Mothers Behind Bars: The Transformation Journey
The road back to freedom for incarcerated mothers is a steep climb, but with the right support, the path becomes a little less lonely. Meet the Peer Befriender Programme (PBP), Singapore’s very first initiative that turns former inmates into guiding lights for mothers still behind bars.
How It All Began
It all started with Saleemah Ismail, a seasoned social worker and the mastermind behind New Life Stories (NLS). With 16 years of volunteer work under her belt, Saleemah’s mission is simple: give these mothers a second chance because—let’s face it—mothers are the heartbeats of families.
Training the Trainers
- One brave mom and four‑kid grandmother is being primed to lead the PBP after a full year of counseling and work training.
- Saleemah plans to bring three more reformed women into the fold, creating a team of four mentors.
- These mentors, alongside 20 enthusiastic volunteers, will share real‑world stories of how to juggle daily life, keep on track, and become rock‑solid mothers again.
Hope in Numbers
Over the past five years, about 70 women have crossed that chasm thanks to Saleemah’s relentless spirit. She’s become a familiar, comforting presence—visiting weekly, keeping the hope alive, and offering a gentle guiding hand.
From Absence to Connection
When a mother’s sentence slices through the fabric of a family, the ripple effects can be devastating. To counteract this, 100 NLS volunteers check in on children every week, often continuing for up to two years after their mom’s release. The goal? Make sure no child feels “left out in the cold.”
Buddy-Up Sessions & Reading Time
During these visits, volunteers step into the role of “big bro” or “big sis” for kids under ten, handing over storybooks—12 pages long, handwritten by their jailed mum—crafted as part of NLS’s Reading Programme.
This little library of love acts as bibliotherapy, helping kids maintain a bond with their mom even when she’s gone. According to Saleemah, the books have flipped “resentment into connection,” turning silent kids into expressive souls. It’s a vital healing touch for both mother and child, boosting confidence and paving the way for positive change, inside and outside prison walls.
Stay Tuned for More Stories
The first edition of this article appeared in the August Issue of our magazine, and we’ve also shared it on Her World Online. Stay with us for more heart‑warming updates on rehab, resilience, and re‑connection.
