The Diverted Female Offender

This chapter highlights how the failure to thoroughly assess women’s needs in the criminal justice system prior to implementing the diversion policy has placed this minority group at a disadvantage. It examines the evolving approaches to rehabilitation and punishment in Ireland, acknowledging the influence of British models and the drawbacks of a one-size-fits-all approach, particularly concerning female offenders’ specific needs. Drawing on the 2007 Corston Report, which advocates for community-based alternatives and a gender-responsive approach, the chapter outlines the common characteristics of diverted female offenders, who may face economic, mental, or physical challenges and suffer relationship loss due to criminality. It also attempts to gauge the emotional climate within the communities to which women are diverted.