Detention Working Group
General Information
Since October 1990, our association has been providing counselling and support to gay and bisexual prisoners in Berlin’s prisons through full-time psychologists and volunteer prison support workers from the Detention Working Group.
Specifically, the Detention Working Group offers:
- regular visits to prisoners in prisons
- one-to-one conversations in which we listen to the prisoner and strive to understand their problems (e.g. regarding everyday life in prison) and to find a solution together
- a point of contact who helps the prisoner overcome their isolation and treats them without prejudice regarding their sexual identity and lifestyle
- the creation of a foundation for dealing responsibly with one’s own sexuality
- providing up-to-date information on HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections
- on-site prevention, e.g. by providing condoms and lubricant
- referrals and information on other relevant support projects
- Mobilising the prisoner’s resources
- Mediation in conflict situations
- Joint excursions with the prisoner (by arrangement)
- Support in liaising with government departments, authorities and institutions as part of preparations for release
- Psychological counselling provided by a psychologist
- Six-month transition support following release from prison
The Detention Working Group meets every two weeks in a plenary session. During these sessions, ongoing support cases are discussed, and staff members offer one another advice and support. As well as purely organisational matters, the sessions focus on reflecting on the relationship with the prisoner, who is usually supported by one of the volunteers for at least a year. Training sessions tailored to the needs of the staff also take place during these plenary meetings. Working in the prison system in particular presents volunteers with special challenges that are worth overcoming and which are valuable for personal development.
If you are interested in volunteering with Mann-O-Meter’s prison outreach work, please contact the Detention Working Group via the usual contact details (see Legal Notice).
Blog
Go to the Detention Working Group Blog (only in German)