Women In Prison Flashcards
How many of the prison population is women? When was this measured?
4.5% in December, 2018
Why are women more vulnerable in prison?
2x more likely to self harm
Women are predominantly sole or primary carers of children
What issues do BME women face?
More likely to be isolated, less likely to seek help
Language barrier stops access to services
What issues do young women face?
High levels of mental health problems and self harm
Particularly low achievement in education and training
What are common pathways to crime for women
Experiencing domestic abuse Substance abuse Severe mental illness Relationships or family with criminals Economic marginalisation specifically supporting children
When was the corston report released
2007
Why was the corston report called for
6 women had died in the same prison
What was the conclusion of the corston report?
Women have different needs, need smaller and more accessible units
Community services should be given unless the woman is dangerous or violent
There should be a women centred approach
How has the corston report affected today?
Some women centres have been shut down due to lack of funding
But in 2018 the female offender strategy was released
What is the female offender strategy
Released by secretary of state of justice calling for a continued women centred approach, moving prison sentences to community sentences for women
What interventions are needed/used in prison for women
Peer mentoring
Mother baby units
Health and wellbeing
Why is peer mentoring useful?
Provides support and guidance for one
And fulfilling work for the other
Aids in developing skills
How are mother baby units useful
Mothers can be with babies until 18mo
Provides child friendly environment for them to thrive in
What are the barriers to health and wellbeing for women in prison
Availability of healthy meals and the gym
Access to hygiene and sanitary products
IEP
What does through the gate support provide? Why is this useful?
Practical assistance on housing, employment, drug programmes etc
Emotional support with coping strategies and mental health support
vital as period after release is high risk for reoffending
