Showing up with honesty, respect and follow through
For people leaving a correctional facility, the transition back into community can feel overwhelming.
Many people leave custody into homelessness or financial instability. They often encounter stigma, complex systems and the challenge of reconnecting with community after long periods of isolation.
Neami’s Individual Recovery Support program in Cairns and Townsville supports people through this transition with consistency, respect and genuine human connection.
Robert Cross, Service Manager for North Queensland Individual Recovery Support (pictured above), says authenticity guides the way the team works.
‘For our service supporting people exiting a correctional facility, authenticity is not an option, it is critical,’ Robert says.
‘We work with people who have adapted to survive in places that feel unsafe, dehumanising and full of stigma. When people leave that environment, they carry trauma and distress that many of us cannot imagine. That reality shapes how we show up.’
In their own words
Hear from people accessing the service and staff as they discuss trust, connection and what the program means to them.
How the program supports people
The service provides free, psychosocial support for up to 12 months after release. For the first three months, the team works with people on their most immediate priorities to support their transition back into the community. The following nine months focus on longer-term stability and connection, at a pace that feels right for each person.
Support can include practical help with housing, employment and daily living, as well as support with stress, reconnecting with (chosen) family and community, and linking with local services.
The team works flexibly, offering face-to-face support, in-home visits, phone calls or teleconference.
Robert explains that the service focuses on meeting people where they are.
‘Our team works collaboratively across roles so we can offer more than assistance. We offer connection, belonging and a foundation for people to build their lives on their terms, in their own time.’
Hearing directly from people we support
Warren spent 20 months in prison before entering the program.
‘Coming out of the system, I had to start all over again,’ Warren says. ‘Finding a job, getting my license and photo identification, just keeping myself occupied so I don’t go back to prison.’
With support from the Neami team, Warren started reconnecting with community and planning his next steps.
‘They’re good people. They love helping and helping wherever they can help.’
