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meet the women we work with
Steph
Some of the most vulnerable young women in society are ending up in the crim
inal justice system.
Steph says: "When I was 14, my mum kicked me out of home. There was nowhere for me to go but friends’ sofas and eventually the streets. I drank a lot and started taking drugs. I have been in trouble with the police since I was 17 and when I was 19 I received a two-year sentence for burglary.
"After I came out I was referred to the Together Women Programme (TWP) at Platform 51 Doncaster. The workers gave me advice, helped me get a house and develop my skills and confidence. I now see my daughter regularly. I am determined not to go back to my old life. I don’t want to end up back in prison. I want a good life for my daughter. I have given up alcohol and drugs and the workers have helped me stay clean.”
Since her release, Stephanie doesn’t see the people who might manipulate or badly influence her. She is very motivated to change her life for the better. Platform 51 works with the (TWP) to help young women get their lives back on track after prison.
TWP’s senior worker says: “Any prison sentence, short or long, affects that person’s benefits, accommodation, health and family. Steph, like many others, was extremely vulnerable and anxious. Following a long custodial sentence, it is very common to experience stress when trying to perform a simple task; even crossing a road or buying something from a shop can seem foreign."
"It is crucial that these women receive practical and emotional one-to-one support. When they have someone to talk to, someone to trust and a place to go that welcomes them; their commitment to changing their lifestyle becomes that much stronger."
Find out how your support can help young women like Steph here.
