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Adult Custody Division

Last updated on January 23, 2024

BC Corrections’ Adult Custody Division operates 10 correctional centres throughout the province that provide safe and secure custody to incarcerated individuals. Correctional centres house individuals who are awaiting trial or serving a provincial custodial sentence of less than two years.

While the levels of security vary from centre to centre, each offers a variety of programs, including educational and vocational training opportunities, that improve the likelihood of success upon release from custody and are proven to address factors that contribute to criminal behaviour.

Correctional employees also collaborate with community partners to create programs that provide individuals with opportunities to learn skills and give back to local communities.

We are continuously improving our ways of supporting individuals in custody through innovative approaches and evidence-based practices that support people’s unique needs and set them up for success upon return to their communities.

Correctional officers and supervisors

The majority of BC Corrections’ adult custody employees are correctional officers and supervisors who provide ongoing support to incarcerated individuals throughout their time in custody.

Staff use respectful communication and their leadership skills to maintain a safe environment and model positive thinking and behaviour. Correctional officer training includes:

  • Effective communication
  • Professional ethics and standards
  • Indigenous cultural awareness
  • Trauma-informed practices
  • Mental health needs and strategies
  • Case management
  • Conflict resolution
  • Crisis intervention
  • Learning about the criminal justice system
  • Administrative fairness

Others who work in correctional centres include:

  • Instructors, who deliver training and education to incarcerated individuals
  • Indigenous cultural liaisons and Elders, who provide culturally informed supports and counselling
  • Chaplains, who offer spiritual support to incarcerated individuals and staff
  • Financial and administrative staff, who provide organizational support
  • Community partners, who facilitate unique programming and/or integration services
  • Medical professionals with the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), who provide health care, mental health supports and addiction services
Adult Custody Quick Facts

Adult Custody has 1,800 full and part-time employees, including 1,300 correctional officers. They work in in 10 facilities in nine communities and oversee an average of 2,600 inmates each day.