National Corrections Day is recognised by corrections staff each year throughout Australia and highlights the challenging work environment they face while protecting the community and rehabilitating offenders.
This year’s theme ‘Giving Back’ pays tribute to the ways corrections staff go beyond the call of duty to protect the community, fundraise for important charities, volunteer, and contribute to vital community projects and partnerships.
Serco Australia Justice & Immigration Managing Director Michael Strickland said partnering with local organisations to launch a ‘Giving Back’ project on National Corrections Day aligns with Serco’s commitment to making a positive difference every day.
“Our dedicated staff act as important role models throughout each inmate’s rehabilitation journey and help facilitate opportunities to develop skills while also giving back to the community,” Mr Strickland said.
“This joint project to support those in need in the Clarence Valley community creates another meaningful opportunity for Serco staff and inmates to give back.”
The project will see inmates at the centre decorate recycled suitcases, which will then be filled with bedding and given to people affected by homelessness in readiness for the upcoming winter season.
Clarence Correctional Centre Manager Inmate Services Cherie Goodwin said that homelessness is something very prevalent in the local community and can affect anyone.
“There are an increasing number of people affected by homelessness in the Clarence Valley. Although everyone’s circumstance is different, the importance of having a suitcase to transport your belongings is something Specialist Homelessness Services identified as an urgent need in the local homeless community,’ Ms Goodwin said.
“Something as simple as having your own suitcase on wheels to carry your belongings can make a real difference to somebody battling homelessness, and Serco are delighted to be able to support this project and work with the inmates at Clarence Correctional Centre to make it happen.”
CSNSW Community Corrections Officer Gayle Ackers recognised that collaboration with businesses in the community could make a significant difference to some of the most disadvantaged people living in the Clarence Valley.
“I wanted to find a way to work together with local organisations to make an immediate positive impact on the local community, and our partnership with Serco and Momentum Collective will do just that” said Ms Ackers.
“This project gives everyone involved the opportunity to give back and support those affected by homelessness, which is something that could impact anyone at some point in their lives.”