Developing
confidence,
self-belief,
& independence
to change lives
Empowering female inmates through entrepreneurship skills, compassion-based therapy, and personal grooming is a transformative approach that significantly impacts their reintegration into society.
Our approach seeks to address the root causes of criminal behaviour, enhance self-esteem, and provide practical tools for successful reintegration. By investing in these empowerment strategies, we can create a more just and compassionate society that offers second chances and supports the rehabilitation of all individuals.
Research consistently shows that these strategies not only reduce recidivism rates but also enhance self-esteem, self-sufficiency, and societal contributions.
Economic Independence
Entrepreneurship training provides female inmates with the tools to become financially independent. By learning how to start and manage their businesses, they gain practical skills such as financial literacy, marketing, and strategic planning. Studies indicate that economic stability is a crucial factor in preventing re-offence. A report by the RAND Corporation found that inmates who participated in educational and vocational training programs were 43% less likely to return to prison than those who did not.
Building a Sense of Purpose
Entrepreneurial skills instil a sense of purpose and direction. For many inmates, incarceration can lead to a loss of identity and purpose. Entrepreneurship training helps them to set goals and work towards achieving them, fostering a renewed sense of self-worth and motivation.
Addressing Trauma & Mental Health
We recognise that it’s not always a simple case of teaching skills to the women we work with, but also about addressing the deep-rooted issues that will have an impact on their chances of success.
Many female inmates have experienced significant trauma prior to incarceration, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and substance abuse.
Compassion-based therapy helps address these underlying issues by promoting self-compassion, emotional regulation, and resilience. Research published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology shows that therapies focusing on self-compassion can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
California has implemented various compassion-based therapy programs in its prisons. These programs have shown promising results, with participants exhibiting lower levels of stress and higher levels of emotional well-being. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation reported a 20% reduction in disciplinary infractions among inmates who participated in these programs.
Reducing Recidivism
Therapeutic interventions that emphasise compassion and mindfulness have been shown to reduce recidivism. A study by the University of Utah highlighted that inmates who engaged in mindfulness-based therapies were less likely to reoffend and more likely to exhibit pro-social behaviours upon release.
The Entrepreneurial Training for Incarcerated Women (ETIW) Program
A notable example of how well this approach can work is the ETIW program, which has successfully provided entrepreneurial training to female inmates. According to a study by the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, participants in such programs are more likely to gain employment and less likely to reoffend. The study found that graduates of the programme had a recidivism rate of less than 7%, compared to a national average in America of 23%.
A Fresh Look in the Mirror
Enhancing Self-Esteem
Personal grooming and self-care routines are powerful tools for rebuilding self-esteem. Inmates who engage in regular grooming practices often experience a boost in confidence and self-perception. Programmes that teach hygiene, skincare, and hairstyling can make a substantial difference in how inmates view themselves and their potential.
Social Reintegration
Appearance and grooming play a significant role in social interactions and professional settings. By learning personal grooming skills, female inmates are better prepared to present themselves confidently in job interviews and social situations, increasing their chances of successful reintegration into society.
Look Good, Feel Good
In the UK, the "Look Good, Feel Good" initiative provides grooming and self-care workshops for female inmates. These workshops have led to improved self-esteem and better mental health outcomes among participants. A study by the UK Ministry of Justice found that inmates who participated in the program were more likely to find employment upon release.