Halden Prison magazine

Halden Prison:

PUNISHMENT THAT WORKS – CHANGE THAT LASTS!

We l com e to Ha ld en P ri s o n Transparency is an important part of the Norwegian Correctional Service’s operational strategy. A prison is normally a hidden world, but at Halden Prison we think it is important to give the public insight into who we are, how we think and how we work.

One of the target audiences for this magazine are those people who, either out of a community interest or as the loved one of an inmate in prison, want to and need to know and understand more.

Halden Prison has also been called “the world’s most humane high security prison” and in the years since it opened it has experienced widespread attention from the international media, universities, political and administrative authorities, as well as colleagues in the industry. They have often wanted “something” to take home, and this magazine has also been created in light of this.

The magazine will therefore cover several purposes, but we hope that the mixture of articles about our principles and values, our architecture and art - in combination with descriptions of our activities and working procedures, as well as interviews with staff and inmates, will provide readers with a broad understanding of what the Norwegian Correctional Service and Halden Prison are all about.

We hope you enjoy reading it!

Best wishes, Halden Prison

Publisher: Halden fengsel Director of projects: ODIN MEDIA Design: ODIN MEDIA Print Production: Halden Prison Prints Photo: Anders Johansson Tom Helgesen Odin media Ole Henrik Hage (drone photo) Trond Isaksen / Statsbygg Øystein Thorvaldsen / Koro

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

TAB L E O F CO N T EN TS

4 - Halden Prison

8 - The Prinsiple of Normality

Punishment That Works - Change that Lasts

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12 - Art That Communicates 18 - Architecture

Tailored To Ensure The Most Normal Daily Life Possible

26 - Area Map 28 - When You Arrive In Prison 32 - Visiting An Inmate 34 - Prison Officer - The important Role 38 - The Prison Chaplain 42 - A Programme for All

8 34 77 56 106 www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

Less Criminality - Safer Society

Professional Development - Method - Contents - Tools

48 - Broad Range of Education 52 - Technical and Industrial Production 56 - Garage Behind Bars 58 - Restaurant Behind Bars 62 - Carpentry 63 - Ceramics 64 - Woodworking Workshop 68 - Halden Prison Prints

70 - Healthcare Provision 74 - Exercise - For Health and Well-Being 77 - Leisure and culture 78 - Music Studio - Criminal Records 80 - Retreat - Three Weeks in Silence 84 - Navigator 86 - Visitor Centre - In the interest of the Child

90 - Father in Prison 94 - Three Levels of Security 96 - Release 98 - Halden Halfway House 100 - Inmate and employee

On the Same Team

102 - Halden Prison Was My Saviour 106 - A Proud Prison Governor!

Are Høidal

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BACKGROUND

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

No other prison in Norway has as much green space or woodland as Halden.

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BACKGROUND

Hald e n Prison :

P UNI S H ME N T T H AT WO R KS - C H ANGE T H AT LASTS! Halden Prison represented a new way of designing and operating prisons when it was commissioned in 2010, with a clear focus on facilitating an existence free from criminality following release.

Planning for a new high security prison in Østfold began in 1999. Construction began in July 2007, and the prison was completed in April 2010. The reason for the construction project was a lack of prison capacity in Norway, as well as the fact that many prisons were old and not fit for purpose, which meant they were due to be phased out.

The intention is that prison should facilitate the two mutually dependent contradictions of a sentence: ‘Hard and soft’, where the hard represents the sentence and deprivation of freedom, while the soft relates to the concept of rehabilitation.

Building a relationship between inmates and employees is an important part of both the rehabilitation process and ensuring security.

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BACKGROUND

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“Nobody should be in any doubt about the government’s high level ambitions for its correctional services. We are building new prisons and overhauling the nature of prison sentences.

Halden Prison will be at the cutting edge of modernity, with a flexible offering that will provide inmates with better opportunities to select a future without crime.”

Knut Storberget, then Minister of Justice, as he laid the foundation stone.

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Humanistic principles Both in terms of the design of regulations and in its practical work, the Norwegian Correctional Service should strive to ensure that these objectives are not just on paper but also fully characterise the execution of criminal justice in practice. The Norwegian criminal justice system is based on humanistic principles and on individual arrangements for convicts and inmates.

The aim of protecting society from criminal acts must be balanced against the aim of ensuring that the individual inmate has the opportunity to return to society as a future law-abiding citizen.

The import model Norwegian prisons are run using the so-called import model. This means that different public bodies deliver services to inmates in prisons, in the same way they also deliver these services to people in the community outside of prison.

Examples include health services, schooling/ education, NAV (Norwegian Work and Welfare Services), library services, etc.

Norway’s most modern Halden Prison was Norway’s newest and most modern prison when it opened. It is tailored in terms of design, architecture and content to provide incarceration that complies with the principles that Norwegian criminal justice should be based upon.

Inmates are sentenced to punishment, but they are

BACKGROUND

not deprived of their rights as citizens in relation to education, health, work, religion and social services.

The prison has a wide range of activities and services on offer that aim to help inmates to master daily life following their release.

Inside the walls, there are three living quarters, an activity centre, a cultural centre, a visitor centre and a building that houses the prison administration, community services and various security functions.

Outside of the walls is Halden Halfway House.

High-level security The prison has a high level of security, with secure capacity for 228 and capacity for 24 in the halfway house. There are a total of around 350 full-time equivalent employees working on behalf of the Norwegian Correctional Service and its collaborative partners in the prison.

The wall around the 300 km2 site is 1.3 kilometres long and six metres tall. The prison is situated on a hill in Torpum, in the northwesst of the town of Halden. The road leading to it has been called Justisveien - the Norwegian for Justice Road.

Welcome to Halden Prison!

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PRINCIPLES

Halden Prison has become a showcase, with a design and practice that comply with the principles that Norwegian criminal justice should be based on.

The Norwegian Correctional Service’s activities, set out in Storting (Norwegian Congress) report 37, are based on five pillars:

1. What legislators have said is the purpose of punishment

2. A humanistic view of humanity 3. The principle of due process and equal treatment 4. The principle that a convict has repaid their debt to society once their sentence has been served

5. The principle of normality

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THE PRINCIPLE OF NORMALITY

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The wide open, green spaces dampen the institutional character of the prison, and have a positive impact on mental health. ”The ambition is that inmates should be able to move freely around the area,” says Deputy Governor Jan Strømnes.

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THE PRINCIPLE OF NORMALITY

THE PRINCIPLE OF

NORMALITY -- Less criminality -- Safer society

The principle of normality is an important principle in implementation of punishments as set out in Chapter 3.5 of report to the Storting number 37 (2007-2008).

This means that: - detention is the punishment, and the punishment should not be more burdensome than is necessary on the grounds of security.

- as a general rule, inmates and inmate should not be subject to supplementary punishments by being deprived of benefits, such as the opportunity for social contact through visits, furlough and telephone contact, and being permitted to follow developments in society through access to mass media.

- employees in the correctional and administrative collaborative agencies should be role models of good behaviour and should provide feedback in a way that corresponds with what inmates will encounter in the community.

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THE PRINCIPLE OF NORMALITY

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Like life on the outside “Quite simply, we make daily life inside these walls as similar to life outside as we can without compromising security,” says Deputy Governor Jan Strømnes.

This means that inmates must leave the building where they live to go to work or school, to seek out health services, etc.

“The distances between the buildings aren’t big, but they’re enough to enable us to copy the rhythms of normal life. These are small but important elements for ensuring that inmates manage on their own.”

This also ensures that the harmful effects of time in prison are reduced and it facilitates good progression in the rehabilitation process.

“It would probably have been operationally and logistically easier to manage if everything was in the same building, but it wouldn’t have been normal,” he points out.

Move freely The ambition in the long run is that inmates should be able to move more freely and alone in the large outdoor areas in the prison.

“We have interviewed former inmates, who said they missed precisely that freedom of movement. I don’t see any major issues with implementing as long as we grant furlough. There is also a certain risk factor present. It’s about giving them trust and opportunities. If they abuse that trust, they lose their privileges.

The external environment was an important element during the planning and design of Halden Prison, with much of the terrain and vegetation to be kept.”

“We normally live surrounded by nature, why shouldn’t this be the case when people are serving a prison sentence?” asks Strømnes.

He does not deny that many argue that there is so much in the way of trees and vegetation that it prevents clear lines of sight. But he points out that the advantages far outweigh the downsides: not least

that access to nature is positive for mental health, and removes the sense of institutionalisation.

“The green spaces definitely provide the prison with a positive additional dimension in terms of carrying out sentences,” he emphasises.

Treating them with respect As a natural part of the principle of normality, employees should treat inmate with respect and kindness.

“But these can be criminals who have caused others great suffering and sorrow.

Do they deserve this kind of respect?”

“I understand why many would ask that question. The judiciary has sentenced them to detention, which is their punishment. The implementation of the punishment shouldn’t be characterised by revenge - it should be about encouraging change by providing them with more skills and abilities than they arrived with. In that arrangement, respect and trust are watchwords.”

“From an ethical perspective, they deserve respect even if they have committed an unforgivable act. It is about human rights, where human inviolability is at the heart of it.”

“What about the emotional issues?”

“It’s possible I might feel differently if I were the relative of a victim of crime. But criminal justice can’t be based on emotions,” he reasons.

Many prejudices A major challenge is that it is far from given that they will encounter the same respect on the day they complete their sentence and return to the local community.

“There are many prejudices out there. Not least in the world of work, where many are sceptical about what kind of person an inmate is and they are reluctant to hire them. This is why it is important to demystify it and remind them that inmates are more than their previous criminal acts, possibly committed while intoxicated or in anger.”

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THE PRINCIPLE OF NORMALITY

“These are people like you and I, with feelings, ambitions and dreams in life. These are people who have served their sentence. The last thing they need is to be judged by society when starting over.”

“Everyone deserves that chance,” says Deputy Governor Jan Strømnes.

For those inmates who want lasting change, everything is in place to make sure they get it. Naturally, society should be protected from those who are dangerous or have no intention of changing their criminal behaviour,’ says Strømnes.

Prisons sentences involve a loss of freedom, but prison inmates retain the same rights as other Norwegian citiziens, with the exception of the loss of freedom.

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ART

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ART T H AT COM M U N IC ATES

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ART

“Art that is part of a humanistic tradition, and that represents care and enables dialogue between inmates and employees.”

This was the basis for the comprehensive art plan at Halden Prison.

“The Low Down” av Jeremy Welsh.

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KORO (Public Art Norway) has been responsible for the project, and has been in close dialogue with Halden Prison’s Operations Manager and Head of Art, Mette Marion Fredriksen.

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

KORO is the state agency for art in public buildings and environments, and country’s largest producer of art. With a budget of NOK 6.1 million and the ambitions and initiatives of the art committee, this was the most extensive art project in a Norwegian prison to date.

Communication How to find art that is in dialogue with its users - whether they are inmates, employees or their relatives?

The committee invited a former inmate to participate in conversations about these issues and the full selection process.

An emphasis was placed on artists and artistic expressions that could contribute new experiences and recognition on several levels without being too obtrusive or assertive.

The aim is that the art should be a constructive contribution to the prison atmosphere, and provide inmates with a sense that they are being taken seriously.

Wide range 12 artists were invited to participate in the project, which has delivered

almost 40 installations inside and outside, customised to the various environments and rooms in which they are found.

The art ranges from formal and sensual works to those that are conceptual and idea-based.

Additionally, two of the artists have worked experimentally, procedurally and relationally over a longer period of time, and have carried out different workshops in close collaboration with inmates.

Enrichment Fredriksen is satisfied with the result, and believes they have lived up to the original intention.

‘Naturally, there are different views about individual installations, and we have also had to move some for practical reasons. But the consistent feedback we have had from employees and inmates is that the art enriches them and the prison,’ she says.

Gerd Tinglum (Norway) has develop a consistent and personal colour alphabet where each colour has a specific meaning based on the physical and mental impact it has on us as people.

Tinglum has added abstract colour compositions to two of the exercise yards in section A that are based on processing the terms anger and forgiveness, which are relevant themes in this context.

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Dolk (Norway) has created large graffiti paintings in three of the prison’s exercise yards in section A. The motifs problematise the relationship between identity, punishment and control in a playful and unpretentious manner, giving these areas which are initially very much characterised by control a touch of humour.

Margareta Bergman (Sweden) is represented by a photo installation on the feature wall in section A, which is a central point in the building where several corridors intersect. The installation comprises colour photographs in different formats. The motifs are everyday objects and details that describe proximity and seek to give the viewer a sense of wonder.

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Alexander Grüner (Norway/Sweden/ Guatemala) has produced woven textiles that emphasise tactility and are inspired by ideas relating to protection. They are based on poems by Karin Boye, Pablo Neruda, Wystab Hugh Auden and Mahmoud Darwish, and have been translated to Braille and then worked into visually rhythmic dot systems.

The installation is hanging at the AF crossroads (the entrance to the health section).

Irene Nordli (Norway) has worked on the family visitor centre and has created a large sculpture that invites dialogue, play and wonder in the visitor centre’s outdoor area/garden.

She has also created small ‘shadow pictures’ of the sculpture in the form of moulded pegs that are positioned around the visitor centre.

Jeremy Welsh and Jon Arne Mogstad (Norway) have each worked on one side of the inner lock gate, an 18 metre long wall with a sliding gate with two completely different expressions. Inside, the steel plates have been spray painted with a vertical pattern comprising abstract pictures based on the play of light on water. On the outside, the work consists of a mixture of silk-screen prints, high gloss painted sheets in blue and untreated galvanised sheets. The work addresses the duality of the architect’s motto through the dichotomy of hard-soft and static-dynamic.

Astrid Krogh (Denmark) has produced a light installation called ‘Myriad’, which consists of a perforated wooden wall with fibreoptic lights in an ornamental form in the life-neutral ceremony room ‘The sacred room’. The fibreoptics are programmed to change colour and intensity at rapid or slow intervals. The interplay between nature outside and the pulsing light in the installation gives the room a contemplative atmosphere. The motive is flexible, philosophically neutral and universal, and functions optimally in terms of diversity.

Kenneth Balfelt (Denmark) has carried out a process-oriented art project in which he has, in dialogue and collaboration with prison management, personnel and inmates, planned and implemented two social projects. Balfet’s overall intention has been to focus on inmates’ opportunities (looking ahead) ahead of their problems (looking back). The project has resulted in a life development garden that can be used for everything from recreation and occupational therapy to courses and meetings, as well as a photo project in section A of the prison.

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Astrid Nondal (Norway) is represented by two oil paintings with the titles ‘Before or Since’ and ‘Desire Mountain’. Both works of art are hanging in the corridor to the health section in the prison. Astrid Nondal uses nature and recognisable elements in nature as ingredients. She uses these expressions to say something that cannot be said clearly and directly, but which must be suggested and hinted at in a subtle and vague manner. It is important for the artist that the expressions in the pictures can be understood, noticed and understood, rather than that they are read.

The intention is to give the pictures a formal and Lotte Konow Lund clear character, and a diffuse content, hinting at (Norway) has been something that can be perceived as both good Unn Kristin Laberg running free drawing and terrible, underpinning this perception (Norway) has photographed courses for inmates in through the colours, composition, light/ traces and details in coffee grounds Bretveit women’s prison for dark. This is why Astrid Nondal uses during conversations with inmates at several years.

Inmates are given titles that imply more than they Tromsø Prison. She has then interpreted drawing tasks relating to themes like describe (‘always’, ‘around’, the patterns in the coffee cups using a kind ‘Who are you?’ and ‘What is beautiful?’. ‘anywhere’, ‘beside’, etc.). of numerological methods, not unlike reading Lund works together with the inmates to the coffee grounds. These ‘readings’ take place approach these tasks, and dialogue is created in dialogue with inmates, and photographs in the process. She has then drawn new and notes from the conversations and versions of the inmates’ drawings and readings are combined into one solutions, and these are installed expression. The result is four pieces on the walls in four living of work installed on walls in rooms in section C. four living rooms in section B.

‘It’s important that the art isn’t perceived as an “additional punishment” for the inmates, but instead is a positive feature,’ says Mette Marion Fredriksen, Operations Manager and Head of Art at Halden Prison.

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ARCHITECTURE

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Tail ored To E nsure -

- The Most Normal Daily Life Possible

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ARCHITECTURE

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ARCHITECTURE

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In terms of location, design and interior, Halden Prison has been designed to reflect life outside its walls as an important tool during inmates’ sentences.

Halden Prison is built on the crest of a hill surrounded by woods. Typical of the site are the three elongated hills running north to south. The middle hill divides the site into two main levels with a difference in height of approx. 8-10 metres.

The site is characterised by its existing pine woods with smooth rocks and heather forming its base. This was considered a valuable starting point for the development of a prison facility, alongside the requirements and limitations that apply to such a facility.

Integrating the original elements The goal throughout the process has been to preserve and integrate the original landscape and vegetation into the prison facility. Topography and existing vegetation therefore forms the basis for the location of the buildings and design of outdoor spaces.

The landscape - natural and processed - is incorporated as an important part of daily life in the prison.

The overall objectives were: -- To preserve the existing vegetation and terrain -- To use local materials -- To create a varied facility that stimulates use and physical activity

-- To create surroundings that provide varying sensory experiences over time -- To create a facility with a sufficient degree of security and good oversight

Good meeting places The outdoor spaces are designed to create good meeting places and outdoor living areas, as well as creating the necessary distance and barriers for unwanted communications and visibility.

Trees and terrain shape their own spaces within the facility and are important as natural contrasts to the large volume of buildings.

The trees also perform an important function as vertical elements in an environment otherwise dominated by the horizontal lineage of the prison wall.

The large natural area in the centre is, with one exception, untouched by all forms of technical intervention.

The natural landscape around the buildings change with the seasons and creates and awareness of the passing of time. The natural forest vegetation is supplemented with some smaller planted areas containing bushes and perennials chosen to

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emphasise the changing of the seasons through foliage, flowering, fruit and autumn colours.

Small oases The administration and welfare buildings are located on the flattest part of the site. The existing terrain and vegetation between the buildings has been retained as much as is possible. There has been an emphasis on creating good, varied outdoor spaces adjacent to the buildings.

Some of the garden rooms are only visible from inside and are not accessible. This is why they are designed as small oases with extensive use of vegetation.

Facilitating outdoor play The gardens by the visitor centre and family visiting room facilitate outdoor play and provide space for families. Their design and contents have been chosen taking into consideration that they should be a little different to other outdoor areas encountered by children.

The fruit garden and kitchen garden are centrally located in the facility. The fruit garden contains different fruit trees, and the kitchen

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ARCHITECTURE

garden is set up to cultivate various plants.

The sports park is adjacent to the activity centre and is set up for sporting activity and outdoor gatherings. The sports park is bordered by the wooded hill to the east.

The outdoor area beside section C is designed in accordance with the principles of universal design, as the section includes two cells that are adapted for inmates with special needs.

Hard and soft The project’s intention and main initiative is based on two mutually dependent contradictions: hard and soft.

Hard represents the deprivation of freedom that occurs during a sentence, while the soft represents the goal of rehabilitation. This is reflected in the main initiative and the position of the buildings.

The division of the site in two has provided guidance for the facility’s main focus and architectural differentiation. The bulk of the institution, the administrative functions and the highest-security units are gathered together in one system connected to the main gate and sports park on the lower, marshy level.

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ARCHITECTURE

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Everyday movements

Colours and variation

The architectural response to these goals has been, amongst other things, to divide the building stock so that inmates’ movements during the course of the day reflect - as much as is possible - our everyday movements through the home, school, workplace and leisure activities.

Symmetry and axial order are avoided because this often creates associations with subjugation of the individual.

The facility is divided into ‘public’ and ‘private’ functions with different modes of expression.

It has been the intention that the prison’s 350 employees should feel that they are in a different zone when not mixing with inmates.

It is long-standing tradition to use subdued, pale green on the walls in prisons. These have a calming and stress-reducing effect. Based on experience, colours improve general wellbeing and stimulate initiative and joy. Coloured walls are also good for helping people to orientate themselves in large institutions.

The base colour is a neutral grey-white. In addition, 15 impact colours have been selected that are used as contrast colours in various rooms and buildings.

The colours in individual rooms have been chosen to suit the floor coverings, but also based on the psychological impact those colours have on us.

In cells, conversation rooms and group rooms, subdued colours that contribute to a calming atmosphere have been used as is traditional.

In activity rooms and common rooms, fresher and more energetic colours have been used.

Exterior The facility’s exterior, situated in the lush wooded area, is clean and precise in its expression. Dark brick walls, galvanised steel and timber are used consciously to create a precise facility with beautiful dimensions and distribution of windows.

The complex has the appearance of a modern prison facility.

The chosen materials have a nuanced character with textures and colour breaks, which together with the impact of daylight on the material ensure the buildings have a shifting character throughout the day and year.

There was also a goal to construct the buildings ‘into the natural landscape’. The colour palette of the materials is inspired by the pink granite of Halden, the brown-pink hue of the pine trunks and the mossclad forest floor. Grey-pink bricks have been used.

Living quarters The living quarters are located on the upper level in the form of a wreath around the natural recreational area. The buildings merge into the surrounding landscape. The facility is designed to ensure that inmates and employees are met in a friendly rather than authoritarian manner.

This is why there is an emphasis on good relationships, good dimensions, quality materials and firmness in the shapes.

Interior There has been a lot of emphasis on the design of the interior, and for the first time in a Nordic context, an interior designer has been used for the furnishing of a prison.

Functional needs, security and efficiency for employees have been put into focus. Together with the architects, the work has comprised understanding the logistics, the main functions of the rooms and their interdependent relationships.

The facility’s interior should help to drive a positive attitude amongst inmates towards learning and motivate them to strive for a new life. Furthermore, employees should experience well-being and a sense of community during tough working days.

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ARCHITECTURE

The cultural centre The cultural centre houses the sports hall/ cultural hall featuring a stage, weights room and a ceremony room, all of which are organised around a foyer with views of the football pitch to the south. Daylight is taken in along the length of the floor through exercise wall bars.

The ceremony room has load-bearing brick walls where individual bricks have been replaced with glass bricks to allow daylight to enrich the room.

The feature wall to the east has received artistic treatment and the natural landscape on the hill to the east becomes part of the room’s interior through the slits on either side of the wall.

Living quarters The activity centre The activity centre is home to various workshops of different sizes, the library and classrooms, and all with outdoor areas in between.

This building complex is divided up so that many smaller groups of inmates can participate in different courses and activities during the course of the day. The activity centre is clad with bricks and the silhouette against the wall is characterised by the wooden beams surrounding the ventilation shafts on the roofs.

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The living quarters are located behind the copse on the hill. This is a short walk from the activity building and administrative building to the west. The sections accommodate four units on each floor, with 10-12 inmates per unit. This means there are 84 spaces in each unit.

The layout of the cells and common room ensure good views of the surrounding natural landscape.

There are two outdoor spaces, each with an area of approx. 1000 m2. One is designed for sporting activities, while the other is more contemplative with a focus on experiencing nature and movement.

The cells are organised around a common room that has daylight from two sides. This gives the daylight and view some latitude in relation to experiences during the course of the day. The common room includes a kitchen/ eating area and a living area. The guard room is active adjoining part of the common room.

The cell wings diverge from the common room like arms. The living quarters are identical, but with different views and colours.

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ARCHITECTURE

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Guesthouse A small detached house built into the southwest slope of the hill, in the middle hill.

It is self-contained with its own garden and has its own identity. The house has a kitchen/ living room, bathroom and two bedrooms.

A large sliding door into the garden ensures a strong connection between the inside and outside. The house is clad in untreated larch.

Open section The open section is located outside the prison walls and is a halfway house to freedom. The two-storey building has space for 12 people and a common room on each floor.

Adjoining the section are offices for staff who provide support during the transitionary phase.

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ARCHITECTURE

Halden Prison • Architects: HLM arkitektur AS | Erik Møller arkitekter • Interior designer: Beate Ellingsen AS Decorative elements In addition to the main decorations, there is also a need for decorative elements to ensure well-being.

Various photo montages in a range of combinations and motifs have been created so that the pictures provide the joy of proximity to plants and animals, offer the chance to learn, guess, remember, compete and exchange experiences and associations.

PS: See the separate article about the extensive art collection in the prison

• Landscape architect: Asplan Viak AS • Project period: 2002 - 2009 • Area: 21,000 m2 (heated UFA) • Gross floor area: approx. 27,600 m2 • Site area: approx. 314,000 m2 • In 2010, Halden Prison was awarded the Østfold Architectural Association’s ‘Arnstein Arneberg Prize’ for outstanding architecture.

The prize is awarded annually to a building or facility that stands out as an example of good architecture.

• The prison took second place in the best interior competition at ‘Designers Saturday Oslo 2011’ - a collaboration between Designers Saturday and the Norwegian Association of Interior Architects and Furniture Designers (NIL), which is held once every two years.

The purpose of the prize is to promote interest in ‘built interiors’.

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AREA MAP

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C-BLOC K •

Department C1 - with 42 inmates split into four living areas. Focus on release preparation Department C2 - with 42 inmates split into three sub-departments and a rehab centre All inmates have access to school or work in Y-Block. Inmates in Rehab Centre C8 have a separate activity structure.

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B - B LO C K • • •

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Department B1 - Sub-department with 42 inmates split into four living areas Department B2 - Sub-department with 42 inmates split into four living areas All inmates have access to school or work options in Y-Block

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K- BLO CK • • • •

Interaction arena for use during day and free time Gymnasium for physical activity and other events Fitness room Spiritual room for religious purposes

Y-BLOC K •

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A unique arena for interaction betwen work, education, cognitive programmes and service centre (see articles elsewhere in the magazine) For inmates in B- and C-Block.

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AREA MAP

V I S ITO R CEN TRE •

Visits for inmates with parental responsibility

HA L F WAY HOU S E •

24 spaces

7 A D M I N I ST R AT I O N

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Administration in Halden Prison Main guard station Large and small meeting rooms Health section Visiting area Fitness room and wardrobe facilities in the basement Cantine in the “Cantine Bridge”

A-BLOC K • •

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A2: New inmate arrivals with capacity for 28 A1: Non-compliant inmates and inmates with mental health issues.

Capacity for 32 inmates

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ARRIVAL

WHEN YOU

ARRIVE IN PRISON TO SERVE YOUR SENTENCE What will you encounter when serving your sentence in Halden Prison? ”First and foremost, respect and a period characterised by many opportunities,” says prison officer Jostein Isenskjold.

What you must have when you arrive is valid ID and a sentence summons.

You can also bring the following: A limited number of clothes, reading materials, writing and drawing materials, unframed pictures, a limited number of original CDs, an electric razor, a portable CD player.

If you have medicines prescribed to you by a doctor, you must bring the prescription or original packaging that shows the name of the pharmacy. This is to make it easier for the health section to evaluate the medication.

You may not bring the following: Toiletries, all types of spray bottles, illegal pornography, PC equipment, music players capable of recording, non-original/ burned CDs/DVDs, jewellery, watches worth more than NOK 5,000, as well as tobacco, cigarettes, etc.

Entry When you arrive, all you have to do is ring the doorbell at the entrance and you will be let inside. You will be received here and conveyed through the control zone. You must leave any baggage here for closer inspection.

Prison Services will be notified of your arrival, and will collect you and take you further.

One of prison officer Jostein Isenskjold’s specific tasks is to receive new inmates at Halden Prison.

‘The first thing I do is shake hands with the new arrival and welcome him to Halden Prison. I can tell a lot about someone’s state of mind on the basis of their handshake and the way they are behaving. Is he looking me in the eyes? Is he trying to be tough?’

‘Most people who arrive for the first time are naturally nervous and unsure of what they will encounter. As we move on, I talk about the

www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

When you first arrive in prison to serve your sentence, you may meet prison officer Jostein Isenskjold.

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ARRIVAL

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

weather and so on to keep them calm. I also seek to identify as much information as possible in terms of intoxication and their health situation to find out whether we should expect any kind of delayed reaction. 95 per cent respond honestly, knowing that it helps us to protect them and take care of them as best as possible,’ he says.

If you arrive intoxicated, you will be placed in isolation until you are sober.

Fellow humans Isenskjold has found that it is disarming if he receives new arrivals in a pleasant manner and doesn’t speak to them as objects, but as fellow humans.

We want them to feel confident that we will take care of them and ensure that their sentence has content.

In the reception department, you will be taken to a room and asked to remove all your clothes for a body search. There are always two officers present.

You will then be given an arrivals pack, which contains a clothes bag, a duvet, tracksuit bottoms, a sweatshirt, a duvet cover, pillowcase, sheets, two towels, two briefs, a t-shirt, two pairs of socks, a toothbrush, one tube of tooth paste, a bar of soap, a pen, normal envelopes and writing paper.

Your own possessions will be physically checked and inspected by a dog before you can take these to your cell, provided they are permitted items. As part of this process, you will also receive general information about the prison.

You will subsequently be registered. You will be asked for your name, address, details of relatives, whether you are a carer of children, maintenance obligations, etc. and your photo will be taken and used, amongst other things, for an ID card.

The card also works as a debit card, which can be used once per week to shop in the prison store.

A-Block Anyone admitted to Halden Prison either on remand or to serve a sentence will start their stay in the reception department, which is section A. This is the highest security section.

‘The sentence begins in a single room, which the new arrival gets to know. He should then find out during the first days of his sentence where the health section and school are located.

In A-Block, there are opportunities for a differentiated provision for inmates, featuring both work and education options. All inmates are given the opportunity to make twenty minutes of phone calls per week. Exceptions are made in special situations where specific needs have arisen. Inmates may apply for an extension of 10 minutes to their calling time per week. This applies specifically to inmates with children. Inmates who speak a foreign language may apply for permission to speak their native language.

Eventually, you will be moved to section B or C and may participate in the comprehensive education and job programmes on offer.

There are many opportunities – the choice is yours!

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

ARRIVAL

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VISITING

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Vi siting A n I nmate in H ald e n P r i s o n If you wish to visit an inmate in Halden Prison, you must first be approved and vetted. You can then call to book a visit.

To gain approval, you should download and complete a report form from the prison website, and the inmate must consent to the visit.

Inmates may receive two visits per week.

It is not necessary to submit applications for subsequent visits, but if there are special circumstances then the inmates may submit an application. All applications from non-inmates concerning this will not be processed.

Visits must be booked by phone: +47 69 21 46 51 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 09:00-11:00, and bookings must be placed at least one day prior to the visit.

Lawyers and relatives may book visits by email.

Minors Inmates’ own children under age 16 should be accompanied by an adult during the visit.

Children aged 16-18 years old may visit their father without being accompanied by an adult. The relationship must be documented as part of the vetting process.

Consent from the child’s closest relative (mother/ guardian) is required before a visit is permitted.

When you come to visit Arrive 10 minutes before your visit time begins to avoid using any of your visiting time for check-in.

When you arrive at the facility, you must first pass through the gate. All visitors must show valid identification such as a driving licence, bank card, passport or equivalent, as well as a valid visit permit.

School certificates, business cards, season tickets and the like are not acceptable forms of identification.

Visitors who are unfamiliar to personnel and who cannot identify themselves will be rejected. (Identification requirements do not apply to children under age 15).

Metal detector For security reasons, all persons entering the prison must pass through a metal detector. This detector is similar to those found at Norwegian airports.

Random checks using drug dogs will also take place.

No one will be allowed into the facility if the detector alarm is triggered. Avoid wearing clothing with lots of metal buttons, buckles and so on. Exception: persons who can present a medical certificate stating that they have metal objects in their body.

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Day

Visiting time

Monday

15:30 – 17:00 18:00 – 19:30

Tuesday

15:30 – 17:00 18:00 – 19:30

Wednesday

15:30 – 17:00 18:00 – 19:30

Thursday

15:30 – 17:00 18:00 – 19:30

Friday

15:30 – 17:00 18:00 – 19:30

Saturday

11:45 – 12:45 15:00 – 16:30

Sunday

11:45 – 12:45 15:00 – 16:30

What can you bring?

Visitors are only permitted to bring coins, locker keys and a visitor badge into the visitor section during a visit. Outerwear, bags, wallets etc. must be left in a locker in the visitor section.

Exceptions to this include children’s drawings, postal orders, powers of attorney or other papers that the inmate must sign.

The visitor may hand over a limited number of newspapers, periodicals, magazines and so on during their visit. This should be handed to the officer at the gate prior to the start of the visit, and they will inspect these items and deliver them to the inmate following the completion of the visit.

Unauthorised effects Effects may not be brought during a visit.

All effects that you wish to deliver to the inmate must be sent by post.

Exceptions may be made when visiting from abroad.

In these circumstances, this must be agreed in advance with the effect store when booking the visit.

www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

VISITING

The following must not be sent as they are unauthorised effects: – Tobacco/cigarettes – Toiletries – Scratch cards/betting slips Such items will be placed into storage and inmates will not gain access to them until their release.

Letters and cash Inmates may not receive letters during visits. These must be sent by post.

Cash may not be received during visits.

Money should be sent by bank transfer.

For more information, please see: haldenfengsel.no/besoke-innsatte/

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PRISON OFFICER

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

T HE I MPO RTANT RO L E OF A P RI S O N OF F I CER “Creating good relationships with inmates is an important part of being a contact officer. Good conversations are our best weapon,” says Maria Frøvik.

Maria is based in department C 5/6, which houses 20 inmates, of which the majority are in the final stage of their sentence at Halden. C-Block contains a total of 8 units with 84 inmates overall.

The All-Important Link Maria is a contact officer for three inmates, which involves acting as both a guard and a helper.

This means that she not only maintains security and control, but that she also keeps a close eye on them and motivates them to change through conversation. Additionally, she helps with practical issues like applications, difficult phone calls and networking.

“I’m a link between the person and society beyond these walls as part of the release process, in partnership with social workers, release coordinators and NAV employee in the service centre,” she explains.

Work is its own Reward It is precisely these interactions with the inmates that she derives the most motivation from as part of her job. The small victories that can lead to big changes in the long run. That can be the difference between relapse and a life without drugs and crime.

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

PRISON OFFICER

“I wasn’t sure whether there would be room for my personality working as a prison officer.

I quickly found out there was. Here, it’s a plus point that employees are different,”

says Maria Frøvik.

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PRISON OFFICER

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

“It might be things we’ve worked on for many months or even a year.

When we succeed, it’s a real joy.”

“Do you ever feel unsafe in your work?”

“Although there have been tense situations, I’ve never been afraid. I am confident in our security procedures. If I were to experience a situation so threatening that I had to trigger the alarm, my colleagues would be with me within seconds.”

“And I am certain that many of the inmates would also help me. This is because we are always building trust and relationships between employees and inmates, which is also an important element of our security procedures.”

Caring about the Inmates “As a contact officer, can you get too close to an inmate?”

“We have to strike a fine balance. If we are to understand and support them, it is important that they open up and let us into their lives. Many are carrying heavy emotional burdens, and it can be hard not to be affected. It shows that we care.”

“At the same time, we need to be professional and not allow ourselves to be manipulated. There’s always someone trying to get extra perks.”

Maria has received good training, and also benefits from a strong team around her from whom she can seek advice and guidance when necessary.

“How we behave and what we say in encounters with inmates is incredibly important in terms of our relationship with them. If we are good role models in relation to how we respond to their behaviour, they often learn from it.”

Quite the All-Rounder As a prison officer, the fixed tasks are regulated and comprise many routines. But within these frameworks, no two days are alike. There are many decisions that must be taken in different situations. This adds excitement to the day.

Her working day starts in the section at 07:00, when two inmates are selected to provide urine samples.

At 07:30, everyone is released from their cells for a shared breakfast, while the officers review the list of tasks and distribute these amongst the inmates.

At 08:15, the inmates leave for work and school.

One officer remains on duty throughout the day, while the others visit and check one or two cells, attend presentations, health checks and other tasks that are related to the role of contact officer. At 15:00, they eat dinner together with the inmates.

“In addition, we write reports and documentation, which is another important part of the job. All in all, it makes for very varied and meaningful working days,” concludes Maria Frøvik.

Really Loves her Job Maria Frøvik didn’t know what working in a prison involved until she took on a summer job here. After a while, she came to realise it was going to be her future profession.

“Previously, I had worked with children and young people, but I was missing a little more excitement and variety as part of my working day. That’s why I applied for a summer job here at the prison to see whether it might be for me.”

“I was far from certain because I had some preconceived notions of how female prison guards were supposed to behave and look. This picture was far from what I stood for,” she says with a smile.

Making a Difference Maria got her summer job in 2011 and quickly discovered that her working days were completely different to what she had expected. They involved not just the role of guard, but also providing motivation and assistance to inmate making changes to their lives. She has always been good at forming good relationships.

“But it was after an incident that I made the final decision. There was an inmate who I had formed a strong connection with who had cut himself

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

through self-harming, and who wanted to talk to me afterwards. I mastered the situation and made a difference to him by giving him hope. This was an experience that made me understand that this is not just a job, but that I am also an important supporter for people in difficult situations.”

“I also realised that the role of prison officer requires different people and personalities, and that there was space for me. The inmates are different, and so are the employees.

That’s how it has to be,” she says.

Qualified for the Job The year after she went back to school and completed a two-year college education, including a placement right here at Halden Prison. Since then she has held a permanent position, and loves her duties and colleagues.

She strongly recommends that others apply for jobs in the Norwegian Correctional Service. Maria also boasts about the great working environment in the prison. There are good colleagues and it is lots of fun, with everyone working towards the same overarching goal to help inmates achieve lasting change.

PRISON OFFICER

Around 40 per cent of prison officers at Halden Prison are female. Maria thinks this is positive.

“It softens the experience of serving a sentence a little. No one has to act tough for our sake,” she says.

Co n tact O f f icer ’s M a in Tas ks The Contact Officer role is an important tool in providing a more targeted and systematic implementation of prison sentences. A Contact Officer’s main tasks are to: • Be responsible for ensuring that the inmate receives information about the prison and his or her rights and obligations • Provide the inmate with an introduction to the contact officer’s duties and the limits to these • Identify problems, requirements and resources as soon as possible after the inmate arrives • Support and motivate the inmate to work constructively during their prison sentence • Be the connection between the inmate and the prison as a whole • Contribute to the process of planning for the future • Assist in external inquiries, for example to social services, employment offices and school authorities

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THE PRISON CHAPLAIN

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

T h e Pri so n C ha pla in – a sa fe co nve r s at i o n pa r t n e r As prison chaplain, Reidar Faanes is a companion to both inmates and employees at Halden Prison.

“I love talking with people, and 80 per cent of my work involves conversations with employees and inmates. Is it strange that I feel privileged?” Reidar asks, looking back on 20 years as a prison chaplain.

He has been employed by Halden since it opened, and has shaped the chaplaincy based on his own experiences and following his own heart.

Enjoys great confidence The prison chaplain often wanders amongst the inmates, and experiences great respect and confidence, even from the most hardened prisoners.

“The chaplain is very much an institution of its own within a prison, and one that everyone wants to talk to - knowing full well that anything said remains between us. I’m probably the only expert here who doesn’t write reports,” he says.

This means they perceive the chaplain as a ‘harmless’ and safe conversation partner, regardless of religious background.

“Yes, I’m chaplain to all, and am just as happy talking to Muslims and atheists as I am to Christians.

Not least, I have time to meet them all.”

If there is a serious crisis inside the walls, it is the prison chaplain who is called. Prison chaplain Reidar Faanes conducts follow-up conversations with employees and inmates who have been through traumatic experiences.

The chaplain also acts as a conversation partner, supervisor and coach for employees. They often discuss real situations they have been in, and how to best approach difficult episodes on an emotional level.

The prison chaplain has many duties, and is an important spiritual advisor and conversation partner for inmates and employees. He is sometimes an important link between inmates and their relatives.

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

“What about the religious aspect related to your role as chaplain and your own point of view?”

“My clear principle is that I talk about what the inmates want to talk about. I never take the initiative to talk about religious subjects,” he says.

However, he quickly adds that many who seek him out want to discuss existential issues, precisely because he represents a faith and hope that people can change.

“Eight out of 10 inmates want to get out of the life of crime. My only agenda is to help them on their way!”

“What is it that characterises the inmates you meet?”

“Many are struggling with low self-esteem and no one believes that they are capable of change. Crime is basically their fate in this life. I help them to change mindset and see the opportunities. To look ahead. There’s always some good in every person, which I try to find and strengthen through conversation.”

“It’s never too late to change.

As long as you can breathe, you can make new choices.”

Many have the burden of pent-up aggression, and the prison chaplain is often vented at and on the receiving end of loud frustration.

“When they’re alone with me, they can shout and hit the walls if they feel like it. I handle it and try to understand. Many have experienced a lot of betrayal in life and have little faith in the state’s attempts to help them. There is often a bad story at the bottom of it all that has shaped them.

But it’s no good them behaving badly towards fellow inmates and employees. They are only harming themselves,” he points out. It is not uncommon that he acts as an intermediary between two people who have unsettled business from before they began their sentences.

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Communication is the key “I teach them to communicate better, and how to make the best of their sentence. You don’t get anywhere by being angry or demanding.”

If they want to get out of the vicious circle and out of the criminal life, he makes clear that they have to admit their fragility in order to bring about lasting change. It is not enough to just be in prison - it has to be taken care of and worked with.

As a result of a recognition of this kind, he finds that perpetrators want to meet their victim to tell them about their regret and that they accept all blame. The chaplain then arranges a meeting through the conflict resolution board.

“It is a beautiful experience, which often contributes to alleviating the fear of the victim.”

D oesn’t b r ing up relig ion

A lot of aggression

THE PRISON CHAPLAIN

Every opportunity

There is every opportunity to achieve permanent change here at Halden Prison, but Faanes also draws attention to the importance of following up with inmates after they complete their sentences.

“It’s no good if they overcome their addictions here and get an education, if they end up back in the same network as before. Just one mistake and the road back to crime is short.”

Faanes has previously worked in prisons where inmates were locked in their cells for 20 hours per day, and experienced the results of this.

“There was rarely a day that passed without a cell fire, self-harm, suicide attempts or fights.

I was running from one crisis to another.”

He praises the way in which the Norwegian Correctional Service has changed for the better, and refers specifically to Halden Prison as proof that the humane approach works in practice.

As well as the main prison chaplain, Reidar Faanes, there is another chaplaincy position connected to Halden Prison.

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THE PRISON CHAPLAIN

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Big Rush To Attend Services The prison chaplain organises services three Sundays per month. As a rule, every seat in ‘the Holy Room’ is filled on these occasions.

There is space for 30 in the congregation, and those who wish to attend need to register.

Reidar Faanes explains that there is normally a full house during services consisting of inmates with many different religious beliefs. This is an important meeting place for many.

“Many of the crosses here have been made by the inmates, which tells you something about the importance of having a faith as a foundation in life.”

During the course of the gathering, candles are lit and communion given.

“Everyone participates in the lighting of candles - it can be for a child, a mother, a loved one, or hope. And most also take communion,” he says.

Christmas Eve Christmas Eve is a special day even in prison.

The service is moved into the gym because of the large numbers in attendance.

“There can be up to 120 inmates, of which 80 take communion. It’s striking to see the long queue of inmates who want to participate in the Christian, ritual act involving bread and wine.”

Prayer gathering Many Muslim inmates participate in services, and are also offered a prayer meeting every Friday. A prayer leader comes from a local mosque to conduct a communal prayer meeting in the Holy Room, which is consecrated for both Christian use and Muslim prayers.

“In this area we also try to follow the principle of normality by ensuring that the inmates receive the same provisions they would in wider society, as much as is possible,” emphasises the prison chaplain.

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

THE PRISON CHAPLAIN

“The Holy Room’ is an important meeting place in Halden Prison and is consecrated for both Christian and Muslim use. During services, the small room is typically full to capacity.

www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

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PROGRAMMES

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

A P RO GRA M M E * FO R A L L! Professional development – method – contents – tools Addiction, anger, stress, behavioural issues or relationship challenges. Regardless of which areas of life or crimes characterise inmates at Halden Prison, there should be a programme in place for those who want to change.

The programmes are offered to inmates on an individual or group basis. At Halden Prison, it is most common to bring together groups of 5-8 participants. The exception to this are drug conversations, which take place one-on-one.

The initiative is meant to promote the Norwegian Correctional Service’s goal of enabling inmates to make their own effort to counteract a pattern of criminal activity. The aim is to provide inmates with new knowledge and motivation to change, as well as stimulating the inmate’s resources and skills in order to master a life without crime.

Cognitive Theory The programmes are rooted in cognitive theory.

This means they are based on the idea that what we think has an impact on what we do and that problematic behaviour can be changed through changing thought patterns.

The initiatives are led by prison officers and other personnel who have taken relevant training courses.

“All participation is voluntary, and is based on participants themselves wanting change.

It’s up to them to crack the code,” programme officer Elling Ellingsen points out.

Ellingsen is one of two full-time employees in the programmes section, which coordinates the activities and initiatives, and provides courses, programmes and supervision for the other programme officers and instructors.

A Team of Programme Instructors There are around 30 programme officers and instructors attached to the programmes

section. They work in the prison on a daily basis, but are free at certain points in the year to run courses and programmes.

The programme's section cooperates with a range of public and voluntary organisations on content work, such as informational and themed meetings and courses. The prison has collaborative agreements in place with the Norwegian Red Cross, the Church City Mission, the Retretten Foundation, WayBack, the Family Welfare Office, the Conflict Resolution Board and Østfold Hospital Trust.

“The programmes are an important part of the prison’s overall thinking in bringing about change in inmates. All new arrivals are offered the chance to participate in an assessment of their needs and resources in the care of the Norwegian Correctional Service. This assessment is part of the sentence planning process, and involves trying to uncover what needs an inmate has or which resources they require in order to live a life without crime. On the basis of this assessment, we and the Norwegian Correctional Service can recommend participation in one or more of the programmes,” says Elling.

Local Adaptations Many of the programmes and courses are mandatory for all Norwegian prisons and centrally prepared by the Norwegian Correctional Service.

However, there are also opportunities for local adaptations, and several of the initiatives on offer are only available in Halden.

“Naturally, we share our experiences so that other prisons can benefit from what works well here,” he explains.

* The definition of «programmes» in Norway is different than in some other countries, and does not include work and education – but are limited to courses and dialouges based on cognitive theory.

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PROGRAMMES

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Programme activities are used to describe initiatives run by the Norwegian Correctional Service directed at inmates and those on remand in the form of teaching, skills training and structured conversations, in line with the Service’s ‘what-works’ principles, according to programme officers Elling Ellingsen and Ann Kristin Daae Leivann.

what-works

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PROGRAMMES

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Programmes ROS (Relationships and Cohabiting)

ROS is a cognitive-dynamic programme for those convicted of sexual offences and is based on non-confrontational treatment in a group setting where efforts are made to address the participants’ risk factors for relapse. The programme works actively on issues such as anxiety, depression, guilt and shame.

It also helps to develop skills in building and maintaining good relationships. This includes the way in which we think, being aware of how one’s own feelings and feelings of others play a role, self-esteem and selfperception, how fantasies affect us, our social relationships and our capacity for intimacy.

Target group: There is no requirement for individuals to have acknowledged their crime (sexual offence) in order to participate. All forms of sexual offence are covered by the programme, and programme leaders draw up groups based on a professional assessment taking into account risk factors and functional levels.

NSAP (National Substance Abuse Program)

This is a cognitive programme that is based on how we think and how this influences our actions. The programme’s starting point is that substance abuse is learned and can therefore be unlearned in order to learn new behaviours that are more appropriate and provide a better quality of life in the long term.

Target group: Inmates who acknowledge they have a substance abuse problem/face challenges in relation to the use of drugs.

Dad in Prison (Pif)

Many inmates find it complicated and challenging to take responsibility for their families, and especially their children.

Everyday life requires us to be caring, responsible, supporting and good role models for our children. Experience indicates that dads in prison for any number of reasons feel that they are not up to the job.

Many state that they do not have sufficient skills or experience as fathers. At the same time, there are many who have a conflict-filled relationship with the mother of their children and little experience of the responsibilities associated with starting a family and having children.

‘Dad in prison’ is a cognitive programme where the focus is on the role of the father, as well as the child’s needs and how these can be taken care of while the father is in prison.

Target group: Inmates who are (or are about to become) fathers. Inmates should be in regular contact with their child(ren), including through visits, and must want to work on their father/child relationship.

Parental Guidance (ICDP)

Parental guidance is a programme based on the sensitisation method. The programme is conducted as a group conversation, with a focus on the child and their needs.

Target group: Inmates who are fathers and have regular contact with their child(ren), including through visits.

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Coping with Stress

A brief programme with a cognitive link.

The programme is specifically aimed at inmates who experience a lot of stress during their spell in prison and who may receive straightforward tools to help them in situations they may find stressful.

The programme is simple and addresses relevant subjects related to stress. Inmates contribute their own experiences with a focus on stress from both the past and present.

Target group: Inmates (primarily new arrivals) who are experiencing stress in prison or at various stages of serving their sentence.

PROGRAMMES

Anger Management (the Brøset Model)

This is a programme to address violence in close relationships. The programme is offered to inmates who have experience of using violence due to extreme anger and aggression, and who want to gain more control over themselves. This is also a cognitive programme that works extensively on raising awareness and knowledge about one’s own temper. Using group processes and comprehension exercises, the programme seeks to develop an understanding of how anger is created and thus become better at stopping it before it erupts into violence.

Target group: Inmates who feel they have anger issues.

Anger Management (the KRUS Model)

A programme for all inmates who have difficulty mastering their anger. Those who may particularly benefit from such a programme are also welcome to apply.

The programme illustrates the causes and consequences of uncontrolled angry behaviour and how it is possible to use alternative patterns of action in risk situations.

Target group: Participants who have been convicted due to anger and aggression issues, or who may be perceived to face challenges in this respect.

www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

Breaking Crime

‘Breaking Crime’ is a programme aimed at inmates who have developed a criminal lifestyle over a longer period of time. The programme is cognitive and focuses on the opportunities for change amongst participants through changing thought patterns and attitudes towards criminality.

Target group: Those who are interested in changing their criminal lifestyle and have made a choice/decision in this regard.

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PROGRAMMES

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Courses Finance Course ”Get a Grip!”

Get a Grip! is a course addressing the issue of everyday finances. By taking part, participants will also gain knowledge about issues such as how to manage debt and deal with creditors, etc. There are no participant requirements.

Stress-Less

Stress-Less is a course for inmates who are struggling psychologically or finding it difficult to come out of their cells, participate in activities/work/ schooling or to be together with others, etc.

Target group: Participants who are struggling psychologically and who want to make a positive change to their everyday life so that they can get into better physical and mental shape.

Getting off Hash ”Get Your Head out of the Clouds!”

The programme ‘Get Your Head out of the Clouds!’ is a programme that addresses the issues with using cannabis and hash. The course is aimed at younger people (16-25 years old).

Target group: Participants who want to find out more and explore the harmful impact of using cannabis.

Street Mediation – Norwegian Red Cross

Target group: Participants who want to learn how to resolve conflicts without the use of violence in all forms. Participants must be prepared to contribute actively through play as part of the course.

Choosing Your Path – the Retretten Foundation Choosing your path is an initiative offered by one of our partners, the Retretten Foundation.

Retretten (The Retreat) is a voluntary, political and philosophically neutral foundation that aims to provide further assistance.

Target group: Inmates who need help in motivating themselves and changing in connection with substance abuse and achieving a life free from crime.

Children’s Sport Course – Halden Upper Secondary School/Østfold Idrettskrets The activity leadership course in children’s sport is suitable for anyone who is going to direct children in activities, whether this is at a sports school, in a specific sport or in a general school/ after-school recreational programme. This is a practical and useful course, and anyone who organises children’s exercise and sporting activities should have, as a minimum, taken this course.

PS: Participants must have an approved criminal record certificate, cf. NIF’s regulations concerning children’s sport.

Street Mediation is a course offered by the Norwegian Red Cross that is carried out in partnership with the prison. The course is aimed at younger people and focuses on the possibility of resolving conflicts at an early stage before they develop into something more serious.

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Other Initiatives •

Reflection Group ‘Think out!’

•

Gangster Yoga

•

Drug Conversations

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PROGRAMMES

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EDUCATION

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

B roa d R ang e Of

EDUC AT I O N Inmates with the same rights to education as all other citizens. Halden Prison offers a broad range of education - everything from learning to read and write to university-level education.

Training and education are important provisions that all inmates are provided with information about. This is crucial because inmates have the same entitlement to education as the general population, and because it provides a better basis on which to return to society without committing any further crimes.

For many inmates, it is therefore important to resume interrupted schooling, improve grades, obtain a university diploma or study.

The Education Act entitles both young people and adults to primary and secondary education. This is why there is a close collaboration between the education sector and the Norwegian Correctional Service.

The Ministry of Education and Research has overall responsibility for the schooling of Norwegian inhabitants, which includes inmates.

Identification As soon as a person is imprisoned, it will be identified whether the person needs and wants education.

As far as is possible, the prison school will meet these needs. A general principle is that teaching that begins in prison should be followed up by the ordinary educational bodies in the community.

While neighbouring countries have their own employees in prisons in relation to schooling, we follow the import model in Norway. This means that it is Halden Upper Secondary School that is responsible for facilitating education in Halden Prison. The prison is the workplace of almost 30 employees.

Many paths Secondary education leads to higher education, vocational skills or basic skills, which better equip you for further professional education.

“At Halden Prison, there are many paths to success,”

says Director of Teaching Ingrid Cathrine Sjøholt.

“Education is adapted to the needs and prior knowledge of the individual. Many adults arrive with work and life experience that they have approved and certified in the course of their education.

Others may have had negative experiences in encounters with school in the past, but here they come into contact with small, safe groups with close follow-up work by talented teachers.”

Huge divergence in needs The need for skills amongst inmates differs substantially when they arrive in prison. Some can barely read and write, while some have completed their primary education before dropping out while others may have had their secondary education interrupted.

“We facilitate mastery, and try to tailor a programme based on the needs of the individual,” she says.

When it comes to school content, all subjects and courses follow all or part of the national curricula. At the same time, provisions in prison must be suited to the demands of inmates and be in line with the needs of the labour market.

“There’s not much point in training people in professions where it’s almost impossible to get a job,” she points out.

Initially, the school is for those who are entitled to primary education, secondary education or adapted adult education. However, if there is capacity, others may also be fitted in when it is appropriate.

Shorter courses In addition, skills-development courses are also facilitated - covering everything from basic language training to music training and truck driving courses.

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Halden Prison offers an excellent and wide range of education, offering great opportunities to complete previous schooling or to start new educational pathways.

“We offer everything from primary school education to facilities for those seeking to study at universities and university colleges. The majority of our students follow a vocational programme, and every year we have a handful of students who complete their apprenticeships and receive their craft certificates,” says Director of Teaching Ingrid Cathrine Sjøholt.

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“Part of the school’s social duty in the broader context is to help people master their lives. The professional aspect is just one element, but it is just as important to be able to function in daily life. This is why we have chosen to take a broader perspective on skills. It might be about learning to be with and work together with other people, mastering digital daily life, and so on.

Everything is better than nothing when you eventually return to normal society.”

The principle of normality Just having a school that is in line with the principle of normality is important in itself.

This is why the school’s employees wear civilian clothes, and there is no camera surveillance or prison officers present in the classrooms. Additionally, tools and machinery are the same as what individuals will encounter in future workplaces.

Inmates can also serve apprenticeships in prison and obtain craft certificates and apprentices’ final exams in a range of vocations, enabling them to furlough prison with a full professional qualification in their pocket.

This offers a good foundation for getting into work and preventing relapses.

Different motivations Those who register for the education on offer have different motivations, according to Ingrid Cathrine Sjøholt.

“Some want to participate in order to show they’ve made progress during their sentence, or perhaps they feel they need to use the time for something “sensible”. But those who aren’t very interested in their school work to begin with often become more motivated later on.”

“We offer small school classes here with teachers who work closely with the individual.

This leads to positive results. The students not only make it through with a pass - many graduate with far better grades than they have ever received before,” she says with pride.

S e con da r y Edu c ati on University preparation/add-on Norwegian, English, History, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Mathematics for all programmes

Vocational subjects: Bui l di ng a nd Co nst ruct i o n (Vg1, Vg2, Vg3) Craft certificate in carpentry Craft certificate in wood products and building furnishings (apprenticeship in wood products/work operations)

Re st a ura nt a nd fo o d pro ce ss i n g (Vg1, Vg2, Vg3) Craft certificate in Cookery Craft certificate in Institutional Cookery (apprenticeship in main kitchen/work operations)

Te chni ca l a nd Indust ri a l Pro duc ti o n (Vg1, Vg2, Vg3) Craft certificate in: CNC machining Industrial plumbing Industrial mechanics Metalworking Welding Craft certificate in Light Vehicles (Vg1/Vg2 in school, apprenticeship in garage/work operations)

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De sig n an d Crafts m ans hip Vg1 Design and Craftsmanship Craft certificate in Media Graphics (apprenticeship in printworks/work operations)

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Oth e r S e c ti o n s Se c t i o n A - t he re ce pt i o n s e c ti o n

Vg1 Electricity and Electronics - Vg2 Electrical Energy

The inmate can apply for guidance/followup from the school. It is also possible to start some schooling in Section A. Fixed teaching sessions take place on a weekly basis.

St an d ard subjects

T he ha l f way ho us e

Ele ct r ical Engineering (Vg1, Vg2)

Norwegian, English, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Physical Education

The inmate can apply for guidance/ follow-up from the school.

P r imary school

U ni ve rs i t y co l l e ge / U ni ve rs i ty

If inmates have not completed their primary education or equivalent, or require education to a primary school level, the prison will facilitate this.

Together with the school, the Norwegian Correctional Service seeks to enable inmates, where possible, to pursue studies at either university college or university level.

Sh orte r co urs es / parts of cours e s : Hot work certification Truck certification Welding course Basic language training English A1, English A2, English B1/B2 Norwegian A1, Norwegian A2, Norwegian B1/B2 Design and Craftsmanship IT Microsoft Office Music Music Technology Guitar Keyboard Interaction Physical education Democracy and Citicenship

A key aspect in establishing oneself in society following a longer prison sentence is to have a job to go to or something meaningful to fill daily life with. To ensure that, knowledge and expertise are important.

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Technical and Industrial Production (TIP) A wide-ranging educational pathway on the road to professional expertise. * * * * *

Vg1 – TIP Vg2 – Industrial Technology 7 different Vg3 pathways Youth’s right to education Adult education

Inmates who select the TIP programme of education have a whole ocean of opportunities on the road to professional expertise, as well as great options when it comes to exciting jobs after they complete their sentences.

VG1 consists of standard subjects (such as Norwegian, Mathematics, Natural Sciences and English) and programme-specific subjects including Production, Technical Services, Documentation and Quality, and Vocational Specialisation (YFF). This enables you to try out different professions and obtain basic education in working processes, techniques, tools and HSE. “If you start in Vg1, it interfaces with 70 different mechanical subjects once you account for all crossarea specialisations,” explain teacher Geir Johansen and skilled worker Kim Norander Buckholm. Both have extensive professional experience behind them.

Vg2 and Vg3 Inmates who select the VG2 – Industrial Technology programme of education have 26 different subjects to choose from, in addition to two cross-area specialisations.

VG2 comprises the standard subjects of Norwegian, English, Social Sciences and the programme-specific subjects of Production, Repair and Maintenance, Documentation and Quality, and Vocational Specialisation (YFF).

At Halden Prison, you can choose between the areas of CNC machining, Production Engineering, Industrial Plumbing, Welding, Metalworking, Industrial Mechanics and the VG2-specific automotive subject Light Vehicles, where you have the opportunity to specialise and immerse yourself to a greater extent.

At the VG3 level, you choose the subject you want to study and which builds further on your VG2 programme as you specialise further.

After completing VG3, you can take your craft certificate while still in Halden Prison.

Multiple ways forward Here there are multiple ways to reach your goal, depending on what you want to achieve and what skills you have. Either by taking the VG3 add-on to general academic skills for vocational education programmes, in which you can pursue your apprenticeship in the prison’s own garage, or you may be entitled to adult education and have your existing skills assessed - allowing you to start in VG3.

The approval of existing skills in a subject is the equivalent of passing that subject.

Different skills The special thing about school in prison is that the inmates bring a wide range of skills and experiences, in addition to the fact that the time they spend here naturally varies greatly. Some also have shorter or longer breaks for various reasons without it being detrimental to their studies.

“We don’t see it as a challenge. We perceive it as a unique opportunity. Here we arrange it so that everyone can benefit from our provision regardless of what their background is and what level they come in at,” Geir points out.

Motivated students Geir and Kim from Halden Upper Secondary School do not hide the fact that the school inside the prison walls is significantly different to the one outside - in a positive way.

“Here, most of our teaching takes place in the workshop, with a strong focus on the practical dimension. The fact that it’s possible to complete an apprenticeship here is also a big plus.”

They say that the students are typically very motivated, and that they consider this a sanctuary where their daily lives can be normalised as much as is possible. After a while, the students

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often open up and tell powerful stories from their own lives. This means they get close to the individuals and play a completely different role than they would in a regular school.

Both state that being able to support people in a difficult phase of their life is very rewarding.

The fact that many choose to serve even the final part of their sentence in the prison rather than in an open prison so that they can complete their education is something they see as a good sign that they have created a professionally positive and inclusive environment.

“There’s an inner driving force to work to help people move on,” says Geir.

They have experienced many success stories with inmates who have completed their education

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and passed their qualifying examinations, which has enabled them to secure placements and permanent jobs in their chosen professions.

Opening doors to industry

Supporting people

Teacher Geir Johansen and skilled worker Kim Norander Buckholm at Halden Upper Secondary School’s branch in Halden Prison.

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The teachers are often themselves able to open doors into local industry for individuals by making contact and accompanying them to their first meeting. This is about humanity.

“We find most businesses to be positive, but it is important to be honest about the reasons behind the prison sentence if they’re to have a chance. Fortunately, there are many business owners and managers who see the person rather than the conviction, which means they have ended up with an extremely dutiful and hard-working employee in return,” they say.

“We really love helping people to move on in life”

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“MY L AST T IME I N P RIS ON ! ”

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Christian is serving his 13th prison sentence. “This stay in Halden will be my last time inside,” he has promised himself.

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factor. Even when my world was falling apart for personal reasons last year and I had to take a time out, my teacher brought homework to me in my cell and pushed me on. It was a powerful experience - and I ended up with a level 3 grade in extended Mathematics. I’m proud of that!”

At the time of writing, Christian is at the end of a two-year sentence and readily admits that he has made the same promise to himself previously.

“The difference from the prisons in which I’ve served sentences before is that here at Halden it’s possible to deal with your problems properly, regardless of whether you’re struggling with anger issues or substance abuse. The combination of the mastery programmes and the educational and activity provisions is excellent, and makes it possible to achieve change.”

He also points out that the motivation has to come from within - the individual has to do the work even if the conditions are optimal.

20 years as a drug addict Christian has been a drug addict for 20 years, and most of his spells in prison have been related to narcotics. It has characterised his entire adult life.

“After many years of being in and out of prison, I felt like I was stuck in the mud. I’ve always been told that I’m good for nothing and that I’m worthless. But here at Halden, I’ve been seen and respected by the employees, and education and work has restored my faith that I can master a job.”

“The belief in a decent future.”

Interested in the subject The reason why he registered for the TIP programme was a general interest in practical subjects.

“I’ve been tinkering with cars my whole life, so it was natural to me. School has worked really well and has been an important motivational

Drug rehabilitation Christian has unsettled business awaiting him upon release, and he will have to go through the judicial process once again. But he says he has a good chance of avoiding another sentence in closed prison.

“The fact that I’ve now got a grip on my life and have sorted out my circumstances for when I get out means that I am helping to ensure I have a chance of starting a new and better life. The dream is to work in drug rehabilitation This is an area where I have a lot to offer through my own experience.”

“I’m also good at talking and communicating messages,” he says.

Christian is one of the students of Technical and Industrial Production at Halden Prison, and is thriving in the well-equipped workshop. He is pictured in front of the advanced CNC machine. www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

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As a minimum, apprentices should undertake a two-year apprenticeship, but can be provided with a customised programme if required.

They arrive in the workshop from their cells every day at 08:30 and work until 15:00, following a working day as similar as possible to what will meet them once they finish their sentences. André is pictured here helping two of the apprentices.

Jan André is a teacher at Halden Upper Secondary School and is responsible for teaching on the Vg2 Vehicles course. He boasts of the great interaction between the Norwegian Correctional Service and the school, which offers great flexibility and a unique opportunity for inmates to develop vocational skills.

“Cooperation between me and the workshop’s employees is both close and good, and we support each other when necessary,” he explains.

Works officers André (left) and Kim, who both have extensive experience in the auto industry, monitor their apprentices closely. They are also responsible for the car care section which has capacity for three inmates.

“This also requires vocational skills in relation to the use of chemicals and equipment,” they say.

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The Country’s First Approved

" G a rage B e h i n d B a r s" The garage at Halden Prison made history when it opened its doors in November 2015. For the first time, inmates could do apprenticeships and acquire qualifications as car mechanics in a maximum security prison!

The workshop is approved by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration and carries out all types of services, maintenance and mechanical repairs, as well as EU inspections and car care.

The aim is for inmates to be able to complete the full programme of education while in the prison, including their apprenticeship and qualifying exams.

“Skilled car mechanics are always in demand.

That’s why the programme here offers great opportunities for a permanent job on the outside.

This means people have a better chance of a normal life,” say works officers Kim and André.

State of the Art The workshop has state of the art equipment and space for three apprentices. They are closely monitored in both their practical and theoretical work, in line with the curriculum.

“We are very careful in terms of the execution of the practical work. No cars are returned from here that we cannot guarantee the quality of,” Kim and André emphasise.

Some of those who apply to work with vehicles have previously dropped out of upper secondary education. Regardless of how far they have got in their education before stopping, they can resume their studies and complete their education in prison.

“One major advantage of completing an apprenticeship here is that we can customise the programme in line with the apprentice’s skills, and they are closely monitored.

If they need an apprenticeship of more than two years, they can have that.

Qualifying exams are also taken in prison using an external examiner.”

Motivated Students Kim and André explain that the students are very motivated, and that they pursue knowledge that is far beyond the curriculum.

“They know that they are being given an

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opportunity that shouldn’t be wasted. The working conditions here are also based on trust, and everyone connected to us has to pass an approval process. The workshop has open doors into the prison's public spaces, but there are strict rules about where the inmates are allowed to go.”

“It goes without saying that they don’t get many chances before losing their place, but fortunately we only rarely have to take such a dramatic step.

The fact that we are mixing with inmates - some of whom have been convicted of very serious crimes - on a daily basis isn’t something we think about.”

Nevertheless, they admit they had to give it some thought before accepting their jobs in the prison.

“Yes, it is crucial that you don’t come here with preconceived notions or anxieties. It’s not our job to judge people. The inmates have been convicted and are serving their sentences,” says Kim. “All of them deserve another chance, and our task is to support them in the best way possible,” adds his colleague, as both emphasise that they have never felt unsafe at work.

Close Cooperation Before the students are given apprenticeships, Halden Upper Secondary School is responsible for teaching them, and the school has its own workplace in the workshop. Jan André is responsible for teaching, amongst other things, the Vg2 Light Vehicles courses, and seeks to provide students with the best possible vocational skills and motivation.

“The students have to go through some theory, which we use the prison classroom for. They also try to integrate the theory as much as possible into their practical work through the use of textbooks to see how it works in practice when working on tasks in the workshop. This makes learning more pleasant.

Jan André boasts of the great interaction he experiences between the Norwegian Correctional Service and the school in Halden Prison, which provides inmates with a unique opportunity for a positive future.

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P utti ng Mea ls o n the Tim e ta ble Running Scandinavia’s First Restaurant Behind Bars At Halden Prison, inmates can take a four-year education in cookery and waiting.

It is also home to the restaurant ‘Ærlig mat’ (Honest Food).

“We are very focused on ensuring that students complete their education while they are here.

From experience, we know that there is a higher threshold for taking up a theoretical subject after they complete their sentence,” says Yngve Mathisen, teacher in restaurant and food processing (Vg1) and cookery and waiting (Vg2) at Halden Prison.

Beginning from Scratch Mathisen has worked in the prison since it opened, and has developed the educational programmes in food from the bottom up.

“We identify the educational situation of the

individual, how long he will be with us and so on, and we facilitate a programme in relation to this. We have a great deal of flexibility here, and can, for instance, ensure that exams take place ahead of release. Simply to enable them to leave here with something specific in their arsenal as they follow the path to a more stable life.”

“But if things are to go well after their sentence, it is important that there is a good partnership between the school, the Norwegian Correctional Service, the employer, NAV and the home municipality,” he points out.

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Several Ways Forward Students at Halden Prison can get their craft certificate in cookery and in institutional cookery.

Training takes place in the main kitchen/production kitchen.

On-Site Restaurant In May 2016, the prison opened its restaurant ‘Ærlig Mat’ (Honest Food) in connection with its educational programme, making it the first of its kind in Scandinavia.

The restaurant is regularly used for events with inmates, employees and visitors as guests, where dishes are prepared in the kitchen and served by students and apprentices.

“I perceive the inmates to be very motivated,

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It is an important contribution to providing an education that is even more true-to-reality.

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and the fact that they can put their training into practice by feeding and serving food to guests that they have produced gives them an extra boost.”

Low unemployment rate Many have completed the full programme of education in the prison, including their apprenticeship, and now have permanent jobs.

Nothing pleases Mathisen more than this.

He has been in the field for a long time, and uses his extensive network to get students into placements once they finish their sentences at Halden.

“I can vouch for what they stand for both professionally and personally. They have been to a good school here, and are generally older and more experienced than those coming from standard upper secondary education.”

“Nine out of ten restaurant owners I speak to are open to taking his students on. There is a big demand for good chefs and waiters,” he says.

Book Publication The prison has also published the book ‘Ærlig mat i Halden fengsel’ (Honest Food in Halden Prison), a collaborative project between inmates, employees and the school, with Yngve acting as the project manager and driving force.

The project was part of the in-depth project taken

by Vg1 and Vg2 students in restaurant and food processing, and also covered learning outcomes in several other subjects too. A studio-recorded CD is included in the book with all the lyrics and melodies created by students of music in the school section. Inmates working in the Media workshop section created the illustrations, and all the recipes and texts have been translated to English.

A total of 16 inmates were involved in the project, and Yngve says the cookbook, which presents 56 dishes including ingredients and recipes, has enjoyed excellent sales.

Some of the profits were earmarked for the WayBack foundation following the wishes of the inmates. This non-profit organisation follows up with inmate after they are released.

The cookbook ‘Ærlig mat i Halden fengsel’ (Honest Food in Halden Prison) has enjoyed excellent sales, and some of its profits are donated to the ‘WayBack’ organisation.

The well-equipped and modern prison kitchen at Halden is a great place to learn about the cooking and waiting professions. Specialist teacher Yngve Mathisen enjoys delicious dishes on a daily basis made by his students and apprentices.

The restaurant ‘Ærlig mat’ (Honest Food) regularly hosts events where students and apprentices get to put their training into practice.

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CARPENTRY

– for a M ea n i ng f ul Eve ryd ay L i fe

Works officer Stine Bjørgan has much to say about the close collaboration and inclusive environment found in the carpentry workshop.

In carpentry, affectionately know as ‘Snekkern’ in Norwegian, participants receive a basic introduction to different craft-based tasks, and they produce a range of goods for sale.

Many come to carpentry to have an interesting and meaningful everyday life in prison, and works office Stine Bjørgan says they place a major emphasis on creating an inclusive and positive environment.

“This is a provision with a low threshold, but it’s no holiday either. Everyone must make themselves useful,” she specifies.

The workshop is well-equipped with machinery and tools, and has capacity for 10 participants. Demand is substantial and all places are usually filled.

Different Levels The level of knowledge and practical experience naturally varies greatly amongst those who apply.

Some have barely ever used a plane before, while others have extensive experience of craft work and are very familiar with the machinery.

“Everyone new is assessed so that I can form an understanding of what level they are at. If they have no basic knowledge, they are given basic training.

Here we find tasks that everyone can master,” says Bjørgan, who is a qualified furniture maker.

Motivational Factor Simply giving participants a sense of mastery is an important aspect of the occupation, as well as a motivational factor for the works officer.

“I find that my efforts can help others to achieve a better future for themselves. Many have expressed that they are looking forward to returning to society now that they actually feel like they can do a job.”

“It makes my job meaningful, and I look forward to meeting the guys here every day. You become a hybrid of supervisor, social worker and psychologist - as well as a few other things!”

Production Tasks consist of the production of useful and saleable items such as butter knives, ladles, spoons, various boxes and containers, shoe horns, boot knobs, pot stands, hearts to hang up or decorate tables with, small shovels, folding beach chairs and tables, and much, much more.

“The only real limitation on what we can produce within our current framework is our imagination. Inmates often bring along their own ideas that they want to try out,” Stine explains.

Bigger Challenges For the most talented individuals, it is a short path to the full carpentry workshop where they have more advanced machinery and a wider range of production - where they also face bigger challenges.

Others prefer to stay in Snekkern as long as they can, simply because of the positive sense of community they experience here.

“Here in carpentry, we find suitable tasks regardless of the level of skills that inmates already have,” says Stine Bjørgan.

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CERAMICS – Usi ng o ur H and s !

Works officer Mari Günther Andreassen has built up the ceramics workshop from scratch and loves her job at Halden Prison.

If you like shaping things with your hands, then the ceramics workshop should be up your street. Here, you learn the basic techniques of the craft and get to contribute to the full process from start to finished product.

In the workshop they mostly use custom moulds to create the standard products that are available for sale. This means that the inmates stir liquid porcelain clay with a mortar mixing whisk, before pouring it into the moulds.

Firing and Decoration A day later, the product is removed from the mould. Edges from the moulding process are then cut away and the objects are prepared for firing.

After firing, they are decorated and glazed before once again being fired, according to works officer Mari Günther Andreassen.

“We also have a decal printer that prints ceramic prints that we transfer onto the products and seal while firing them at 800 degrees.”

“This represents the main tasks in the workshop and is how the majority of the products are made.”

Original Ideas Inmates can also create their own products alongside, and Mari helps them to realise their own ideas by turning and modelling clay.

“Often, they want to create something special for their parents, children, wives or girlfriends. There’s a lot of motivation, joy and learning in creating something that others appreciate,” she says.

Mari has four years of higher education in ceramics and has been employed in her role since the prison opened. She has thus been able to build up the workshop from scratch and shape its contents.

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Highly Recommended “It’s nice to note that many of those who apply here have had it recommended to them by others. It also demonstrates that the participants are happy here. Most of them are also very motivated and willing to learn,” she says.

The prison only has five spaces in the ceramics workshop, which means everyone works closely together. Additionally, it means the activity is characterised by a calm atmosphere.

Skills to be Proud of Of course, the extent to which a knowledge of ceramics is useful to participants following their sentence is limited, but Mari points out that the most important thing is that they feel a sense of mastery.

‘By taking the processes step by step, the vast majority of people manage to acquire the full set of skills. Often, we let the most experienced participants teach new arrivals. This creates pride and the wonderful feeling of being useful.’

The prison has always provided work certificates to those participants who wanted it. Now it will also issue vocational training certificates to those who qualify.

New Experiences Await After a year or so in the ceramics workshop, she encourages inmates to try another activity in the prison so that they gain different experiences and ensure there is some turnover amongst participants.

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BUZZI N G AC T IVIT Y IN T H E WOO DWO R KIN G WOR KS H OP The inmates create products both for their own shop and by special order in the woodworking workshop. Inmates can also take their final apprentice exams here.

There are high levels of activity in the carpentry workshop at Halden Prison. There is sawing and milling, sanding and planing and gluing as the wood takes shape and becomes a garden bench or bookcase. Or perhaps a self-watering planter, a high chair or a rocking motorcycle.

The workshop collaborates with other prisons so that they do not produce the same goods. This means they complement each other instead of competing in the market.

A popular pursuit “Demand for our products and services is huge,” confirms deputy foreman of works Jørgen Tvete.

In addition to the products that are sold, they accept special orders from both the Norwegian Correctional Service and private customers. When the National Police Directorate moved into new premises in Oslo, carpenters in Halden provided tables, shelves, wash trolleys and other furniture.

“In principle, we can take on more or less anything that should take place in a woodworking workshop.

Jørgen has up to 20 workspaces for inmates in the workshop run by him and four works officers.

Training and Production Training and production go hand in hand in the woodworking workshop. New arrivals are given a guided tour and try out different tasks so that they can find out what they are good at or what they would like to learn. They then receive the training they require. They are offered every opportunity to do rewarding work.

“Some have extensive experience from before and can operate advanced machinery after no time at all, while others need to start small. It’s fantastic to see when they understand the principles and master their tasks. This mastery gives the inmates a spark of life and enhances their self-esteem.

One of the inmates nods in agreement, explaining that working in the workshop gives meaning to his everyday life and helps him to overcome his destructive thoughts.

“It’s like going to an ordinary job, in addition to learning a craft,’ he says.

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Deputy foreman of works, Jørgen Tvete, describes a good atmosphere and high levels of productivity in the woodworking workshop.

“Here, we are more like colleagues than traditional guards,” he says.

High Security Naturally, security is of the highest priority in a workshop where a lot of tools and machinery are in use. There is free access to screwdrivers, hammers and awls, which in many other prisons are locked away when not in use.

“We don’t want to spend ages getting out and putting away tools. It’s about trust. Everyone knows that if one person breaches that trust, it will limit everyone else’s freedom. It’s a rule that works well.

“At the same time, we obviously make sure that no one leaves before we have checked everything is where it should be. If we find out that anything is missing, we sound the alarm!”

Personal safety in the carpentry workshop is safeguarded through strict procedures.

No one is allowed to use a plane without thorough training, and individuals may only use machinery they know how to operate.

“There are strict procedures relating to the operation of the workshop, but it is also based on trust. If inmates breach that trust, it has an impact on everyone working here,” says Jørgen Tvete. www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

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Apprentices’ Final Exams The woodworking workshop is not part of the schooling programme, but is an approved teaching activity and follows relevant curricula. The workshop cooperates with ‘Treringen’, the educational office for the carpentry trade in Buskerud, Vestfold and Østfold.

“The individuals that come here have different levels of vocational skills. Some already know the necessary theory, while others learn what they don’t know in prison and take their exams in the field as private candidates. They are then able to work the hours they need to spend in the woodworking workshop to take their final apprenticeship exams,” he explains.

In theory, the inmate can also graduate as a craftsman once he has worked for long enough in the woodworking workshop as part of the woodworking programme (previously known as furniture/industrial technology) at the Vg2 level.

Customised Programme

The woodworking workshop is very modern, with all equipment necessary for the production of advanced furniture and furnishings.

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“The advisers at the school, the examining board and I gather together documentation for all of the relevant education and skills for individuals who want to take their final exams. This is sent to the county municipality, who assess what is missing in terms of the educational pathway, and then we create an individual programme on this basis.

At the time of writing, there are two inmates who have passed their final apprenticeship exams as furniture and industrial carpenters in prison, which provides them with a great advantage in securing permanent work after their sentences finish.”

“But everyone who has done a placement here receives a skills certificate. This can be the difference between being invited to interview or not in relation to job applications,” he says.

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Works officer and photographer Anders Johansson heads up Halden Prison Print, which is both a working business and a venue for graphic designer apprentices.

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EDUCATION

LY L O H P O W , H S N R T E N I D R O P M L A A T I G I D Do you need a book, annual report, business cards or calendar printed?

Or perhaps you want to add a logo or slogan to a piece of clothing or your favourite cup? Halden Prison Print can take the job!

The graphic media workshop provides excellent training and skills for up to eight people, and is classified as a training establishment that can accommodate up to two apprentices.

“The apprentices receive individual support until they take their qualifying exams in media graphics,” says works officer Anders Johansson.

Media graphic designers work with the design and production of visual communication.

Big Things Have Small Beginnings Other than those who are training in the field of graphics, inmates who apply to the print shop generally have no relevant vocational skills. They are provided with their own training plan to ensure good progression and that their skills increase.

“At first, they participate in a range of tasks, while those who have been here longest can perform the full printing process - including working in programs like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator,” he says.

Well-Functioning Print Shop The workshop features modern equipment and can undertake a range of graphic production and printing assignments. They receive commissions both internally from the Norwegian Correctional Service and also from the open market.

“We compete with ordinary print shops, and must always be focused on the quality of what we do. Nothing leaves us for the customer until it is of a satisfactory standard,” Anders emphasises.

“The fact that customers have high expectations of what we deliver gives us a boost. It makes our working days extra inspiring,” he adds.

Anders is the only employee at the print shop, and describes his days at work there as busy but eventful. They really have to work hard to stay on top of things, and during the most hectic periods assignments will pile up.

“We market ourselves on a small scale, but it is clear that satisfied customers say good things about us. This means an increasing number of people are aware of our services.”

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Working with software is an important aspect of digital printing. Anders Johansson provides expert guidance.

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THE HEALTH SECTION

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

WIDE-RANGING H E A LT H C A R E P R OV I S I O N • • • • •

Doctor Nurse Psychologist Physiotherapist Dentist

The health and care services for inmates in prison must be equal to those provided to the rest of the population. The health section at Halden Prison is therefore ready for action.

Inmates have the same statutory entitlement to healthcare as all other citizens. A prerequisite for good and proper health and care services is that inmates have access to qualified personnel who have specific expertise in matters related to their unusual living conditions, situation and health issues - and who are familiar with the Norwegian Correctional Service’s tasks in prison.

At Halden Prison, inmates have access to a good, wide-ranging health care provision courtesy of the municipality of Halden, the county of Østfold and Østfold Hospital.

Getting the Bigger Picture “The municipal health service is the first to receive new arrivals in the health section. Here they are offered a health interview with a nurse to identify any requirements for further follow-up by us or the specialist healthcare service,” says department head Turid Nomèl. The section houses a doctor’s office, a laboratory, a conversation room and an examination room, as well as a room for physiotherapy.

Inmates who are assessed by the prison healthcare service to be in need of specialist healthcare are referred on by a doctor. The specialist healthcare service assesses the referral and either rejects the patient or evaluates treatment based on the inmate’s requirements.

From left to right: Psychologist Thomas Wærstad, specialist psychologist Lars Fredrik Skahjem and department head of the prison healthcare service Turid Nomèl.

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THE HEALTH SECTION

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THE HEALTH SECTION

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Complex Challenges Statistically, somatic and mental illness, as well as drug addiction are all over-represented amongst inmates. These often pose complex challenges.

“Some are already undergoing treatment when they arrive, which can be overlapped and continued within the prison walls. Others we have to evaluate independently, and it is often a challenge to capture everything that an individual is struggling with. We have inmates here from across the country - and many other parts of the world - and they have no medical records. We have to use a lot of resources to try and find out their medical history,” she says.

Many who end up in prison for the first time feel like the world outside is falling apart both in family-terms and financially. It can be traumatic and can cause anxiety and depression.

This is why the initial period is particularly important with a view to stabilising the inmate and motivating him to look ahead.

Close Interaction “We have a team in here who can be closer to their patients than on the outside. For many inmates, this may be the first time they undergo a thorough examination and receive treatment for their ailments.

We also work extensively across disciplines and cooperate with other teams both inside and outside the prison in relation to the health of individuals.

It is a very important part of the rehabilitation work in pursuit of a drug and crime-free future,” say psychologists Lars Fredrik Skahjem and Thomas Wærstad, who represent the district psychiatric centre

(DPS) and the social-psychiatric clinic respectively.

The prison psychiatry team is a specialist health service and consists of psychologists and psychiatrists from Halden DPS and Østfold Hospital.

Thomas is primarily connected with the ‘Navigator’ addiction unit, which has capacity for ten individuals at once. Motivated inmates are encouraged to apply here to receive help with their substance abuse problems.

Transition To Freedom An important task for everyone is to support the release coordinators to ensure that necessary follow-up takes places later on during the sentence in low-security prisons and halfway houses, as well as after release.

“We have some dedicated places in halfway houses associated with the addiction unit ‘Navigator 2’, which is based on monitoring and conversations in addition to daily activities,” explains Wærstad.

The health professionals also receive teaching and guidance from employees who work with inmate with mental disorders.

Good for your Teeth Dental treatment is an important part of the healthcare provision and is run by Østfold county municipality. The prison offers ordinary dental treatment to those serving sentences, and those on remand can receive emergency treatment until they have been in custody for three months.

“Inmates are not called in for a check up

Turid Nomèl is in charge of the municipal element of the prison healthcare service.

All newly arrived inmates are offered an initial interview to identify their health issues.

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

- they have to make an appointment”.

Standard treatments are free of charge, but if expensive measures such as crowns, bridges or dentures are required, an application must be made to NAV for financial support unless it relates to opioid replacement therapy. This applies to both Norwegian and foreign citizens.

The dentist points out the importance of good dental health, both in relation to preventing pain and in terms of maintaining a good self-image. This is particularly the case for those with a long-term history of drug abuse, who often have serious tooth decay.

“We find that many are incredibly grateful once they have been treated simply because they dare to smile again and don’t have to be ashamed of their own teeth”.

THE HEALTH SECTION

Help Is Much Appreciated The other health professionals have the same experience - they are welcome and received with respect and gratitude by inmates.

“We’re here to help them and are bound by a duty of confidentiality. It’s very rare that we experience any episodes in relation to our jobs,” they say.

While the dentist and specialist healthcare service are open three days per week, the municipal primary healthcare service is available on a daily basis - including at weekends.

Psychologist Thomas Wærstad works in the drug addiction unit ‘Navigator’. A significant proportion of inmates are addicts when they start their sentences.

“Many inmates struggle with mental issues and often face complex challenges. We examine and treat mental disorders,” says specialist psychologist Lars Fredrik Skahjem, part of the prison’s psychiatric team.

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THE HEALTH SECTION

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

EXERCISE

– FOR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING Halden Prison facilitates a comprehensive programme of exercise and activities.

This boosts health and improves well-being.

“The physical fitness of inmates is very variable, which is why we have a provision covering all levels from straightforward gymnastics to fierce fitness sessions,” explains head recreational leader Joakim Vatne.

“We offer exercise both individually and in groups, as required. Additionally, we work together with the physiotherapists in the health section if inmates need to do exercises as part of rehabilitation.”

Invigorating Facilities The activity centre in the K building tempts with a modern gymnasium and strength room, and has an adjacent, large outdoor area for football and other ball games. In addition to the scheduled activities during the day time, inmates in the various living quarters can use the training facilities during their spare time. Many take the opportunity to forget their troubles and sweat out their frustration and hardship.

It provides an extra dimension to their spell in prison.

“This building means a lot to many people. Inmates manage their own time in the evenings, which gives them an important break and a sense of freedom in an otherwise scheduled daily existence.”

Exercise as Medication Some inmates spend a long time in section A, with just a few hours per day out of their cells.

This can quickly lead to isolation and passivity.

“The early days in prison can be especially intrusive, with a lot of thoughts, uncertainty and anxiety. We have an important role to play in

getting people out of their cells and being active.”

“In addition to facilitating physical activity, there is a lot of chat. We find that exercise, conversations and following up with individuals has a very positive impact on the individual inmate. Our goal is to make a small but positive difference to inmates, who are in a challenging life situation.”

Into the Woods Vatne also draws attention to the use of the forest, where they have made a trail that they often follow with the inmates. This can be either in the form of individual sessions, or in small groups.

“Some inmates serving long sentences may not have seen anything but asphalt and concrete for years. In the forest at Halden Prison they can’t see the walls, and the terrain is rugged. It gives the sense of being on a hike somewhere in the great outdoors, and is good for the balance and mental health,” Joakim says.

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THE HEALTH SECTION

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“It’s fantastic to see how team sport has a shared, international language. Not least when we’re playing football, we see a lot of talent that has given way to substance abuse and criminal activities,” says head recreational leader Joakim.

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THE HEALTH SECTION

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

O F F ERING GOO D C ULTURA L EX P E RIENC E S

Training is customised for the individual. Pictured is head recreational leader Joakim Vatne and his colleague Trond Marius Torgersen supporting one of the inmates. There is a total of three employees in the leisure and culture section.

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THE HEALTH SECTION

Many famous artists pass through Halden Prison. This provides good experiences for both employees and inmates.

Joakim Vatne is also responsible for external cultural offerings and enjoys a strong partnership with Østfold Kulturutvikling’s ‘Culture Drop’ programme.

Culture Drop is a countywide project that seeks to facilitate an ongoing cultural provision to people in rehabilitation centres and day centres, as well as in prisons and aftercare in Østfold.

Culture Drop offers 6-8 cultural activities per year with varied content, including concerts, theatre courses, film courses and various talks.

Figures such as Magnus Grønneberg, Steinar

“You don’t stop liking cultural experiences, even if your life changes. We are proud to provide culture to inmates in prisons and residents in rehabilitation institutions in Østfold.” Østfold Kulturutvikling

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Albrigtsen, Onkel Tuka, Tuva Syvertsen, Eva & The Heartmaker, Jonas Alaska, Gaute Ormåsen and Cecilia Wennersten are amongst those to have taken to the stage at Halden Prison.

Intimate concerts are organised in the chaplaincy, while open concerts take place in the gym. These events are highly popular amongst both inmates and employees.

Leisure and culture section • • • • • •

Located in the K building Modern gym and strength room Large outdoor area Customised exercise Regular cultural events Many famous artists and groups on the stage

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EDUCATION

MU SI C ST U DIO Music engages, inspires and creates positive experiences of mastery - even for inmates.

Guitar, double bass, accordion, keyboard, percussion or vocals. There is a wide range of options on offer at Halden Prison for those who want to learn or further develop their singing and musical abilities.

In the modern and well-equipped sound studio they also produce songs, record CDs and music videos and practice original musicals.

“This is Criminal Record,” says head music teacher Torbjørn Rodal, welcoming us into the cutting-edge, well-equipped studio.

A Genuine Sound Studio

The sound studio at Halden Prison is modern and provides its users with many opportunities. They can learn to play instruments and sing, while also interacting with each other. This is both educational and provides a sense of mastery.

What began as a project at Oslo Prison 18 years ago has become a permanent and highly popular feature of Halden Prison. Torbjørn has been there since the beginning.

“It transpired that troubled and restless inmates who were bouncing off the walls benefited a great deal from music. Learning to handle an instrument provides creativity, a sense of mastery and empathy and presence in the moment. It’s a great form of therapy for many.”

Popular Music Today, he heads up the educational provision attached to the studio at Halden Prison, which has long been in high demand by inmates. The courses are part of the provision of schooling under the auspices of Halden

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EDUCATION

Upper Secondary School and keep three teachers occupied for a combined total of two man-years.

In addition, the Norwegian Correctional Services has an employee attached to the sound studio.

“All inmates can apply to our courses.

The courses have varying durations, but are generally semester-based.

There is a big range in the abilities of our students, from those who have barely ever held a guitar to driven band musicians.”

“We have a curriculum and schooling plan we have to stick to, but we try to adapt what we offer to the aims and abilities of the individual,” he says.

Projects with a Personal Touch Torbjørn makes sure that the students have specific and final projects as part of their learning experience and to enhance their motivation. This includes recording CDs in the studio which they get to keep.

It is fully possible to combine different courses, and students in the film class like to produce music videos of their own self-produced songs.

“Our performances of musicals are a good example of moving beyond the curriculum to cultivate a sense of mastery and improving interaction, as well as helping inmates to take responsibility and show each other consideration.”

A Sense of Community Inmates, teachers and prison officers participate in the performances - and many have never stood on a stage before. It creates excitement and an incredible atmosphere both before and during the performance - and for a long time afterwards.

Those who complete a course receive a certificate of completion. But the most important thing they take away is the desire and knowledge to continue creating music after they finish their sentence.

“Music has a really positive impact on us,” he concludes.

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The music studio is part of the educational provision.

The timetable includes: Music technology, guitar, keyboard, interaction, moving images/film.

Maximum of four students per group.

Multiple courses can be combined.

Students can borrow guitars and keyboards in their spare time.

Two FTEs are connected to the studio, distributed across three teachers.

The music studio regularly stages musicals performed in the gym in the activity and cultural centre.

“Our performances of musicals are a good example of moving beyond the curriculum to cultivate a sense of mastery and improving interaction, as well as helping inmates to take responsibility and show each other consideration.”

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RETREAT

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

“The retreat meant that I put things into words that I’ve never done before. The retreat has given me a kick in the pants. I want to live a new life - not a life of crime. The goal is the same as before, but the path to reach it has changed. I want to live a good life without crime. The retreat is an awakening. I really believe in this programme. If you go into it with an open heart, it’s hard not to be affected.”

Inmate, Halden Prison

“The retreat awakens you - gives you insight into yourself. The retreat has been a gift from God. The retreat builds on the release - you plan for life afterwards and visualise your dream. The way forward is clearer. I think everyone deserves to experience the retreat. It’s important to move on and to come out of the shadows. Finally, prison has found something that works. The retreat changes you.”

Inmate, Halden Prison

“I’ve done all the programmes here at Halden Prison and at Oslo Prison - anger management, stress management, Dad in prison, parental guidance - all those things. They’re good programmes. But the retreat is on a much higher level. There’s so much depth around the retreat. It can’t be compared with the other programmes here. I’ve done it twice now. And if there’s one thing I believe in, it’s the retreat.”

Inmate, Halden Prison

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

RETREAT

R ETREAT – Th re e We e k s in S ile n ce 21 days in the prison monastery changes you. You have plenty of time to reflect on topics like guilt, kindness, mercy and forgiveness. It generates results!

H

alden Prison was the first prison in Norway to introduce a retreat in 2013, based on Loyola’s self-recognition programme from the 1500s. Longterm inmates - Christians alongside atheists and Muslims - stand in a circle and read prayers and bible passages, as has been the custom in monasteries for 500 years.

The goal is to provide inmates with the long-term tools to work on their own past, future and close relationships, and thereby build up the willingness to embrace lasting, positive change in their own lives.

Strong Motivational Factors Participants enter the rituals and themselves on the basis of silence, in combination with meditation, reflection, companionship and guidance.

The model is inspired by Sweden’s biggest prison

at Kumla, where they have built a dedicated monastery within the prison walls and run retreats all year round. The prison has seen excellent results over the course of many years.

The provision is for everyone who is motivated to change. During the retreat, they reconcile themselves with the life they have lived, and make choices for the future on a deeper, spiritual plane.

“Afterwards, we follow up with monthly conversations. This hopefully contributes to lasting change, which is an important element of preparing for life after prison,” says Mari Skartveit, retreat leader at Halden Prison.

“And even if it doesn’t lead to lifelong change for all, perhaps some people use the retreat to find themselves, change their attitudes, contemplate important issues, etc.

Most people benefit from participating.”

“Look at yourself, observe who you are. Don’t judge - don’t think about whether you are good or bad, only look at who you are right now.”

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RETREAT

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

The definition of a retreat is as follows:

“A retreat from the disturbances of everyday life to silence, reflection and composure.”

According to Marit Skartveit, it gets participants to delve deep within themselves.

“Although the retreat has a Christian framework, it isn’t missionary work,” emphasises retreat leader Marit Skartveit. She also heads up the Salvation Army’s work in prison.

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

The retreat can take six participants at a time, and inmates are on a waiting list to get in.

Currently, a retreat is organised once every summer, when an area is cleared and isolated in section A. The long-term desire is to run all year round with a permanent, physical monastery within the prison walls.

Life in the Monastery Radio and TV are not permitted during retreat, and there are no visitors or phone calls.

Contact with other inmates is not allowed for 21 days. Each participant has their own bedroom, there is a common area with a long table and a separate exercise yard.

The themes can be described as follows: • Each and every person is unique and inviolable. There is good in every person • Reconcile with what has happened. Self-knowledge • Concerning kindness, wisdom, justice, courage, faith, hope and love • The new life • The art of and ability to make good choices Humans are very complex. No one is just good or evil. And as a rule, we know the difference between good and evil.

A Fixed Daily Schedule Participants follow a fixed daily schedule. During morning prayers, the theme for the day is set and during evening mass the day is summarised.

This is to create a cohesive strand binding the day together and a progression in terms of themes.

The hours in between are filled with meditation, gatherings, exercises and meals in silence, as well as conversations with the guide.

Here I am. You can see me, God. You know how things are for me.

This is all of me - without any exaggeration, omission or embellishments. Out of faith in your kindness, I hide nothing - instead letting the light fall onto my shame and shadows.

The truth makes me free - truth and grace.

“The community is strengthened by shared mealtimes and by being together in a small space in silence. Additionally, there is a sense of freedom imbued by withdrawing from everyday routines.

As the exercise yard is open, participants can go outside in the sunshine, wander around in the rain or sit and reflect in the lean-to,” says Skartveit.

The guides’ task is to help participants to work on themselves: to find the good that is in all people, and thereby make new choices for the future. Additionally,

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RETREAT

they help by keeping focus even afterwards.

Paul says in Romans 7:15: “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.”

Rituals with a Purpose The rituals and spirituality connected to the Christian faith are an important part of the content.

In the forgiveness ritual, all participants write down their misdeeds on a piece of paper, put it in an envelope and nail it on the cross - referring to the crucifixion of Jesus on the cross and his death for our sins. Then they burn the envelope in the exercise yard until all that remains are ashes.

The gift that I ask for: Give me courage to see myself without judging myself.

“A strong symbolic action, and many feel afterwards that they have been forgiven and are ready for a new beginning. That the heavy burdens of their own actions are gone,” explains Reidar Faanes, prison chaplain, one of those behind the retreat initiative at Halden.

Just the idea of returning to the community again is a big hurdle for many inmates serving longer sentences. As part of the retreat programme, they undergo a cleansing process that means that they dare to lift their gaze and look ahead.

They gain confidence in themselves and that they have something positive to offer, and that any good they do will be well received.

“I’ve never seen another treatment programme before that leads to such huge changes in inmates,” says Faanes.

Noticeable Change Participants talk about powerful experiences after joining the retreat, and how those around them also notice the change, according to Marit Skartveit.

“Many come across as more positive and open than before, and are determined to do good.

They take care of new inmates, act as conflict resolvers, talk to inmates with respect and become role models in the prison environment.”

“This is the best indication that it actually works,” she states.

We seek the peace that exists behind the noise and the bustle.

We do not ask for strong emotions and deep thoughts, or for riches and success, but for insight, light and tranquillity of the soul .

God, you are our protector, you love us. That is enough.

Silence is the breath of your presence, a robe around my troubled heart.

Make me peaceful like still water reflecting the light of the sky.

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NAVIGATOR

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

N avig ato r :

GU IDING YO U TO A L I F E Navigator at Halden is considered by inmates to be one of the very best drug rehabilitation units within the Norwegian Correctional Services.

Studies have shown that more than 60 per cent of inmates have significant drug problems, and a large proportion of all crime is in one way or another connected to the use of drugs.

But having a drug problem is one thing.

Recognising that you have one is an entirely different matter according to the prison’s Head Milieu Therapist, Arne Dalene.

“To get a spot in Navigator, you need to have acknowledged your addiction and be motivated to strive for lasting change.

Namely, the wish for an addiction-free future.”

High Levels of Expertise

“We see many examples of the fact that our work works and makes a difference to many,” says Head Milieu Therapist Arne Dalene.

“This is both in the form of meeting former inmates together with their families out in the community, and greetings and Christmas cards we receive many years after inmates furlough us.”

Dalene had worked on drug-related issues in the municipal sector for 25 years before taking up his job at the prison, meaning he is very experienced.

In addition to three milieu therapists, the unit has access to a psychologist at Østfold Hospital.

Responding to the question of what addiction treatment consists of, he says: “There is no specific description or recipe for drug treatment. You can’t have an operation to remove the problem, and no medicines will make you better. First and foremost, we ask the inmates to look themselves in the mirror and focus on their own attitudes to themselves and the community around them. Who do I want to be? How do I want to live? Do I want change?”

“It’s the inmate who is in focus - we’re here to help.”

Individual Follow-Up Everyone serving their sentence in Navigator is provided with an individual follow-up plan. Joint meetings, activities and exercise are also a key element of the content and the social training provided.

In addition, the drug unit provides auricular therapy for those engaged in abstinence through

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NAVIGATOR

WITH OUT A D D I C T I ON their NADA programme, which can improve quality of sleep, sensitivity to stress, concentration, anxiety, the immune system and much more. Yoga is also used to good effect, and the Narcotics Anonymous visit once a week and are available for a chat.

Positive Psychology “We use a lot of positive psychology in our work.

Many people come here with very poor selfesteem and little belief in a positive future. Our starting point is that everyone is good enough, and that everyone has talents and opportunities if they are willing to get grip on their lives.”

“We do training to identify the small, positive things in daily life. It might be that a prison officer gives you positive feedback, a fellow inmate offers you a cup of coffee or you get a pat on the back.”

“Our rehabilitation work for life on the outside also provides inmates with great motivation to stay drug-free. They can actually see that someone is making an effort to ensure they succeed.”

Your Own Responsibility “At the same time, it’s important to point out that it is the inmates themselves who are primarily responsible for their own follow-up care and changes in attitude. It is entirely possible get up and move forward with you head held high,” he says.

“There are many helping hands to aid you on your way, but you have to be willing to take hold of them.”

It isn’t enough to just get your blood sober. You also need to be “sober in your head”, which takes far longer according to Arne Dalene.

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Navigator is a drug addiction rehabilitation unit at Halden Prison.

There are 10 places available. * In addition, there are 6 places available at Navigator 2 in the halfway house.

It is a collaboration between Halden Prison and Østfold Hospital under the auspices of the social psychiatric clinic (SMP) in Sarpsborg. SMP provides specialist healthcare services in the interdisciplinary specialist treatment of drug addiction.

You can have your patient rights assessed and, if necessary, receive the services of a psychologist through SMP. Individual inmates in drug addiction rehabilitation are occupied on weekdays.

Personnel have expertise and interest in working with addiction issues and drug-related challenges.

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THE VISITOR CENTRE

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

Th e Visi to r Centre

– In t he B e st I nte re st s o f t he C hild

“There are many touching scenes that take place when the children come running up to the visitor centre and throw themselves into their dad’s arms.”

The visitor centre is in an idyllic location, and provides children with the opportunity to meet their imprisoned father in surroundings that are as normal as possible. It is a highly popular provision amongst inmates.

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

A dedicated visitor centre with overnight accommodation is an important part of Halden Prison’s provision for inmates. The house is reserved for inmates with children and young inmates being visited by their relatives.

The visitor centre is located within the prison walls, but is also separated from the other buildings. It is a cosy, furnished home with a kitchen, bathroom, three bedrooms and large outdoor area available to inmates of the prison.

Inmates can spend time with their children and, if applicable, spouse or partner in peaceful surroundings. Young inmates can also make use of the visitor centre and be visited by their parents.

“Maintaining contact with close family is an important part of our provision to inmates. But this is first and foremost about taking care of the children, rather than simply the inmate. The Norwegian Correctional Service wants to make sure that children can meet their fathers in surroundings that are as normal as possible so that they suffer as little as possible as a result of their father’s imprisonment. At the same time, we see that inmates need to maintain their role as fathers and understand the importance of this,” programme officer Elling Ellingsen points out.

Course Completed – Permission Granted In addition to the ordinary visiting opportunities, inmates may apply to use the visitor centre once per month. However, use will only be granted if the father has taken at least one of two courses: ‘Dad in prison’ and/or ‘ICDP’.

“In addition to participants improving their skills in relation to being fathers, we also get to know them well through the courses. This is a good way of ensuring that they are suitable users of the visitor centre, e.g. for overnight visits,” says Ellingsen.

“The provision is based on a trusting relationship with the inmates, and is considered to be a form of furlough within the prison walls. Often the fathers talk about it as if they’re going ‘on holiday’.”

Creating a Tight-Knit Family Fathers who are granted a one-night visit receive additional funds on their prepaid

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card that they can use to make purchases in the shop. This is because they cook all food during the stay together with their family.

The house has a TV, board games and toys, so that the family can spend time together. The garden features a climbing frame and playhouse for children.

Additionally, adults have the opportunity to talk oneon-one once their child or children have fallen asleep.

“We also offer families the chance to use a digital camera during their stay. This means they can keep all the good memories of their visit, which the children will be able to see when they get home. The photos are burnt to CD and sent to them after their visit. If they like, fathers can have these photos printed to put up in their cells.”

In other words, everything is done to create a cosy interaction while also strengthening family

The outdoor space is an important part of the package. “Here children can play freely with the adult,” says programme officer Elling Ellingsen.

relationships. This makes things easier when the father is released after completing his sentence.

Lots of Opportunities Many have lived a normal family life until Dad is suddenly gone when he has to serve his sentence.

This is why it is important for children to see that he is actually okay in prison. A visit of this kind often provides children with a more nuanced picture of what a prison sentence involves, and it has been shown to reduce anxiety in children.

“If they want, they can also visit Dad’s cell to

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see his ‘room’. We normally offer these visits in connection with activity days. Fathers take the opportunity to clean and decorate their cells.

They also try to have family photos, children’s drawings and sweets in place. This is all to make it as cosy as possible,” says Elling.

Inmates who have completed the programmes ‘Dad in prison’ and ‘ICDP’ are also offered the chance to join a fathers’ group. The group meets on a monthly basis. Voluntary organisations also participate in the meetings to discuss and provide information about their services available to families with children.

During the course of the year, four activity days are held to which children and relatives are invited by the fathers’ group to a joint gathering in the activity building. The activity days are organised by the fathers’ group, which holds a barbecue and arranges games and activities for the children.

The Christmas party, which is held in early January, is very popular and also very traditional, with dancing around the tree, entertainment and naturally a visit from Father Christmas.

Strong Motivational Factors Elling does not doubt that the children and their close families are often great motivations for change amongst inmates who are fathers. Being reminded of their parental responsibilities, focusing on being fathers and learning about positive play and living together during their sentence can all help the inmate to maintain contact with his family during their sentence while also strengthening his belief that it is possible to live a life without crime. Feedback from fathers who have participated in the fathers’ group is that having regular contact with their children awakens something important in their attitude.

“There are many touching scenes that take place when the children come running up to the visitor centre and throw themselves into their dad’s arms,” he says.

The house is used three times per week.

This is to ensure that it can be thoroughly inspected and cleared prior to the next visit.

Dedicated to the Welfare of Children The Norwegian Correctional Service wants facilitate better visits to prison by relatives, and especially children. This is why all Norwegian prisons and Correctional Service offices now employ a member of staff dedicated to child welfare.

The target group for this work is children impacted by the execution of sentences. The member of staff responsible for child welfare’s task is to provide advice and guidance to children and relatives who have questions relating to prison and punishment.

It is also the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that the prison and Norwegian Correctional Services office are aware of children impacted by the prison sentence.

Prisons and Norwegian Correctional Services offices must comply with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and other laws relating to parents and children.

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THE VISITOR CENTRE

Dad in Prison ‘Dad in prison’ is a programme that primarily focuses on the role of being a father.

This focus is intended to help participants to gain new perspectives and attitudes in relation to their responsibilities to their family.

Methodology and Contents In order to meet the comprehensive aims of the programme, it has been built using the following elements: • • • • •

Network map, family and family situation Communication Development theory - children’s development Role theory - roles and role models Emotions - how to deal with and master emotions

• • • •

Challenges and problem solving Children’s health - prevention and treatment Children’s rights - parent’s responsibilities Public services - who can you cooperate with Form and Implementation The programme is conducted over a period of 4 weeks and includes, amongst other things, gatherings where the family participate and an assignment where inmates communicate with their children via a video.

ICDP (International Child Development Programme) ‘ICDP’ is a simple health and preventative programme that aims to enhance the experience of growing up for children and young people. The programme is based on the principle of sensitisation and is aimed at caregivers to improve their care skills. It is a universal programme developed by Psychologist Karsten Hundeide and Professor Henning Rye at the University of Oslo.

The programme has been recognised and is used by organisations including UNICEF and the WHO.

The aims of the ICDP:

ICDP areas of application:

• Influencing the caregiver’s positive experience of the child so that the caregiver is able to identify and empathise with the child.

• Helping the caregiver to become aware of the child’s conditions and needs and to adjust care to the child’s own needs and initiatives.

• Strengthening the caregiver’s self-esteem.

• Promoting sensitive and expressive communication between the caregiver and the child so that the emotional relationship between the two is positive and evolving.

• Promoting enriching and stimulating interaction between the caregiver and the child. Enriching its perception and experience of the world.

• Developing and guiding the child’s mastery of tasks required in relation to other people and the surrounding world.

• Using and activating local practices in raising children and children’s culture through play, games, song and shared activities.

• As an integrated part of primary care services where the preventative information and raising of caregiver awareness is deemed important.

• In kindergarten to enrich and develop interaction. This programme enables preschool teachers and assistants to be aware of the quality of care and interaction that is necessary for the child’s emotional stability, attachment and skills development.

• In preventative child welfare measures to help parents to use their own resources in the care of their children.

• For teachers in primary school to create a good climate in the classroom and to create good interaction between the individual teacher and pupil, forming the basis for a positive learning environment.

• In training caregivers in institutions for children in order to make caregivers aware of children’s specific psychosocial requirements. This applies to both children under the care of the child welfare services and children with disabilities.

• In the development of minimum standards for human care for children affected by crisis situations: children who are placed in camps or institutions due to war, emigration, disasters, abuse and trauma, or abandoned street children.

Information taken from the website www.icdp.no

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H e l l o! I’ m Fro de Frog!

Frode Frog meets children right by the entrance and has become a popular companion. Frode is available as a figure, in paintings, seat covers and stickers, and features on a range of products in the prison.

“At Halden Prison, we have a child’s perspective on what we do,” says social worker and head of child welfare Vigdis Bye. She provides advice and guidance to inmates, employees and relatives, and ensures that children’s needs are in focus.

Frode Frog is the best friend of children visiting Halden Prison. He welcomes them at the entry gate, and pops up in the corridors, visiting section and visitor centre.

“Frode encourages increased happiness amongst children and leads to more activities. He’s become a natural part of the environment. We’re very fond of Frode,” says Vigdis Bye, social worker and head of child welfare at Halden Prison.

Special Responsibility for Children The Norwegian Correctional Service wishes to take care of the relatives of inmates, and has a special responsibility towards children, who have been called the ‘hidden victims of punishment’.

Prisons and Norwegian Correctional

Services offices must comply with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and other laws relating to parents and children.

Halden Prison was the first prison to engage a member of staff dedicated to child welfare in 2012, specifically to safeguard the interests and rights of children in the best way possible. The prison broke important ground in this respect by producing good procedures and optimally systematising the role.

In 2014, the Directorate of Norwegian Correctional Service (KDI) introduced requirements for all prisons to employ a member of staff responsible for child welfare.

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Help and Guidance are Available “The target group for this work is children impacted by the execution of sentences. We do this by providing help and guidance to children and relatives who have questions relating to prison and punishment. I want everyone at Halden Prison, inmates and employees alike, to have a child’s perspective.

New arrivals are always assessed in terms of their status regarding children, and are informed of the role of the head of child welfare and the parental programme on offer.

It is also the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that the prison and Norwegian Correctional Services office are aware of children impacted by the prison sentence.

Going to Great Lengths At Halden Prison, we have done a lot to make sure we can take care of children’s needs when a carer is in prison.

“First and foremost, we are conscious to ensure that children are seen and received positively by employees when they visit the prison. We must show them dignity and respect. It isn’t the children’s fault that their father is in prison,” she points out.

Upon arrival, young children are given a small toy by staff, which often results in a shared smile and less tension all around.

“In addition, we have tried to make things a little more pleasant by decorating the visiting section in a child-friendly manner, and by providing tempting activities with Frode Frog.”

In the prison, there are two rooms for children, of which one has a separate exercise yard, and there is a room for youths with a PlayStation.

Many children are anxious and worried when their father ends up in prison. Is he getting enough to eat? Does he have his own bed? Is he okay?

“This is why it is important that the children get answers to everything they’re pondering, and dispelling some of those concerns by letting them see how he lives, goes to school, works, and participates in leisure activities.

We try to do this as much as is possible.”

Honesty is the Best Policy It is not uncommon for Vigdis to encounter fathers who do not want their children to know they are

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in prison. One argument for this is that they are anxious that their children will be bullied if it becomes known that their father is in prison.

“In that case, I have a long chat with the inmate and encourage him to be honest with his children.

It generally comes out that dad is in prison anyway, so it’s better they find out from him.”

“My clear advice is that the fathers talk honestly with their children, but that they adjust what they say depending on the age and maturity of the child.”

However, many fathers have lost contact with their children as a result of their criminal activities.

Often, it is the child’s mother who has broken all connections. In this case, a meeting through the conflict resolution board or the family reunification office can be important in order to discuss what has happened and agree on the way forward.

A Comfortable Environment Some inmates have a history that dictates they are not permitted to have contact with their children.

In other cases, a visit can be carried out under supervision. Vigdis therefore engages in close dialogue with child welfare services and the family reunification office to ensure that everything takes place in a comfortable environment for the children.

“When we hear or see that children are suffering from abuse, we are - as public employees - obliged to notify child welfare services. Halden Prison has a specific procedure for this,” she says.

Everyone can ask for support from the head of child welfare to evaluate whether to notify child welfare services, discuss matters and assist in contacting child welfare services.

Vigdis always arranges a meeting with families who have applied to use the visitor centre.

This is as part of the application process, and in order to take the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child seriously, as it states that children must be heard in cases that concern them.

“I provide some information about how the visit will be set up, and the children get to give their views on whether they feel okay visiting their father - or it may be another relative - and how often they want to visit him and so on. At the same time, we get to know those people we invite to use the visitor centre a little better.

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Visits with Financial Support Many relatives travel a long way to visit an inmate in Halden Prison, which can be a financial challenge.

“It’s sad if this means children can’t visit their dads. But it is possible to apply to NAV for financial support to travel to the prison if you can’t afford to otherwise,” she says.

The prison also maintains a partnership with the Church City Mission, which, through its ‘Myrsnipa’ programme, facilitates good, safe interactions between children and their parents in situations where the parents may not want anything to do with each other, but where children still have to visit their father. The Church City Mission can also arrange to drive mothers and their children to prison visits by agreement.

“They can agree with the mother and father to accompany the child to and from prison and to be present throughout the visit. The FFP (The Organisation for Families and Friends of Prisoners) and the Norwegian Red Cross can provide support where necessary, and are important, voluntary organisations in work relating to inmates and their relatives and children.

Foreign inmates may apply to use the Skype VOIP service to see relatives and children. This takes place during ordinary visiting hours.

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Children’s Page on the Prison Website Halden Prison has a separate page for children on its website, which is both informative and ‘playful’.

“Having a father in prison - and all that encompasses in terms of thoughts about shame and guilt - is a serious subject,” says head of child welfare Vigdis Bye. “Some children are worried that going to prison is hereditary. Some worry about whether their dad has everything he needs in prison.

We provide links to useful pages for children/ relatives. It can also be a helpful page for those

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helping children/working with children.

In the middle of the page is a map of Halden Prison with buttons you can press which starts a voice description of what you are looking at and provides a text.

This enables children to ‘get to know’ the prison before they visit.”

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THREE LEVELS O F S E C U R I T Y * Static * Orga nis at i onal * Dyna m ic

NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

The Norwegian Correctional Services defines security as follows: “Security is the sum of the initiatives that aim to prevent and handle situations where the safety of the community, employees and inmates may be threatened.”

Static Security The static element comprises the massive wall surrounding the prison (1.3 kilometres long, 6 metres high), in addition to building structure and architecture, locked doors, cell intercom systems, unbreakable glass, camera surveillance, motion detection, door phones, access control and alarms, and much more.

The security requirements are aimed at reducing the risk on unwanted incidents.

There are differing security requirements for the outdoor spaces, depending on the areas’ use and accessibility, and the security requirements govern the design of, use of materials for and planting around outdoor areas.

In those areas that are to be accessible to inmates, one of the most important things is to avoid creating hiding places for objects. In addition, there is a good overview of the areas and they are designed so that camera surveillance is possible throughout. Trees have been pruned to create the necessary lines of sight at ground level.

Organisational Security Organisational security refers to the organisation of work, responsibilities and authority. Examples of this are staffing plans, local instructional work, training, deviation management and crisis management plans.

What happens when an alarm goes off? Who goes to which alarm? Everyone must know at all times where they need to be if an incident occurs.

If someone triggers an alarm because of a threatening situation, they will be surrounded by colleagues who can provide support within seconds.

Dynamic Security Dynamic security is created through relationships and interaction between inmates and employees, which helps to increase the security of both groups.

Examples of this are maintaining a presence in the community, contact officer work (and all this involves in terms of conversations and support), leisure activities, work and programmes.

Prison environment is an important part of dynamic security in Halden Prison, says Prison Governor Are Høidal. Working to maintain the environment means facilitating inmates’ every day from morning until evening, while at the same time structuring the community with an aim towards rehabilitation. Through the prison environment we’re able to create potential for inmates to work on personal change and development. This development becomes possible through clear, credible, and

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repeating daily structures and relationships.

Correctional officers and prison employees who work with inmates in their everyday life are central to this prosess. In this way, we are well acquainted with individual inmates, says Høidal. This contact provides a greater opportunity to halt undesired or unfortunate events and activities, because we have our fingers on the pulse of the prison environment.

Activities from morning to evening are preventive and prevent such aggressive behavior and actions.

This process is an important part of safety work.

Intervention is an Option If a situation turns out to be difficult and cannot be resolved through dialogue, officers may equip themselves and enter to physically remove the threat and place the individual in question in a security cell. If necessary, officers may also use CS (tear) gas or OC (pepper) spray. This is often more humane than using physical power.

An inmate can also be removed from the community, confined to their cell for a period of time if their behavior is inappropriate or harmful towards other inmates, or prison employees.

Post Deliveries and Visitors Ensuring that drugs are not smuggled in is a constant challenge for prisons. Fallmo believes that they have as much control as it is possible to have under the law.

“We most commonly uncover attempts at smuggling into the prison when inmates return from furlough and when visitors come from outside.”

“Anybody coming in undergoes a thorough inspection with their luggage, jackets, shoes, etc. all being inspected. Sometimes we carry out checks with drug dogs.”

If there are suspicions that an individual may have drugs on their person, the police are contacted.

“We are not allowed to search visitors, but we can hold them for up to four hours so that the police can come and carry out an examination of the visitor and follow up on the matter,” he explains.

Incoming post is also checked in accordance with the Criminal Procedure Act and the Execution of Sentences Act.

“Good security must not be at the expense of human dignity and it must safeguard the safety of the community, employees, convicts and inmates.”

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– For a G e ntle Tra n si t i o n to Soc ie ty

Many inmates dread returning to society at the end of their sentence. The Release Coordinators and Social Workers facilitate the best possible transition to normal life.

Halden Prison has two Release Coordinators, two Social Workers and one NAV employee in its Service Centre. Everyone is focused on ensuring that inmates get the best possible start in life after completing their sentence.

“It may be connected to housing, work, NAV initiatives, income protection, new networks, finances/debt, health care, etc.” says Release Coordinator Lise Cathrine Finn.

Simple Normal Existence The Release Coordinators and Social Workers have an important role to play in achieving the goal of inmates being “better out and than in” through facilitating a straightforward transition to a normal existence. They have to coordinate all initiatives both on behalf of the Norwegian Correctional Service and other bodies such as schools, healthcare providers, NAV, the municipality and voluntary organisations.

“The goal is to ensure a successful transition to a life without crime,” says Lise Cathrine.

“This depends first and foremost on the convict, but also on many different bodies taking responsibility for providing support and assistance, with the inmate’s home municipality being the most important amongst these.”

A Two-Stage Rocket The Release Coordinators at Halden Prison ensure systems and organisation are in place within the prison to make sure that inmates’ rights are safeguarded while they serve their sentence. They also work at an individual level.

“Individual contact is incredibly important, and we try to maintain extra close follow-up with inmates during the final year of their sentence,” she says.

The prison uses a specific approach (BRIK) to identify the needs and resources of inmates under the care of the Norwegian Correctional Service. This uncovers the needs and resources of an individual.

This means they can prepare an individual, future-oriented programme of content during their sentence that provides better opportunities for a life as a law-abiding citizen afterwards.

“The assessment isn’t mandatory. This is a provision made available to inmates, and they can also decide that there are specific issues they don’t want to talk about.

It’s not uncommon for them to have complex issues such as unemployment, incomplete schools, homelessness or poor health. The assessment is therefore important in order to uncover any ‘gaps’ that may cause issues in the inmate’s return to society.”

“We can then call a collaborative meeting with various bodies in their home municipality. This might involve NAV, the

Finding somewhere to live and a new network are two important things that must be done if inmates are to make it after release, and here at the Service Centre they are standing by to help. housing office, addiction services, etc.”

Focus on Housing Many inmates are already clients of one or more public bodies prior to their sentence, and a large proportion of them will also be dependent on these services after release. During the implementation of their sentence, many are more motivated than before to get to grips with their own issues - they may have pursued educational opportunities and overcome addictions.

“The person returning to normality in their home municipality can often be a completely different person than the one who arrived at the start of their sentence. This means it is important

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that he has real opportunities to establish a new life for himself,” says Lise Cathrine.

Finding housing is an important piece of the jigsaw. But it is also a difficult area in legal terms. Finding suitable housing is by no means guaranteed, according to Lise Cathrine.

She also points out the importance of the convict being provided with supporters and surrounded by a positive network, and highlights the key role played by voluntary organisations in the release process.

“Their input in many areas is invaluable. They offer positive meeting places during free time, support while job hunting, conversation partners, health assistance, accompaniment to public offices, etc.”

“Without them, it becomes all too easy to seek out old stamping grounds following release.”

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First Point of Contact Contact officers also have an important role to play in release work, and cooperate with the Release Coordinators.

“They are closest to the individuals, and can uncover needs that they can provide immediate support on. We represent an additional service and are specialists in the area as we work with this on a daily basis,” says Lise Cathrine Finn.

Voluntary Organisations in Halden Prison Juss-Buss

Change Work Targeted release work focuses on a combination of change work and management cooperation.

The risk of relapse may be greater if the inmate goes straight from a high-security prison to freedom. This is why an active effort is made to ensure that the final part of a sentence takes place outside a high-security prison.

Naturally, this requires the conditions for serving a sentence in an open prison, halfway house or at home to be fulfilled (in line with paragraph 16 of the Alternatives to Imprisonment Act).

“We often cooperate on individual matters with other prisons and the Norwegian Correctional Service on what needs doing to ensure a successful release of people who have served their sentence at Halden.”

Gatejuristen Salvation Army’s prison work Prison Fellowship Østfold Red Cross, Visitor Service Norwegian Red Cross, Network After Sentence, Østfold Norwegian Red Cross, Network After Sentence, Oslo Church City Mission in Østfold WayBack Narcotics Anonymous Retretten The Marita Foundation

Inmates can be called in for conversations, or they can opt to book an appointment at the Service Centre. Social Worker Cardo Sleyman and Release Coordinator Lise Cathrine Finn cooperate closely to facilitate a gentle transition back into society for inmates.

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Halden Halfway House:

A SAF E STEP TOWAR DS F REEDO M Outside the prison walls is Halden Halfway House.

Inmates from across the country can apply to come here.

Halfway houses are an important step in the gradual return to society.

Inmates can be transferred from high or low-security prisons to halfway houses when they have completed part of their sentence.

Promoting Positive Development

The halfway house offers close monitoring of convicts who are still serving their sentence and are expected to be released shortly. This provision is connected to the overall implementation of the sentence.

The focus is on rehabilitation and making a good return to the community.

The transfer must be appropriate for promoting positive development and for counteracting any new criminal behaviour, and the convict must have already completed one period of leave without any issues.

This form of sentence involves living in the halfway house, but participating in education, work or other activities outside of the halfway house. The aim here is to facilitate life, work and social skills training prior to release.

“The remaining duration of sentences can vary from three months to a maximum of 18 months,” says Maria Jansen, Team Leader at Halden Halfway House.

One Step Closer to Freedom In addition to being free to undertake occupations during the day, residents may apply for 30 days of furlough per year with the opportunity for up to 50 days per year. In addition, short-term leave of up to 10 hours per week is available.

These periods of leave make it possible to increase contact with family and the surrounding world, which is also part of ensuring the smoothest possible transition to normal life.

“In the halfway house, you are one step closer to freedom, but the residents are still subject to the Norwegian Correctional Service’s regime. Everyone must follow the rules and procedures, while the world outside also begins to make its own demands of you.”

“All the residents have a schedule in relation to when they leave in the morning and when they have to be back. We make unannounced visits, and if they don’t turn up at work or where they are supposed to be, we are notified. A lot of it is based on trust. If that is abused, they face the consequences,” she says.

Individuals who are retired or disabled also get to participate in a daytime activity, usually within the voluntary sector.

Important Life Skills Training When serving a sentence in the halfway house, everyday life on the outside is suddenly very close by. This is a big adjustment for most people.

Many of those who arrive here need a few days before they have ‘landed’.

In the halfway house, residents sort out most things themselves within certain limits: they must ensure they get to and from work and school, they cook their own food, pay a symbolic rent, participate in common activities and so on.

At the same time, there is an emphasis on individual monitoring and the return to society in the form of networking and cooperation with other public bodies. This follow-up work

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takes place both before and after release from the halfway house in the form of compulsory attendance to meetings and the provision of a companion.

Under Orderly Conditions “Our task is to help ensure that the transition to freedom is as safe and good as possible, and we don’t let people move on if they don’t have organised circumstances to go to. It’s one thing to have a home and job, but it’s just as important that they are able to fill their free time if they don’t have a network around them,” the team leader points out.

“Filling the void when your colleagues head home to their families is one of the most difficult transitions for many following the completion of their sentence.”

“We’re strict about the few rules we do have in place,” says Team Leader Marita Jensen at Halden Halfway House. Seen here in conversation with one of the residents.

Halden Halfway House is located in a beautiful setting just outside of the prison walls. Residents benefit from crucial life and social skills training, and there are plenty of opportunities for leisure activities. The proximity of the prison also enables the use of shared resources.

Halden Halfway House • The halfway house can accommodate 24, distributed across 13 rooms: there are 11 twin rooms and 2 rooms for handicapped users.

• 14 members of staff work in the halfway house, including three activity therapists.

• Individuals serve their sentence in a safe and positive environment, with a focus on individually adapted preparations for release.

• Focus on activity work and life and social skills training.

• Opportunity to take up a place in substance abuse and crime prevention group, Navigator 2, one day per week.

• 30 days of furlough per year with the opportunity for up to 50 days per year.

• Short-term furlough of up to 10 hours per week.

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F RO M GUA R D TO TE A M MATE :

IN M AT E AND EM PLOY E E ON THE SA M E TE A M ‘Marius is like a good friend. One I can share my thoughts and feelings with,’ says Kim, who is delighted every time he beats his contact officer at board games!

The laughter is raucous when inmate Kim challenges his contact officer Marius Bjerkelund to a game of backgammon or another board game in the common room in residential section B - or when they watch ice hockey or football matches together.

‘We come from neighbouring towns and support our own teams, and this means it’s necessary to exchange a few words about sporting efforts,’ he says with a grin.

Can talk about everything In addition to their easy and informal chats about everyday life, Kim can also share his innermost thoughts and feelings with his contact officer. They have developed a good chemistry in a short time.

‘I would prefer to have Marius as a conversation partner than a fellow inmate.

It’s more natural for me,’ he says.

‘And I’m happy to give back by sharing parts of my life and experiences. It becomes a natural part of the trusting relationship,’ Marius replies.

Long prison sentence Kim has been in prison for seven years and still has three years left before he can apply for parole once two thirds of his sentence have been served. He understands why he is here, and has always been determined to make the best of the situation by actively taking up what is on offer.

‘I’ve just received my craft certificate as a carpenter,’ he says with pride, which he hopes and believes will help him to find steady work once he is released into society. In the long term, his dream is to start his own carpentry firm.

On the same team Marius is an important piece and supporting player on the path to a more stable and good life after release. As a contact officer, he is specifically tasked with keeping an eye on Kim throughout his sentence.

The role of contact officer is considered to be the pillar in the rehabilitation effort by being a good supporter and conversation partner for inmates on

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their way to a life without crime.

‘This is about mutual respect and trust. Inmates have expectations of their contact officer in the same way we expect them to put in effort in return. We set common goals, and I provide support in the form practical planning, guidance and motivation.’

‘But it is the inmate who has to follow the road. We can’t put pressure on them - all we can do is offer suggestions on which road to follow.

If they aren’t interested in changing, it’s useless.’

A connection The contact officer is also the connection between the inmate, the Norwegian Correctional Service’s other services and external bodies. They help with applications, drawing up agreements, taking part in responsibility group meetings etc.

‘But we are just a piece in the bigger picture, and there’s no guarantee that we can get everything done that we want to,’ he says.

‘But that isn’t Marius’ fault - he’s doing his job. The decisions are taken higher up in the system. I can’t take out my irritation and disappointment on him,’ Kim quips.

Can be frustrating Marius is the primary contact for two inmates, and is happy in his job. But he does not hide the fact that at times it can be frustrating when something they have been working on for a long time falls apart for a range of reasons.

This means they are back to square one and have to try and rebuild the inmate’s motivation all over again.

‘It’s very much a case of two steps forward and one step back. But as long as we are moving in the right direction overall, we just let things take the time they take,’ he reasons.

Security work Naturally, there is a major focus on security work in relation to both employees and inmates at the prison. If incidents occur, a contact officer may in theory end up putting ‘their’ inmate in irons one day, while the next day they have to function as a supervisor and help in the learning process and planning for the future.

‘It’s a difficult combination, but once again it is the inmate who has to take responsibility for their own future. Our job is to facilitate this and motivate them,’ he emphasises.

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Marius Bjerkelund is Kim’s contact officer, and supports him as a supervisor and in his daily tasks during his sentence. However, daily contact is also important, whether that is over a board game or watching a football match together. ‘We share a lot of jokes and laughs,’ they say.

Contact Officer Role The contact officer is an official with specific responsibility for following up on an individual inmate during their custody and sentence.

The contact officer’s main functions are to: • be responsible for ensuring that the inmate receives information about the prison and his or her rights and obligations • provide the inmate with an introduction to the contact officer’s duties and the limits to these • identify problems, requirements and resources as soon as possible after the inmate arrives • support and motivate the inmate to work constructively during their prison sentence • be the connection between the inmate and the prison as a whole • contribute to the process of planning for the future • assist in external inquiries, for example to social services, employment offices and school authorities

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NORWEGIAN CORRECTIONAL SERVICE | HALDEN PRISON

INMATE STORY

F ro m C are e r C riminal and Drug Addic t to Upsta nding Citizen:

“ HAL DEN P RISON WAS M Y SAVIOUR ” 20 minutes before Trond Henriksen was due to enter Halden Prison to serve his sentence, he took his last shot of heroin. Almost a year later, he came out a new person.

The story of Trond Henriksen is largely about a life of drugs and crime, right from when he was growing up in the eastern outskirts of Oslo until he was a fully grown adult.

He began to skip school because he couldn’t keep up in English at lower secondary school, and following a period of sickness he found a sense of belonging on the drugs scene. He was soon hooked on drugs, and was just 3 weeks past his 14th birthday when he was jailed for the first time.

By then he had already managed to steal 45 cars.

The young lad served his sentence alongside hardened criminals, and prison served as a finishing school in crime. At the age of 16, he led a prison riot in the Bayer unit at Oslo Prison. A block containing 100 cells was smashed to pieces.

Career Criminal In the years that followed, he added armed robbery, kidnapping, drugs crimes and prison escapes to his rap sheet, and was at one point described as Norway’s most dangerous man, with his picture plastered on the front page of the biggest newspaper in the country.

“It was brutal and unfair. Not for me, serving a long sentence. But for my family. My mother, in particular, has suffered a lot because of me,” he says quietly.

Trond is painfully aware that there are many victims left in the wake of his criminal career. A certainty he must live with for the rest of his life.

“I hate myself for what I’ve been involved in, and would like to undo it all. But unfortunately, that isn’t possible. I respect that many are unable to forgive me, and I have to reconcile myself with that. I hope those I have hurt can also reconcile themselves with the fact that my life has changed.”

“The drug addiction rehabilitation programme they have at Halden Prison is fantastic. It’s the reason I’m sitting here today,”

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When Life Turned Around

Trond refers to Prison Governor Are Høidal as “Dad” and highlights that his input was crucial in Trond’s own change during his presentations.

On 20 October 2010, Trond was standing outside Halden Prison facing a sentence of 16 months.

He had just taken a shot of heroin and was tired of life. He had been sober for seven years before suffering a relapse. His life was falling apart, again.

“I was homeless and owned nothing, and I was an addict. I couldn’t see a future,” he says honestly.

However, the sentence of around a year turned almost everything around. He got the help and motivation he needed to face his own challenges, and slowly but surely he built up confidence in himself and that there was a good life on the outside. Most importantly, that he had something positive to offer.

“The drug rehabilitation programme in prison was my saviour. 30 years of drug abuse eventually came to an end.”

Thanks to the Prison Governor Prison Governor Are Høidal launched a prison radio station, Radio Inside, in collaboration with the local radio station Radio Prime. Trond became a presenter and also spent several years working for the station after his release. www.h aldenfe ng se l . no

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“I owe Are everything. He has followed me closely over the years, and has never given up on me. He has also been heavily involved in the great developments in correctional care they have been implementing in the last few decades.”

Trond speaks from experience. He has had an insider’s view of the development for almost 40 years.

Big Difference “There is an incredibly big difference between the way punishments are carried out now compared with 30 years ago. Over the course of this time, prison officers have gone from being guards making sure no captives got away, to participating actively in care work.”

“The biggest upheaval is in rehabilitation work, where personnel have a completely different set of skills and way of looking at inmates nowadays.”

He also points out the importance of following up on the excellent pre-release work in prisons following release, both through the home municipality and other public bodies.

“Debt is also a major threat to life without crime following a sentence, which is an area where there is room for improvement,” he emphasises.

Trond is now a Care Worker at the Church City Mission in Halden, and can’t conceive of a better job.

Church City Mission Trond has been involved in correctional work and addiction prevention for many years, and in 2016 he published his book “Ingen murer er for høye” [No Wall Is Too High], in which he talks about the long road from a life of drugs, crime and long sentences to a worthwhile life.

He has given talks to more than 100,000 youths as part of his preventative work against drug addiction and crime in schools throughout Norway. In these talks, he tells young people about taking the wrong path, and how small actions can have big consequences.

He now works for the Church City Mission in Halden, where he heads up their youth project.

“There is no job out there better than this one.

Here, I can work on the things I’m passionate about: providing a low threshold and doing preventative work with youths,” says Trond Henriksen.

Once considered the most dangerous man in Norway!

In 2016, Trond’s critically acclaimed book “Ingen murer er for høye” [No Wall Is Too High] was published.

Trond is painfully aware that many have gone through traumatic experiences because of him and he understands that he will not be forgiven. “I’m not proud of my past, but I am proud that I’ve got to where I am today,” he says. www.h a l d e n fe n g se l .no

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Are Høidal

A Proud Prison Governor!

“We have a humane approach to everything we do.

But serving a sentence in Halden Prison is no luxury holiday,” says Prison Governor Are Høidal.

Høidal is a trained lawyer and has been involved in different positions of the correctional service since taking on a job as an officer at Oslo Prison in 1983.

He quickly saw the need to change the way sentences are implemented to a more humane approach, not least on the basis of a relapse rate of 60-70 per cent amongst inmates (similar to prisons elsewhere around the world) at that time. Prisons were also characterised by a great deal of unrest and frequent, often serious incidents. Something had to be done!

Gradual Change In the middle of the 90s, gradual changes began to occur in the way sentences were implemented, with a focus on positive occupation rather than passivity in prisons. The reform originated in locations like Oslo Prison, where Høidal had become Prison Director.

He became an important player in the Ministry of Justice and was given responsibility, through a working group, for the value chapter in Stortingsmelding no. 27 (1997-98) concerning correctional services. He was also involved in the planning for training and deployment of the contact officer role, which is described as one of the most radical changes made in Norwegian correctional services in recent times. Officers’ duties changed from guarding inmates to actively participating in inmates’ daily lives in order to help change behaviour and enable a life without crime following release.

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Ground-breaking Return to Society He was also involved in designing the return to society work for inmates, set out in Stortingsmelding no. 37 (2007-2008).

“We pointed out, amongst other things, the importance of the home municipality, NAV and other bodies being on board to make arrangements around those who had completed their sentences.

This was a completely crucial initiative in ensuring that many do not fall back into crime.”

“I’m proud of what I’ve been able to contribute in relation to changing the focus of the Alternatives to Imprisonment Act from being characterised by punishment to rehabilitation for a law-abiding life following a sentence. And I’m proud of what we’ve achieved at Halden Prison,” he says.

“We have succeeded - we can see that from the national relapse percentage, which has fallen to between 20 and 30 per cent. This is sensationally low.”

Dedicated to Building up Halden Prison It was while working on a temporary basis as Assistant Regional Director for the Norwegian Correctional Service’s East region that Høidal gained in-depth knowledge of the proposed prison at Halden, and he also visited during construction.

“I had been planning to continue my career at a regional level after 20 years at Oslo Prison. But I became fascinated by the physical design and contents of Halden, and applied for the job. I’ve never regretted it.”

Creating a Lighthouse The order from the Storting and then Justice Minister Knut Storberget was crystal clear: They were to create a lighthouse for the Norwegian correctional services.

“They set out clear guidelines for how we were meant to work. However, we had no procedures we could adopt, as these were completely new concepts.

This meant we had to spend the first two years finding a good structure through trial and error,” he explains.

On the basis of the ‘Better out than in’ slogan, they began work to build a logistical approach, and contents that worked in practice.

Today we know the result: Halden Prison is unique in terms of design and contents, and has garnered a great deal of attention around the world.

when they go to work. If they need to seek out healthcare, this is located elsewhere. In their free time, they can go to the sports centre.

“Life is adapted to that of an ordinary ‘country village’, where everything is built in line with normal life,” says Høidal.

There was a heavy emphasis on interdisciplinary expertise in order to design a good, broad schooling and activity programme, and he highlights the strong partnership with Halden Upper Secondary School as the foundation of this work.

In sum, this provides inmates with a meaningful daily life and hopefully faith in the future.

“The most humane prison in the world” The prison has experienced very few serious incidents since it opened, which indicates that the humane method works in practice.

“There would have been far more anger and frustration if they had nothing to do during the daytime,” he says. The Prison Governor also points out that he has noted an increase at Halden Prison - as is the case in the wider correctional system - of unstable inmates.

“Halden Prison has been referred to as ‘the most humane prison in the world’. ” Can a sentence become too kind and humane in relation to the degree of severity of what they have been convicted of ?

“I don’t think we’re too kind. Although we are setting them up for life after prison, there is a strict set of rules they must follow. Inmates can’t use mobile phones, they don’t have internet access and all their post is examined. At 20:30 they are locked up - it is this deprivation of freedom that is their punishment. They should not be punished beyond this, and they have the same rights as other citizens.”

“We believe it has an impact on people when they encounter respect and pleasant surroundings.

And those who don’t behave lose their privileges.

If we manage to help more people to become good citizens by giving them opportunities and confidence, then we have succeeded.”

“Everyone here will be released one day and become someone’s neighbour,” he points out.

The Principle of Normality The prison is customised to the smallest detail to comply with the principle of normality. Its position in the landscape, with trees and large green outdoor areas on the hillside, its architecture, colours and decoration are all important, soft values. There are no bars in front of the windows or barbed wire, and the living quarters face the woods and sports areas, where the wall is hardly visible.

Inmates must furlough their living quarters in the morning and take a packed lunch with them

Security is Key In the reception department - section A - the prison has very high levels of physical security and a limited range of movement for inmates.

Inmates must stay here until they have ‘landed’ and are motivated to change, in addition to no longer being under the influence if applicable. Only then will they be moved to the living quarters.

“It’s a myth that Halden Prison is some kind

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CNN

Prison Governor Are Høidal reports extensive interest from both at home and abroad in the design and operation of Halden Prison. Lessons and experience gained here are used in other Norwegian prisons. “We have also been a supplier of terms when they have built new prisons in neighbouring countries. This demonstrates that there is faith in the Norwegian model elsewhere,” he says.

Michael Moore

of luxury holiday camp. The buildings may be new and good-looking, but the cells are relatively small and sober. They have a bed, a table, a cabinet, a small TV and an adjacent shower and toilet. The prison is meant to reflect society on the outside. We do that fairly well,” he says.

Although the prison naturally handles people who are angry and unwilling to cooperate, isolation over a longer period of time is not a punishment method that is used.

“No, it’s been shown that isolation is harmful - that it makes you unwell. We don’t want to make people unwell - we want healthy individuals and good citizens.”

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He also points out that they cannot force anyone to go to work or school, even though inmates are obliged to work.

“There are always a few who don’t want to work. They’re locked in their cells during the daytime. The only other consequence beyond that is that they don’t get paid,” he explains.

There are a lot of people who come here without much to back them up: little schooling, no work experience and no home. Halden Prison provides them something to work with so that they are better equipped when they are released than when they arrived.

“But this depends on them wanting to do it.

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We can be there for them and motivate them to participate in our programmes, but it is ultimately their choice. If all they want to do is sit in their cell all day, then that’s what happens,” he points out.

What qualities does a prison officer need to have today?

“They must be focused on dynamic security through a humane attitude, be happy to be together with the inmates and respect them even though they have committed a criminal act. Despite the fact that what they have done is not acceptable, the employees must work professionally in the course of their work to help bring about changes in inmates.”

“The employees must be coaches and role models throughout inmates’ sentences. If they have the wrong attitude in relation to our values and look down on the inmates, then they’re probably in the wrong job.”

“Work is an important part of prison life, with a range of workshops on offer. They use tools that aren’t locked away but instead are hanging on boards, and which could be lethal weapons if someone wants to ‘take out’ a fellow prisoner.”

culture to ours, and it may be that they’re not used to female officers. In other instances, there may be a language barrier. But on the whole, we see good progression and they conform well to our norms.”

“Media reports have created the idea that there is an internal system amongst inmates comprising hierarchies and ranks that form a strict regime. ” Is this the case at Halden Prison?

“We have inmates with all kinds of convictions here: whether it’s for drug smuggling, financial crime, violence, sexual offences, etc. and not all criminal acts have a particular high status. We know, for instance, that sexual offenders are on the bottom rung. That’s probably the case here too - although we have no indication that they are particularly vulnerable either verbally or physically. The vast majority are focused on completing their sentence in the best and quickest way possible without making too much noise.”

“We get feedback from inmates who have been in other prisons previously saying that they appreciate the peace and quiet here.

A good atmosphere has taken hold.”

Is it naive - and does it pose a risk that serious incidents may occur?

What about drug smuggling into the prison - does this pose a challenge to you?

“All experience, both here and in other prisons, shows that there is very rarely trouble when employees are at work or school. It’s a privilege no one wants to forego. We also have good procedures in place that catch potential unstable ‘ticking bombs’ in the reception section so that these individuals do not become part of the more open environment. We also have small sections that house those suffering from anxiety, older inmates, etc.

The combination of static, dynamic and organisational security makes Halden Prison one of the safest in the country.”

“But this doesn’t mean we can sit back and relax. We must always be one step ahead of anything that may develop into an incident, and always maintain the highest focus on security.

Anything can happen in a prison,” he points out.

“It’s almost impossible to have a drug-free prison. Visits and furlough are the biggest challenges we face, where drugs can be hidden in body cavities. They aren’t uncovered by the metal detector or our routines.”

“If there are specific grounds to suspect someone, we contact the health section to conduct further investigations. We also regularly use drug dogs.”

The prison expends significant resources on drug testing urine samples provided by inmates, and the prison governor notes that the number of positive tests is very low. This is sign that they are keeping use to a minimal level.

“Our contact officers, who work closely with inmates on a daily basis, are also a key factor in spotting unusual behaviour and thus uncovering whether someone is under the influence of drugs. I would say we have drug use under as much control as is possible,” he concludes.

“A significant proportion of inmates are foreign citizens.”

Does that pose a challenge?

“No, I wouldn’t say so. They are treated the same way and have the same rights as Norwegian citizens. Some come from a different

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“Many express frustration about what is awaiting them at the end of their sentence. In prison, inmates have a safe framework, they want to change and they may even take an education with them when they furlough. Then they find that public services don’t work - whether that is in terms of finding somewhere to live or obtaining necessary health services. This makes that path back to ‘old friends’ and crime a short one - and everything that has been built up in prison comes tumbling down.”

How should this be improved?

“We improve inmates in the best possible way to ensure they can live lives without crime.

This is why we try to create a pathway back to society by means of open prisons so that inmates don’t go straight from high-security prison to release. But as soon as their sentences are over, someone else takes on the responsibility.”

“The sum of the public sector’s efforts is very important in the work to counteract a relapse, but there is no doubt that there is a ‘gap’ between prison and society - between the planning during the sentence and the followup on plans after the sentence,” he says.

“This weakness is something I have been pointing out for a long time, because a lot of inmates are struggling with complex issues that increase the risk that they will commit new crimes. We’re talking about personality disorders, mental problems, substance abuse, and a lack of job or home when they are set free. The government has now announced a strategic plan that will strengthen coordination between the Norwegian Correctional Services and others like the health and social services, housing, training, work-focused and social services. This will hopefully lead to an increasing number of people steering away from crime.”

“My primary task is to motivate the employees and create a well-run prison in line with the assignment we have been handed. I really love the challenge,” says Are Høidal. He heads up a staff of 290. There are an additional 50 external employees who perform various roles.

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PRISON GOVERNOR

Supplier of Terms “In what way does Halden supply the terms for future sentences in Norway and the world as a whole?”

“Because there is such a strong focus on us both domestically and internationally, it is clear that what we are doing is being noticed. This means we have opportunities to exercise influence.

We also get invited out into the wider world to discuss the Norwegian model. This is particularly the case with the American prison system, which is very curious about our treatment of inmates. In particular, the role of prison officers arouses interest.”

“In the USA, armed guards handle security, and a sentence is characterised by punishment and revenge. Here, prison officers are also care workers who provide assistance to and are together with inmates throughout the day. This helps to form a trusting relationship between inmates and staff, which is important if we’re to create lasting change. In addition, it is easier to maintain control if the prison officers are close by.”

“Dynamic security works very well.” In this area, Norway is unique on the global scale.

The Prison Governor notes that this model requires a relatively high number of prison officers, and points out that prisons in the USA are completely different in terms of punishment and the size of prisons.

“But it is possible to transfer areas like respect, dialogue and humane treatment of inmates, and these are completely free. It’s fantastic to see that some states in the USA have made changes to the way they implement sentences following visits to us at Halden. It makes me really happy!”

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