Co‐Creating a Blueprint for Correctional System and Intergenerational Change: Better Addressing the Needs of Incarcerated Mothers and Their Children

ABSTRACT

Most incarcerated women have histories of trauma, victimisation, poor mental health, and disadvantage, and most also have mothering roles. Their support needs differ markedly from those of incarcerated men, yet most correctional settings are designed for men. This paper sets out how we co-created a new model of service combining a systems change focus (Transforming Corrections) with holistic, individualised support for incarcerated mothers and their children (Transforming Lives). The process drew on Ghate’s approach to implementing services that meet the specific needs of families and the Design Council’s Systemic Design Framework to developing social services. Input by imprisoned mothers and service stakeholders was central throughout. This paper contributes to the limited research on co-creation within correctional settings and sets out a comprehensive transformational service delivery model for imprisoned mothers and their children that aims to break intergenerational disadvantage and support improved life outcomes.