Publication title
Critical CriminologyPagination
1-19ISSN
1572-9877Department/School
School of Social SciencesPublisher
Springer NetherlandsPlace of publication
NetherlandsRights statement
Copyright 2022 The Authors Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Repository Status
- Open