In this engaging discussion, reporter Ben Wyatt shares insights from his investigation into the 'Little Scandinavia' initiative in Philadelphia. He explains how the prison's humane model, reminiscent of Scandinavian practices, promotes rehabilitation by allowing inmates to order groceries and cook meals. Wyatt also highlights a unique recycling project in Panama, where inmates engage in waste management, gaining skills for their reintegration. These innovative approaches challenge traditional incarceration methods and aim to transform lives behind bars.
The 'Little Scandinavia' initiative in Chester Prison promotes a humane environment that fosters inmate autonomy and community engagement, significantly reducing violence and enhancing rehabilitation outcomes.
An innovative recycling project in Panama empowers inmates by providing them with valuable skills for reintegration, demonstrating a creative approach to prison reform and rehabilitation.
Deep dives
Innovative Prison Models
Chester Prison in Pennsylvania has implemented a unique approach to incarceration called 'Little Scandinavia,' modeled after prison systems in Norway and Sweden. This wing accommodates 64 inmates in a more humane environment, providing them with increased autonomy in their daily activities and access to amenities like gaming consoles and pets. Unlike traditional prisons where inmates are often subject to strict controls and violence, this model emphasizes respect and trust, allowing inmates the freedom to make choices regarding their rehabilitation. By fostering a positive environment, the initiative aims to reduce violence and support successful reintegration into society.
Cultivating Rehabilitation Through Community
Inmates in the 'Little Scandinavia' wing can participate in programs that promote community engagement and skill development, such as working in kitchens to prepare meals or participating in business and therapy classes. This hands-on experience not only helps to build self-esteem but also prepares inmates for life after release, as they learn valuable skills that can aid them in securing employment. Inmates are encouraged to collaborate, with opportunities to socialize, cook, and even share meals together, significantly increasing their camaraderie and reducing tensions. This communal approach creates a supportive atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the isolation found in typical prison settings.
Evaluating Long-Term Impact and Success
Initial results from the 'Little Scandinavia' project indicate a significantly lower rate of inmate violence and no reported staff assaults, suggesting that the model could effectively reduce re-offending. As of now, no former inmates from this wing have been re-arrested, a promising statistic that demonstrates the potential for this model to initiate meaningful change in the prison system. The project's contrasting nature to ordinary correctional facilities raises questions about its feasibility for wider implementation across the United States. While it currently faces scrutiny and political challenges, the success of this pilot could pave the way for similar initiatives aimed at reforming incarceration practices across the country.
In 2019 a group of prison officers from Philadelphia in the US spent three weeks working in jails across Scandinavia - in order to see whether their more humane approach to custody could work back at home.
Five years on we visit SCI Chester’s ‘Little Scandinavia' to see whether the ‘homely’ environment - where prisoners can order groceries, cook their own meals and socialise with officers – leads to better behaviour.
We’ll also head to Panama, where an innovative recycling project is cleaning up a prison and providing inmates with skills they can use once back in the outside world.
People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email peoplefixingtheworld@bbc.co.uk. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider.
Presenter: Myra Anubi
Producer: Craig Langran
Reporters: Jane Chambers, Ben Wyatt
Editor: Jon Bithrey
(Image: Inmates playing chess at Chester jail, Pennsylvania, Getty Images)
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode