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xNew pilot scheme to support children with a parent in prison
Date: 10th August 2026
Category:
Family Environment and Alternative Care
A new UK Government scheme will aim to identify children with a parent in prison earlier and connect them with the support they need. Launching this summer, the pilot scheme will bring together information held by services in England and Wales including prisons, police and local councils.
In selected areas, police will share information with local authorities when a parent goes to prison, helping services identify children who may need support with their health, education and wellbeing.
An estimated 193,000 children in England and Wales have a parent in prison each year. Having a parent in prison can have a long-term impact on children's education, mental health and future employment opportunities.
Currently, information is often held separately by different services, meaning some children may be missed and not receive support. The new scheme will initially focus on areas with high levels of parental imprisonment, with plans to learn from the pilot and consider expanding it to other parts of the country.
UK Minister for Children, Josh MacAlister, said:
“No child should be defined by the actions of a parent, especially when that parent is in prison.
This pilot will deliver urgently needed support for children’s mental health, education and wellbeing, helping those with a parent in prison to overcome challenges and thrive. It is a crucial step in breaking the link between background and success”.
Once identified, families will be offered tailored support according to their individual needs. This will include helping children with their emotional wellbeing, confidence and sense of belonging. Families will also be connected to local services such as Family Hubs, and directed to a range of other support including help with physical and mental health, housing advice, youth services, and services run by local charities.
· Read more on UK Government webpage.
Please note this is a UK Government scheme, operating in England and Wales. If you are looking for information or support about this issue in Scotland, please visit the Families Outside website.