The criminal justice system can be difficult for families of offenders to navigate.
From adapting to the absence of a loved one serving time in prison to dealing with the stigma of crime in wider society, it can be a daunting and confusing experience for children and their relatives – which is why local youth work charity, Young Gloucestershire, is committed to supporting hidden victims of crime in the county.
The charity, which supports thousands of young people to overcome challenges every year, provides practical and therapeutic support for families of prisoners through its Hidden Victims of Crime project.
And, best of all, it's a fully funded service, which means families in need can access it for free.
The service provides each family with a therapeutic caseworker who will discuss their needs and create a plan of support, including advice and guidance as well as help with mediation and advocacy.
Every case is different but just some of the things this service can help with include:
- Staying in contact with their loved one in prison
- Coping with change
- Dealing with the stigma of crime
- Understanding the expectations of the criminal justice system
Young Gloucestershire can also help families access child therapy services, to support children with managing difficult emotions.
Families who are involved with the court system or have a family member in prison can self-refer for the Hidden Victims of Crime programme at youngglos.org.uk/criminal_justice.
Or if you know someone who could benefit from this kind of support, you can refer them using the link above, too.
Young Gloucestershire also offers family support services in other areas, helping to build strong family units that can withstand life's challenges. It provides practical information and guidance to parents on how to navigate statutory services and support children who may be questioning their gender identity or suffering from poor mental health, too.
