9: Development of Programming Plan
Develop, for each person incarcerated, an individualized plan that, based upon information obtained from assessments, explains what programming should be provided during the period of incarceration to ensure that his or her return to the community is safe and successful.
Overview
This policy statement addresses the individualized programming plan: the strategy for addressing needs and strengths assessed during intake with programs available in prison or jail. More specifically, the programming plan establishes how a person who is in prison or jail will make the best use of his or her incarceration to improve the likelihood of success upon re-entry.
Research Highlights
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Most correctional facilities do not offer intensive, individualized program planning geared toward preparation for release.
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Program availability, as opposed to inmate risks and needs, often guides program placement-while research indicates that "appropriate" treatment is key.
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Program planners can play a key role in coordinating and monitoring service delivery.
Recommendations
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Charge new or existing positions with the responsibility of reviewing information obtained through assessments and of developing a plan that provides for the coordinated delivery of targeted services for each person admitted.
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Consider the primary needs, strengths and background of the individual in developing the programming plan.
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Ensure that all program planning incorporates the principles of cultural and gender competency.
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Provide opportunities for crime victims, victim advocates, family members, and community members to inform the inmate's programming plan.
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Engage community-based providers in the development of a programming plan.
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Include in the programming plan provisions for periodic reassessments to be conducted during the inmate's incarceration and for changes to be made in the plan accordingly.
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Establish and maintain a centralized record-keeping system as well as a system for regular communication among program planners and other prison-based staff and service providers.
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Creatively adapt the program planning model for shorter-term jail stays.
Related Policy Statements
- 8: Development of Intake Procedure
- 10: Physical Health Care
- 11: Mental Health Care
- 12: Substance Abuse Treatment
- 13: Children and Families
- 14: Behaviors and Attitudes
- 15: Education and Vocation Training
- 17: Advising the Releasing Authority
- 23: Victims, Families, and Communities
- 27: Maintaining Continuity of Care
- To the degree that individualized program planning has occurred in various correctional facilities, it has generally been called some version of "case management" and been performed by people referred to as "case managers." Given the varying definitions of case managers and case management, however, along with the particularized functions described in this policy statement, this Report refers to the blueprint for programs and services as an "individualized programming plan" and those who develop and administer such plans as "programming planners." Clearly, however, the nomenclature and exact role of the person or team charged with developing and coordinating a person's activity during his or her period of incarceration will vary from institution to institution, as evidenced by the examples included in this policy statement. back
Our PublicationsRelated Information
Issue Area:
Assessment Processes