SPORTS IN PRISON, A PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

Background The SPPF-project contributes to an important priority of the Erasmus + program: empowerment & social inclusion of the most disadvantaged groups. For prisoners, sport is a crucial step in the process of social integration and empowerment. Although sports programs in prison have been associated with various positive outcomes, there is a huge lack of knowledge about how good sports programs with a connection to the ‘outside world’ can be developed and implemented. Objectives SPPF addresses the need for good sports programs with a connection between the in- & outside world: 1)by research, experiment, exchange experiences 2)by setting up innovative collaborations with services, sportorganisations, volunteers, social partners and prison staff 3)by developing follow-up trajectories for ex-prisoners. We offer prisoners a perspective to be socially active and to work out social networks. These good sport programs create a maximal impact on their social environment. Implementation How? We conducted a report ‘A state of play in prisons across Europe', based on scientific research (literature review & survey), implemented learning areas and developed a European Guide ‘Building bridges through sport. A guide for practitioners.’ This Guide provides various development strategies, evaluation examples, practical models, tips and tricks to bridge the gap between prison and the outside world. Finally, policy recommendations have been formulated on national and European level. Achievements With this project, we can provide all stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and tools to develop good sports programs with a link to the outside world. We are convinced that good programs with appropriate guidance can promote the rehabilitation of prisoners in society. The SPPF policy recommendations will provide policy makers with sufficient "tools" to support good and sustainable practices at the local and European level and put this issue high on the political agenda.