Family jail visits 'vital'

PRISONERS are more likely to reoffend if unable to maintain strong contact with their families while in jail, writes Jason Bennetto.

A study by the National Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders, published today, criticises squalid visiting facilities for families at some prisons and inflexible and restricted visiting hours. It is also critical of the long distances many families have to travel to see inmates who have been moved due to overcrowding. The average distance travelled by families to visit prisoners is 62 miles. The report calls for family liaison officers to be appointed.