The Drug Treatment Programme at Christchurch Men’s Prison is funded by the Department of a Corrections. It is a 6 month alcohol and drug treatment programme, based on a modified therapeutic community programme, which fits within the prison environment.

The primary goal is to foster personal growth. This is accomplished by changing an individual’s lifestyle through a community of concerned people working together to help themselves and each other. Residents receive extensive assessment, individual and group therapy as well as education and structured activities.

Individuals who graduate the Drug Treatment Programme can elect to work with a member of the Aftercare team for up to a year after graduation.  Aftercare support is delivered both within the prison, if a client remains in prison after graduation, and within the community.  It consists of group and individual therapy.

Aftercare workers help to build a network of support around an individual and can also work with whānau or family members, employers, Community Probation Officers and others who the client identifies as a significant support in maintaining change.