Digikaverit

In the project, we holistically support people with history of crime to become active members of our society. We give them the possibility to strengthen their digital skills as well as provide them with opportunities to improve their life management and workplace skills. People with history of crime will get the opportunity to participate in the creation and development of the digital training pathway.

Implementation date6/1/2024 - 5/31/2026
FunderESR+ 2021-2027
Research programmeSustainable and versatile social and health care
Project typeKansallinen TKI
ThemesDigitalisation and information management in society
Project managerHeli Kaatrakoski

About the project

For individuals with history of crime, incarceration can restrict and, in the worst case, prevent them from using digital devices and acquiring digital skills. Upon their release, many lack functional devices, electronic authentication tools, or adequate digital skills for daily life, official matters, or employment.

Many individuals with history of crime need support during the transition phase to practice autonomy, reinforce daily routines, improve interpersonal skills and knowledge, and build a sense of community and alternative identity.

Learning digital skills can, at its best, enhance competence, self-esteem, and individual autonomy. Peer-provided digital support has been found to be an effective learning model, especially for those who have become marginalized from societal services. Peer engagement also enables individuals with history of crime to actively participate and strengthen their workplace skills.

In the Digital Buddies, our participants embark on a journey to diversify and enhance their skills while contributing to the development of the program.

The Digital Buddy Path

The Digital Buddy Path is a series of various trainings, events, coaching sessions, and discussions designed to guide individuals with a criminal background towards education and employment.

In Laurea's and Kalliola's project (2024-2026) Kalliola organizes digital courses and digital workshops for individuals with a criminal background, where they can study:

Basics of digital skills
Basics of word processing
Basics of presentation graphics
Basics of spreadsheet software
Basics of digital communication and teamwork.

In the Digital Buddy Path, participants are also supported in actively seeking their own path. Kalliola's Career Workshops assist with job hunting, recognizing personal skills, and exploring educational opportunities

Laurea offers Digital Buddy training aimed at individuals with a criminal background, where participants learn guidance and interpersonal skills, as well as workplace competencies that will help them serve as peer mentors in the future.

The training covers topics such as the concept of peer support, different learning styles, communication skills, information security, qualities of a good mentor, creating a positive learning environment, ethical guidelines for digital support, and the Digital Supporter competency badge, along with practical exercises.

Laurea is also in charge of expanding the Digital Buddy program to partner networks in collaboration with the trained digital buddies.

Partners

Laurea implements the project together with Kalliola Settlement Association.

Additionally, the following organizations are involved in the project:

RETS - a Finnish foundation, national expert organisation and service provider that promotes the coping and life management of people with criminal justice history and their loved ones.
Snellu - Helsinki Parish Union's Special Youth Work Center
Romano Missio - a national child welfare and and social service organization that produces Christian and educational services for the Romany people.
RISE - Prison and Probation Service of Finland, the Helsinki Probation Office
The Finnish Diverse Learners’ Association - a national dyslexia organization in Finland with 9 regional member associations in different parts of the country.
Sininauhaliitto - The Blue Ribbon Association and its member organizations work with people in exceptionally challenging life situations with areas of expertise such as substance and gambling harms, addictions, mental health issues, long-term homelessness, and social employment.
KRIS Tampere - and organization that provides help and support to individuals released from prison.
Vamos - The Deaconess Foundation's service for young people outside of education and workforce.