A penological study into the implementation of Offender Rehabilitation Path (ORP) in female correctional centres in South Africa

Abstract

The aim of the research was to explore the implementation of Offender Rehabilitation Path (ORP) in female correctional centres in South Africa. The focus was on female offenders and the guidance on the components of a gender-sensitive approach to correction management, considering the typical background of female offenders and their special needs as female in corrections. Females continue to constitute a very small proportion of the general correction population worldwide. However, not only are their numbers increasing in tandem with the rise in the overall correction population in many countries, but studies in some countries have shown that the number of female offenders is increasing at a faster rate than that of male offenders. Female offenders are especially vulnerable at the time of admission owing to a variety of factors, such as the trauma of separation from children, families and communities, past victimisation and fears for their safety, the particular stigma associated with their imprisonment, minimal experience of contact with state authorities, or low educational and economic status, among others. In this research, the extent to which the experience of females prior to, during and after imprisonment is outlined. The research revealed that a significant number of female offenders come from impecunious family backgrounds, have been the victims of parental abuse, and are unemployed and inadequately educated. It was also revealed that female offenders, and sometimes their children, are housed under deplorable conditions in correctional centres. The research further revealed that imprisonment has grave consequences for the female and their families, especially since many of the female offenders are mothers and the breadwinners of their families before their imprisonment. It was noted that the devastating effects of imprisonment on incarcerated females and their families continue after their incarceration as their return to their families is often associated with considerable family upheaval, especially if children are involved. The findings illustrate that the rehabilitation processes for female offenders within correctional centres are operational, but several challenges prevent the Department of Correctional Services to perform optimally, for example, proper orientation and induction of female offender, incomplete assessments and rendering of programmes due to shortages and post establishment alignment. The findings of the research indicated that DCS is taking steps to improve the conditions under which female offenders are incarcerated. Therefore, more needs to be done in this regard. The provision of adequate conditions of incarceration for female offenders can improve their health and reduce the tensions and fights that occur among offenders. By prioritising physical exercises for female offenders, many of the fights that break out in female correctional facilities could be curtailed, as some of the aggression and idleness that lead to these fights can be channelled positively into physical fitness programmes. Based on these and other findings recommendations were made.