Connecting for Recovery: Our Story, Our Learnings from the STEPS AOD Reintegration Program, Bunbury, WA
Tracks
Ballroom 1
| Wednesday, May 14, 2025 |
| 1:15 PM - 1:45 PM |
Overview
Anna Calverley & Kate Moore, Palmerston Association Incorporated
Speaker
Mr Andy Niblock
Executive Manager, Business Development
Palmerston Association Incorporated
Connecting for Recovery: Our Story, Our Learnings from the STEPS AOD Reintegration Program, Bunbury, WA.
Abstract
The STEPS Program, initiated in 2023 at Bunbury Regional Prison in Western Australia, represents a transformative approach to recovery and reintegration for men affected by AOD issues. Funded by the Department of Justice, this innovative program is a collaborative effort between Palmerston and SWAMS, emphasising culturally safe practices that are crucial for effective healing.
This presentation will delve into Palmerston’s Family-in-Reach services in the STEPS Program, which are tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and their families. Attendees will gain insights from key learnings and success stories that illustrate the program's impact since its inception covering aspects such as the role of support groups and family support links in reintegration from AOD prison programs.
Central to the STEPS Program is a diverse staffing model that incorporates recovery-focused roles alongside peer support for up to two years post-release. This approach has led to significant positive outcomes for participants, fostering both individual recovery and broader systemic change within justice settings. By embedding cultural considerations into program models, the staff team ensures that healing is not only personal but also engages families and significant others in the recovery process.
Approximately 37% of program participants identify as Aboriginal, highlighting the importance of culturally relevant practices in addressing AOD needs. The program's design prioritises cultural identity as a cornerstone of healing, allowing participants to reconnect with their heritage while pursuing recovery goals.
Join us to discover how the STEPS Program is redefining rehabilitation within the justice system and paving the way for sustainable reintegration into society.
About the organisations:
Palmerston Association is a leading and respected NFP organisation supporting people with AOD issues in Western Australia for over 43 years.
SWAMS is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation established in 1997 and delivers comprehensive primary health care services to Aboriginal people across WA.
This presentation will delve into Palmerston’s Family-in-Reach services in the STEPS Program, which are tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and their families. Attendees will gain insights from key learnings and success stories that illustrate the program's impact since its inception covering aspects such as the role of support groups and family support links in reintegration from AOD prison programs.
Central to the STEPS Program is a diverse staffing model that incorporates recovery-focused roles alongside peer support for up to two years post-release. This approach has led to significant positive outcomes for participants, fostering both individual recovery and broader systemic change within justice settings. By embedding cultural considerations into program models, the staff team ensures that healing is not only personal but also engages families and significant others in the recovery process.
Approximately 37% of program participants identify as Aboriginal, highlighting the importance of culturally relevant practices in addressing AOD needs. The program's design prioritises cultural identity as a cornerstone of healing, allowing participants to reconnect with their heritage while pursuing recovery goals.
Join us to discover how the STEPS Program is redefining rehabilitation within the justice system and paving the way for sustainable reintegration into society.
About the organisations:
Palmerston Association is a leading and respected NFP organisation supporting people with AOD issues in Western Australia for over 43 years.
SWAMS is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation established in 1997 and delivers comprehensive primary health care services to Aboriginal people across WA.
Biography
Anna Calverley is the General Manager for Justice Programs and Therapeutic Communities at Palmerston Association. Anna has a passion for improving the lives of individuals directly involved with the criminal justice system. Anna has a BSc Hons in Criminology and has 20 years of experience working in a variety of custodial settings in the UK, Queensland, and WA.
Kate Moore is the Service Manager of Prison Programs within Palmerston Association. Passionate about making a positive impact, Kate works to assist individuals successfully reintegrate into society, believing that meaningful change is possible through understanding and support.
