ACTing With Children supports children and young people aged 0-18 in Cornwall who have a parent in prison. The project is supported by the Police and Crime Commissioner, the Chief Constable, and Safer Cornwall through the Serious Violence Prevention Programme Breaking the Cycle.
Argyle Community Trust provide tailored one-to-one and group support to children and young people affected. Awareness training is provided to partners in Cornwall by Children Heard and Seen, and referrals will be taken from partners and through self-referrals directly from families affected.
If you are a parent or carer and wish to refer your child or children to ACTing With Children, please complete the short referral form:
If you are a professional and wish to refer a child or children, please download the ACTing With Children referral form for professionals:
Almost 80% of families affected will not tell anyone outside close family and friends that a parent is in prison. National research has found that the impacts on children can include increased mental ill health and emotional trauma, lower academic achievement, and anti-social behaviour. It can also lead to involvement in the criminal justice system, and social disadvantage.
We are using our experience supporting at-risk, vulnerable, and traumatised young people, alongside evidence and research, to deliver this bespoke referral programme.
If you would like to know more about how to refer a child or young person to the project, you can call 07300 473321 or email ACTingwithchildren@pafc.co.uk.