Kelly and Donaldson hear about the lives of children who have family members in custody

Junior Ministers Gerry Kelly and Jeffrey Donaldson have met with representatives of the Northern Ireland Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders to find out more about the impact on children of having a family member in custody.

Following the meeting Minister Kelly said: “The children of those in custody are particularly vulnerable to poverty and social exclusion. As Ministers with special responsibility for children and young people we must ensure that these children receive adequate support. Research shows that the impact of imprisonment for children in terms of separation from a parent or parents has worse outcomes for that child than separation for any other reasons including death, divorce etc.”

Minister Donaldson said: “Children who have family members in custody are more likely to have increased tendency to fail to reach their full potential in life. We want these children and young people to reach the high level outcomes identified in the OFMDFM Children’s Strategy and Children’s Service plans. If we are to help these children achieve their full potential, it is essential that departments, agencies and the voluntary sector work together to support their families.”

Notes to Editors:

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