A new research report into the issue of mothers and babies in prison in Scotland has been published, following a collaborative project between Aberlour, The University of Stirling and The Centre for Child Wellbeing and Protection.

The findings suggest that the current arrangements in Scotland do not adequately account for the often complex needs of imprisoned mothers, who have frequently had chaotic lifestyles linked to drug and alcohol use, as well as poor mental health.

The subject is explored in ‘The Rose Report: Best For Babies’, which looks at how babies can be supported to stay with their imprisoned mothers, and examines whether this is in their best interests.

Through a series of interviews with professionals and mothers, the project found Scotland’s custodial settings could better support babies to stay with their mothers.  The report makes a broad set of recommendations which include improved environments, staff support and more custodial alternatives.