Downview Prison has been recognised for its work to keep children in touch with imprisoned parents.

HM Downview was handed the recognition by Action for Prisoners’ Families for its prison-based activities for families.

The charity represents the needs of those affected by imprisonment, including 160,000 children.

Staff at Downview - a closed prison for women based in Sutton and bordering Epsom - received the award at an award ceremony at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham.

Awards were presented by Birmingham FC winger Robin Shroot.

APF assistant director Sarah Salmon said: “We are very grateful to the people who work hard in this valuable but unrecognized field.

“They also help to raise awareness about issues that are still very little understood - in particular around the impact that a parent's imprisonment has on a child, who is often left confused, frightened, and statistically more likely to suffer mental health problems.

“It is important to remember that the families of prisoners have not committed a crime but are still often treated as if they have."

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