Gender-responsive penal reform seeks to:

• Develop responses to offending by men, women, boys and girls, including non-custodial measures carried out in the community that consider their different needs and characteristics
• Improve the planning and delivery of services in prisons (including accommodation, healthcare, security and preparation for release) in a manner that is responsive to the different needs and characteristics of men, women, boys and girls
• Train penal staff in gender issues and human rights in policy and practice
• Strengthen complaint and oversight mechanisms within the penal system by including a gender responsive approach
• Strengthen collaboration with civil society organisations, including women's groups, in both service and oversight functions