An overview of women’s corrections

Federally-sentenced women comprise approximately 5% of the total population of federally-incarcerated people in Canada. Slightly more than half of these women are under community supervision.

In recent years, the women’s population has increased, particularly:

• Indigenous women
• women with mental health needs
• women affiliated with gangs
• women who are serving shorter sentences

The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is responsible for creating programs, policies, and practices that take into account gender differences and support the specific needs of women and other groups who may face barriers. This is outlined in section 4(g) of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act.

The principles that govern women’s corrections

The following principles govern programs, interventions and services for federally-sentenced women:

• empower women
• encourage meaningful and responsible choices
• foster respect and dignity
• create a supportive environment
• promote shared responsibility

Learn more about the principles that govern corrections for women offenders:

• Creating Choices