At Changing Lives, we believe that people with lived experience have unique insights that can help shape better services, systems and outcomes. Through co-production and peer mentorship, we create opportunities for those voices to be heard and valued.
Recently, Peer Mentors from our West Midlands Criminal Justice System (CJS) team took part in an online spotlight session with members of the judiciary, sharing their experiences of navigating the criminal justice system as women.
The session formed part of training for both new and existing magistrates and judges, helping to build understanding of the realities many women face before, during and after involvement with the criminal justice system.
Drawing on their own experiences, the women spoke openly about the challenges that can shape their journeys, including trauma, abuse, mental health, substance use, housing insecurity, relationships and caring responsibilities. Their stories highlighted how these experiences often overlap and influence the circumstances that bring women into contact with the justice system.
One message resonated strongly throughout the discussion: the importance of looking beyond an offence and taking time to understand the person behind it.
For many of the women, being asked a simple question such as, “What happened to you?” could have made a significant difference. It reflects the importance of recognising experiences, understanding barriers and considering the wider context of a person’s life.
By bringing lived experience directly into conversations with decision-makers, the session provided a perspective that reports, policies and case files alone cannot offer. Hearing first-hand accounts helps deepen understanding and encourages more informed, compassionate approaches.
The courage shown by the women who shared their stories is a powerful reminder of why co-production matters. Their contributions are helping to improve understanding within the justice system and ensuring women’s voices are heard where they can make a real difference.
We’re incredibly proud of our Peer Mentors and grateful to the volunteer who facilitated the session, helping create a safe and supportive space for open and honest discussion.
At Changing Lives, we remain committed to amplifying lived experience and ensuring the voices of the people we support help shape the services, systems and decisions that affect their lives.