Research has shown the existence and maintenance of strong  interpersonal relationships with friends or family reduces the likelihood of re-offending and successful reintegration into the community (Hairston, 1988; May, Sharma, & Stewart, 2008; Niven & Stewart, 2005).

Hale (1988) states, ‘‘Since rehabilitation and re-entry of the offender into the community is the ultimate goal of the correctional system, it should be obvious that the maintenance of the offender’s family system is of vital concern’’ (Hale, 1988, p.143).

Research tells us that the benefits, in addition to reducing repeat offending (Bales & Mears, 2008; Hairston, 1988), include improved mental health of prisoners and other family members, an increased probability of the family remaining together post release (Hairston, 1991), and an improved level of social adjustment during imprisonment and after release (Casey-Avecedo & Bakken, 2002).

Visiting a loved one in prison is emotionally difficult and traumatic for many. The families of people who are incarcerated deserve better as they have committed no crimes. Families provide support and a sense of well-being to people who are in prison which has a positive impact on their lives and on the prison system.

It is increasingly very difficult to get a visit as capacity is currently only around 10% of what people are entitled to. Visits regularly book out within 30 minutes of becoming available.

It is dehumanising that some prisoners are shackled to tables for video visits. Being zip tied into a back to front jumpsuit is humiliating and very uncomfortable. This practice is dehumanising and is NOT having any impact on drug trafficking.

Prison visit spaces and visiting areas should all be child friendly and help facilitate meaningful engagement between family members. Visits should allow for human contact, the sharing of food and normal family life. 

Support basic human rights and dignity for all people who are affected by prisons. Please sign the petition so that we can tell our politicians and our community that families deserve better.