We support women in contact with the criminal justice system, whether that is at the point of arrest, in the community, or on probation. We provide practical and emotional support, including through specialist partners to ensure they receive support specific to their individual needs.

Women in contact with the criminal justice system often experience multiple challenges at once, such as with their housing, their physical and mental well-being, and caring responsibilities, which is exacerbated by prison.

Our goal is to divert women from the criminal justice system at the earliest opportunity to support and advocate for them across their multiple needs, leading to a reduction in custodial sentences and to prevent further harm and offending.

We believe that the criminal justice service is built by men, for men, so it is important that a safe, woman-only option like Advance is available.

We support women and girls from 15 years old of all levels of risk and need across London and the south of England in safe, women-only spaces like our women’s centres, in community hubs and within custody suites.