A NEW visitor centre for families with loved ones in Glenochil Prison has been officially opened.

The facility provides relatives of those in custody with a welcoming space outside prison security where they can access support and information before or after their visit.

Whether it’s in-depth advice covering a range of issues from housing and finance to mental and physical health, or simply a cup of tea and a chat, the service is available to help parents and children.

Justice secretary Michael Matheson, who spoke to families and cut the ribbon, said: “We want to ensure those affected by the wider impact of prison – the families and children of those in custody – have access to the advice, information and support they need to deal with what is often a very challenging situation.

“We know the children of prisoners face a number of additional challenges from a young age, with parental imprisonment having a negative impact on their long-term life chances and health.

“Prison visitor centres are vital to helping us break this cycle and are an example of the work the Scottish Government is doing to help give every child in Scotland the best possible start in life.”

Andrew McLellan, chair of the National Prison Visitors Centre Steering Group, restated his desire to see a similar facility at every prison in the country.

He added: “We know that supporting prisoners to maintain positive family ties reduces reoffending and makes Scotland safer.

“Yet prisoners’ families and prisoners’ children in particular often pay a very high price for their family member’s imprisonment.

“Too often financial difficulties, emotional trauma and a lack of support are all part and parcel of having someone in prison.

“The warm welcome and practical support these services offer make a huge difference to family members during what can be a very difficult time.”

The visitor centre is run by charity Stirling Interfaith Community Justice Group who received a Scottish Government grant of £50,000 to deliver the service.