Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About the volunteer sessions

1.  What should I do if I cannot turn up for my session?
Inform the programme unit of the institution / cluster at least two days in advance. If it is a last minute arrangement, please call the SCO to inform the cancellation of session.

2.  Can I bring reference materials for the inmates?
Seek the approval of the programme unit before bringing in any materials such as newspapers, books, magazines, VCDs for the inmates.

3.  Are the inmates dangerous?
The inmates are not dangerous. They have been cleared to participate in your volunteer programmes. However, just as you would treat any other persons, do not use abusive or provocative language with the inmates.

4.  The inmate asked me to contact his family and relay a message, what should I do?
You should not be contacting the inmate's family. An inmate can raise such request to his Personal Supervisor and he will look into the request. Do inform the staff when you receive such request from the inmate. Do note that you may be breaching the prison regulations if you are making unauthorised contact to the inmate's family and may be asked to cease your volunteering.

5.  What should I do if I realise that one of the inmates at my session is known to me such as a relative or friend?
You should inform the programme unit or your volunteer coordinator immediately after the session. We would recommend to re-deploy you to another institution in such instance to prevent any possible conflict of interest.

6.  I need to change the schedule of my session. Who should I inform?
You should inform your volunteer coordinator or the programme unit if you wish to change the timing of the session. They will need to check against the other programme schedule to see if possible to change the timing.

7.  The inmate has told me some information regarding another inmate. Who should I verify the information with?
Inform the programme unit or any of the prison officer upon receipt of such information. They will look into the matter.

8.  My spouse is interested to volunteer together with me. Can I bring him / her along?
The approval is granted to you as the authorised pass holder to enter the institution. You are not allowed to bring any unauthorised person along. If your spouse is interested, please ask her to submit a Volunteer Application.

Welfare & benefits for volunteers

9.  Are volunteers entitled to free meals and welfare benefits?
Volunteers can purchase meals and refreshments at discounted rates at the institutions. Drinks will be provided to the volunteers at each session.

10.  What "perks" can a volunteer look forward to?
The intangible and most rewarding benefit comes from knowing that volunteers' efforts have made a difference in the lives of inmates, and witnessing the positive transformation in some of the inmates.

Aside from that, Prisons provide Basic Volunteer Training for registered volunteers to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge in their role as Prison volunteers. Developmental training which is certified by SSTI is also provided for the volunteers to allow them to specialize in specific skills in volunteering and working with people.

An annual appreciation luncheon is held specially for the volunteers to thank them for their efforts and valuable time put in in our rehabilitation cause.

To cease volunteering

11.  What should I do if I decide not to continue my volunteering?
Inform your volunteer coordinator or the programme unit if you are an individual volunteer if you wish to discontinue your volunteering. Return your volunteer pass as soon as possible. Do contact the programme unit should you wish to start your volunteer session again.