Local News
Prisoners at His Majesty’s Prison Successfully Complete Skills of Life Programme
Thirteen prisoners at His Majesty’s Prison were recently awarded completion certificates for their successful participation in the transformative Skills of Life Programme.
Aligned with the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) curricula, the initiative aims to address offending behaviour and focuses on crucial areas such as Financial Management, Anger Management, Health, and Conflict Resolution.
The eight-week programme demanded full commitment, with inmates actively participating in classes, completing diverse exercises, and engaging in both group and individual tasks. Successful completion was contingent upon consistently exhibiting positive behaviour throughout the course, promising a transformative journey for those involved.
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, praised the rehabilitation efforts during the closing ceremony, stating, “The commitment shown by these individuals is commendable. It is a testament to the effectiveness of rehabilitation initiatives in our correctional system.” He pledged ongoing support for expanding rehabilitative offerings and highlighted collaborative efforts with the Prison Visiting Committee (PVC) and the Criminal Justice Advisory Group (CJAG) to enhance rehabilitation outcomes.
Superintendent of Prisons, Mr. Jay Kendall, expressed pride in the achievements of both inmates and the dedicated team. He emphasised the prison’s commitment to elevating rehabilitation services, stating, “This success is just the beginning. We are working towards expanding our Rehabilitation Team to provide more comprehensive support.” Key roles, including a General Counsellor, a Drug Counsellor, a Restorative Justice Officer, and additional teachers, are part of the planned expansion.
Mr. Kendall stressed the importance of engaging in offending behaviour programmes, saying, “Our focus is on reducing risks, aiding inmates’ progress through sentences, and preventing future victims. We are forging a path toward positive change and brighter futures for these individuals.”
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, through His Majesty’s Prison, remains committed to inmate rehabilitation while concurrently enhancing their health and social well-being.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.

Entertainment
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.

Entertainment
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