(BBC) Female Muslim ex-offenders are struggling to cope with the stigma of having served time in prison, it’s claimed, with some being disowned by their family, and others unable to rebuild a future for themselves and their children. Now there are calls for them to receive more targeted support.
“There was a moment when I thought, ‘I want to be back in prison,’ because I found it so difficult on the outside,” says Najya — whose name has been changed to protect her identity.
She served three years in jail, but says she feels as if she is still serving her sentence — due to the shame she has experienced within her community.
She says she found it difficult to leave the house because of the disapproving looks she would receive from others, despite having the support of her husband. She experienced anxiety attacks.
