Children & Families
SHINE for Kids supports children, parents and families affected by the criminal justice system. When a loved one is in custody, it can lead
to feelings of isolation and place stress on a family.
At SHINE for Kids, we walk beside families every step of the way to help them stay connected with their loved one and feel supported and strong.
We keep kids connected
Keeping kids connected with mum or dad in custody is so important for their wellbeing. We help children maintain and build on this important bond with their parent through a number of programs:
- Child-Friendly Visits
- Child and Parent Days
- Storytime
- Playgroup
- Mentoring
Find out more about our programs and how they can help your family.
We support the whole family
Family Support
This program supports families every step of the way when their loved one is in prison by helping them set and reach their goals. We link families with SHINE for Kids programs as well as external services and provide regular home visits, support and phone calls to check in on how they are doing.
Food Assistance
We provide food hampers to families to help put food on their tables. Available at some of our Family Centres – please email us at enquiries@shineforkids.org.au to find locations where you can receive a hamper.
Belonging to Family
Belonging to Family is a culturally appropriate Aboriginal through-care program designed for Aboriginal families with loved ones in prison. It supports the transition through the pre/post-release period and works with kids and the wider family unit to strengthen relationships in preparation for loved ones returning home.
We help kids at school
Our Rise program for primary-school-aged children matches an independent mentor with kids to support them in the classroom through weekly hour-long one-on-one sessions. This program helps students positively engage with their education so that they can thrive at school.
In custody parent programs
SHINE For Kids also delivers a range of evidence-based programs to parents in custody. These programs provide parents in prison the opportunity to develop their confidence in building healthy, positive relationships with their children. Bringing Up Great Kids, Storytime, Child & Parent Days and Art & Craft Days are currently available.
Where you can find us
We operate at 32 Correctional Centres across Australia in NSW, Queensland, ACT and Victoria.
You will find that some programs are offered only at some of our centres or in some states. Contact us to find out if we offer a program you are interested in on our Contact Page.
Find out if we operate near you or at the Correctional Centre your loved one is at.
Child and Family Centres
Our Child and Family Centres are located at the prisons where we operate, usually near the car park. They are a welcoming space for families to drop in when visiting loved ones in prison.
Our Centres are comfortable, child-friendly places where kids can play or take part in activities with our Child and Family Coordinators. Parents can enjoy a cuppa, change a nappy and take a moment to relax before or after a visit.
