NCJ Number
78635
Date Published
1981
Length
13 pages
Annotation
Training programs for local jail staffs are reviewed, with particular attention to the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) approach to training and to the NIC assistance program for local jurisdictions planning the construction or renovation of jail facilities.
Abstract
A successful approach to training jail staffs used by the NIC Jail Center has been to convene teams of sheriffs and county commissioners in training programs for raising their awareness of legal/constitutional issues, public policy affecting jails, liability issues, and problemsolving techniques. Other approaches have concentrated on management and supervisory training, with recommendations regarding a training curriculum for administrative and managerial staff that would include management theory and practice in the correctional setting. It is also suggested that correctional officers' pay be raised and their working conditions improved in order to attract qualified personnel. Several States have taken the initiative in setting standards for training correctional officers and more should follow suit. The NIC Jail Center's total systems planning approach has also been developed to help local officials plan new jail facilities and the NIC has set up policies and procedures for local jurisdictions wanting to renovate old facilities. NIC has grants in action with nine States to support their work to improve jails, and several facilities have been selected by NIC as resource centers to provide services to other jails. Also mentioned are programs to improve local jails that are supported by Federal agencies such as LEAA and the Bureau of Prisons. The NIC Jail Center is also working to develop technical assistance for facilities with special concerns, such as small rural jails. Fifteen endnotes are included.