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Support for the families of prisoners

In Warwickshire, the children of around 500 families are affected by the imprisonment of a close family member at any given time. This can have a significant effect on the family life of all involved.

The services and organisations listed below give support and advice for the families of prisoners including:

  • Guidelines for visiting prisoners.
  • How to locate a prisoner if after sentencing you are unsure which prison they have been sent to.
  • Information on visiting times and visiting procedures.
  • Support groups for the families and friends of prisoners
  • Helplines and online communities offering support on issues affecting the families of prisoners.

Advice for the families of prisoners

  • HM Prison Service - Information for friends and families - The Prison Service recognises how important it is for the family and friends of prisoners to keep in touch. This website gives information on locating a prisoner, how a prison works, guidelines for visiting prisoners and special procedures for female prisoners and young offenders.
  • Inside Time - Information for prison visitors - provides details about the rules and requirements for each individual prison to help ensure that your prison visit goes as smoothly as possible.
  • Prisoners Families Helpline - is a free and confidential service which provides information, support and a listening ear for anyone who is affected by the imprisonment of a close family member or friend.
  • Prisoners' Families and Friends Service - has been helping prisoners' families for over 40 years, providing support, friendship and advice to the families and friends of anyone sentenced to imprisonment or remanded in custody.
  • POPS - Partners of Prisoners and Families' Support Group - offers a variety of services to support anyone who has a link with someone in prison, enabling families to cope with the stress of arrest, imprisonment and release.
  • Prison Chat UK - is an online community giving support to those who have a loved one inside the British prison system. The forum is monitored by administrators to ensure a secure and safe environment for everyone including children.
  • SHARP - Support, Help and Advice for Relatives and Friends of Prisoners - is a support group for the families and friends of prisoners which provides confidential help, advice and practical and emotional support.
  • PACT - Prisoner Advice and Care Trust - is a charity which supports people affected by imprisonment. They provide practical support to prisoners' children and families and to prisoners themselves.
  • Out There - Supporting prisoner's families - provides a free and confidential service, offering friendship, information and advice for those serving the 'sentence on the outside'.