Research at a glance

Why we did this study

Women classified as minimum- or medium-security and women classified as maximum-security have different needs. Therefore, secure units were established in the regional women’s facilities to address the higher levels of risk and needs of women classified as maximum security.

During 2003 and 2004, four secure units were opened. Our study examined immediate impacts of the opening of these units on the women classified as maximum-security, staff who work with them, and other women and staff at the facilities.

What we did

Two different studies were conducted. For both, we collected data both prior to and after the opening of the secure units.

In study 1 we gathered feedback from the women and the staff with regard to their perceived impacts of the opening of the units. Data were collected through interviews, focus groups, surveys and standardized measures.

In study 2 we used offender files to collect data six months prior to and after the opening of the units. This information allowed for another perspective on the women’s participation in pro-social activities and institutional adjustment as a result of the openings.

What we found

We found that the opening of the secure units had a number of important immediate impacts. For women classified as maximum security, involvement in pro-social activities did not increase with the opening of the units. In fact, the women reported increased stress, frustration, and boredom. That being said, there were no increases in institutional misconducts.

For women classified as minimum or medium security, increased stress and tension were also reported. These women said that their access to staff and activities, as well as their movement, became more restricted once the secure units were opened. They also found that the facilities became more rigid and focused on security.

Staff also reported an increase in stress and frustration, as well as a decrease in job satisfaction. This was true both for staff who work in the secure units and other staff. Staff also mentioned they would like additional training and more support from management.

On a more positive note, secure unit staff also reported a sense of cohesiveness and support amongst themselves.

What it means

These studies show that there were very significant immediateimpacts of the opening of the secure units. A number of areas were identified as areas for improvement, including communication and staffing practices. This information should be helpful in terms of identifying where to focus future efforts.

It should be noted that it is very common for there to be "start-up" difficulties associated with new initiatives. For this reason, a second examination will be necessary once the units have been open for a longer period of time.

For more information

Gobeil, R., Taylor, K., & Flight, J. (2008). Secure units for women offenders: An examination of impacts. Research Report R-197. Ottawa: Correctional Service Canada.

To obtain a PDF version of the full report, contact the following address: research@csc-scc.gc.ca

Prepared by: Renée Gobeil & Kim Allenby

Contact

Research Branch
(613) 996-3287