Project Type :
Inclusion, Community, Education
Dates:
Participant Group:
Children with a family member in prison
Artists:
Mary Branley, Maree Hensey
Partners:
Irish Penal Reform Trust
Funders:
Toy Show Appeal, Community Foundation Ireland
Kids’ Own Partner with Irish Penal Reform Trust
We’re excited to introduce our latest initiative—a project providing a supportive environment for children with a family member in prison to engage in a meaningful creative journey alongside a Kids’ Own artist and writer.
We are partnering with the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) on this innovative project to offer children the opportunity to collaborate on creating a book that reflects their lives and experiences. Guided by Kids’ Own associate artist Maree Hensey and associate writer Mary Branley, the group will engage in a creative process that allows them to express themselves authentically. We are also delighted to be working with Bedford Row, a family support group for families affected by imprisonment, on this project.
This project offers children the opportunity to collaboratively create a book reflecting their lives and experiences. Guided by a Kids’ Own artist and writer, the group will participate in a creative process allowing them to express themselves authentically.
Project Objectives:
Our primary aim is to establish a safe and supportive space where children can freely express themselves through the creative arts. By joining a new group with support from key workers, participants will explore their emotions and experiences constructively.
Additionally, we aim to produce a child-led, child-authored book highlighting the voices of children with an incarcerated family member. This book will serve as a testament to their resilience, providing a platform for sharing their stories.
Project Outcomes:
We anticipate several key outcomes from this project. Participants will have the chance to connect with peers, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Engaging in a creative process will develop important skills such as self-expression, communication, and collaboration.
Moreover, the creation of a child-authored book will offer a creative outlet and raise awareness about the challenges faced by children with incarcerated family members. Their voices will be acknowledged, contributing to breaking down stigma and misconceptions.
We’re excited to embark on this journey with these remarkable young individuals. Stay tuned for updates on this inspiring project as we work together to amplify the voices of children in challenging circumstances.