Parental Imprisonment

 

Within our setting we understand the impact the imprisonment of a parent can be on a child.

Identifying these children can be difficult if it’s not disclosed to us.

During difficult times, we as a setting can offer support; guidance, signposting and an open door policy to whomever may need us. We will continue to be stigma and judgemental free to any family we welcome into our setting.

Although this is a relatively new concept, and the impacts are coming to light, we can offer support.

Children with a parent in prison are:

• Twice as likely to experience conduct and mental health problems, and less likely to do well at school.

• Three times more likely to be involved in offending. Sixty five per cent of boys with a convicted father will go on to offend themselves.

 

No official record exists of children of prisoners as neither the courts, governments, nor local services ask routinely about them. They are unlikely to reveal themselves for fear of social stigma and bullying and so remain hidden from local services.

In England i-HOP (Information Hub on Offenders’ families with children for Professionals) is a one-stop information and advice service to support all professionals in working with children and families of offenders. POPS (Partners of Prisoners and Families Support Group), can also offer support and guidance for families as well as professionals.

 

This policy was review on: August 2024

Next review date: August 2026

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