How do we define an inspirational practice?

When is a facility small-scale?

Based on research and international practices, RESCALED advocates for small-scale detention houses instead of large prison institutions. ‘Small-scale’ is defined as a maximum of 30 people per facility, and more correctly to 8 to 25 people. In large-scale prison institutions, the environment is one of anonymity and bureaucracy, and it can be difficult to get to know a person in-depth. Too few people can result in a heightened level of conflict and toxic relationships. A small-scale facility of 8 to 25 enables the creation of a community, where individuals can regain their autonomy and act responsibly. Through meaningful interactions with staff, the community and incarcerated people, relationships are strengthened. This can facilitate dynamic security and improve the social climate in detention. The maximum of 30 is used to identify whether an inspirational practice can be regarded as small-scale or not. Facilities with a capacity higher than this can still be and are inspirational practices that we can learn from. However, it is important to have a strict limit to not lose sight of why the number above is recommended and even reinforced through the elements of differentiation and community integration. Some facilities, although they can accommodate more than 30 people, do work in smaller living groups. In this case, this is indicated in the full report.

When is a facility small-scale?

Based on research and international practices, RESCALED advocates for small-scale detention houses instead of large prison institutions. ‘Small-scale’ is defined as a maximum of 30 people per facility, and more correctly to 8 to 25 people. In large-scale prison institutions, the environment is one of anonymity and bureaucracy, and it can be difficult to get to know a person in-depth. Too few people can result in a heightened level of conflict and toxic relationships. A small-scale facility of 8 to 25 enables the creation of a community, where individuals can regain their autonomy and act responsibly. Through meaningful interactions with staff, the community and incarcerated people, relationships are strengthened. This can facilitate dynamic security and improve the social climate in detention. The maximum of 30 is used to identify whether an inspirational practice can be regarded as small-scale or not. Facilities with a capacity higher than this can still be and are inspirational practices that we can learn from. However, it is important to have a strict limit to not lose sight of why the number above is recommended and even reinforced through the elements of differentiation and community integration. Some facilities, although they can accommodate more than 30 people, do work in smaller living groups. In this case, this is indicated in the full report.