Ormiston Families - Breaking Barriers

Breaking Barriers is a free service which provides one-to-one support for children and young people affected by the imprisonment of a close family member. For many children and young people, having a family member sent to prison is an extremely traumatic experience.

The impact is far reaching and may include -

• feelings of separation, loss or anger
• A change in the dynamic in the family home
• Loss of friends or familiar surroundings
• Fear and anxiety
• Self esteem issues for the child or family as a whole 
• Isolation
• Stigma and Shame

How does Breaking Barriers help?

Through tailored one-to-one support, drawing on a range of techniques and resources, Breaking Barriers offers children and young people dedicated time and space to explore and express their feelings, in order to reduce anxiety, maintain emotional well-being and, importantly, help to keep the child engaged with school and prevent further problems.