HL Deb 12 October 2004 vol 665 c55WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are seeking to involve families and next-of-kin in sentence planning for prisoners and in arrangements for resettlement; and, if so, how. [HL4249]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

It is not a mandatory requirement for Prison Service establishments in England and Wales to involve family members and next-of kin in sentence planning for adult offenders, nor in arrangements for their resettlement. However, some establishments do involve families where the offender wishes it, and where resources and other practicalities allow.

For offenders under the age of 18, and all those sentenced to the detention and training order, governors are required to ensure that, where appropriate, families are given the opportunity to contribute to the sentence planning process throughout the custodial part of their sentence.