Serco has been recognised as an ABA100® Winner for 'Community Contribution' at The Australian Business Awards for reducing reoffending by focusing on prisoner education and addressing criminogenic needs.
The accolade acknowledges the support services provider's role in co-producing a book for the benefit of over 40,000 children with a parent in custody across Australia in partnership with SHINE for Kids and Green Fox Studio, which was released on Father's Day 2023 under the title 'The Sun Still Shines'.
The publication has been integrated into SHINE for Kids programmes, including Storytime and mentoring initiatives, and distributed to public and prison libraries nationwide.
Serco Asia Pacific Managing Director, Justice and Immigration, Michael Strickland, comments: "We are honoured to receive this prestigious award, which recognises our efforts to create lasting, positive impact on those in our care and the communities we serve.
"The Sun Still Shines is more than just a book but stands as a testament to the strength of resilience and the transformative power of rehabilitation.
Through collaboration and creativity, this initiative has brought hope and support to thousands of individuals in custody and their families...
"Through collaboration and creativity, this initiative has brought hope and support to thousands of individuals in custody and their families, fostering meaningful connections and reducing the cycle of intergenerational offending.
"'The Sun Still Shines' demonstrates Serco’s commitment to community safety and the wellbeing of those affected by the criminal justice system."
Created through the Storytime program at Clarence Correctional Centre in New South Wales which is operated by Serco, the book reflects the desire of fathers to communicate love, understanding and the reality of their circumstances to their children.
