Women in Corrections - Time to Heal

I aim to shed light on the shared experiences of women in the correctional system, regardless of their cultural background. It's important to recognise the universality of their trauma histories, often marked by physical and sexual abuse and the profound impact this has on their lives and pathways to incarceration. I also want to emphasise the importance of viewing women as both victims and victimisers, understanding how trauma shapes their thoughts, behaviours, and actions. Finally, I hope to raise awareness about the school-to-prison pipeline, particularly how sexual assault disproportionately pushes girls into the correctional system.

 

 

These approaches are vital because they acknowledge the unique needs and experiences of women who have often endured significant trauma. By creating environments where women feel seen, heard, and understood, we can begin to address the underlying trauma that drives many of their behaviors. Traditional correctional methods, often designed for men, fail to address the shame and stigma women experience, particularly around substance abuse and the potential loss of their children. Gender-responsive and trauma-informed approaches offer a more effective path toward healing and rehabilitation.

 

 

Absolutely. There are numerous programs and research studies from the UK, USA, and Australia showcasing the positive impact of gender-responsive and trauma-informed approaches. These initiatives have led to significant improvements in women's mental health, including reduced symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. We've also seen a decrease in anger, aggression, and self-harm, along with an increase in emotional regulation, self-awareness, and positive coping skills. These changes often result in lower recidivism rates, as women are better equipped to navigate challenges and make positive choices upon release.

 

 

Historically, women have been largely invisible in the correctional system, which was primarily designed for men. Thankfully, there's increased awareness now about the unique needs of women in correctional settings. However, many challenges persist, including inconsistent training for correctional officers, outdated policies and practices, and a lack of resources tailored specifically for women. We still have much work to do to ensure that the system adequately addresses the needs of women and supports their successful reintegration into society.

 

 

When I had the opportunity to live in a prison for three days, I was deeply moved by the sense of community and mutual support among the women. They shared a profound kindness and caring for each other, even in the face of immense challenges. I witnessed countless acts of compassion, from comforting a grieving mother who had lost her child to providing practical assistance to a woman battling cancer. These experiences highlighted the resilience of the human spirit and the power of connection, even in the most difficult circumstances.

 

 

To create a more trauma-informed correctional system, we need to start with comprehensive staff training. This training should equip them with the knowledge and skills to understand trauma, its impact, and how to respond appropriately. We also need to establish clear accountability measures to ensure that staff are consistently implementing trauma-informed practices. Additionally, it's crucial to review and revise existing policies and practices through a trauma lens, identifying and addressing any systemic issues that may perpetuate harm. We must question the necessity of incarceration for non-violent offences and explore alternatives like community supervision. Finally, prioritizing the safety and well-being of incarcerated women is paramount, creating an environment where they can heal and thrive.

 

 

Despite cultural differences, there are striking similarities in the profiles of women who end up incarcerated. They often belong to marginalized groups, have experienced high rates of physical and sexual abuse, struggle with mental health issues, and lack adequate education and job skills. However, the operations of correctional facilities vary significantly across countries. For example, in Europe and the UK, there's a greater emphasis on providing maternity units and support for pregnant women and new mothers compared to the USA.