Supporting Prisoners' Families

You can make a difference with
SEND FAMILY LINK
Supporting Prisoners' Families.

Nearly half of all prisoners lose contact with their families during a prison sentence. Send Family Link volunteers and supporters make a real difference to families with a loved one in prison by helping to make the experience of visiting prison a positive one. Whether they are providing information for a family in our Visitors’ Centre, serving a snack in one of our tea bars, or supervising a seasonal craft activity for children, our volunteers offer an understanding and caring approach in challenging circumstances.

A woman’s imprisonment can be especially difficult for her children. Most mothers going to prison for the first time have been the primary carers of their children, so the sentence means the children’s world is turned upside down. They suffer from loss and separation, and also often from teasing and bullying. It is of the highest importance to us to provide high quality play for all children visiting Send, and to hold regular Family Visits where mothers can spend a relaxed day with their children. Our volunteer playworkers ensure the consistency and success of this provision.

Our work may also have long-term benefits for families and for the community. Research clearly demonstrates that when family ties are maintained, prisoners make a smoother transition to life in the community after release and are less likely to re-offend in the future.

Can you help us either as a volunteer or with a financial donation? The links below lead to pages on how you can help.

Volunteering

Financial Donation

Supporters