Children with Parent in Prison-Game with Mum & Dad

As 2024 concluded, the ‘Game with Mum & Dad’ campaign successfully completed its second year, expanding its reach to engage over 2000 children who have a parent in prison from six European countries — the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the Netherlands and the UK (Scotland). This growth represents a significant milestone compared to 2023, demonstrating the campaign’s commitment to broadening its impact. Alongside this geographic expansion, the initiative introduced key updates, including a redesigned website, new social media channels, and a unified approach across participating countries, all following the model developed by COPE member Bambinisenzasbarre.

Financial support from the UEFA Foundation for Children and the encouraging presence of some FIFA referees strengthened the visibility of this topic, allowing all partners to advocate far and wide on the rights of children impacted by a parent’s imprisonment.

Shifting perceptions 

A key achievement of the GWMD campaign was its dedication to transforming children’s perceptions of prisons by creating family-friendly environments during visits. For many children, the idea of prison is shaped by images from television, evoking feelings of fear and anxiety about their parent’s situation. This experience is often compounded by the stigma that surrounds imprisonment, which impacts not only children but also caregivers and imprisoned or formerly imprisoned parents. The stigma associated with having a loved one in prison is frequently mentioned as one of the most debilitating factors, creating barriers to emotional support and social acceptance. The campaign aimed to shift these perceptions, break down stigma and foster a more compassionate understanding of families impacted by imprisonment. By creating spaces for playful, creative activities that encourage laughter, hugs and joy, the campaign helped children associate prison visits with positive memories. Children were willing to return in the future, reinforcing emotional bonds. One child participating in Germany expressed this feeling by saying, “I loved this! I would like to come back very soon”.

Supporting fatherhood in prison

GWMD also addresses gendered, societal assumptions about caregiving roles by championing fathers and highlighting the importance of father-child relationships. At the ‘Antimo Graziano’ Correctional Facility in Italy, fathers and their children shared a rare opportunity to bond through play. Reflecting on the experience, one father noted, “When I was outside, I never did this; it was always their mother who took care of them.” This initiative challenged, and continues to challenge, traditional norms by demonstrating that fathers, even from prison, can and want to play a meaningful and nurturing role in their children’s lives.

A collaborative model for success

The success of GWMD is rooted in the collaboration between all stakeholders involved in the lives of children with a parent in prison. This was particularly evident in the games hosted in Poland, where COPE member Probacja organised four events involving 62 children, 39 parents, and 17 caregivers. These events brought together caregivers, prison officers, educators, and NGO staff, creating a coordinated and supportive environment for families. 

By bringing these sectors together under one roof, the campaign promotes a more harmonised approach to support. Sustainable models of collaborative support involve sectors talking to each other while keeping the child’s needs front and centre at all times.

Looking ahead

2024 saw significant growth and impactful partnerships across Europe were forged. In its second year, the initiative made considerable strides by focusing on changing perceptions, strengthening family bonds and promoting collaborative practices, ultimately boosting visibility of the needs of children with imprisoned parents and promoting systemic respect of their rights. As COPE commits to accelerating and building on this campaign, making this an annual event, it remains a powerful tool for children's rights and a key driver of change in both public awareness and prison policies.

The Game with Mum & Dad (GWMD) campaign continues its steady expansion in 2024, marking another year of significant international growth and strengthened collaboration. Currently, 17 organisations from 17 countries worldwide are actively participating or supporting the promotion of Game with Mum & Dad in 2024. This reflects substantial geographic expansion compared to 2023 and reinforces its advocacy efforts on a global scale.

2024 Games and Participation

This year, games are scheduled in Poland, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, the UK (Scotland), Romania and India, with additional organisations expected to join in the latter half of the year. Across these countries, over 2000 children and parents serving a prison sentence are expected to participate. The campaign’s growing momentum is evident through partnerships with local organisations, government agencies and community partners. For instance, in the Netherlands, Exodus is collaborating with professional football clubs FC Emmen and FC Utrecht to facilitate the games, enhancing the experience for families. Similarly, in Romania, Alternative Sociale is working with the National College of Social Workers to raise visibility and better address the needs of children with imprisoned parents.

Kickoff Event in Tarnów (Poland)

The first GWMD event of 2024 took place in Tarnów, Poland, on August 4, organised by COPE member Probacja Foundation. The game was a notable success, gathering 25 participants, including children, incarcerated parents, and caregivers. The participation of ex-football star Pawe Wegrzyn, together with key representatives from the Maopolska Football Federation, played a crucial role in the event’s success. They added excitement by presenting gifts to the children and creating memorable experiences that transcended the typical prison visit. This first game was a powerful example of how the GWMD campaign is creating unique and positive experiences for families, while also shifting public perceptions of imprisonment. 

"I played ball and did letters and did drills. I won. I like coming to see my dad. I miss him a lot. When dad comes out we will watch cartoons."  
– girl, 5 years old, Poland 

Child Safeguarding

Child safeguarding is a top priority for the campaign. All participating organisations are implementing COPE-compliant safeguarding policies and ensuring that all staff, volunteers and professionals involved are completing the mandatory UEFA online child safeguarding course. This course, covering various forms of harm, is vital for maintaining a safe environment for children. To date, 15 professionals have completed this training, enhancing the campaign's child protection efforts.

Child Participation

The campaign prioritises active child participation, involving children directly in planning and feedback processes. In the Czech Republic, they contribute to designing event activities, while in Poland, they assist with match preparations and evaluations. This involvement ensures that events are more engaging and relevant and empowers children by giving them a voice in the decision-making process.

Concluding Remarks

The Game with Mum & Dad campaign in 2024 has made significant strides, achieving remarkable growth and fostering impactful partnerships worldwide. As the campaign progresses, it continues to create meaningful opportunities for families impacted by parental imprisonment, while advancing advocacy efforts on a global scale. The ongoing expansion and the success of planned events underscore the campaign's commitment to improving the lives of children with imprisoned parents and enhancing public understanding of their experiences.