On Wednesday I attended a very interesting course to learn and develop my awareness of the impact that imprisonment of a close relative can have on children. I enhanced my understanding of the ways that school communities can provide key support to children and their families.
As a result of completing the course I have a much better understanding of the complex situations that families affected often experience. I have a knowledge of resources and support available for schools and for families and I recognise the importance of links between prison, support agencies and schools. This makes me feel much happier about helping people because I feel more confident about engaging and supporting, children and families who may be affected by imprisonment.
Boys and girls who have a parent in prison often face significant challenges including trauma (making it hard for them to learn) and stigma (which can lead to behaviour problems and bullying). During the course I had the opportunity to visit HM prison Dumfries and to listen to the stories of children affected. I gained an insight into the issues facing children and families who have a close relative in prison and explored and discussed with lots of other members of the wider school community, practical ways in which we can all help.
The man and lady who led the course work for an excellent charity called Families Outside. This is their website and it is full of great support and information. They were very friendly and they are really easy to contact:
http://www.familiesoutside.org.uk/who-are-we/
Freephone: 0500 83 93 83
Email: support@familiesoutside.org.uk
Text: Famout followed by your message to 60777
Miss Sarahs
