Supporting Women in Custody

Women in custody have needs that are quite different from the needs of men in custody. This is due in part from women's disproportionate victimization from sexual or physical abuse and in part from their responsibility for children. Women in custody are also more likely than men in custody to have become addicted to drugs; to be affected by mental illness; and to have been unemployed before incarceration.

By identifying the critical differences, similarities, and the implications of differences and similarities between men and women offenders, correctional officers and BC Corrections will be able to improve the overall support of women in care and custody.