Available
17 Gayfield Square, Edinburgh, UK
Families Outside is the only national charity in Scotland that works solely to support the families of people affected by imprisonment.
We work to mitigate the effects of imprisonment on children and families – and consequently to reduce the likelihood of reoffending – through support and information for families and for the people who work with them.
Families Outside supports children and families affected by imprisonment through:
Families Outside Support & Information Helpline
Family Support Workers providing direct support to children and families throughout Scotland
Glasgow Peer Support Group: The online Peer Support Group offers therapeutically based support to children and young people aged between 8-18 years affected by imprisonment, giving them a chance to come together to support each other. The group is for all children, young people and families whether they have regular contact with their family member in prison, or no contact at all.
Training and awareness-raising opportunities. These include, but are not limited to, teachers, social workers, health professionals, the police and prison staff.
Development of policy and practice
Campaigning and research
Coordination of all existing and new visitors’ centres at prison establishments across Scotland
We are still able to offer support on an outreach basis such as through outdoor and ‘walk and talk’ meetings; through hospitality settings and prison visitor centres; and of course through email, telephone, and video links. Group work has resumed through a programme of online activities and conversations, and we have resumed training to key professionals via a new series of interactive webinars.
Our Helpline (0800 254 0088) remains open to families and professionals, and we will continue to support those who contact us via the usual channels including email at support@familiesoutside.org.uk for support, or admin@familiesoutside.org.uk for general contact and enquiries.
