Children with a Parent in Prison
We do not know exactly how many children are affected by parental imprisonment in England and Wales each year, as no one collects any data either at court or when a parent arrives in custody. However, it is estimated that approximately 300,000 children are impacted each year, including upwards of 17,000 who lose their mother – most likely their primary carer – to imprisonment.
This PDF includes facts about the situation facing children with a parent in prison, including how the situation has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown. There are suggestions for how you might respond, including advice on writing to your MP or a Government Minister.
Find out more about our Angel Tree programme, which allows parents in prison to send an individually chosen gift for the children at Christmas, bringing joy at what can be a very difficult time.