For Prisoners, “Work Works”: Qualitative Findings From an Israeli Program

Abstract

The study’s purpose was to assess the contribution of the Work Release Program of the Israel Prison Service (IPS) to the processes of prisoners’ rehabilitation. We interviewed 22 serving and released prisoners who participated in the program at two prisons in central Israel. Most respondents were positive toward the core components of the program, mainly the work outside the prison. Responses also indicated that the program eased their transition from prison life to life outside. However, some respondents criticized the way in which the program was operated. The article discusses the program’s strengths and weaknesses, and proposes some improvements.