Focused on the real-life stories of children whose parents or close relatives are in prison, the play, ‘8 Hours There and Back’, is based on years of listening to children, organisations, and researchers, including at Newcastle University.

Told through a fusion of theatre, dance and projections, the play shown at Northern Stage follows the stories of Ruby, Jake and Grace to examine how a system set up by adults is sadly failing children.

Divided Households’ study

The ongoing Newcastle University Divided Households study has been instrumental for the play as it highlights the health, social and economic impacts young people face at this time.

Dr Steph Scott, Senior Lecturer in public health at Newcastle University, who is leading the study, said: “Our research has found children and young people often tell very few people about having a family member in prison due to fear of stigma and judgement.

“The production, 8 Hours There and Back, is in direct recognition of the power that the arts can have to amplify the voices of marginalised communities.”

The production is the first step towards the Newcastle research team’s recommendations for further training across all sectors working with children impacted by a relative in prison.

Dr Naomi Griffin, project researcher at Newcastle University, said: “We want to ensure those working in social care, criminal justice, health, education and voluntary sector, give the youngsters support that is compassionate, child-centred and provides clarity and consistency at all stages.”

It is estimated that around 300,000 children are impacted by parental incarceration, but there is very little understanding or representation of their stories and experiences.

8 Hours There and Back is based on the testimonies of children who describe how their lives are timed around phone calls and prison visits, have to live with grandparents or aunties and uncles, and dodge awkward questions about their relative in prison.

The production, and tour, has been a collaboration with organisations that work with families who are impacted by parental imprisonment, including North of England charity Nepacs, which has been a partner in the Divided Households project, alongside Families Outside, who support families in Scotland.

‘Privileged to be involved’

Amanda Lacey, Chief Executive of Nepacs, said: “When a child experiences the arrest or imprisonment of a parent or close family member, they become subject to their own ‘hidden sentence’ which brings feelings of isolation, shame, confusion and abandonment without someone who can readily provide answers or a listening ear.

“We have been privileged to be involved in Newcastle’s Divided Households project, giving young people a chance to share their experiences and speak up about what changes need to be made to ensure those who experience the traumatising event of a loved one going to prison are considered and receive the support they need at every step of their journey.

“The 8 Hours There and Back production and workshop will ensure their voices are heard by a wide range of agencies in the North East and get everyone talking about how we can take a joined up approach to providing appropriate support to them and their families.”