Round-up: IPRT Report Launch: Paying the Price – The Cost and Impact of Imprisonment on Families in Ireland

19th November 2025

 

The Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) was proud to launch its new report, Paying the Price – The Cost and Impact of Imprisonment on Families in Ireland, on 19 November 2025. Authored by Dr Sara Singleton (TASC – Think-tank for Action on Social Change), the report sheds light on the significant financial, social, and emotional burdens carried by families when a family member is imprisoned.

The event opened with warm and thoughtful remarks from Moninne Griffith (Community Foundation Ireland), who also chaired the discussion. Saoirse Brady, IPRT Executive Director, outlined why this research is urgently needed and set out IPRT’s next steps in advocating for change.

Dr Singleton presented the report’s key findings, drawing attention to experiences too often overlooked in justice policy. The research highlights the profound impact of imprisonment on children and families, including the recognition that the imprisonment of a child’s primary carer is one of the ten Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), linked to lasting negative effects into adulthood.

The report draws on a wide range of evidence, including:

• A review of national and international studies on poverty and imprisonment

• Analysis of existing datasets and Minimum Essential Standard of Living (MESL) data

• Eight in-depth interviews with individuals with lived experience

• A survey with 30 respondents

The findings show that many families affected by imprisonment are living below the income required for a socially acceptable minimum standard of living. Imprisonment often amplifies financial strain, deepening deprivation and creating long-term social and emotional consequences. Challenges include loss of income, increased expenses, housing instability, childcare pressures, and the high costs associated with maintaining family connections.

The research also highlights effective strategies used in Ireland and internationally to mitigate these impacts. Based on this evidence, the report sets out a series of recommendations aimed at better supporting children and families affected by imprisonment.

We were grateful to be joined by an expert panel whose insights reinforced the urgent need for a compassionate, child-centred response:

• Koulla Yiasouma
• Patricia Keilthy, Office of the Children’s Ombudsman
• Dr Naomi Feely, Children’s Rights Alliance

Their contributions highlighted the systemic reforms required to reduce harm and support families experiencing the consequences of imprisonment.

Read the full report here.