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Children with a prisoner in the family are more likely to suffer from significant mental health problems, according to a report from Action for Prisoners’ Families, writes Clare Jerrom.

Young people often experience difficulties at school, affecting their educational development and can find themselves isolated and discriminated against within their communities, the report says.

Lucy Gampell, director of the pressure group, said: "Record prison numbers mean more young people and families are affected by imprisonment of a family member than ever before,"

"Our research shows that these are vulnerable young people who need specialist non-judgemental support services," she said.

At any time, an estimated seven per cent of the child population, around 100,000 children, will have a father in jail, and this figure rises when other close family members are taken into consideration.

The research identified the main types of support young people needed as someone to talk to in confidence outside the system, and help with visiting and practical issues.

The report calls on the government to recognise the needs of these young people and their families, especially given that strong family ties can have a significant effect on the successful resettlement of ex-prisoners.