the name gifted to men in the navigate initiative unit
yes.
to supporting fresh starts.
For more than 20 years, Pathway has been working on a unique, community-led solution to the revolving door of our justice system.
In 2018, we launched our ground-breaking prison reintegration unit, the Navigate Initiative, inside Christchurch Men’s Prison, representing the first time prisoners have been able to access intensive pre-release preparation from inside a New Zealand prison.
A partnership between the Department of Corrections and the community, we work with men for 6-12 months before their release, then journey alongside them, providing ongoing support as they rebuild their lives back in the community. We never give up on anyone. Ever.
After lengthy or repeated periods of imprisonment, securing housing, building positive networks or finding employment can often become overwhelming and sometimes insurmountable challenges. Unsurprisingly, many turn back to old habits of social networks to get by, eventually reoffending and returning to prison.
Instead, the Navigate Initiative was designed to break the cycle of crime and imprisonment by providing the tools and support former prisoners need to successfully navigate life on ‘the outside’.
From opening bank accounts, sitting driver licence tests and getting ID, to budgeting, cooking, getting a job, securing affordable accommodation, accessing mentoring and addiction treatment, and getting support with cultural development, restorative justice and reconnecting with whānau, the Navigate Initiative is there to help people make a fresh start.
