Our centres
Supporting mums to create a pathway towards change
To refer someone or participate in the Beyond Barbed Wire program simply download and fill out the form
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About Beyond Barbed Wire
The Beyond Barbed Wire program is a specialist program that supports mothers in the criminal justice system, helping them to rebuild their lives and care for their children. For a lot of these women who don’t have extended families to lean on, Barnardos is that support system that gives them the strength to do better for their children.
To refer someone, or to participate in the Beyond Barbed Wire program simply check the eligibility
below, download and complete the form then email it to wellington@barnardos.org.au.
Please note referrals require consent to make the referral.
Who is eligible for this program?
Program eligibility is for mums with children residing in Western NSW, who are in contact with the criminal justice system or have been released from correctional centres.
Eligibility criteria:
- Female
- Is pregnant or has children
- Is in contact with criminal justice system.
This includes a woman who- has committed a previous offence and is at risk of incarceration
- is currently incarcerated and close to release
- recently released from a Correctional Centre
- is currently released on bail conditions or with a bond
- Is currently released on probation
- Is currently released on a suspended sentence
- Planning to live or are now living in Western NSW
- Willing to engage and work with the Barnardos BBW Mentor program – this is a voluntary service.
Priority is given to:
- Women who will be the primary carers of their children or kin children upon release
- Women whose children are in kinship care or foster care while incarcerated and who are seeking to have their children returned to their care
- Women who continue to be involved in their children’s upbringing.
The woman’s age, type of offence committed or length of sentence do not affect eligibility for the mentor support service.
Referral pathways
Referrals may come from any source including self, family member, Corrective Services, Department of Communities and Justice, Probation and Parole, Housing, other NGOs. Referrals may be made using the attached referral form, by meeting in person or by an email or telephone call. All referrals require consent to make the referral.
- Referrals made while the woman is incarcerated: Referrals may be made at anytime but preferably at least one month prior to release.
- Referrals made post release: Referrals will be accepted for up to 3 months post release.
There is no fee or payment for the mentor support service – the service is free and confidential.
