The Corston Independent Funders’ Coalition (CIFC) has just published an external evaluation on the work it has undertaken since 2008. The report shows that its unique approach to funding advocacy has ensured the crucial issue of women in prison remains a priority for the government and UK public.
In the decade since the start of 2000 the number of women in prison had risen by 60%. Most served ineffective and wasteful short sentences of six months or less. With many having experienced high rates of mental health problems, sexual abuse, domestic …

The Ministry of Justice recently published a set of proposals on rehabilitation and sentencing, called Breaking the Cycle. The dedicated consultation webpage for the proposals is here.
The Corston Coalition have responded to this Green Paper. Our full response is here.
In summary, we believe that the proposals in the Green Paper need to be brought together in a clear action plan for women offenders. This action plan should include:
A recommitment to the principle that community penalties should be the norm for women offenders
Guaranteed visible senior leadership for the …