Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Support for Offenders’ Families

07 December 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Andrew Murrison Con South West Wiltshire

Justice & CourtsSafeguarding & DBSMental Health

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Andrew Murrison raised concerns about support for offenders’ families in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP highlighted the severe impact of online indecency offences on families, noting nearly 70% of family members suffer from PTSD.
  • The MP called for the inclusion of families as victims under the victims code and for increased support from statutory agencies.
  • The Minister acknowledged the need to support victims and their families and outlined existing and planned initiatives for help and consultation.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Andrew Murrison Con South West Wiltshire

The MP highlighted the devastating impact on families when a loved one is arrested and convicted for online offences involving indecency. He noted that over 850 individuals are arrested each month, leading to severe post-traumatic stress disorder in nearly 70% of affected family members. The speech emphasised the need to recognise these families as victims under the victims code and called for improvements such as a more inclusive definition of 'victim', increased support from statutory agencies, and recognition by the Government's consultation on a Victims Bill.

Other contributors (1)
  • Kerry McCarthy Lab Bristol East

    The MP agreed with Murrison, stating that constituents are not alone in facing such difficult situations. She called for the victims code to be improved and explicitly include family members of those arrested on suspicion of serious crime.

Government Response

Tom Pursglove

The Minister acknowledged the impact of such crimes on families and emphasised the importance of supporting victims, including families in difficult circumstances. He outlined existing support services available for victims and their families, noted plans to consult on a Victims Bill, and committed to further reviewing measures to ensure appropriate help remains available. The response highlighted ongoing initiatives like mental health recovery action plans and investments in early intervention programmes.

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