This report presents findings from in-depth interviews with families affected by parental imprisonment in four European countries (the UK, Germany, Romania, and Sweden).
The aims of the research were: - to explore whether the practical and financial barriers to contact in Europe are similar to those identified in North America; - to expand upon existing knowledge about children's experiences of visiting prison by offering comparisons between European countries; - to consider the extent to which arrangements for contact in Europe are sympathetic to children's emotional wellbeing and conducive to sustaining parent-child relationships; - and to offer new insights into children's experiences of contact via telephone and letter. The report states that there were noticeable country differences in the practical and financial barriers to maintaining contact and the suitability of prison visiting environments. This had important implications for children's emotional health and the extent to which contact was conducive to supporting parent-child relationships.
For open-access to this report see Children's experiences of contact with imprisoned parents below:
