Abstract
This paper describes the myriad of issues and barriers that mothers face on exiting prison in their attempts to regain parental responsibility of their children. Interviews with professionals and stakeholders in Victoria, Australia who support these mothers, reported that these issues include lack of housing, obtaining a secure job and overcoming drug and alcohol addictions. Women coming out of prison have few organizational skills, as many have become institutionalized whilst in prison. They have poor time management, poor self-discipline, a poor work history and often battle anxiety and depression. Further, they need to prove that they are addressing the issues that caused them to be incarcerated and that they are able to care for their children in order to regain custody of them. Such ‘proof’ involves housing and employment, remaining drug and alcohol free and developing pro-social networks. The research shows that the hurdles incarcerated women need to overcome to meet these requirements are often hampered by limited support and assistance.
