The Navigator Service (Navigator) provides one-on-one support following a person's release from prison. Delivered by SYC, Navigator works with individuals for 12 weeks after they are released from custody and supports them to reintegrate into the community. Case managers work with participants to access services, training, employment and housing, and ultimately establish ongoing support and positive community relationships.
In the 2021-22 Financial Year…
The Navigator Service supported a record number of people in the 2021-22 financial year and continues to achieve much lower rates of recidivism compared to the national average.
Winston* had served close to three years in prison before his release from custody and referral to The Navigator Service. When Winston met with his Navigator case worker, he was experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, and was suspicious of people he didn’t know, which were barriers to his reintegration into the community. Winston recalled feeling overwhelmed and extremely anxious when he was released from custody.
With no family or friends nearby, the Navigator Service provided support to Winston to ensure that he could secure and maintain housing, furnish it, and put food in the cupboards. Winston’s Navigator case manager and SYC employment coach also supported him to achieve licenses and Winston subsequently secured part-time employment and quickly moved into a full-time position. Winston’s employment coach shared that the employer:
“Has asked me for another five of him! Could not ask for a better work ethic, Winston’s hours have picked up and he is also very happy with how he is tracking. I will continue to support Winston and his employer for the next five months.”
Winston’s Navigator case manager shared that:
“Winston is successfully maintaining his tenancy, managing his finances, and has become more confident and independent. He is now kicking goals and smashing it! He has pretty much completed all his goals and should be 100% proud of himself.”
Winston has shared that the support from the Navigator Service has made the transition from life inside prison back into the community so much smoother and that he would not be where he is now if he had not received support from SYC’s Navigator Service.
The Navigator Service coordinator shared that:
“The transformation in Winston is remarkable. When he was in prison, he was apprehensive about the future and had a bleak outlook for what was ahead, which is not uncommon in a custodial environment. Now, after great guidance, advocacy and belief from his Navigator case manager and SYC employment coach, plus his own drive and resilience, he is independent, self-sufficient and has a bright outlook about what he can achieve.”
*Pseudonyms are used
The information provided will be used in accordance with our privacy policy. You can view our privacy policy here.