Practice and Policy: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/Fetal Alcohol Effect: Impacted Offences and the Correctional Service of Canada

Until recently, there has been little acknowledgement or understanding of the problems faced by those affected by fetal alcohol syndrome/fetal alcohol effect (FAS/FAE). This is especially the case for offenders. Research indicates that those affected by FAS/FAE are far more likely to have trouble with the law than those who are not. Despite this, diagnosis of FAS/FAE is rare and therefore the disability remains hidden. A review of Corrections Services of Canada (CSC) policy finds that there are avenues within the policy which could be usehl in addressing the issue of FAS/FAE impacted offenders. To date, these avenues do not appear to be utilized, nor is there CSC policy dealing directly with FAS/FAE affected offenders. Seven interviews with corrections stakeholders indicate that the resources to address the needs of FAS/FAE affected offenders are scarce. This lack of resources results in keeping the disability invisible and prevents those affected from obtaining the assistance they need to live a pro-social lifestyle. The features of one program, the Genesis House Program, which is an exception to this lacking, are considered for future Corrections development.