This year the government is investing €15 million and Non-Governmental Organisations, Minister for Social Solidarity Michael Falzon said today.

Speaking at the signing of a public social partnership with Rise Foundation, an NGO which focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders in society, Falzon said he is pleased to see the progress of former inmates who are taking the programme, which is expected to be to women in the near future.

With the safety of society in mind, Rise Foundation’s rehabilitation program for offenders aims to support and re-integrate them back in society, helping them to become productive citizens and refrain from repeating criminal activity.

Present for the signing were two previous offenders who have taken part in the rehabilitation programme. One of them explained how his programme is split into three phases: the first four months include one-to-one sessions, job training and physical training. He explained that he is receiving training on household duties and anything else he would new in his new life. The second and third part of the programme aim to get him prepared for re-employment.

Another member who took part in the re-integration program said that those working with Rise are ready to help offenders to get back on their feet and to provide them with a second chance. “You have a chance to actually be part of society and your family, and we have that chance because of this programme.” He said that the programme has opened his eyes to realise that he is not alone, and that there are people with experience ready to help.