This paper looks to review the literature surrounding ‘What Works’ with women who are in, or at risk of entering the Criminal Justice System (CJS) and what approach practitioners should take to working with these women. The literature highlights the differing needs and complexities of women compared to their male counterparts. The importance of adopting a gender-responsive and trauma-informed approach to working with women is discussed. The literature surrounding effective interventions and the importance of promoting a positive self-identity are also reviewed along with the importance of staff wellbeing and resilience to effective practice. Recommendations for training of practitioners working with women who are in, or at risk of entering the CJS are made.

It is widely recognised that women have been failed by the criminal justice system (CJS), with recommendations for improvement often not being implemented. The combined effects of being subjected to violence, substance abuse and trauma impact on a woman’s journey through the CJS but also contribute to her individual needs. The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) aims to support women to live crime free, reduce the number of women entering the CJS, seek alternatives to custody, integrate services and set the standard for future work carried out by the MOJ. Recent literature suggests women are misplaced within the CJS and not offered appropriate support for their needs, therefore, this literature review outlines ‘what works’ with women who have committed or are at risk of committing crime, highlighting the value of taking a trauma and gender-informed approach. The initial purpose of the review was to inform the implementation of The Female Offending Blueprint in Wales (MOJ, 2019) by advising on a best practice approach with women involved in the CJS. However, the review will have UK-wide implications for women’s services, identifying potential improvements to offer the best care and support.