Prisoners' Families: Still Forgotten Victims?

Abstract

Forty years ago, when the first systematic study of prisoners' families was published (Morris 1965), the average daily prison population stood at 30,421. The figure now exceeds 80,000. Despite the dramatic increase in their numbers, prisoners' families largely remain forgotten victims. Financial difficulties, emotional issues and prison visiting are particular concerns. It is essential that prisoners' families are included in the current debate on prison numbers. This article reviews the issues and appraises recent initiatives and possible reforms.

Keywords:

• Prisons
• Prisoners' Families
• Community Prisons
• Family Ties