A Pilot Program of a Peer Support Group by and for Formerly Incarcerated Women.

BACKGROUND

Women leaving incarceration face numerous barriers to reentry, including lack of social support, mental health conditions, and trauma.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of developing and implementing a peer-support group by and for formerly incarcerated women (FIW).

METHODS

A draft peer support curriculum was developed and refined based on a focus group with FIW. The program was implemented and participants engaged in a follow-up focus group to provide feedback.

RESULTS

Participants reported several benefits of participation, positive experiences regarding program logistics and content, and they valued having an FIW as the facilitator.

CONCLUSIONS

A peer support intervention by and for FIW was well-received. Additional research is needed to assess whether such an intervention can improve mental health among FIW.