Since September 2012, EMBARAZO ACTIVO has been providing a physical activity programme  for groups of female inmates at Prison Unit Number 31 in Buenos Aires,  Argentina. The programme has been developed specifically for pregnant women and those prisoners caring for babies under eight months old. The programme is delivered free of charge.

Mariela Villar, CEO of EMBARAZO ACTIVO initially developed and delivered the programme. In 2013 she trained prison staff who now operate the programme, with Mariela providing supervision and advice every fifteen days.

How did it start?

The idea of ​​developing a programme for pregnant prisoners came to me when I was conducting research for my degree in Business Administration at the University of Buenos Aires in June 2009.

Objectives

The objective is to create awareness about the health benefits of physical exercise and good habits during prison life, but importantly to achieve a better relationship between the mother and her baby. In Argentina, children can live with their mother in prison until they reach the age of four.

The programme combines physical activity,  baby massage sessions, with education on topics such as nutrition, breast feeding and general hygiene.

Project results

We have created new programmes that were simply not previously part of prison life. Prisoners respect the work we are doing as we are seen as outside professionals who are there to make prison life for them and their baby, both healthier and more fulfilling.

This is a potentially difficult group of people to work with but the results are positive. We have helped to reduce the anxiety and stress levels of approximately 115 prisoners and help to build healthy habits and physical activity into their prison experience. Some are now also exercising, even on days when the programme is not taking place.

Other prisons in Buenos Aires are now looking to develop a similar programme – something we are very proud of.