Our main objectives were: - Initiate collaboration between stakeholders at international level with a focus on engaging new organisations (e.g. with no experience of international cooperation) at European level. - Improving the system of work with convicts and their families as a tool for better reintegration back into their families and into society. - Establishing a methodology for working with the family of a convict based on best practice and experience and its further dissemination. - Educating the public on the stigmatisation of families of convicts.
As an organization working long-term with incarcerated individuals, we identified the need for a more systemic approach to supporting prisoners and their families—especially in strengthening family ties before and even after release. From our practice we knew there is no that there is no comprehensive methodology or recommendations for those working with prisoners and their families and everybody does it more or less on their own. That's why we wanted to collect individual findings and put them together to give a comprehensive overview, including inspiration from foreign practice that could be used by workers with convicts. Families of convicts need support to cope with stigma, stay connected during imprisonment, and access help. Professionals lack materials and methods for effective work. Organisations seek experience sharing and systematisation. State institutions need examples of good practice to shape policies. Public awareness must grow to reduce prejudice and support reintegration. Cross-sector cooperation and education are key to better outcomes for all involved.