The Home Affairs Ministry said on Monday that it will be strengthening the investments in the social reintegration of inmates who are serving the last part of their prison sentences, a statement said.

The government will continue bolstering its work to help prisoners socially reintegrate back into society once they have served their prison sentences, while serving the final parts of their sentence.

This is being done through an agreement with Fondazzjoni Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl, through services offered at its community residence, Dar Bla Ħitan, which operates through an agreement with the Ministry for Home Affairs and Security.

During a visit to Dar Bla Ħitan, Home Affairs Minister Glenn Bedingfield met residents, staff, and the Foundation's management to discuss the work being done towards inmates' reintegration.

Bedingfield also spoke about the support provided to persons who are making the transition back into local communities.

He said that the agreement with this Foundation illustrates the government's commitment to keep investing in specialist services that address the needs of individuals and families facing social challenges.

"I believe that every person should be given a real opportunity to rebuild their lives and find their place in society," Bedingfield said.

"Reintegration does not stop with release from prison, but it is a process that requires support, guidance and concrete opportunities. When we invest in such services, we are creating stronger, more inclusive and safer communities," he added.

He said that government collaboration with civil society is crucial to grant people the chance to rebuild their lives responsibly and with dignity.

The Chairperson of Fondazzjoni Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl, George Busuttil, said that the agreement with the Ministry allows the Foundation to offer comprehensive services that address both the needs of individuals as well as their families.

Busuttil also mentioned the importance of supporting children and families affected by the prison experience.

During this visit, a resident explained how Dar Bla Ħitan's programme played a crucial role in them regaining their self-confidence.

"When you have people who believe in you, you begin believing in yourself more," the resident said.

The Coordinator for Residential Services, Dorianne Apap, said that Dar Bla Ħitan's programme is divided into four phases.

She noted that this programme includes individual and group therapy, training, employment opportunities, and volunteering so that residents can have gradual and sustainable transitions to eventually live independently within their communities.

Dar Bla Ħitan is one of three services provided by Fondazzjoni Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl through the agreement it shares with the Ministry for Home Affairs and Security.

Aside from this residence, the agreement also includes support and therapy services for families, plus a programme of specialised visits between children and their parents in a dedicated environment that aims to strengthen family ties and facilitate social reintegration.

Fondazzjoni Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl has been working to support individuals and families affected by the prison experience for over thirty years. It does so while continuing to promote rehabilitation and social inclusion as essential elements for a stronger community.