A Comparative Study of “Assisted Desistance” Across NSW Correctional Centres: Key Implications for Reoffending

The study will examine the concept of ‘assisted desistance’ in two NSW prisons. Assisted desistance refers to the idea that a range of social connections (with staff members, peers, family and friends) are required for successful rehabilitation to occur, especially when these are experienced as ‘non-judgmental, authentic, honest, and trustworthy’ (Villeneuve et al., 2020: 19). The desistance literature further suggests there are several elements which signify the presence of an assisted desistance approach among staff in custodial and community correctional settings. Through focus groups and surveys within two distinct custodial settings the study will be the first nationally to produce empirical data on the breadth, depth and impact of assisted desistance.