NCJ Number
143100
Date Published
1991
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the features and the evaluation findings of a pilot program of extended visits for children of female inmates at the Holloway Prison in England.
Abstract
The extended visits scheme for inmates' children was introduced in January 1991. The program provided for children to spend a day in the prison with their mothers. It operated for six Sundays during a 3-month period. Any mother who was sentenced or who had been on remand for over 3 months could apply for her children to visit her. The children spent approximately 6 hours in the prison with their mothers. Various activities and facilities were provided for the children and mothers, including the gymnasium, the swimming pool, and the education unit. On each Sunday during the pilot program, 21 mothers and 41 children, on average, participated. A survey was conducted to obtain information on the mothers, the children, and the carers who brought the children for the visit. Information was obtained on how the mothers and the children viewed the visits. All the mothers interviewed welcomed the program and hoped it would continue. Suggestions were made for the development of additional contact with children through family visits that included fathers, visits to the mother's cell, and overnight visits. Extended visits for children have continued since the pilot program and are now a regular feature of the prison regime. Suggested improvements have been implemented or are under consideration. 2 references