The treatment of women by the criminal justice system in the UK is a stark demonstration of inequality and prejudice. There has been an 85% increase in the number of women sent to prison over the last 15 years with no corresponding rise in crime.The causes of crime are linked to poverty, lack of education, racism and poor mental health. Over half of the women in prison experienced sexual and/or physical violence as a child and over half have severe and enduring mental health problems, often compounded by drug and alcohol addiction. Criminalising them is a disturbing response. Incarcerating them does not work.

Clean Break uses theatre to challenge perceptions of women and crime through original productions on stage, and works to support women to improve their lives through theatre-based courses on an education programme in prisons and in the community. The classes offer a safe space where learning becomes possible, supporting women to make different choices and feel able to live their lives.

It is a constant battle to persuade policy-makers, funders and the wider public of the value of creative education, particularly with this group of learners. In this political and economic landscape, we are having to work harder than ever to ensure we can continue to offer this opportunity to some of the most vulnerable people in our society. Having worked on the education programme for 2 years I have been amazed again and again by the real difference it makes to women's lives and inspired by their strength and determination. Please help me raise some much-needed funds to help us to keep doing this.

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