Members of the Slovenian National Preventive Mechanism, Ivan Šelih, Deputy Ombudsman, Ana Polutnik and Mag. Jure Markič, visited the Miteinander leben housing groups in Graz on 21 November 2024, in the framework of their participation in the SEE NPM Network. The visit took place together with a representative of the Austrian Ombudsman, Peter Kastner. These residential groups are designed for the post-forensic accommodation and treatment of people who have committed crimes and who are at the same time confronted with personal mental disorders.
The visit was an exceptional opportunity to learn about the way in which such persons are treated in our neighbouring country. During the visit, the representatives of the Slovenian Preventive Mechanism learned about the functioning of such groups, the methods of treatment and the challenges faced by both the inmates and the professional staff caring for them.
The visit also enabled the exchange of experience and good practice between Slovenian and Austrian experts, which is important for the further development of the treatment and integration of people who need special support because of their mental disorders. The visit to Graz is thus another step towards deepening cooperation between the countries and finding the best solutions for dealing with people who have ended up in the penal system because of their mental health challenges and are trying to integrate back into society.
Study visit to the Miteinander leben housing groups in Graz

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