SSGT believes putting families at the heart of the criminal justice system and processes is the 'golden thread' which can reduce the harm of imprisonment and contribute to rehabilitation. Therefore, a strategic aim of SSGT is to contribute to improving the system of support for families affected by convictions and imprisonment to improve rehabilitation and resettlement outcomes. 

The grant programme will seek to make a contribution to the following outcomes:

Outcome 1: Family-centred approaches to rehabilitation and reintegration become normalised in the prison system, at the point of imprisonment, during the sentence and on release: we are interested in work with people affected by imprisonment and convictions which has a strategic focus on their role as family members, and a recognition that partners and children serve the sentence too. This is a systems-focused approach which uses current evidence to effect change.

Outcome 2: The voice of prisoners and their families adds to the evidence base and understanding of the value of family-centred approaches to reintegration and maintaining family bonds:  The voices of people most affected by decisions which impact them need to be heard at local and national levels. This could include establishing platforms and mechanisms which allow them to participate in decision-making forums and have their voices heard. Many people with lived experience of the criminal justice system develop a set of capabilities that enable them to advance transformative change, both in the lives of people affected by imprisonment and convictions and in the lives of those who make decisions which affect them. 

Outcome 3: Government and state bodies are held accountable for reducing the harm of imprisonment to families: the focus is on ensuring duty bearers acknowledge the need for change and act accordingly. We are interested in improved policies, legislation and change to current practice which results in relevant agencies better meeting the needs of the whole family.

We have a two-step process and this first stage is an expression of interest in which the group outlines what it wants to do. If the expression of interest is accepted, there is a further form and grant assessment may include meeting with the applicant. Organisations invited to Step 2 are not guaranteed a grant – the decision will be made by the trustees.  

If you have not already ready the guidelines for this programme, please read them here. This document also has the questions asked in this online process so you know in advance the information which is required. 

There is an option to Save and Resume on this form. We strongly recommend you activate that now so none of your information is lost. The option is available at the top of the form. 

If you are having difficulties please contact Karen on 085 755 2009. 

Thank you.