Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps her Department is taking to help support children who have a parent in prison.

The department knows growing up with a parent or primary carer in prison can have a devastating impact on a child’s life chances. These children can experience the trauma of separation, social isolation and shame, and support is often lacking.

This government has a key mission to break down barriers to opportunity for every child, which includes better supporting and identifying children affected by parental imprisonment.

The department and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) are working together to see how we can support children affected by parental imprisonment. We have also closely engaged the sector who have provided us with invaluable support during the early stages of policy development.

At the department, we are looking at how best to support children and their families within the community, including as part of our wider reforms to Children’s Social Care. The MoJ is looking at how to improve support for parents in prison and the visiting experience for families, with a focus on strengthening family ties where appropriate.

At present, prisons across England and Wales offer a range of services to maintain family relationships including social visits and family days.