Corrections recognises the support of Wairarapa REAP
Wairarapa REAP (Rural Education Activities Programme) was this week recognised for its partnership with Corrections in
helping community-based offenders increase their literacy levels and employment and education prospects.
Corrections Deputy Chief Executive Christine Stevenson presented Wairarapa REAP Director Peter McNeur with a community
work partnership award at Masterton Community Corrections on Tuesday.
Corrections Service Manager Mel Morris said the award recognises the contribution Wairarapa REAP has made to
community-based offenders’ lives.
“Corrections values the commitment of our community work partners like Wairarapa REAP that allows offenders to learn new
skills and behaviours, and provide role models that make a positive difference to others.
“Wairarapa REAP has done a tremendous job in providing offenders with the tools that could turn their lives around,” she
said.
Since 2013 Masterton Community Corrections has worked in partnership with Wairarapa REAP to deliver a work and living
skills literacy and numeracy programme to offenders on a community work sentence. The 100th participant is due to
complete the programme this week.
The programme focuses on embedded literacy and numeracy skills through everyday activities and tasks which include
communication skills and budgeting. The overall goal is to enhance participants’ readiness for work or help them
progress into further education.
At the end of the five week course participants have prepared their own CV, developed skills for job interviews and are
well-prepared for job hunting or further education.
REAP’s Programme Facilitator Kylie Brady uses a flexible teaching approach that recognises participants’ needs and
experiences.
“Skills like budgeting are already being used and we’re seeing small steps forward with participants adjusting their
mindset, growing in confidence and recognising that there is an alternative future out there for them.”
Of the 100 offenders who have completed the programme since it began in 2013, many have secured employment or enrolled
in other education programmes (such as driver licensing and computer training) offered by Wairarapa REAP.
Corrections manages offenders to hold them to account to comply with their sentences and orders, reduce their likelihood
of re-offending, minimise their risk to others, and help them become productive and contributing members of society.
ENDS