Community Support

Our Family Support Service offers vital relationship support for men and women on probation across Greater Manchester.

Empowering Families, Supporting Change

As part of the Greater Manchester Wellbeing Service, our Family Support Service offers vital relationship support for men and women on probation across Greater Manchester. Working with the person on probation we conduct a family and social network mapping exercise which helps us understand family dynamics and facilitates a connection with a nominated family member (or significant other) to offer targeted support.

We provide tailored advice, guidance, and support to help the person on probation and to enable families to play a key role in their loved one’s rehabilitation, while also addressing any challenges the family might be facing.

Our service helps:

  • Support the family needs of the person on probation
  • Equip families to support individuals on probation in successfully completing their orders and license conditions.
  • Improve family relationships by addressing ongoing issues that may affect desistance (the process of stopping reoffending).
  • Reduce the risk of homelessness by stabilising family relationships and addressing housing or financial issues that might impact the individual on probation.

Importantly, our service is open to anyone currently engaging with the probation system, irrespective of the nature of the offence. We believe that with the right support, family support can play a vital role in helping to reduce reoffending and create lasting positive change.

Our Support

We offer a wide range of practical support, with a focus on strengthening family relationships and addressing the underlying factors that can impact a person’s ability to succeed on probation.

Our services include:

  • Building and maintaining positive, supportive relationships: We work with families to improve communication and resolve conflicts that may impact the person on probation.
  • Conflict resolution: Helping families navigate tensions and reduce emotional strain during the probation period.
  • Housing and financial support: Assisting families with housing issues and financial difficulties that could affect the individual on probation.
  • Health support: Addressing any physical or mental health needs within the family that could affect the individual on probation.
  • Help and advice on parental rights
  • Specialist referrals: We can connect families to specialist services or agencies where additional support is needed.  

How to access the service

Anyone currently engaging with the probation service in Greater Manchester can access this service for free at various easily accessible locations.

To discuss a referral contact POPS’ Family Support Lead:
E: lynzih@partnersofprisoners.co.uk
T: 07771 324 434

The Greater Manchester Wellbeing Service Partnership

The Greater Manchester Wellbeing Service, which includes POPS’ Family Support Service, is a partnership led by The Big Life Group and supported by various local organisations. This partnership brings together a wealth of expertise and knowledge to ensure that individuals on probation and their families have access to the best possible support including support for physical and mental wellbeing, relationships, money management, and building social connections. Our approach is trauma-informed, focusing on strengths, aspirations, and long-term goals. We empower individuals and families by helping them realise their potential and providing the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.

Find out more about the Greater Manchester Wellbeing Service.