Researchers suggest having restaurants inside jails to reduce reoffending rates in New Zealand.
Prison dining programs like Britain's Clink Charity trains inmates before they finish re-entering society.
Clink restaurants are usually staffed by low-risk prisoners with six to 18 months left on their sentences. Diners report great meals, and professional, memorable experiences.
A Clink training program graduate reduces the chance of reoffending by over sixty percent.
New Zealand prisoners have an over 50% re-offending rate. They have low numeracy and literacy skills, and deal with substance abuse and mental health issues.
Prison dining programs have successfully increased prisoner confidence and dignity, provided mentoring and social support, and have helped obtain employment after release.
Diners too play an important part. They break down stereotypes that prevent former prisoners from re-entering society.
The programs are changing the public perception of prisoners and this is key to their wider rehabilitation.
Original article:
Serving time: how fine dining in jail is helping prisoners and satisfying customers