Singapore Prison Service - Befriender

The Community Befriending Project is divided into two phases: Incare (up to 10 months) and Aftercare. You need to commit for the full duration in this programme.

In the Incare phase, you can engage befriendees via face-to-face visits, letter writing, as well as phone calls.

In the Aftercare phase, you'll continue to provide a listening ear and moral support to help them adjust in the community.

As a new volunteer, you will undergo Basic Prison Training to familiarise yourself with the prisons environment and the do’s and don't’s during your volunteering stint.

You will also be equipped with the skills and knowledge to conduct effective and purposeful sessions with your befriendees.

You can look forward to attending developmental courses certified by the Social Service Institute (SSI). These training opportunities will allow you to specialise in specific skills in volunteering and working with people.

You will also be invited to attend regular dialogue sessions with prison staff supporting the institutions which you are based at.

As a Home Team volunteer, you will be trained and supervised, working in partnership with regular officers in the execution of their duties. Our philosophy of involvement includes giving you the necessary orientation, ample opportunities for personal development, as well as awards and recognition for good service.

In appreciation of your contribution to rehabilitation efforts, volunteers are invited to attend an annual appreciation luncheon at the end of each year.

We also recognise the contributions of our volunteers with the Long Service award.