Why the Justice System Needs to Change for Women | Kate Fraser

In this episode of Life After Prison, we’re joined by Kate Fraser, Head of Practice at Women In Prison, an organisation dedicated to supporting women impacted by the criminal justice system. Kate shares her journey through the prison system and into this work, exploring the unique challenges women face within the system. Kate also shares her vision of what real, systemic change could look like for women in the justice system and why inclusive, trauma-informed approaches are key to creating lasting solutions.

This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube.

Our listeners are the most important part of Life After Prison and we want to hear from you! Your feedback is really important as it lets our funders know what you think of the project, and helps make sure they continue to support Life After Prison. So it would be a massive help if you could fill out this form and let us know what you think. Thank you so much!

Useful organisations:

Women In Prison – Advocacy, housing support, and community programs for women affected by the justice system. 

Crisis – Provides support and resources to end homelessness, including housing, education, and employment support.  

Shelter – Offers housing advice and support to those facing homelessness, helping with housing rights and advocacy.

Birth Companions – Supports pregnant women and mothers in prison and in the community, focusing on the well-being of mothers and their babies.

Hibiscus Initiatives – Works with women in the justice system, particularly those from migrant and Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) backgrounds, offering support with resettlement and social integration. 

Clean Break – A theatre company that works with women who have lived experience in the criminal justice system, offering training and community through arts and theatre.

Anawim – Provides holistic support for women involved with the criminal justice system, helping with housing, mental health, and employment.  

Together Women – Focuses on reducing female reoffending by providing tailored support services for women in the justice system across Northern England.

Women’s Aid – Local support resources for women affected by domestic abuse.   

Find local support via Women’s Aid: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/womens-aid-directory/

The Howard League for Penal Reform – Working for less crime, safer communities, and fewer people in prison, with a focus on women and young people.

Agenda – An alliance for women and girls at risk, advocating for systemic changes and offering resources on trauma and mental health.   

Advance Charity – Provides support for women facing domestic abuse and those in contact with the criminal justice system.

Contact us:  

If anything you’ve heard in this podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your life, or you’d just like to get in touch, please contact us.  

💬 Socials: @afterprisonpod on Instagram and X, @lifeafterprison on TikTok  

📧 Email: podcasts@prison.radio  

✉️ Write: Life After Prison, National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF  

🖥