Financial support available for prisoners wives

When a partner or spouse is sent to prison, the emotional and financial impact can be profound. For many prisoners' wives in the UK, the sudden loss of household income coupled with additional expenses such as travel for prison visits and communication costs can lead to significant financial strain. Fortunately, there are resources and support systems available to help alleviate some of these challenges. This guide explores the financial assistance options available for prisoners' wives in the UK and how to access them.

The immediate financial impact

The incarceration of a spouse often results in a dramatic shift in a family’s financial situation. This can include:

Loss of Income:
If the imprisoned partner was the primary earner, the family may lose a significant portion of their household income.

Additional Expenses:
Costs related to prison visits, phone calls, legal fees, and childcare can quickly add up.

Reduced Access to Benefits:
Depending on the family’s circumstances, eligibility for certain benefits may change, creating confusion and financial instability.

Understanding the available financial support can help mitigate these challenges and provide some stability during difficult times.

Benefits and financial assistance

The UK government provides several benefits and financial aid options that can help prisoners' families manage their changed circumstances. These include Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, and Child Tax Credit. Prisoners' wives are encouraged to contact their local Jobcentre Plus for guidance on what they may be eligible for and how to apply.

Additionally, visiting a loved one in prison can be expensive, particularly if the prison is located far away. The Assisted Prison Visits Scheme (APVS) offers financial help for travel expenses to eligible family members. Spouses, partners, and close relatives on a low income or receiving benefits can claim travel fares, fuel costs, accommodation for overnight stays, and meals. Applications for the APVS can be made online or through paper forms available on the UK government’s website.Crisis GrantsLocal councils in Scotland and some parts of the UK offer Crisis Grants to help families facing emergencies. These grants do not need to be repaid and can be used for essential living costs, including food, utility bills, or travel expenses for prison visits.

Charities and support organisations

In addition to government benefits, several charities and organisations provide financial and emotional support to prisoners’ families. The Prisoners’ Families Helpline offers advice and guidance on navigating the challenges of having a loved one in prison, including information on benefits and financial assistance. Another useful resource is The Hardman Directory, which lists grants, bursaries, and other financial resources for prisoners’ families, covering needs such as education, travel, or childcare.

PACT (Prison Advice and Care Trust) is another organisation supporting prisoners’ families with grants, advocacy, and emotional assistance. They offer family-friendly initiatives and practical help in navigating the prison system. Meanwhile, Turn2Us is a national charity helping individuals in financial hardship access benefits and grants, with useful tools like an online benefits calculator and grants search.

Managing additional costs

The financial challenges of a partner’s imprisonment can be daunting, but careful budgeting and planning can make a difference. Prison phone calls can be particularly expensive. Families should explore services that offer cheap or unlimited prison calls to reduce these costs. Planning prison visits in advance and taking advantage of travel discounts or subsidies, such as the Assisted Prison Visits Scheme, can also help manage expenses.

Legal aid may be available if legal assistance is required, and free resources offered by charities can help with counselling, parenting support, and financial planning advice. Setting a realistic budget and tracking expenses can provide better control over finances during this period.

Emotional support and resilience

While financial support is critical, the emotional toll of having a partner in prison cannot be ignored. Joining support groups can provide comfort and practical advice by connecting with others in similar situations. Many organisations also offer free or low-cost counselling tailored to the needs of prisoners’ families. Maintaining self-care through regular exercise, a healthy diet, and time for relaxation is equally essential for resilience.

A few things to think about

Adjusting to life with a partner in prison comes with many unforeseen challenges, so it’s important to approach this period with realistic expectations and a flexible mindset. Consider the following:

Financial Independence:
If you were previously reliant on your partner’s income, now is the time to explore opportunities for increasing your own financial independence, such as finding part-time or full-time work.

‍Children’s Needs:
If you have children, focus on maintaining stability and addressing their emotional well-being. Look into school support programs or community organisations that can help.

Communication Costs:
With communication being a lifeline, plan for the expenses associated with phone calls and letters. Using cost-effective options like cheap prison calls can make a significant difference.

‍Building a Support Network:
Surround yourself with friends, family, and organisations that can offer emotional and practical assistance.

Being prepared

Preparation can help alleviate some of the stress associated with a partner’s imprisonment. Here’s how to stay proactive:

‍Understand Prison Policies:
Familiarise yourself with the specific rules and policies of the prison where your partner is incarcerated, such as visiting hours and what time prisoners can call in the UK.

‍Keep Financial Records:
Track your income and expenses to stay on top of your financial situation. This will also be useful when applying for benefits or grants.

‍Create a Support Plan:
Outline a strategy for managing daily responsibilities, such as childcare, household tasks, and work commitments.

‍Stay Informed:
Keep up-to-date on changes in benefits or available resources through organisations like Turn2Us or the Prisoners’ Families Helpline.

‍Plan for Emergencies:
Set aside a small emergency fund if possible to cover unexpected costs, such as legal fees or additional travel expenses.

The imprisonment of a spouse creates significant financial and emotional challenges, but there are resources available to help. By understanding benefits and financial assistance options, utilising support services, and planning effectively, prisoners’ wives can find stability and support during difficult times. Reaching out to the organisations mentioned in this guide can make a meaningful difference, offering the tools and support needed to navigate this challenging situation and work toward a brighter future.