AS many as 2,500 children in Worcestershire have a loved one in Prison, being supported by a new organisation.

Launched last month by the charity YSS, Families First is helping children and young adults who have a family member in prison, believed to be around 2,500 people in Worcestershire.

Nationally, an estimated 312,000 children are affected annually by parental imprisonment and the health and educational impact on learning is largely documented yet remains essentially invisible.

YSS CEO Catherine Kevis, said: "These children are victims of circumstances outside of their control, yet they carry the shame associated with the imprisoned parent’s offence.

"During lockdown, prison visits are halted and not every family has the means to connect virtually; this has exacerbated the issue with so many children now unable to connect with their missing parent.

"We encourage schools, friends and family to contact us and talk to our Families First workers if they know of a child in need of help; we do not judge but simply deploy our knowledge to help them get through what are very challenging and difficult times."

The Families First service has support from Worcestershire County Council and two charitable trusts.

Cllr Andy Roberts, cabinet member with responsibility for children and families said: "As the county’s lead councillor for children’s services I am pleased to support the Families First service and what YSS has done to support its launch.

"The effect on children of having a parent or significant adult imprisoned is not always clear or easy to identify.

"However, the research suggests that some children will be adversely affected.

"To provide the potential for invaluable early help the minimum a family needs is to have the opportunity to access information and an ability to contact someone for support.

"It is important for them to be in touch with someone who will understand their experience."