Ex-prisoner information and support

Nepacs is a north east charity which aims to promote a positive future for prisoners, offenders and their relatives by supporting family ties at every stage of the criminal justice system.

They support people when a loved one is sent to custody in those anxious early days when visiting prison remains a mysterious and daunting prospect. Much of our work is delivered by volunteers, who bring energy, warmth and friendship, and offer reassurance in the most challenging of circumstances.

We are also concerned about the damaging impact of a prison sentence on the families of prisoners themselves and seek to limit this through informal support and signposting for help with finance, childcare and health issues. After all, the families haven't committed the crime, but they, especially the children, are greatly affected by the punishment.

You can find more information on the nepacs website.

The Prison Advice and Care Trust (Pact) is a national charity that provides support to prisoners, people with convictions, and their families.

They support people to make a fresh start, and minimise the harm that can be caused by imprisonment to people who have committed offences, to families and to communities.  What they do:

• Build stronger families and safer communities
• Reduce risk of harm to prisoners and their children
• Remove barriers and increase awareness in public services
• Influence commissioning, policy and legislation

You can find more information on the Prison Advice and Care Trust website.

If you are a prisoner, on remand or on release, there may be benefits, grants or other financial support available to you and your family.

• Benefits when you are on remand
• Benefits when you are on release
• Benefits when you are serving a sentence
• Benefits when your partner is in prison

You can find more information on the Turn2us website.