Dex Together Volunteer Spotlight: Rogier

As a Dutch national living in the UK, I feel it’s important to contribute to the rehabilitation of individuals involved in criminal activities and to assist the prisoner and Foreign Affairs. 

At DEX, we believe in the power of community and in reducing anti-social behaviour and improving communities through our guardianship service and DEX Together programme, which is why this cause is significant to me.

 

I am a contact for the embassy and act as a liaison between Dutch prisoners in the UK and Foreign Affairs. During my conversations with the prisoners, I focus on understanding their situation. What are their detention circumstances. Are they in good health? Are they suffering from any mental health issues? And to determine if the prisoner wishes to pursue an education.

It’s also important to find out where the prisoner stands in the process. Have they already been convicted? If so, when will they return to the Netherlands and to prepare them at the point of return. 

Additionally, I find out if they have family or a support network. I explain the social systems in place at the Dutch airports for their arrival. I can inform foreign affairs, who can track where the prisoner was born and arrange for social support to ensure they have housing or support when they arrive.

 

 I find the psychology of different individuals interesting and enjoy meeting people, listening and offering support.

 

Although my role does not directly involve rehabilitating prisoners, I feel that if I can help gather information that Foreign Affairs and the embassy can use to facilitate a smoother resettlement process for prisoners returning to Holland, I am contributing in a meaningful way.