Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, when she will establish a statutory mechanism to (a) identify and (b) support children with a parent in prison.

The department knows growing up with a parent in prison can have a devastating impact on a child’s life chances. The government has a key mission to break down the barriers to opportunity for every child, which is why we have committed to identifying children affected by parental imprisonment and ensuring they get the support they need to thrive.

The department is working closely with the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to deliver the government’s manifesto commitment. MoJ is leading on the work to better identify children affected by parental imprisonment. The department is working alongside the MoJ to determine how best to effectively identify and support this cohort.

We are clear that our approach to identification must be a sensitive one and link to a consistent nationwide support offer, so that children affected by this issue receive swift, appropriate support that meets their individual needs.

We are engaging with a range of stakeholders and experts to support the development of our proposals and delivery plans.