Glasgow CJA recognises that the families of those involved in the criminal justice system have an important role in helping to reduce offending.
But families can find it difficult to find out the information they need about what has happened, how to cope and how to deal with practical things like prison visiting and looking after children with parents in prison.
The CJA recently consulted with families about the things they needed to know about. We asked what information they wanted and where this information should be available. The research found that:
- families don't feel they receive much information at all.
- families find it difficult to get the information they need and spoke of being passed from pillar to post.
- families often rely on the offender inside prison to tell them what they need to know. This has advantages and disadvantages for both offender and families.
- although information is available on paper and online, there are issues about how well this gets to people
- information tends to focus on practical issues. But families would also welcome awareness-raising such as that ‘life goes on’ and information on emotional issues such as how to cope.
You can download the full report below. The CJA is working with partners to improve the services available for families and we will report on progress early in 2009.
GCJA Families Consultation 2008
Services for Families
There are a number of services that support families of those in the criminal justice system. Links to their websites and telephone numbers are provided below.
Families Outside is a Scottish charity which aims to raise awareness of the needs of families affected by imprisonment so that they can get the information and support they need to cope. It runs the Scottish Prisoners' Family Helpline tel: 0500 83 93 83
SACRO Sacro aims to promote community safety across Scotland through providing high quality services to reduce conflict and offending. SACRO also provides some transport services to Scottish prisons. Tel:0141 248 1763
HOPE Scotland works to support prisoners and prisoner's families. Tel: 0141 552 0229
In Care Survivors Service Scotland is a confidential sercice providing support for people who have been abused. Individuals can call it's helpline on free phone 0800 121 6027
Project Happy A support network which concentrates solely on the development and protection of prisoners children. Happy run bus services to some Scottish prisons. Tel:0141 222 2822
General Support Services
These support people who may be feeling depressed or under stress and can provide information and advice.
Samaritans provides confidential non-judgemental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. Tel: 08457 90 90 90
Breathing space is a free and confidential phoneline service for any individual, who is experiencing low mood or depression, or who is unusually worried and in need of someone to talk to. Tel: 0800 83 85 87
Citizens Advice Bureau online information for Prisoners and their Families in Scotland including pratical advise on going to and leaving prison, legal advice, and information on prison visits.
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