Rectifying the gaps : the mental wellbeing of female offenders

Abstract

The paper explores the effectiveness of Malta's correctional and rehabilitative structures in supporting the mental wellbeing of female offenders. It delves into the local service provision gaps that specifically target female offenders. With a primary objective to contribute to the local research on the mental and psychological wellbeing of female offenders, this research explores the perspectives and experiences of professionals and welfare providers working with females during the incarceration and rehabilitation phases. A qualitative approach through the use of two focus groups composed of different professionals and welfare providers, namely social workers, psychologists, family therapists, involved in delivering service provision, was adopted. The research used thematic analysis on the data gathered from these focus groups. In conclusion, the study reconfirms and recommends the need for gender-specific programmes informed through trauma-informed care, therapeutic interventions and halfway houses for female offenders, hence prompting reform in current criminal justice provisions to deal effectively in safeguarding the mental wellbeing needs of female offenders and fill in existing gaps. Other policy related recommendations include the implementation of after care services, support to welfare providers, and incorporating a multidisciplinary approach to support female ex-offenders to navigate life challenges upon their release.