Conference brings together partners to prevent further harm to women in the criminal justice system

Last month, over 80 professionals from across policing, probation, local authorities and various charities came together at Buckfast Abbey Conference Centre for a powerful and action focused event: Preventing Further Harm - A Whole System Approach for Women in the Criminal Justice Systemin Devon and Cornwall.

The event was hosted by The Women’s Centre Cornwall, who celebrate their 30^th anniversary this year, in collaboration with the High Sheriff of Devon, Trevi, Gifted Women, CoLab Women, The Olive Project and HM Prisons and Probation Service. It was supported with a grant from The JABBS Foundation for Women and Girls.

Chaired by the High Sheriff of Devon, Caroline Harlow, the conference created space for partners from across the system to reflect, connect and commit to practical action to better support women in contact with the criminal justice system. Caroline said of the day, “It was a pleasure to chair this conference, bringing together professionals and women with lived expertise, we explored how best to meet women’s individual needs and the importance of tailored support for those facing vulnerability, homelessness, domestic abuse, and involvement in the criminal justice system.”

The conference took place following the recently published recommendations from the Women’s Justice Board, which set out a clear national direction for reducing the number of women in prison. The Women’s Justice Board Report highlights the importance of early intervention, greater use of community-based alternatives to custody – such as women’s centres - and improved coordination between services to address the underlying causes of women’s offending - many of which are linked to trauma, poverty and abuse. 

These priorities strongly mirrored the discussions throughout the conference, reinforcing the importance of a whole system approach. Attendees reflected on how partners at a local level can align with these recommendations, ensuring that more women are supported in the community and diverted away from the criminal justice system wherever possible. 

The day was built around a shared ambition - to prevent further harm to women, their families and communities by improving early intervention and strengthening the way organisations work together. Attendees heard from a range of speakers and contributors, including women with lived expertise of the criminal justice system, alongside professionals working to improve outcomes for women. 

Through a series of structured discussions and action planning sessions, participants explored key stages of a woman’s journey through the criminal justice system - from first contact with police, through courts and probation, to time in prison and resettlement. The focus throughout was clear: how can we support early, address the root causes of offending, and reduce the chance of reoffending. 

The event was designed not just to spark conversation, but to generate tangible actions. Attendees completed a feedback form, each identifying a specific action they will take forward following the conference. Key themes emerging from the feedback forms included the need for more collaboration with other services, and taking a trauma-informed approach. The commitments demonstrate the shared desire to build on the momentum of the day and turn the learning and collaboration into real impact. 

A standout moment from the day came when Jayne Purl, long standing member of staff at The Women’s Centre Cornwall, was presented with the High Sheriff of Devon Award in recognition of her great and valuable services to the community. Jayne is the Service Manager for the Open Service, supporting women on probation across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. Jayne goes above and beyond to ensure that women in prison and on probation get excellent support. The service is in very high demand and valued by Probation who refer women to us. The team frequently supports women in high risk and complex situations, and provide both practical and emotional support to help them move forward with their lives. This award recognises Jayne’s commitment to supporting these women.  

Chief Executive at The Women’s Centre Cornwall, Jackie May, commented on the success of the day, “We were delighted to see the buzz and partnership working on the day as partners from across health, probation, police and voluntary sector came together to find solutions to ensure that women get effective support from their very first contact with the criminal justice system. We know that most women who are arrested have already experienced significant abuse and trauma in their lives and need holistic gender-specific support which women’s centres are well placed to offer.”  

Dr Barbara Scott, Patron and Trustee of The JABBS Foundation for Women and Girls, who attended the conference, said: “It felt like a brilliant success, focused on practical action and solutions between partners, such as more reliable referrals to women's centres and greater use of co-location across agencies. There was a real buzz and optimism for the future, and I think everyone will have come away feeling inspired.” 

Work is now underway to build on the connections and ideas generated during the event, ensuring that the energy and intent of the day continues to drive progress during the months ahead.