Case studies

Background to the project
Nexus is a project working with women in prison who have drug-related offending behaviour. It provides a theatre workshop to stimulate interest and to explore drug issues in a creative way, followed by intensive group work for eight weeks, one-to-one support and follow-up assistance and referral after the women leave prison.

It operates in Brockhill women's prison near Birmingham where 77% of women have been drug users before entering prison. A team of six experienced social work staff run the project in tandem with a theatre company who develop role-play and acting skills. They also perform a specially written play, called 'Rattling', about drugs. 

The project is founded on the belief that many women need particular support in the period immediately after they have been through detox, or 'rattle'. This can be a low point for many women, being given the chance to discuss and explore their own experiences during this period can help them to remain drug free. The service refers women to other services and puts them in touch with support networks in their home areas when they are released.

What makes it different
There are very few projects working in women's prisons. Using theatre and creative techniques allows the team to explore the link between drug use and physical/emotional abuse: 71% of women in Brockhill report experiencing some form of abuse or violence in the past. The group also work with young women: the prison houses teenage women through a partnership with the Youth Justice Board.
 
Quotes
"Nexus works with some of the most vulnerable women in our society. They are disaffected and generally excluded from mainstream health services. We are able to offer them help and support when they most need it, often straight after they have been through the trauma of withdrawal from drugs."

Last Updated: 29/07/2003