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<p>We remain committed to the Female Offender Strategy, which provides the framework
to deliver better outcomes for female offenders, recognising the distinct needs of
this cohort. We are working across MoJ, HMPPS and wider government to provide a gender-specific,
trauma-informed service and reduce reoffending. This includes £15m investment until
2025 in community services to deliver wraparound support to women in the criminal
justice system, acknowledging the complex array of issues female offenders particularly
face.</p><p>Effective resettlement of prison leavers is a core part of our efforts
to reduce reoffending. This includes making sure women have a home, family links where
appropriate, access to healthcare, a job or further education, and/or access to benefits.</p><p>Evidence
shows that prison leavers without settled accommodation are almost 50% more likely
to reoffend compared to those with settled accommodation. That is why we have developed
the transitional accommodation service, known as Community Accommodation Service –
Tier 3 (CAS3), which provides up to 12 weeks accommodation on release from prison.
We are ensuring that a minimum 10% of beds delivered through CAS3 are allocated to
women in women-only properties so that they feel safe, especially those with backgrounds
of abuse.</p><p>To provide continuity of healthcare, we are recruiting Health and
Justice Partnership Coordinators nationwide who will liaise between prisons, probation,
and local health partners. We are also expanding the availability of secure video
calling, so prison leavers can meet community providers before release. In addition,
the new National Partnership Agreement on Health and Social Care in England, published
in February 2023, sets out a shared priority workplan to deliver safe, decent and
effective care, including substance misuse and mental health treatment, that improves
health outcomes for people after their release. NHS England’s continued investment
in their RECONNECT service also supports prison leavers with mental health and substance
misuse needs, as well as other vulnerabilities.</p><p>In terms of employment, in every
women’s prison we have recruited dedicated Prison Employment Leads (PELs) to match
prisoners to jobs on release, rolled out onsite Employment Hubs, recruited ID and
Banking administrators, and established Employment Advisory Boards (EABs) which link
prisons with industry advisors. Lastly, the New Futures Network, who works with over
400 organisations to source employment opportunities and provide jobs training, have
a dedicated broker for the women’s estate.</p>
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