Reconnection Employment and Learning Program
About the program
The REAL Program provides intensive post-release support for individuals transitioning from custody back into the community who are experiencing, or at risk of, housing instability, social disadvantage, and ongoing justice system involvement.
REAL works alongside participants to support safer and more sustainable reintegration into the community through holistic, individualised case management and care coordination. This may include assistance with accessing housing pathways, health and mental health supports, alcohol and other drug services, community supports, identification and practical needs, transport, appointments, and referrals to other relevant programs and organisations.
The program focuses on building stability, strengthening engagement with supports and services, reducing barriers to successful reintegration, and supporting participants to work towards their individual goals following release from custody.
Who can use this service?
The REAL Program supports individuals who are currently incarcerated within the Tasmanian Prison System and preparing to transition back into the community following release.
Participants must generally:
- Be sentenced (not on remand)
- Have an identified release date
- Be returning to the Southern Tasmanian community
- Be experiencing, or at risk of, housing instability and/or barriers to successful reintegration
- Be willing to engage with post-release outreach and case management support
Priority may be given to individuals with limited supports, complex needs, repeated justice system involvement, mental health and/or alcohol and other drug concerns, and those at risk of homelessness upon release.
Referral & Intake
Referrals to the REAL Program are made directly through the Tasmanian Prison System and associated prison-based support services. Initial assessments are completed prior to release to determine eligibility, suitability, and support needs following transition back into the community.