Female Offender Strategy 2020-12-08
2020-12-08
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The female offender strategy was launched two years ago to improve outcomes for female offenders and make society safer. It aims at tackling the causes of offending.
What progress has been made on implementing the female offender strategy, which aims at improving outcomes for female offenders and making society safer by addressing the root causes of offending?
We have invested over £5 million in 30 women's services across England and Wales, and we are allocating a further £2.5 million to increase the financial stability of those providing these important services.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Bail Act 1976 allows the courts to remand an adult to prison for their own protection or a child for their welfare, even if the charge cannot lead to conviction. This often involves individuals with complex mental health needs.
Will the Minister support the repeal of the power under the Bail Act 1976 that allows for remanding adults and children to prison despite no risk of conviction, as it restricts liberty due to failures in community provision?
We are reviewing Mental Health Act 1983 provisions and recognise the need to tackle mental health issues in those who come through the justice system, particularly women. We will commit further funds to ensure that women get the services they need.
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Assessment & feedback
repealing power under the Bail Act 1976
Looking At The Mental Health Act Provisions
Reviewing Them
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Most women sentenced for non-violent crimes receive short prison sentences, which are ineffective for rehabilitation but can lead to family breakdowns, children entering care, and eviction. Women's centres are effective and cost-efficient.
Can the Minister guarantee enhanced investment in successful women's centres that provide better outcomes than imprisonment? These centres ensure women who should not be incarcerated receive proper care.
We are progressing with the first residential women's centre in Wales, funded by £2.5 million, which will better look after women on the cusp of custody who should not be incarcerated.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The female offenders strategy from 2018 acknowledged that short-term prison sentences do more harm than good, yet half of all women's sentences last year were for less than three months. The plan is to increase the women's population by 40%.
Why have these Ministers abandoned promises made by their predecessors regarding female offenders, given that most sentences are short and will likely lead to an increased prison population?
We refute any claim of policy change. We are ensuring that when people come through on short sentences, they will have specific probation officers looking after them in the new reformed probation system to ensure support.
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Assessment & feedback
abandoning promises made by predecessors regarding female offenders
Refute Claim Of Policy Change
Ensure Specific Probation Officers
Response accuracy