The Maltese Government has launched a new aftercare programme aimed at supporting prisoners as they complete their sentences and prepare to reintegrate into society. The initiative forms part of a social agreement signed with the NGOs SOS Malta and Mid-Dlam għad-Dawl, introducing the OARS programme, which will begin operating directly from within the Corradino Correctional Facility.
Under the programme, prisoners approaching the final six weeks of their sentence will be identified and enrolled in a structured reintegration process. The support will continue for up to six months after their release, with the primary goal of reducing reoffending and providing stability during what has been described as the most critical period following imprisonment.
The Government is investing €1.2 million over three years in the initiative. Participants will receive psychosocial support and assistance in accessing employment opportunities, stable housing and other services intended to help them rebuild their lives after prison.
Speaking at the launch, Social Policy and Family Minister Michael Falzon said the investment would strengthen therapeutic support for both prisoners and their families, describing it as the fulfilment of an electoral manifesto commitment. Home Affairs and Security Minister Glenn Bedingfield added that successful rehabilitation leads to safer communities, stronger families and a better future, stressing that real success is measured by how many former prisoners do not return to prison.
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