The invisible children (Victims of United Kingdom prison system)
image credit: joetherasakdhi from www.FreeDigitalPhotos.net
source: PrisonPhone | published: 25 February 2020
Earlier this week, the BBC released an article on their ‘newsbeat’ page (news aimed at young adults) in which they had spoken to Toni. Toni was 11 when her mum was sent to prison, she also had 2 sisters. The 23 year old sister had just had a baby, and had to then take care of Toni and her 9 year old sister.
As adults, we feel great sympathy for children going through the trauma of a parent being taken away from the home, however, can we really empathise?
We have all been children at some point, obviously, but unless we went through that specific trauma at that specific age, I think it’s really difficult to be able to fully understand.
In the article it explains how Toni felt she couldn’t be upset, as her little sister copied her, and she didn’t want her feeling sad. She then reflects on this stating “I don’t think I properly processed my emotions at the time”, which is almost certainly the case, and quite damaging.
There are several charities which have the sole aim to assist families at times like this, with trained professionals who can give useful advice to those who need it. I will pop some details at the bottom of this post.
However, currently schools are not informed when a parent goes to prison. Just making this small step a major priority can make a huge difference to the child involved.
The 21st November 2026 marks the 52nd anniversary of the Birmingham pub bombings at the Mulberry Bush and the Tavern in the Town on New Street on the evening of 21 November 1974.
Thousands of lessons emerge from inquests and investigations every year, but they’re often buried, often forgotten, dismissed, or simply not implemented as they should be.
Community Counselling offers a safe and confidential space to talk through difficult experiences or life situations. Free short-term counselling for adults aged 18 and over in Birmingham or Solihull.
This FREE 'family-only' event consists of a tasty meal and beverages, pamper zones, arts & wellbeing stalls, resident DJ and local performing artists; willtake place on Sunday, 22 November 2023.
Families of the 21 victims murdered in the Birmingham Pub Bombings have accused the Government of a major snub over a national memorial day for victims of the worst UK terrorist atrocities.
First Stop Web Design (a sister enterprise of Naphtali & Associates) has announced its intention to donate up to 10% of all new design projects to the National Mikey Powell Memorial Family Fund.
