Phoenix Futures Prison Family Services
During the Covid-19 related lockdown we have continued to provide services in order to maintain contact and communication wherever possible.
We have continued to offer support to our regular caseloads where applicable and to ensure contact where possible with their families/children.
Phoenix Futures have supported Purple visits which is a national initiative set up to provide the residents with the opportunity to hold video chats with their families and loved ones in place of the visits.
As of January 2021, all social visits are suspended until further notice. It is anticipated that visits will be restarted in the near future albeit with reduced numbers due to social distancing.
HMP Wymott Family Service
At Wymott we provide a welcoming environment where visitors can enjoy refreshment and socialise with others prior to their visit to the prison. We provide a warm welcome to all visitor’s young and old. We provide a holistic approach when working with families and treat everyone with respect.
Staff are on hand to assist in any queries, signpost as appropriate and if necessary seek advice from other services.
Children can enjoy craft activities within the Visitors Centre prior to making their way over to the prison and the play area will be staffed in the Visits Hall. Family enrichment workers are available to help the little ones and providing comfort and support in what can be an overwhelming experience.
Phoenix Futures support the Homework club which is held monthly and children are afforded the opportunity to sit with their father’s, complete homework tasks and maintain aspects of the paternal bond
Where it is possible, we follow the lead of the visitor’s as to how they would like the service to be delivered. This is done so through our ‘Family Forum’, members attend a meeting with senior staff and prison governors to ensure that their voices are heard and guest speakers are often invited to help to inform the members about the establishment and to answer any concerns they may have.
Family days are held monthly and Phoenix facilitate activities with fun and games organised to ensure an enjoyable experience. Residents can spend quality time with their loved ones at these events in a safe and controlled environment.