Established in 1984, Lai Sun Correctional Institution stands on Hei Ling Chau Island. It began as a minimum security institution. Now it functions as a Drug Addiction Treatment Centre.
Let’s delve into the history of Lai Sun Correctional Institution. In 1974, the entire island became the responsibility of the Correctional Services Department of Hong Kong. Today, four prisons are located here.
Lai Sun Correctional Institution houses around 202 drug addicts. They are undergoing treatment. This treatment programme falls under the Drug Addiction Treatment Centres Ordinance. The facility specifically houses young offenders. They are sentenced for breaking drug laws.
Imagine the ferry ride from Central, passing Peng Chau on the way to Hei Ling Chau. Only individuals with authorization can visit the island.
Student visits to Lai Sun Correctional Institution are eye-opening. They meet inmates and learn about the disastrous consequences of drug abuse. Despite imprisonment, residents have access to life projects. Some students found the inmate’s testimony very touching. Rehabilitation allowed him to reconnect with his family.
The island itself spans 1.93 square kilometers. Its southwest portion serves as a typhoon shelter.
The Correctional Services Department offers e-booking services for social and official visits. Social visits occur between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., but not on Wednesdays, except public holidays. For security, visitors shouldn’t arrive before 8:30 a.m. Registration closes 30 minutes before visiting hours end.
Official visits run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Saturday visits are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. No visits occur on Saturday afternoons and public holidays.
Lai Sun Correctional Institution even has an environmental policy for Hei Ling Chau.
In 2021, correctional officers stopped a fight among four people in custody. The individuals aged between 16 and 20. They fought in the exercise yard. One inmate sustained injuries and received treatment at a public hospital. The others had minor injuries. They received medical treatment at the institution. The case was reported to the Police for investigation.
Lai Sun Correctional Institution offers accessible routes. Tactile guide paths and accessible toilets are available. Visual display boards, braille, and tactile floor plans aid visitors. An accessible service counter is also available.
Lai Sun Correctional Institution serves as a place of correction. It offers a path to rehabilitation. It stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s commitment to helping young offenders.