Children whose parents have been incarcerated have often been referred to as “invisible victims of crime and the penal system”. It is well accepted that the absence of a parent for a prolonged period of time will affect the physical and mental well-being of all family members including children. Moreover, it can affect the academic performance of children and may trigger bullying and social exclusion. It will inevitably impact negatively on the family’s finances. At the same time, evidence shows that supporting prisoner’s families has positive outcomes for them as well as the wider community with prisoners being more likely to successfully reintegrate as a result.
UCC School of Law are hosting a one day international Conference of an interdisciplinary nature highlighting the rights of children affected by family imprisonment. The aim of this innovative event is to bring together key professionals, researchers as well as those actively working in this area to share best practice and knowledge.