Grandmother Claire* was eager to bring her grandson Harry to visit his dad, who is in custody, but was anxious as Harry is autistic and finds different environments challenging.
She knew the visit would greatly benefit dad and son, so she reached out to our team, who support visits, to see how we could help.
Through consultation and planning with the centre, our team ensured that sensory toys and activities were available to Harry during the visit and also secured a separate room so that Harry was not overwhelmed in the main visiting area.
It all worked so well that Claire gratefully told our team that “this has been the best visit” they have had so far!
These extra supports have become a regular process for the family and our team, and visits between the son and dad are now calm and happy, allowing the pair to bond and develop their relationship.
When dad is released, the strong relationship they have built will help the family transition back to home life together.
Evidence shows that contact with family while incarcerated reduces recidivism, giving children and families a better shot at a new life together in the future.
*Names and images changed to protect participant identities
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