Prison Services

The Early Years Scotland Young Children Affected by Parental Imprisonment Programme takes place in six prisons across the country. This include HMP Low Moss, HMP Greenock and HMP Barlinnie, HMP Edinburgh, HMP Stirling and most recently HMP Perth. The programme has two components which includes the Early Years Scotland Fathers’ Programme and Learning Together Through Play sessions.

The Fathers’ Programme covers topics such as brain development, attachment and bonding, child development, health and wellbeing, children’s rights, home safety, the importance of play and Getting it Right for Every Child (GIRFEC). The play sessions provide opportunities for imprisoned parents and their young children and families to interact, improve bonding, attachment, confidence and play and learn together.

Most of all, these services provide valuable opportunities for children to continue the bond and relationship with their father or mother, while they are in prison.