Unlocking Our Futures : A National Sudy on Women, Prisons, HIV, and Hepatitis C

Unlocking Our Futures is a qualitative evaluative study investigating the perceptions and lived experiences of federally incarcerated women regarding HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C (HCV). This community-based research project was initiated by the Prisoners’ HIV/AIDS Support Action Network (PASAN) and was designed and conducted with the assistance of a National Steering Committee.

The study documents the specific needs of federal women prisoners regarding HIV/HCV prevention, care, treatment, and support. Drawing upon the women’s experiences, the report explores the current response of both correctional and community services, addressing issues such as need, accessibility, quality, satisfaction level, and trust. Research was conducted during 2001/02, and involved interviews with 156 federal women prisoners housed in 9 different facilities across Canada.