THE PRIMARY OBJECTIVE OF THE FTC
In the development of our resettlement programmes, our primary objective has been to provide each client with the opportunity to consider fully the options open to them upon their release from custody and provide them with relevant training, support, information, advice and guidance to meet their immediate and mid-term aims. Having compared the learner’s aims with their current skills and abilities we then set about ways to establish a match, developing personal action plans, incorporating training for work, geared towards improving ability and knowledge and thereby prospects of a lawful and productive future.
THE FTC PROGRAMME INCLUDES:
- Initial resettlement needs analysis
- Personal goal setting and personal action planning
- Skills assessment
- Skills development, including:
- Use of Information Technology
- Communication Skills – speaking, listening and writing
- Preparation for Work skills – job applications, CV and letter writing, interview techniques and disclosure of criminal convictions
- Personal development and Citizenship
- Pre-release information advice and guidance sessions
- Interfacing and liaison with other voluntary sector organisations, statutory agencies and accommodation providers
We work with our learners to improve their confidence and feelings of self-worth through their achievements. As they move through the programme plans for the future evolve more structure and clarity and the individuals demonstrate raised self-esteem and a sense of empowerment.
The FTC course is accredited through the Open College Network and the certificates earned by the learners further contribute to their sense of achievement and improved self-esteem.
Each FTC prison based project has one member of the team dedicated to working with every learner in the preparation of their personal action plan (PAP). This plan, in conjunction with the resettlement needs analysis, sets out a course of action to be followed in order to help the individual on their pathway to successful reintegration back into the community.
The PAP may include further or higher education, training for work, work experience or volunteering. In addition the plan will lay out whatever referrals are necessary to deal with their personal needs, including accommodation, family reintegration, support for substance or alcohol dependency, etc.
FTC has always emphasised the importance of partnership working and we place great value on the support of other agencies with whom we work to obtain the best possible outcomes for the individuals we work with both during their period of custody and after their release. It is in these partnerships that the essential strength of the programme lays.
