Impact and engagement work in the context of families of people in prison

Abstract

This chapter cites research on the experiences of families of people in prison across the world, including the ways in which imprisonment shapes their lives and identities. It outlines grief, practical difficulties associated with maintaining the relationship in question, financial challenges, and stigma as the consequences for the imprisonment of a family member. It also highlights the emerging awareness of the importance of family ties for men and women in prison in relation to rehabilitation that has led to a number of significant and positive developments, such as the implementation of Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). The chapter explains that HMPPS Families group, which has been tasked with overseeing additional family-focused developments and family-related policies. It talks about the Families and Significant Others Strategy which encompasses activities such as visits and other aspects of prison policy that involve families directly.