Unseen, Unheard: Advancing the Rights and Needs of Children with a Parent in Prison – 6 September, Dublin

Time: 9:15-14:00

Date: 6 September 2017

Location: Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7

CPD Points: 2.5

Children with a parent in prison are part of a largely ignored group within Irish policy and practice. Indeed, in the limited situations where these children are considered, it is primarily within the criminal justice sector, with prison visits being a focus for intervention. Arguably, the needs of this marginalised group of children in Irish society can only be addressed by developing a national policy that supports interventions across all key sectors which engage with this group of children including education, child protection, health, housing and social protection. Good practice in all areas has been developed internationally which ensures that the needs and rights of children with a parent in prison are supported through childhood. In accordance with international children’s rights standards as well as existing best practice, Ireland has a responsibility to ensure that the rights of such children are protected by adapting existing processes to target and support their needs and long term interests.

This event is aimed at raising awareness of the need to develop a national and cross-sectoral approach to supporting children with a parent in prison. Session 1 will consider examples of European good practice and important policy developments which will bear an impact on Irish law and policy. These will be considered alongside current developments at national level. Session 2 will provide an overview of the policy and practice prerequisites required for an effective response to the needs to this group of children in Ireland. Presented by a team comprising the Children’s Rights Alliance, Irish Penal Reform Trust and legal academics from the School of Law, UCC, key principles will be presented which it is expected will, after consultation, form the basis of a national strategy in this area.

Who should attend?

Policy makers and those working in the following sectors:

  • Child Services
  • Criminal justice
  • Education
  • Health
  • Social welfare

Please let the organisers know if you have any access requirements including sign language interpretation.

Please indicate if you have dietary requirements.

This event is funded by the Irish Research Council and is being held at the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Building in Dublin. It is not an IHREC event.

Register here

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