The pack has been produced by the London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) alongside charity the Prison Advice and Care Trust (PACT).
It shares guidance on supporting children with a loved one in prison including practical ideas to encourage emotional intelligence, supporting the child at home and preparing for a prison visit.
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The resource has been published as part of LEYF’s London Institute of Early Years which provides continued professional development and training across the early years.
June O’Sullivan, chief executive of LEYF said: “For many children they operate within the language of the ‘unsaid’, trying to understand what is happening at home which is why understanding how best to navigate this sad and sensitive situation is critical.
“Children are always the innocent party and our role is to advocate for them and help them through it. That means building our understanding and knowledge and do the right things to get the best outcome.”
Andy Keen-Down, chief executive of Pact added: “Children who have a parent go to prison are a largely hidden group who have a range of distinct needs which, if not met, can cause them problems later in life. This new guide provides a much-needed new resource that will help to support the many thousands of children affected by this issue.”
According to Barnardo’s, it is estimated that there are up to 310,000 children every year with a parent in prison in England and Wales.
Research suggests that their experiences can lead to poor physical and mental health and significant trauma.
Further research by Pact finds that when a prisoner is supported by their families, they have a 39% chance of not reoffending.
