We are so proud of our young people who helped C.O.P.E. (Children of Prisoners Europe) to write their recommendations in child friendly language. Here are some of the brilliant pictures they drew, and comments they made to highlight what recommendations were important to them:
Our work with C.O.P.E. (Children of Prisoners Europe):
“Its Time to Act”
The most important recommendation for me is number 25:
The people in charge should make sure that everyone follows the rules about helping children stay in touch with their parent in prison using technology such as video calls, phone calls, internet, etc. These forms of contact should not cost too much and parents in prison should be helped to pay for them if needed. This type of contact should never replace face-to-face visits between children and their parent in prison.
“I chose this one because I think children should be able to have as much contact with their parent in prison as possible, and you can’t always get to the prison easily so video calls would be amazing so you can see your parent and know they’re ok” (Girl, aged 11yrs, Time-Matters UK).
The most important recommendation for me is number 8:
When arresting a parent, the police should, if possible, make sure children are not there.
If a child is present during an arrest, police should be sensitive and try to make sure not to upset them.
“I chose this one because when the police come, they should talk to the child to explain what is going on – be friendly and kind at all times because this will mean children like the police and be less afraid of them” (Girl, aged 12yrs, Time-Matters UK).
The most important recommendation for me is number 3:
When a parent goes to prison, they should be put in a prison close to their children.
“I chose this recommendation because it’s really important to be able to see your parent when they’re in prison. It’s not fair if children have to travel really far just to see their mum or dad” (Boy, aged 10yrs, Time-Matters UK).
The most important recommendation for me is number 11:
Parents in prison should be able to leave prison to be with their children on special days like birthdays, first day of school and when children are in hospital.
“I chose this one because it’s not a child’s fault that their parent is in prison so they shouldn’t be the ones that miss out. I would love to see my parents on my birthday” (Boy, aged 9yrs, Time-Matters UK).
The full report can be found here: