Work Package 4: Science-Based Methodology

This work package is the core of the ESCAPE Project. The main result of this work package the Science-Based Spiritual Counseling Methodology; developed, tested and validated among 4 partner countries.

 
The SCM directly advanced the project’s third specific objective: “Develop a science-based transnational methodological framework to improve spiritual counseling services for young prisoners.” By creating the first transnational SCM validated through piloting, the project addressed the lack of standardized, evidence-based tools in European prisons. Professionals working with young ex/prisoners and/or young people at risk of crime gained a structured, adaptable framework to address complex emotional needs, enhancing their ability to support rehabilitation. Young prisoners reported improved coping skills (e.g., managing anger, building hope) during feedback sessions, aligning with the goal of reducing recidivism.

The results of WP4 were achieved through a structured, collaborative process that combined research, training, testing, and adaptation. This ensured the creation of a practical, science-based Spiritual Counseling Methodology (SCM) tailored to the needs of young prisoners and professionals working in justice systems. The results pathway included several steps:

Engagement: Partners included key stakeholders starting from the survey activity (WP2). This network both facilitated the following project tasks under WP3 and WP4 and ensured the sustainable use of the results through the effective dissemination actions under WP5.

Data Valorisation: Building on insights from WP2 (field analysis) and WP3 (good practices), partners synthesized data on existing spiritual counseling approaches, gaps, and youth needs across Europe, particularly from partner countries. This analysis formed the foundation of the SCM, ensuring it addressed issues like emotional distress (e.g., loneliness, hopelessness) and reintegration barriers faced by young prisoners.

Drafting: CPIP created the first version of the SCM, integrating evidence-based practices (e.g., meditation, reflective exercises) and ethical guidelines. The draft emphasized spirituality as a tool for personal growth, resilience, and reducing aggressive behaviors, aligning with the project’s goal of fostering moral values and social inclusion.

Transnational Training Activity: A 3-day training session in Romania (May 2024) brought together 11 professionals from partner countries to elaborate the draft SCM. Activities included workshops on applying the methodology, case study simulations, and discussions on cultural adaptability. The second draft of SCM was created in line with the collected feedback.

Piloting: The SCM (second draft) was tested in real-world settings across four countries reaching 61 pilot participants, 35 professionals and 26 ex/prisoners. Initially, the piloting was planned only for professionals, but during the implementation it was considered essential to directly involve people in conflict with the law in order to gain a fuller perspective on the impact of the method.

Fine-Tuning: The feedback collected from the piloting phase provided a deeper understanding of how the SCM can respond to the real needs of the final beneficiaries. Post-piloting, each partner developed piloting reports and discussed the findings during the final meeting in Spain to review challenges and successes. Key adjustments included: (1) Simplifying the spiritual well-being assessment tool for easier use (2) Adding culturally adaptable exercises (e.g., mindfulness practices acceptable across religions), (3) Strengthening guidelines for addressing the real needs and (4) paying attention to the terminology used in national translations.