Article 1: Effecting Change in Singapore's Approach in Corrections

Advancing Corrections Journal - Edition #21 - Effecting Change in Corrections | Article 1 (ACJ21-A001)

https://doi.org/10.65264/HXUT4757

Abstract
This paper examines the systemic change in Singapore’s correctional approach from the lens of the Singapore Prison Service (SPS). The change is conceptualised and operationalised through a framework known as the Singapore Correctional Model (SCM). Drawing on desistance theory, correctional theories, and a social-ecological approach, the paper illustrates how aligned actions across contexts are supported by suitable system conditions and community partnerships which contribute to lowered rates of recidivism. Beyond the description of the model, the paper surfaces enablers and transferable lessons for correctional systems seeking to make systemic changes and achieve desistance outcomes.

Keywords: Desistance, Rehabilitation, Reintegration, Corrections, Framework

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Authors

Kuan Mei Lau

Deputy Director, Psychological and Correctional Rehabilitation Division, Singapore Prison Service, Singapore

Kuan Mei is a Correctional Rehabilitation Specialist (CRS) and has been with the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) since 2010. She has worked with various offender populations, conducting needs assessments, delivering group- and individual-based interventions, as well as developing psychology-based correctional programmes. She is currently overseeing correctional rehabilitation services in SPS, including practice standards in effective correctional interventions and offender assessments, regular review of correctional rehabilitation practices, and stakeholder collaborations that support effective rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.

Troy Thevathasan

Deputy Director, Community Corrections Command, Singapore Prison Service, Singapore

Troy Jack Thevathasan has two decades of experience in the Singapore Prison Service (SPS), where he has held positions in direct practice, programme implementation and management, and planning. He currently holds the position of Deputy Director (Community Interventions & Capability Development), Community Corrections Command. He also serves as the professional lead correctional rehabilitation specialist in SPS.

Outside of SPS, Troy lectures on Social Work and Offender Rehabilitation at the National University of Singapore. He also serves as the advisor to the Criminal Justice Social Work chapter of the Singapore Association of Social Workers. Troy has an M.A. in Applied Psychology and a Graduate Diploma in Social Work.

Article 1: Effecting Change in Singapore's Approach in Corrections

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