Better Connections
CRS currently deliver conflict resolution psychoeducational and conflict resolution skill development programs for the detainees in the Alexander Maconochie Centre. This program is currently being delivered to women to support a harmonious living environment and support their transition back into community.
Key outcomes of the training course:
- Conflict Resolution within Relationships
- Handling Tough Situations
- Maintaining Calmness and Supporting Others
- Problem Solving and Disagreement Resolution
- Tools and Strategies for Conflict Resolution
Better Connections Group at Alexander Maconochie Centre
In October 2023, Conflict Resolution Service (CRS) launched the Better Connections training group at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) in response to escalating conflicts among female detainees. The program was designed to address these conflicts by providing tailored conflict resolution and communication skills, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, safety, and trauma-informed practices.
The program was initiated after AMC staff reported severe conflicts among detainees, leading to their physical separation into two distinct groups. This segregation highlighted the urgent need for a program that could help the women navigate their interpersonal conflicts in a constructive manner. The program was structured around five central themes, delivered over ten weeks, focusing on emotional literacy, communication, and conflict resolution.
Facilitators from CRS worked closely with the women, fostering an environment of trust and open communication. The program began with a pre-course visit, allowing facilitators to engage with the detainees and introduce the program’s objectives. This visit was crucial in breaking down barriers and setting the stage for a supportive learning environment.
Weekly sessions were designed to be interactive, with a combination of group discussions, practical activities, and reflective exercises. Facilitators adapted the content based on the participants’ feedback, ensuring that the program remained relevant to their needs. The women were encouraged to share their experiences and insights, which not only enhanced their learning but also helped to build a sense of community within the group.
One of the most significant outcomes of the program was the improvement in emotional regulation and communication skills among the participants. The women learned to navigate difficult conversations, manage their emotions, and support each other through challenging situations. This was evident in the transformation of the group dynamics; participants who had previously been in conflict began to collaborate and provide mutual support.
A standout moment occurred when a participant, who had previously been hesitant to share, opened up about her experience in a conversation with her ex-partner regarding co-parenting. She detailed the anxiety she had felt before the conversation and how she used the skills learned in the program to prepare and communicate effectively. This breakthrough not only boosted her confidence but also served as a powerful example to the group of the program’s real-world applicability.
By the end of the ten-week program, the women had developed a stronger sense of self and were better equipped to handle conflicts both within AMC and in their future interactions. The program’s success was further underscored by positive feedback from both participants and AMC staff, who noted the significant changes in the women’s behaviour and communication.
The Better Connections program at AMC demonstrates the power of a tailored, trauma-informed approach in transforming conflict into opportunities for personal growth and connection. The skills and confidence the participants gained will serve them well as they reintegrate into society, highlighting the importance of such programs in correctional settings.