ABSTRACT
This chapter talks about some of the most significant issues in getting out and staying out of prison. Safe and secure community re-entry after incarceration is important to the health and well-being of women who have been in conflict with the law, to their families, and to communities as a whole. Good health and support systems in prison and beyond are essential to ensuring the sustainability of community re-entry. This is particularly important in the case of mental health services. Without a significant injection of mental health resources into the community, a similar lack of care will persist for women released with little to no chance of finding a safe place in the community. While women's transition to community can be eased through the provision of social support, if it is not grounded in mutuality and reciprocity, this support may be insufficient for women to experience belonging or inclusion.
