It is important that you accept criticism in your line of work, senior Correction officers were told this morning during a workshop on prison suicide.
The workshop was conducted by former Chief Corrections officer at Auckland’s Mount Eden Prison Faiyaz Mohammed Khan.
Mr Khan, who is now with the Auckland Central Police’ Custody Unit, reminded the officers to admit their mistakes.
He told the officers to learn to never let an inmate down.
“If you make a mistake, go and apologise, there is no harm in doing so. When you want something done, ask, don’t order,” Mr Khan said.
“After all we all make mistakes, bring yourselves down.”
“You have to be consistent in your work, and frequently talk with inmates,” Mr Khan said.
Officers were also told that it is important to know about the signs and symptoms of suicide in order to prevent it from occurring in prisons.
“Give credit where it is due. If there is a problem in your prison, make sure you address it straight away and don’t leave it to develop,” Mr Khan said.
He also told the officers to learn to praise inmates in front of everyone because it helps boosts their self-confidence.
Deputy Corrections Commissioner Akuila Namakadre said suicide in prison is one of the challenges for Correction officers everywhere and Fiji is no exception.
“We have had cases in the past and even attempted suicides and we look forward to learning how best we can prevent them from happening,” Mr Namakadre said.
The Fiji Corrections Service will resume its second quarter command group meeting tomorrow.
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