Bandyup houses predominantly sentenced women and provides a range of specialist services including a dedicated mental health unit and nursing units.
Following its prison inspection, OICS acknowledged Bandyup’s operational plans were linked clearly with the objectives of the Department’s overarching strategic framework for women prisoners.
The framework recognises that adult females’ pathways to committing offences frequently involve victimisation, abuse, trauma, homelessness, poverty, substance misuse and violence.
“This recognition of women’s distinct experiences and needs had led to the beginnings of local initiatives (at Bandyup) to embed a women-focused, trauma-informed model of care,” OICS said.
Its inspection report said seeing evidence of this link was very positive and Bandyup’s stable and experienced leadership team were committed to prison operations reflecting the strategic framework.
“The prison’s business plan, some new operational and security procedures, and a focus on building relevant community partnerships had commenced Bandyup’s journey towards implementation.”
OICS said the prison’s Bindi Bindi mental health unit for women living with acute mental health issues aligned well with Bandyup’s move to a trauma-informed, women-centred operating philosophy.
Fostering a supportive environment, Bandyup also encouraged participation in events and meaningful activities recognising women’s experiences with trauma.
These included the 16 Days in WA anti-domestic violence campaign and the Leave Safe, Stay Safe program for victim-survivors of family and domestic violence.
Access to Bindi Bindi’s occupational therapist and other clinical staff also had a positive impact on managing Bandyup prisoners living with disabilities.
OICS said the facility offered “excellent” rehabilitative services to help improve outcomes for women both in custody and upon release.
A specially designed offender treatment program, relevant volunteer programs, education and skills courses, and transition services were contributing to the women-centred, trauma-informed approach.
Department Director General Kylie Maj said the maximum-security facility was focused on providing gender-specific, culturally sensitive and trauma-informed services to assist women prisoners.
“Bandyup is on the front line of implementing the therapeutic model of care that strives to improve women’s health and safety and help them to re-enter the community with better vocational prospects and a brighter future,” she said.
“OICS noted improvements in Bandyup’s healthcare delivery, employment and training opportunities, supports for expectant mothers and those with newborn babies, and in rehabilitation and transition towards release services.”
Acting Corrective Services Commissioner Rick Curtis said Bandyup’s senior leadership group and staff were committed to maintaining the safety and security of inmates and staff, keeping the community safe and supporting women in their care through trauma-informed practices.
“Bandyup continues to work hard to build on the good foundations of its business plan to further enhance everyday operations and the prisoners’ lives, wellbeing and their reintegration into society,” he said.
