Using theoretical frameworks such as CBT, role theory, social learning theory and narrative therapy, Forensic Psychologist Rebecca Day explores women offenders’ experience of Geese Theatre Company’s one week project ‘Journey Woman’, which was delivered four times at HMP Foston during 2007/08.

Data was collected through reflective diaries that were completed by 32 participants after each day’s work. The diaries used open-ended questions to prompt reflection and insight. Key benefits were observed such as: increasing motivation to change, developing self-esteem, strengthening relationships and increased problem solving skills. Furthermore, the safe learning environment created by the Geese Theatre Company practitioners was noted to be particularly supportive to participants’ journeys, especially when participants’ were engaging in personally relevant work. Day concludes that diaries were valuable methods of documenting insight, but a future evaluation should use a ‘measure of motivation’ so as to more compellingly document change.