Women's Corrections

Principles of Women's Corrections

In 1990, the Task Force Report on Federally Sentenced Women, entitled Creating Choices, established a new correctional philosophy for women offenders – one that encompasses a holistic approach to dealing with their specific needs. Creating Choices was founded on the principles of empowerment, meaningful and responsible choices, respect and dignity, supportive environments, and shared responsibility.

These principles have served as the driving force behind a number of advances in federal corrections for women offenders. This includes the closure of the Prison for Women, the construction of five new regional facilities and an Aboriginal healing lodge, the development of women-centered programs, and the establishment of a community strategy to expand and strengthen residential and non-residential programs and services for women under supervision in the community.

For more information, consult the Creating Choices report and other research related to women offenders.