Family Support
Support for the families and loved ones of people facing proceedings or serving sentences
The consequences of a criminal case extend far beyond the person accused or convicted. Partners, parents, children, siblings and friends face their own profound consequences and their own need for support, information and understanding. This page covers the organisations and resources that exist specifically for them.
Organisations
JIMS Scotland works not only with men who have been falsely accused but also with their families. The experience of supporting someone through a serious criminal case, particularly where the family believes the conviction to be wrong, is one that JIMS Scotland understands and can provide support around.
Next Chapter Scotland supports people and families affected by criminal records or investigations. It helps with practical issues including money, work, disclosure and the stigma associated with criminal proceedings and convictions, offering clear and honest guidance without judgment.
Families Outside is the only national voluntary organisation in Scotland focused entirely on supporting families affected by imprisonment. It provides information, support and advocacy for people whose loved ones are in prison or have been released from prison. Its work recognises that families are themselves affected by imprisonment in ways that are rarely acknowledged.
The experience of supporting a loved one through a criminal case or conviction can place enormous strain on mental health and wellbeing. Samaritans provides free, confidential emotional support to anyone in distress at any time of day or night.
https://www.samaritans.org116 123
Mind provides information and support on mental health. Its website includes detailed guidance on a wide range of mental health conditions and how to access support. While based primarily in England and Wales its online resources are available to everyone.
SAMH is Scotland's leading mental health charity. It provides information, support and services across Scotland for people experiencing mental health difficulties and for those supporting them.
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Key Documents and FOI Material
Parliamentary material, court judgments, FOI disclosures, and external reports relevant to Scottish criminal justice.
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Remember
The consequences of a criminal case extend far beyond the person accused or convicted. Partners, parents, children, siblings and friends face their own profound consequences. The organisations on this page exist specifically to recognise and address that.