Pre and post-release services for women

Find out more about what we do

• Family violence

  Out of the Dark is a psycho-educational program that aims to educate women about family/domestic violence.

  The program is delivered to women in custody at both Tarrengower Women’s Prison and the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre.

  Out of the Dark is a 6-week (10 session) group program. The program consists of up to 10 women and covers topics such as:

  • definitions of abuse
  • cycles of abuse
  • your rights and the law
  • how family violence affects children
  • definitions of healthy and unhealthy relationships
  • managing stress and self-care
  • profiles of victims and abusers
  • resources and links to support women who have come from domestic violence situations

  Referrals can be made by any woman or any staff member.

• Multicultural support

  The Multicultural Liaison Program offers generalist support to women from a multicultural background while in custody. The service is based at Tarrengower Prison (Maldon) 1 day per week.

  Services we provide include:

  • general support on family issues
  • support to prepare the women for release support on any issues that should arise whilst they are residing at Tarrengower
  • interpretation support on anything from legal to prison documents

• Housing

  Support is available for women on bail who may not have a place to stay. The Atrium Housing Support Program is run by MCM and partner organisations.

  It offers short-term transitional housing combined with personalised support services to meet their individual needs.

  These services may include mental health support, finding secure sustainable housing and employment or assistance with drug and alcohol abuse.
  
  Entry into this program is by referral.