Imprisonment ‘pushing families into poverty’

20th November 2025

This article covers the launch of the IPRT report Paying the Price: The Cost and Impact of Imprisonment on Families in Ireland which shows that the imprisonment of a parent or partner is driving families and children into poverty, with many unable to meet a minimum essential standard of living. Drawing on national and international evidence, as well as interviews and surveys with affected families, the report documents how imprisonment intensifies financial strain, social exclusion, and emotional stress—often pushing households from ‘just about managing’ into poverty.

The study highlights the long-term impact on children, notes the growing number affected amid record prison populations, and warns that fragmented supports across welfare, housing, education and family services leave families effectively invisible in policy. The report argues that addressing these financial and emotional pressures is necessary for Ireland to meet its obligations under international child-rights and social-protection frameworks.

Read the full article here.