Small-scale detention. Big impact? Insights into the effective principles of transition houses
In this project, we investigate how the small-scale transition houses of De Kansenfabriek support people in returning to society after detention. We do this because traditional prisons often fall short: high recidivism, insufficient preparation for reintegration, and too little support during detention.
Through a qualitative realist evaluation, in collaboration with De Kansenfabriek (transition houses in Leuven and Hamme), we use observations, focus groups with professionals, and interviews with (former) participants to map what works, for whom, and under which circumstances.
Traditional prisons struggle with structural problems such as high recidivism rates, insufficient preparation for reintegration, and a lack of support during detention. Small-scale detention is proposed as an alternative that strongly emphasizes guidance, responsibility, and reintegration. In 2019, Belgium opened its first transition house, where a limited number of residents receive intensive, tailor-made support. Today, five transition houses are operational. However, to date, there is no scientific evidence on how the specific functioning of transition houses contributes to successful reintegration. This research project aims to address this gap by mapping the effective principles of transition houses. We do this through a collaboration with Stichting De Kansenfabriek, which operates two of the transition houses in Belgium.
The study uses a qualitative approach with a realist evaluation. A key feature of realist evaluation is that it does not only look at limited outcomes (such as whether or not recidivism occurs) but analyzes why a particular intervention works, under which circumstances it works, and for whom it works. This approach provides insight into the underlying mechanisms of interventions or programs.
The central research question is: How does the specific functioning of transition houses contribute to the reintegration of people after a period of detention? To answer this question, the researchers collaborate with De Kansenfabriek, which operates the transition houses in Leuven and Hamme. In both houses, we will conduct observations, focus groups with professionals, and interviews with (former) participants. The interviews with (former) participants will zoom in on what they perceive as supportive and what possible obstacles they encounter during reintegration.
The results of this research will lead to a better understanding of the contribution transition houses make to reintegration—insights that are currently completely lacking. Furthermore, based on the research findings, we will develop two tools for practice and policy to ensure that the results are sustainably embedded and that policymakers can make evidence-based decisions regarding the further development of small-scale detention.
Detention, reintegration, small-scale detention, transition houses
