CDA Launches ‘Family Day’ Initiative to Strengthen Family Bonds in Juvenile Rehabilitation at Soun Center
Dubai: The Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai has introduced the “Family Day” initiative at the Soun Center for Care and Rehabilitation, aimed at enhancing the juvenile rehabilitation ecosystem. This initiative emphasizes the crucial role of family involvement in the rehabilitation process, asserting that well-structured family visits can be a significant therapeutic tool for the successful reintegration of juveniles into society.
Aligning with the Year of the Family 2026
The initiative aligns with the objectives of the ‘Year of the Family 2026’, which highlights the importance of family cohesion and stability as foundational elements of a resilient society. The CDA believes that juveniles transitioning out of the center require not only a second chance but also a supportive family environment. Recognizing that families may need guidance to fulfill this role effectively, particularly in cases of instability or emotional disconnect, the initiative aims to prepare both juveniles and their families for successful reintegration.
A Human-Centric Approach to Rehabilitation
Zainab Abdullah Al Dashti, Director of Soun Center for Care and Rehabilitation, stated that the initiative embodies CDA’s human-centric approach to juvenile rehabilitation. She emphasized that families are central to the rehabilitation and reintegration journey of juveniles. The “Family Day” initiative seeks to rebuild trust between juveniles and their families, transforming visits into meaningful opportunities for dialogue and connection. Al Dashti noted that when juveniles leave the center, they need a family ready to embrace and support them, which the initiative aims to facilitate.
Comprehensive Framework of Supportive Activities
The “Family Day” initiative is structured around a comprehensive framework of programs designed to foster positive engagement. It consists of six integrated pillars that align with the juvenile’s journey at the center. The initiative begins with the “First Hug” meeting, which occurs within the initial hours of admission. This first family visit is conducted in a supportive environment under the supervision of specialists, reinforcing that the focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Following this, “Family Counselling” sessions are held regularly, involving parents, juveniles, and social specialists to address family challenges, rebuild trust, and promote constructive communication. Central to the initiative is “Family Day,” a recurring event that brings families and juveniles together through shared activities such as sports, arts, and interactive workshops, thereby restoring a sense of normalcy in family relationships.
Encouraging Communication Through Written Messages
Complementing these activities is the “Message to My Family” program, which allows juveniles to express their thoughts and aspirations through written messages to their families. Families are encouraged to respond with messages of support, all facilitated under the guidance of specialists. This initiative aims to enhance communication and emotional connection between juveniles and their families.
Preparing Families for Reintegration
The CDA also focuses on preparing families ahead of a juvenile’s release as part of a structured empowerment and reintegration plan. This includes conducting post-release home visits under its aftercare methodology to ensure stability within the family environment and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
To maintain quality and consistency, the center has established clear guidelines for the implementation of these visits. They are initiated based on recommendations from rehabilitation specialists and are not intended as punitive measures. Visits are scheduled for 45 to 60 minutes in a dedicated multi-purpose space designed to ensure privacy and create a safe environment for families.
Expected Outcomes of the Initiative
The “Family Day” initiative is anticipated to yield measurable positive outcomes, including increased family participation in visits, improved behavior within the center, and a stronger commitment to education and rehabilitation programs. Additionally, it aims to reduce rates of reoffending following release, highlighting the critical role of family engagement in achieving sustainable rehabilitation outcomes.
Source: www.emirates247.com
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Published on 2026-04-27 17:50:00 • By the Editorial Desk
