Drawing upon qualitative data gathered through fieldwork in three bail hostels,
this paper outlines the role of substance use (illegal drugs, alcohol,
prescribed medication and food) in the lives of women awaiting trial. Their use
of substance is explored within the context of the multiple and complex problems
which shaped their lives. It is argued that womenís use of substances can be
viewed as a active strategy to achieve personal and social satisfaction, to cope
with stresses and problem experienced and to exert some degree of control over
their lives. Whilst seemingly beneficial for the women in the short-term,
ultimately substance use for this group of women can be seen as
counter-productive and self-destructive; increasing the control of others
(health care, social work and criminal justice professionals) over their lives,
leading to social problems and damaging their emotional and physical
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