‘The commitment to children’s rights stems from the recognition of the unique challenges faced by children with imprisoned parents‘
What is Kirkens Bymisjon, and what does it do?
Kirkens Bymisjon is an open and inclusive non-profit, diaconal organisation. Its mission is to uncover injustice, alleviate need and address the underlying causes of need and injustice. The organisation works to promote justice, equality and an inclusive community. It is founded on a Christian humanistic view of humanity, recognising the equal worth of all people. Kirkens Bymisjon employs approximately 2,400 staff members and involves 4,000 volunteers, operating in over 50 cities across Norway.
What is the mission of Kirkens Bymisjon?
The mission of Kirkens Bymisjon is to reveal injustice, alleviate need, and address the underlying causes of injustice and suffering. The organisation uncovers and highlights social injustice and the denial of rights, offers support and compassionate care through its services, and advocates for change by holding those in power to account.
What is the story of Kirkens Bymisjon?
Kirkens Bymisjon was established in Kristiania (now Oslo) in 1855 as The Association for Inner Mission in Christiania. Initially focused on pastoral care, the organisation soon shifted its attention to social work in response to the urgent needs of the time, including poor living conditions, harsh working environments, poverty and substance abuse. Over the years, Kirkens Bymisjon has developed into a nationwide movement, with significant milestones such as adopting the name Kirkens Bymisjon in 1985, expanding to several cities, and merging into a single national organisation in 2023.
What are the major achievements of Kirkens Bymisjon?
Some of the major achievements of Kirkens Bymisjon include:
- Establishing a nationwide presence in over 50 cities across Norway.
- Receiving the Homofryd Prize in 1988 for its advocacy against the church’s condemnation of homosexuals.
- Organising successful NRK television campaigns, such as “Verdig liv” in 2004 and “Less Alone Together” in 2018.
What is FRI barn og familie?
FRI barn og familie, or “FREE Children and Families”, is a programme within Kirkens Bymisjon dedicated to supporting children who have a parent serving a prison sentence. The programme provides a range of services designed to ease the challenges faced by these children and their families. These include family activities, escort services, parental guidance, facilitated visitations, follow-up support related to visits, and a chat service for children and young people.
What is Innsattes Barn?
Innsattes Barn is a programme run by Kirkens Bymisjon focused on supporting children of incarcerated parents. The programme offers assistance with visitations, escort services, transport to and from prison, as well as courses and counselling. It aims to address the emotional and practical needs of children whose parents are serving a prison sentence, providing vital resources and support to both the children and their families.
Why your commitment to children’s rights?
The commitment to children’s rights stems from the recognition of the unique challenges faced by children with imprisoned parents. Kirkens Bymisjon aims to provide support and alleviate the burdens on children, ensuring they receive the care and attention they need during difficult times.
Why do you want to organise a GWMD event?
We want to organise a GWMD event to raise awareness and advocate for the rights and well-being of children with imprisoned parents. The event could help to highlight the challenges children with imprisoned parents face and promote initiatives that support them, which is important for us at Kirkens Bymisjon. In Norway, it is crucial to focus on this target group.
What is the aim of GWMD?
The aim of GWMD is to create a platform for advocacy and communication, bringing attention to the needs of children with imprisoned parents and promoting actions that can improve their lives.
What is involved in organising an event like this?
Organising GWMD involves coordinating various activities, engaging with stakeholders, planning events and ensuring effective communication to raise awareness and support for the cause.
Do you think that GWMD would be a good advocacy and communication tool for Kirkens Bymisjon, especially towards local national and international institutions?
Yes, GWMD would be an excellent advocacy and communication tool for Kirkens Bymisjon. It would help to highlight the organisation’s efforts and engage with local, national and international institutions to garner support and drive positive change.
What are children’s views on the activities organised by Kirkens Bymisjon?
Children often feel supported and understood through the initiatives provided by Kirkens Bymisjon. The activities and services help them cope with the challenges of having a parent in prison.
And what about the imprisoned parents?
Imprisoned parents appreciate the support provided to their children, as it helps maintain family connections and reduces the emotional burden on their children. They are also grateful for the opportunity to engage in activities with their own children, as many of them have not been able to do so for several years.
What are the reactions of the families of the imprisoned parents?
Families of imprisoned parents often express gratitude for the support and resources provided by Kirkens Bymisjon, as it helps them navigate the challenges associated with imprisonment.
Is the prison administration open to collaboration?
Prison administrations generally collaborate positively with Kirkens Bymisjon, recognising the importance of supporting the families of imprisoned people and facilitating visitation and other services.
