Our early childhood shapes the adults we become.

A child’s brain is at its most receptive and adaptable when young. Connections made or not-made in early years depend on our experiences. The world around a young child is crucially important. If that world doesn’t provide key experiences and nurturing environment needed for physical, social and emotional development their long-term health, happiness and wellbeing is at risk. We believe that to invest in children we need to also invest in those around them so they are best able to provide love, security, encouragement and conversation and positive role models to help children thrive.

In Scotland, it is estimated that up to 27,000 children each year are affected by parental imprisonment. Many fathers have experienced intergenerational cycles of abuse, neglect and trauma. We aim to help break this cycle, so that on release they have the strengthened parenting skills and confidence to provide the nurturing environments their child needs for their development.

Children find it hard to understand where dad’s gone and are afraid of visiting prison. Visits can be a scary experience and distress can be long lasting. The children we support suffer from multiple behavioural problems, bed-wetting, refusal to speak, poor sleep, anxiety, anger, confusion and depression. Engaging resources are crucial in making family visit as positive an experience as can be encouraging families to maintain contact and avoid relationship breakdown, and providing for the development needs of children leading to better chances and opportunities for their future.

71% of dads improved engagement with their child in 2022. Scottish Prison Service feel we “assist men to develop better parenting skills and relationships for children impacted by parental imprisonment.”

Our Early Years Practitioners work with dads and families in our 5 prison services and 2 Family Visitor Centers building positive relationships with imprisoned fathers and their children. Last year we supported around 1500 children and their families. Learning Together Through Play supports fathers to improve parenting knowledge to better understand their parenting roles, learn about children’s development, health and rights, and the importance of play in their lives. Fathers then practice improved knowledge, skills and confidence through hands-on play and learning with their child beyond the secure line.