This report looks in-depth at the criminal justice system's response to women, using information gathered by 139 Soroptimists clubs across the UK.
It presents a mixed picture, profiling some excellent local initiatives whilst mapping overall patchy provision of services for vulnerable women. The report makes recommendations relating to female offenders' children, including: local strategies should take into account the needs of dependent children and the consequences for children of lack of stable, secure homes; more regard should be had to the needs of children whose mothers are caught up in the criminal justice system and steps taken by all relevant agencies to mitigate the impact; and there should be a presumption against remanding into custody or imprisoning women with dependent children. A key theme identified from information gathered in England is the limited recognition of primary caring responsibilities by criminal justice agencies and lack of practical measures to support mothers (p.40) - for example, limited provision of childcare facilities or scheduling of probation appointments at family-friendly times during school holidays. It is concluded that this can effect a mother's engagement, and recommendations are made specifically about access to childcare, awareness of caring responsibilities and regard for needs of children.
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