FAMILIES’ LIVES ARE BEING PUT ON HOLD BY “SNAIL MAIL”

Since my last update on 12 August, I continue to hear the same concerns. But this is about more than delayed personal letters.

Families are waiting for signed Authority to Act forms and other essential documents from loved ones in prison.

“I cannot cancel my son’s phone account until it arrives.”

“I cannot arrange payment of my husband’s rates from my bank account.”

“I cannot enrol my daughter in school until I receive the paperwork from my wife, she's already signed, just waiting for snail mail, last time a letter took 5 weeks!”

While families wait, accounts remain open, bills and deadlines continue, and important decisions cannot be made.

A secure two way email system could allow approved forms and handwritten documents to be screened, scanned and returned electronically when an original is not legally required.

Prison does not stop life continuing outside its walls. Families should not be left waiting weeks or months for one signed piece of paper.

Please sign and share. If this has affected your family, please share your experience too.