Director general Ronnie Armour launched the Strengthening Family Relations Strategy as he attended the official opening of the “Big Visit” area at Maghaberry, where children can play while visiting their fathers.

He said: “We want to actively support and enable family contact where possible and appropriate. The Strategy acknowledges the part that families and wider social networks can play in supporting those in our care to move away from re-offending because we know positive changes can ultimately lead to better lives. We will also focus on children, who are often significantly affected by parental imprisonment.

“The Northern Ireland Prison Service is committed to continuously improving how we work and respond to the needs of people in our care, which is why their views - and those of their families - have been instrumental in shaping this strategy.

“Today’s official opening of the ‘Big Visit’ area and outside space is a tangible example of how we are putting the strategy into practice. I hope the new facility will bring a further sense of normality to family visits and provide an opportunity to create some positive memories together.”

The ‘Big Visit’ area is run in partnership with Barnardos NI as part of the ‘Families Matter’ initiative at Maghaberry and was officially opened by Koulla Yiasouma, Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People.

Ms Yiasouma said: “Healthy family relationships are key if children are to get the best possible start in life. It is, therefore, very encouraging that the NI Prison Service is working towards providing an environment that accommodates and encourages stronger relationships between prisoners and their children.

“Children must not be punished as a result of a parent being imprisoned. The new facilities will encourage more meaningful visits and I welcome the wider Strategy that recognises the importance of better family links. Positive and stable family relationships are directly linked to less re-offending, through providing greater support we benefit all of society.”

Mr Armour added: “Work will continue in Maghaberry and across the prison estate, driven by the new strategy, to encourage and improve contact between families, support networks, and those in our care.”