TAKE criticism constructively, corrections officers have been told.
The advice was given to the officers at a workshop this week by former a chief corrections officer at Auckland's Mount Eden Prison, Faiyaz Mohammed Khan.
Mr Khan, who is now with the Auckland Central Police Custody Unit, reminded the officers to admit their mistakes and to learn to never let an inmate down.
"If you make a mistake, go and apologise, there is no harm in doing so. When you want something done, ask, don't order," he said.
"After all we all make mistakes, bring yourselves down. You have to be consistent in your work, and frequently talk with inmates."
Mr Khan told the officers it was important to know about the signs and symptoms of suicide in order to prevent it from occurring in prison.
"Give credit where it is due. If there is a problem in your prison, make sure you address it straight away and don't leave it to develop," he said.
He also told the officers to learn to praise inmates in front of everyone because it would help boosts their self-confidence.
Deputy Corrections Commissioner Akuila Namakadre said suicide in prison was a challenge for correction officers everywhere and Fiji was no exception.
"We have had cases in the past and even attempted suicides and we look forward to learning how best we can prevent them from happening," Mr Namakadre said.