Supporting New Futures

About the program

Supporting New Futures (SNF) is a program developed by Jesuit Social Services to support women in the justice system.

The aim of the program is to use a professionally developed coaching model to work with women who are referred to us through the Department of Justice, specifically women on parole or community orders and those transitioning or have transitioned out of prison. Our focus is on education, training and employment, however we also assist women with their life skills, goals, behaviours and mindset.

To date we have been fortunate to assist a significant percentage of our participants with securing employment, with some choosing further study. We also offer support with setting life goals in general.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the program, participants must be female, and in the process of transitioning, or have transitioned, out of prison.

What we do

Our role is to work together with participants; empowering them to learn new skills that they can utilise in life and work.

For example, rather than applying for jobs for them, we ensure that participants learn how to navigate the job application process themselves. If a participant has limited computer skills, we will practice on a laptop together until they are confident, or discuss completion of a short course.

We can also provide support to work on resumes, role playing interview skills, and suggesting reference material online to support skill development. If a participant would like to do a short course in order to get a job, or pursue a new career path, we may be able to assist with funding.

Our role

Our role is to:

• Build rapport
• Offer support
• Help participants clarify their goals
• Create a plan to achieve their goals

The Supporting New Futures program meets participants where they are at. Participants decide how often to see us, and the level of support they require. They also decide what is important to them, and the goals they would like to achieve.

Sometimes this is the first time in a long time (if ever) that our participants feel able to determine their own path and make choices that benefit themselves. It is this empowerment and self-determination that can really make a difference.

More information

To make a referral or for more information please contact Margaret Moore on 0417 837 612 or via Email: margaret.moore@jss.org.au (Please note, this program operates on Mondays & Tuesdays only)