A new Family Support Service has been launched within HMP Dumfries.
The Service provides information, advice and individualised support to families with a loved one in prison.
Early Years Scotland (EYS), who already work within six of Scotland’s prisons, have secured funding from the Scottish Government to deliver this important service.
Recognising the vital role that strong family connections play in rehabilitation, the initiative is designed to provide compassionate and confidential support to families affected by imprisonment.
Families can be guided through the different ways of keeping touch with their loved one, support organisations and the range of practical help available to them. This includes applications to the ‘Help with Prison Visits’ scheme, which provides financial assistance towards the costs of travelling to visit someone in prison.
EYS Family Support Worker Angela will be available in person at the prison during the following times:
- Thursdays and Fridays: 1.30pm – 4.30pm
- Saturdays and Sundays: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Andrew Hunstone, Governor in Charge of HMP Dumfries said: “We know that visiting a prison and seeing a loved one in this environment can be very difficult, especially for children.
“Our Family Contact Officer focuses on ensuring those important family links are maintained and that the visit experience is as welcoming and positive as possible. Now with our partners Early Years Scotland, that support has been expanded further and we look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will bring to our community.”