Shine Women's Mentoring (360G-SCVO-a133z00000KKG1TAAX)

Shine Women's Mentoring is a national Public Social Partnership, providing mentoring support to women in the justice system, including those serving a short term prison sentence or a period on remand. Shine was first established in 2013 and has developed extensive knowledge, understanding and experience of supporting this group of particularly vulnerable women. The needs of women leaving custody are complex and specific, with women facing many risks on liberation. Through experience, Shine recognises how crucial the first 48 hours on release from prison are, in particularly the risk of fatal overdose. These critical hours are fuelled by anxiety and isolation for many women, which increases their risk of harm even further. Prior to the pandemic, Shine provided a "gate pick up" service, which collected women on the day of release, supporting them to link in with key services such as housing, GP and addictions. This was a fundamental part of Shine service delivery and when the pandemic put a stop to this, Shine recognised the importance of adapting rapidly. Very quickly Shine developed Liberation Packs for all women leaving prison. These packs were placed in their belongings for the day of release and included essential service information, basic hygiene products and crucially they contained a charged mobile phone with data. This allowed women to receive support from their mentor as soon as they stepped through the gate. Women quickly referred to the provision of a smart phone as a lifeline. Having technology allowed women to access Shine support, as well as other key services. It also reduced isolation by giving women a means to stay in contact with social support mechanisms, increasing their overall wellbeing and feeling of connection.